I think we're actually seeing two separate but related problems. What can be done in the "long run" to decrease "homelessness" and help individuals work their way out of it? and How does a community work to deal with the "current" homeless population and balance a reasonable level of compassionate assistance with the communities desire for a safe, clean and "usable" city, including,  public parks and open spaces?

Obviously, there are no easy answers to either question.  Eugene's decision to fence of an area which has been the site of homeless camping is a tactic to move those campers elsewhere. It will accomplish that, but, the same issues will now arise elsewhere.  Should the city provide dumpsters and sanitary facilities at such sites?  Doing so would be tantamont to accepting a camp in the location.  Should the City just buy thousands of dollars of fencing and "chase" the homeless around the city?  

Other, more reasonable, ideas?  .....love to read them..  regards, Gary