Astoria Council Clarifies Misunderstanding on Homelessness Quote

The Astoria City Council recently faced scrutiny following a heated discussion regarding homelessness, leading to a clarification of comments made by Shyra Merila-Simmons, the executive director of Clatsop Behavioral Healthcare. In the article published on December 11, 2025, in The Astorian, Merila-Simmons’ statements were interpreted as supportive of criminalizing homelessness, prompting her to provide further context.

In an email to The Astorian, Merila-Simmons emphasized that her remarks were misunderstood. She stated, “It sounds as if I support criminalizing homelessness. The reality is that there are several steps that need to be taken to address these issues.” She outlined specific recommendations aimed at improving the situation for those experiencing homelessness in the community.

Key Recommendations for Addressing Homelessness

Merila-Simmons highlighted the need to rewrite the current camping ordinance, which she described as unrealistic. She pointed out that without alternative places for individuals experiencing homelessness to go, the existing regulations do not provide a viable solution.

Additionally, she advocated for a centralized camping location, similar to the Stepping Stones facility in Seaside, which would be situated away from the downtown area to minimize conflicts with local businesses and residents. This approach aims to create a more structured environment for those in need.

Merila-Simmons also raised concerns about law enforcement practices related to homelessness. She argued that the current system of issuing fines, such as a $35 citation, is ineffective and often a waste of police resources. Instead, she proposed the implementation of an alternative citation system that would facilitate intervention through service providers. The County Deflection Program was cited as a potential model for this type of approach.

Commitment to Accuracy and Transparency

The Astorian, in its commitment to ethical journalism, acknowledged the need for clarification in reporting. Jeanne Huff, the editor, reiterated the publication’s responsibility to correct or clarify factual errors promptly. She encouraged readers to identify any inaccuracies in their reporting, underscoring the importance of maintaining trust through transparency and accountability.

This incident reflects ongoing conversations in Astoria about how best to address homelessness, a pressing issue affecting communities across the globe. As local leaders continue to engage with these challenges, the dialogue surrounding effective solutions remains vital for the well-being of all residents.