The Bisbee City Council has approved a lease agreement with Cochise Harm Reduction (CHR) to rent an office space under City Park on Brewery Gulch. This initiative aims to better serve the city’s unhoused population by providing a centralized location for case management services.
Mayor Ken Budge expressed support for the project, stating, “They’re our residents and our responsibility. I think providing them space is one thing we can do for them”. The lease is for five years at $1 per year, with a clause allowing either party to withdraw if CHR doesn’t secure necessary funding.CHR, led by Executive Director Lu Funk, plans to offer services such as assistance with obtaining documents for employment, housing, medical care, and enrollment in various support programs. The organization is staffed by individuals who have personal experience with homelessness and addiction, providing relatable support to those they serve.
City Manager Steve Pauken noted that this agreement formalizes the city’s commitment to helping the unhoused population and may assist CHR in securing grants. While some neighboring businesses expressed concerns, the city hopes this initiative will successfully provide needed services without disrupting the local community.