Defiltering the Homeless Crisis with Alex Nguyen

Last week, the WVCBA hosted its Knowledge & Networking Lunch with Oxnard's City Manager, Alex Nguyen. Alex took center stage for an eye-opening session titled "Defiltering the Homeless Crisis." Held at the Residence Inn in Oxnard, the event commenced with networking  and luncheon, followed by an intellectually stimulating discourse. With a focus on the burgeoning homeless crisis, not only prevalent in Oxnard but also echoing across the nation, Alex delved into California's dire struggle with its housing crisis. 

Drawing an analogy, he likened California's housing to an overcrowded fish tank, wherein the population  (the fish), for various reasons, leapt out of the confines and now flounder, seeking assistance. Emphasizing the need for California, and Oxnard alike, to extend a helping hand to the homeless - akin to the distressed fish - he underscored the pressing need for additional space within the state and city of Oxnard to accommodate them comfortably. Alex articulated the necessity for society to cease its opposition to multifamily housing in every residential neighborhood, advocating instead for the establishment of safe and secure havens where the homeless can receive essential mental health treatments while embarking on their journey to recovery. As he concluded his insightful presentation, participants were invited to engage in a thought-provoking Q&A session, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and potential solutions.