As a commercial property manager, one of the challenges you may face is finding constructive ways to deal with transient individuals who spend time in and around your commercial properties. While some may view transients, such as homeless individuals or people living out of their vehicles, as a nuisance, there are policies we can implement that aim to be humane while also maintaining safe and welcoming environments for customers and tenants.
First, it's important to understand why transients are drawn to commercial properties. They may be looking for shelter, food, restrooms, electrical outlets to charge devices, free wifi, or simply a place to rest out of the elements. Removing access to these resources without providing alternatives won't solve the underlying issues.
Some compassionate and ethical strategies include:
- Working with local nonprofit groups that assist transients to see if they can provide additional services near your property. This could include operating day shelters, food pantries, job training, healthcare, etc.
- Installing well-lit covered rest areas with benches on your property's periphery. This gives people a place to legally rest while maintaining sightlines.
- Keeping restrooms unlocked during business hours or providing portable restrooms. Lack of restroom access creates public health concerns.
- Having social workers or outreach staff from nonprofits regularly engage with transients onsite to build relationships and connect them with housing/services.
- Posting signs that list services available for those in need at nearby shelters, clinics, etc.
- Training security staff to engage respectfully and not immediately resort to aggressive tactics or police involvement. Use restraint with removal or trespass orders.
- Working with local government officials to find solutions that don't just shuffle transients between properties. Getting behind housing-first initiatives or public spaces designated for homeless is ideal.
The goal is developing policies that balance business needs with ethical treatment of our most vulnerable populations. While not always easy, solutions grounded in compassion and understanding can exist. What strategies have you found effective? I welcome your insights in the comments.