People living in an Ann Arbor homeless camp are bracing for eviction from the privately owned woods where they've established their tent community.
On Sunday, California-based Highridge Costa Housing Partners reported that it had authorized Ann Arbor police to clear the camp from the company's property. Camp Serenity, as its residents call it, is situated along nature trails near a highway on the city's southeast side.
The nonprofit group MISSION has provided tents, blankets and other supplies to the camp. MISSION President Sheri Wander reports that police have said eviction notices will be posted soon and that campers will have one week to clear out.
Wander went on tell Ryan Stanton of the Ann Arbor News that "people are feeling pretty desperate because they have no idea where to go."
The overall delicacy and complexity of the situation is summarized by Council Member Julie Grand, D-3rd Ward, who explained:
"The pending eviction on Burton Road is emblematic of the complex issues related to housing and homelessness in our community," Grand said Sunday night. "In this specific situation, there is a need to balance the interests of the adjacent Forestbrooke residents, members of Camp Serenity, and the private property owner."
- Ari Sandberg, Michigan Radio Newsroom
