City of Medford Seeing “Significant” Decrease in Homeless Encampments

Medford, Oregon- The City of Medford has reported a significant decrease in illegal encampments, reflecting a continuous effort to improve community safety and address homelessness. According to the Medford Police Department’s Livability Team, which conducted its latest survey on September 25, 2024, the number of active illegal encampments has dropped to 11, down from 17 in March 2024, 56 in September 2023, and substantially lower than the 186 recorded in March 2023.

The 11 remaining encampments were located across city, private, and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) properties: six on city-owned land, three on private property, and two on ODOT-managed areas.

Mayor Randy Sparacino highlighted the team’s work as a key driver behind the progress. “The significant reduction in encampments is a direct testament to the hard work and dedication of the Medford Police Livability Team. We are grateful for the support of our community, the progressive steps taken by the City Council, and the ability to implement policies that address both safety and human needs,” he said.

The Livability Team, a specialized unit within the Medford Police Department, focuses on enhancing the overall quality of life for all residents by ensuring compliance with city regulations and addressing chronic homelessness. Key areas of focus include the Bear Creek Greenway, where past encampments posed safety and environmental concerns. The team’s strategy combines enforcement with outreach, prioritizing connections to critical resources like housing, mental health support, and addiction treatment services.

An embedded resource coordinator, working alongside local agencies, provides compassionate support, while the team also collaborates with businesses and community members to address safety concerns across Medford. By integrating assistance with enforcement, the team works to foster a safer and more vibrant city environment.

The Medford City Council, through ongoing support and forward-thinking policies, continues to enable these efforts, underscoring the city’s dedication to sustainable improvements in public safety and livability.