Michael Perkins

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Articles

Let's stop using short-term solutions for the homeless

Jan 19, 2025 | orlandosentinel.com | Michael Perkins
We can do better for our homeless

Jul 25, 2024 | orlandosentinel.com | Michael Perkins

Like many of us, I thought I knew what homeless looked like, and what causes it. Three years ago, I began volunteering at the Christian Service Center, working with individual clients to find them housing. Interviewing clients is challenging work, which can be very rewarding when we actually house someone. Most of all, it is an eye-opening experience that dispels many of the preconceived notions about people experiencing homelessness.
Public-camping rule will only make homeless problem worse

Mar 24, 2024 | orlandosentinel.com | Michael Perkins

On April 22, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear the case of Grants Pass v. Johnson, which addresses the right of people experiencing homelessness to stay and sleep on public land if no other option is available. The city of Grants Pass, Oregon, made it a crime to live outside, particularly to sleep, on public land.
Engineering Infrastructure to Support Societal Resiliency

Jan 1, 2024 | structuremag.org | James McDonald |James Mcdonald |Joseph Moody |Michael Perkins |Molly Pobiel

Electric vehicle weights endangering parking structures. Converting the US passenger vehicle fleet to electric power is a cornerstone of the national leadership’s proposed response to climate change. e electric vehicle tradeoff of reduced carbon emissions for increased vehicle weight creates a historic opportunity for the engineering and construction industries to adapt infrastructure to support societal resiliency.
Homelessness crisis is an emergency to be addressed now

Oct 25, 2023 | orlandosentinel.com | Michael Perkins

Numerous hurricanes have impacted Florida in recent years. We’ve watched as communities prepare for the worst, and then react in tandem with state and federal officials to get people back on their feet. Financial aid is provided to those who are often left with nothing. Our society is built to support those in need. Now ask yourself, when is the last time you passed a person experiencing homelessness, be it on a street corner, in a tent encampment, or perhaps living unseen in the woods?
Tourist-tax statute must change to make any progress | Commentary

Jul 19, 2023 | orlandosentinel.com | Michael Perkins

On Tuesday, July 25, the Orange County Board of Commissioners will meet and more than likely approve a plan to expend over $600 million to add amenities, including an enclosed walkway and a large hall, to one of the top three largest convention centers in the country. Depending on funding options, the commissioners may also decide to move forward with a proposal to add a cover over the seating at Camping World Stadium, leaving only the field open to the elements.
Homelessness is a housing problem | Commentary

Mar 19, 2023 | orlandosentinel.com | Michael Perkins

I often encounter a young man who is homeless near where I live. He rides a bicycle around the area, carrying a sign asking for money for food that he shows periodically. I’ve tried talking with him, but he has an obvious medical condition that makes it very difficult for him to speak. To me, he is a visible reminder of the people experiencing homelessness in this country.