Boca Raton officials are responding to growing concerns about homelessness in city parks by installing No Trespassing signs and increasing police coordination. The initiative comes as families report discomfort with the presence of homeless individuals in popular recreation areas. Mayor Andy Thomson acknowledged the problem is becoming more pronounced, noting an increase in homelessness over the past year or two, particularly in Sanborn Square, Wildflower Park, and Silver Palm Park.
Wildflower Park near the Intracoastal Waterway has become a focal point of concern for residents. Parent Elina Gundersen, who visits regularly with her four children, described the situation as uncomfortable. "They are spending a lot of time by the picnic tables where they like to eat and also taking over the bathrooms, which is very uncomfortable," Gundersen said. She noted that the problem appears to be getting worse and called for additional patrolling and assistance in the area. The city passed an ordinance in February to add the trespassing signage at parks throughout Boca Raton.
Mayor Thomson explained that the signage serves a specific purpose: to communicate that parks are recreational spaces, not places for people to establish temporary residences. "We're in the process now of putting up signage to help notify folks, look, you're happy to spend some time here, but this isn't the place you can make a home, even temporarily," Thomson said. Additionally, the city is restructuring its approach to park management by training park rangers to work more closely with police. According to Thomson, "They're now going to be like a subdivision of the police department and have a greater ability to interface with these folks." The city is also working to increase patrols in city parks.
Beyond enforcement measures, Boca Raton is relying on community organizations to address root causes of homelessness. Boca Helping Hands, a nonprofit that has operated since 1998, provides crucial support by feeding 160 people six times weekly and connecting individuals with housing and job opportunities. CEO Andrew Hagen emphasized that homelessness is a widespread issue across the country and that economic challenges are making the organization's work more urgent. He stressed the importance of community support for organizations serving homeless populations. "Support the organizations that reach them at that point in time and I think we'll be able to see those people get back on track," Hagen said, encouraging residents to recognize that many homeless individuals simply need assistance during difficult economic periods.