(Thechieftainspear) – Parents and residents in South Gate are growing increasingly alarmed over a persistent homeless encampment near San Miguel Elementary School, which they say is threatening the safety of students and the surrounding community.
The issue began after the adjacent Leland R. Weaver Library closed temporarily for renovations. Since then, families say the vacant library grounds and parking lot have turned into an unofficial gathering spot for unhoused individuals.
“It’s become a daily thing,” said one parent, who wished to remain anonymous. “They’re out here early in the morning and late at night. Some don’t even have clothes on. You can tell they’re under the influence.”
Neighbors and parents report a range of troubling behavior—fights breaking out, graffiti vandalism, public intoxication, and at times, nudity.
Maria Cisneros, who has children at the school, expressed her concern: “They’re sometimes violent, like throwing things. We don’t feel safe.”
One nearby resident who leaves for work in the early hours described feeling anxious just walking to her car. “I’m out by 2 a.m., and I have to park down the street. I rush to my car because you just don’t know what state they’re in. It’s scary.”
The situation appeared to escalate on April 1, when a person experiencing homelessness reportedly made their way onto school property before being removed by school police. That incident, parents say, has heightened their sense of urgency.
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Despite repeated calls to the South Gate Police Department, locals say there’s been no visible effort to relocate the encampment or address their complaints.
Officials with the Los Angeles Unified School District confirmed they’re aware of the ongoing concerns and are coordinating with law enforcement and community partners to explore solutions.
The district stated that safety protocols remain active on campus and encouraged families to report suspicious or concerning behavior to local authorities.
Still, frustration continues to mount.
“There have been so many complaints,” one parent said. “It feels like no one is listening.”
“I just hope it doesn’t spiral out of control,” Cisneros added.
As of now, the South Gate Police Department has not issued a public response regarding the matter .
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