Catholic Parish Considers Selling Amphi Park Amid Rising Homeless Crisis

The future of Amphi Neighborhood Park in Tucson’s North Side hangs in the balance as the Catholic Church, the park’s owner, considers selling due to ongoing issues with unsheltered individuals gathering there. Local volunteer groups are stepping in to aid those experiencing homelessness while city officials are exploring options for providing more comprehensive support services.

On a sweltering October afternoon, Meaghan Stolmaker visited the park, where she received a donated t-shirt emblazoned with the phrase “Existence is pain,” a sentiment that resonated with her situation. After losing her apartment, Stolmaker now lives with her fiancé in a nearby wash and relies on volunteers for essentials such as food, water, and hygiene products.

Volunteer Kelly Rushford from Amphi Liberation Mutual Aid (ALMA) has been a consistent presence, providing supplies to those in need. However, the park’s atmosphere changes drastically as community members express their discomfort with the unsheltered population. Complaints have arisen, such as a recent incident where a passerby yelled at a group of unhoused individuals, illustrating the tension in the area.

Access to the park has been compromised by the church’s decision to explore a sale, as Rev. Gonzalo Villegas noted that the park has fallen into poor condition and has become less inviting for the community. He emphasized that revitalization is necessary, stating, “We want [the park] to be something that will make the neighborhood happier.” The church has faced its challenges, including property damage and fears expressed by parishioners, compounded by a growing concern over drug-related activities linked to the park.

The problem of homelessness in Tucson continues to escalate, with a reported 52% increase since 2018. The number of individuals living unsheltered has spiked 253% in the same timeframe. These alarming statistics demand attention, yet solutions remain patchy. At a recent city council meeting, concerned community members highlighted the daily challenges of seeing drug use in public areas, particularly near schools and parental fears for children’s safety.

Victoria DeVasto, director of Community on Wheels, challenged city leaders about the lack of engagement with individuals refusing shelter options. Councilmember Kevin Dahl acknowledged that while options exist, many shelters impose barriers that detour those in need, such as prohibiting substance use and separation from partners or pets.

In tandem with these developments, the city has initiated the Violence Interruption Vitalization Action program to curb crime in high-risk areas surrounding the park. Plans for increased outreach and resources continue, aimed at addressing not just homelessness, but the issues of substance abuse and mental health as well. Dahl identified a nuanced landscape, urging community engagement in providing effective support.

As November’s ballot approaches, Proposition 312 proposes tax incentives for property owners dealing with the impacts of homelessness. This initiative has drawn mixed reactions, with supporters arguing it eases burdens on property owners, while critics warn it may further criminalize homelessness and divert funds from vital city programs.

Local residents like Jesse Ratliff, who has been unhoused for three years, emphasize the park’s critical role as a gathering and support point. The park’s temporary closure earlier that month made life significantly more challenging for Ratliff, who noted that the space’s value goes beyond amenities; it fosters community connections in an often isolating experience.

Despite the complexities of the situation, both Stolmaker and Ratliff voiced a willingness to accept help if it were genuinely offered. ALMA’s Kelly Rushford pointed to a gap in city outreach efforts, expressing the hope that initiatives could lead to a safer, more inclusive environment for all. “Ideally this is a park we can all feel safe in,” she said, capturing the sentiment of a community seeking balance amidst growing challenges.