‘Recipe for failure’: local activist raises concerns about Camp Hope closure [Video]

BANGOR, Maine (WABI) – City and community leaders are reacting following the announcement that a homeless encampment in Bangor will be closed by the end of the year.

“We know from years of research that moving people along, sweeping them away, without housing and without having their voices and their perspective and their insights as part of the decision-making process is a recipe for failure,” said Doug Dunbar, co-founder, Penobscot County Cares.

Dunbar says he visits the encampment near Cleveland Street and Texas Ave in Bangor at least once a week. He has major concerns following the city’s announcement it’s set to be closed by the end of the year.

“Closing an encampment has to be done with extraordinary care, and number one, you have to be able to provide housing,” Dunbar said.

“Our goal is that we find a better living situation for everybody who’s there,” city manager Debbie …