Public elimination is absolutely the most disgusting thing we all encounter because of the homeless. This is the main reason why I believe that most people would favor allowing homeless encampments on certain public property, away from residential areas, where basic sanitation could be made available to the homeless at public expense. Outhouses and handwashing facilities, water, and garbage collection service could be provided. This solution would be cheaper than what we are doing now, and it would be more humane. If these services were available near the downtown Oakland area, it is unlikely that people would choose to defecate on the sidewalks instead, and Public Works employees and the rest of us would not have to deal with this disgusting problem.

The City of Oakland Public Works Department has referred this issue to GREEN CLEAN A SCENE,. Please contact that department to follow-up (see "Other Helpful Links" at http://www2.oaklandnet.com/Government/o/PWA/Connect/ReportaProblem/index.htm#Links).

Here are some important City of Oakland contact points:
* Abandoned Autos: 510-777-8622 (abandoned vehicles on public street after 3 days)
* Animal Control: 510-535-5602 (live animals) or 510-535-4888 (dead animals)
* Code Enforcement: 510-238-3381 (blighted private properties, deteriorated buildings, inoperable vehicles on private property)
* Drug Hotline: 510-238-3784 (tips) or 510-777-3211 (in progress)
* Parking Citations: 800-500-6484 (parking citation assistance center, pay or appeal a citation) or 510-238-3099 (enforcement)
* Prostitution Hotline: 510-238-2373 (tips) or 510-777-3211 (in progress)

Thank you.