The businesses have demanded that city officials address the issue of homeless encampments in their neighborhoods or face potential legal consequences.
A group of seven businesses in downtown San Diego has taken legal action against the city, seeking $2.5 million in damages due to the worsening homeless crisis
Representing the businesses, Attorney Craig L. Combs emphasized the need for enforcement of laws in the area surrounding their establishments, stating that they are confronted daily with crime, drug use, and extremely unsanitary conditions caused by the presence of homeless encampments.
The affected businesses are located between 11th Avenue and A Street to the north, and between 8th Avenue and Market Street to the south. They describe their neighborhood as an “open-air drug zone” where laws are regularly violated, leading to violence, property damage, and a decline in property values.
The city of San Diego has refrained from commenting on the pending claim, following its policy of not discussing such matters. The claim comes in the wake of the San Diego City Council’s approval of a controversial ban on homeless encampments in parks, riverbeds, waterways, transportation hubs, and within a two-block radius of existing shelters or schools.
Combs argues that the new ordinance should be applied to the seven businesses, as the encampments in their vicinity pose a significant threat to public health and safety
The businesses cite a section of California government code that holds cities responsible for injuries and damages caused by dangerous conditions on public property under their jurisdiction. Each business has submitted a statement of damages, totaling $2.5 million, accounting for property value depreciation, lost profits, and rent expenses. Additionally, they estimate future costs at $820,000, bringing the projected damages to over $3.3 million by next year.
If the city fails to take action, the businesses are prepared to file a civil complaint in Superior Court. However, Combs has indicated a willingness to engage in negotiations with the city, stating that his clients would consider a lower settlement amount if preventative measures against encampments were implemented.
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