San Diego mayoral candidate Larry Turner was joined by community leaders at a news conference at Civic Center Plaza Wednesday to unveil a proposal to address veteran homelessness, especially those struggling with mental health issues.
The plan involves using a city-owned property, H Barracks, initially proposed by Mayor Todd Gloria as a homeless shelter open to all, but later abandoned due to community backlash, according to Turner’s office.
The specialized 350-bed shelter located in Point Loma would offer comprehensive onsite services including trauma care, mental health support and detox facilities using federal assistance.
Turner, a Marine Corps veteran and San Diego Police community relations officer who is running his first campaign for elected office, said the plan would free up 350 beds in other shelters across the city by accommodating veterans in a dedicated space, enhancing the overall capacity to address homelessness.
“There is plenty of money available for veterans experiencing homelessness through the VA and HUD, but there is no coordinated effort with the city of San Diego,” Turner said. “People are dying in the streets while politicians try to pass inefficient, one-size-fits-all ideas.”
The mayoral candidate cited U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimates indicating nearly 10,395 California veterans are homeless, with close to 1,000 in San Diego County.
Turner concluded the conference with a pledge to transparency and accountability in the fight against homelessness.
“Our community deserves a comprehensive and effective plan that involves everyone and addresses the root causes of this crisis,” he said. “Together, we can make a lasting impact.”
