While Alyson Alvarado said she sympathizes with those experiencing homelessness, she worries about the impact on nearby residents, wildlife and the environment.
SAN ANTONIO — One resident in northeast Bexar County is pushing for action in light of a growing homeless encampment that’s been accompanied by mounting trash piles throughout the area.
“This area is beautiful. I’ve grown up here all of my life,” said resident Alyson Alvarado.
The site of concern is off Elm Trail Drive and Walzem Road, where Alvarado has observed encampments expanding for years.
Alvarado said the natural beauty she once enjoyed is slowly disappearing. Areas near a nearby pond that families once visited are now scattered with litter. As far as the encampments, she has seen dozens of people make the wooded area their home.
“Probably people that come and go,” Alvarado said. “I know there’s numerous encampments as well. I would have to say between the 50s and 60s of people. And it’s something that needs to be changed.”
While Alvarado said she sympathizes with those experiencing homelessness, she worries about the impact on nearby residents, wildlife and the environment.
“Bexar County unincorporated is forgotten about, so if these guys can get some help, that’s the end goal for this,” Alvarado said.
A Bexar County spokesperson said the issue has been addressed by both the sheriff’s office and county environmental services for the past couple years. According to the county, property owners have authorized law enforcement to issue criminal trespass warnings and citations, though some individuals have returned to the area.
County officials said the abatement process is ongoing and volunteer groups organized through the county have also worked to clean up the sites.
Still, Alvarado questions whether enough progress has been made.
“It’s been five years and for me when I still see the same trash that is sitting out still a few feet from the road, is that really progress?” she said. “I want to support my community.”
Bexar County officials encourage residents who spot homeless encampments to report them to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office. The BCSO can be reached at 210-335-6000.