Hello Turlock,

I just left the City Council meeting [on Jan. 23] disappointed again; the City Council voted to close the We Care Navigation Center.

They ignored the concerns and appeals of the majority present. Alas, the current crew of three voted as a block (surprise) to close the program rather than to tweak whatever minor issues they have envisioned to be detrimental.

They were against securing the facility with a fence and extending the hours of operation. Both of these, would have enhanced the program that managed to house seven people in six months, yes seven people are no longer on the streets. That is more than the City assisted in the last four years.

Our Mayor says it is not the responsibility of the City to address this issue. She says the City is responsible for the safety of the citizens. Well, is this not a safety issue? We will all be judged by a higher power and the day will come when these misadventures will be addressed.

We need to do what is right because it is right and not popular!

Fellow citizens of Turlock, pay attention, stand up, speak up & step up.

—  Gil Esquer, concerned resident