Why hasn't this person, who is practically a resident now, been helped at this point? This has been going on for months.

As Community Board 14 previously reported, the Department of Homeless Services' outreach team, Breaking Ground, is working with this individual on a daily basis, though he has refused services so far. He can only be arrested or hospitalized if he is doing harm to himself or others. NYC's homeless policy dictates that DHS to continue to engage this individual on a daily basis in order to try to persuade him to move indoors. Beds are available as soon as he agrees to accept one. To suggest a new policy that you feel would be more effective, please contact your City Council representative with your suggestions for additional statutes that may better resolve the issue of homelessness in New York City.

I think a more effective policy would be to enforce a Sit/Lie ordinance.
1st offense, warning and referral to shelter
2nd-3rd on up offenses Cite and fine.
Basically offer them a shelter, if no beds available, do not cite them if they are on the street.
However, if there is a bed available and they refuse services, Cite and fine then immediately.

To suggest a new policy that you feel would be more effective, please contact your City Council representative with your suggestions for additional statutes that may better resolve the issue of homelessness in New York City.