News Photo by Reagan Voetberg A person is seen walking at Bay View Park on Tuesday. Public spaces like the park are open to anyone, no matter their living situation.

ALPENA — When a person in a public space is doing no harm other than making people uncomfortable there is only so much the police can do, but that does not mean the concern is unheard.

Alpena Police Department Chief Eric Hamp addressed a recent Facebook post by a community member expressing concern about alleged homeless individuals in downtown Alpena making clients of a business feel unsafe.

Hamp said that the business called to report the individuals making their clients uncomfortable. If a business calls, law enforcement can ask individuals to move along, but if they are not committing a crime, there is not much else that can be done.

“From a law enforcement perspective, it’s not illegal to be homeless,” Hamp said. “It’s important to remind people of that.”

Homeless individuals have the same right to be in public spaces as any other person, he said. Many homeless people in Alpena spend time in and near the Alpena County Library, whether that’s to use the space to warm up or charge their phone. As long as they are not causing any issues, they can remain in those spaces.

Many homeless individuals are dealing with mental health or substance abuse issues. There are options for them to get help, but there is not much law enforcement can do unless individuals make the decision to take advantage of those options.

“They have to be willing to help themselves out,” Hamp said. “Until they are willing to accept those services, we can’t do anything.”

The Alpena Police Department offers a recovery care support program right out of the department building. The program provides people with services that can help get them on the right track, as well as help from someone that is not wearing a police uniform.

“Having someone help them that is not in a police uniform can be beneficial,” Hamp said.

Hamp said he encourages anyone that finds themself feeling unsafe out in public to call law enforcement.

“That’s what the police are for,” Hamp said. “We can’t be everywhere all the time, but we encourage people to contact us when they are in those situations.”

He said that in general, it is important for people to be alert and aware of their surroundings.

Reagan Voetberg can be reached at 989-358-5683 or rvoetberg@TheAlpenaNews.com.