Huge, positive steps were taken last night at the homeless encampment at 12th and C Streets in downtown Sacramento. I was there last night, meeting with about 15 homeless campers. I listened as they told me of their strong desire to have a legal place to camp in Sacramento. They listened as I pledged to work on solutions to homelessness. As we shared a meal, I was impressed by the strong sense of community and mutual support among the campers. After discussions and dinner, they told me they are ready move on and leave the camp.

This major breakthrough comes just three days before the campground at 12th and C was set to become the backdrop of a courtroom battle between the city of Sacramento and the person who owns the property, Sacramento attorney Mark Merin.

For several weeks, Mr. Merin allowed up to 30 homeless campers to sleep on his empty lot, despite protests from neighbors and legal concerns about sanitation and code violations. Along the way, there were arrests of homeless campers by the Sacramento Police Department.

I met with Mr. Merin the other day, and expressed my desire to see the matter resolved with negotiation rather than confrontation. Along with thousands of Sacramentans, I understand the need to resolve our homeless problem. But I know confrontation is not the path to resolution.

In many ways, I appreciate Mr. Merin's determination and willingness to offer his property to help homeless people in our community. At the same time, I can not condone anyone breaking the law.

The campground at 12th and C streets violated city codes regarding camping, and it's important for all residents to understand why codes are written and why they must be enforced. Nobody wants to live in a city without laws. The campers made a statement. But there are less contentious roads to resolution.

Last night's breakthrough is one step on that road. I visited the campground and thanked the group for making its statement. I promised to continue the fight to resolve homelessness in our community. I can assure every resident of Sacramento -- homeless and those living under roofs -- that I am making progress toward solutions.

The willingness of the homeless campers at 12th and C streets to voluntarily leave the camp today is a huge step in the right direction. 

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