From Flowers to Thieves: The Impact of Homelessness on Boulder Highway Businesses

A growing homeless encampment in nearby vacant lots is causing challenges for business owners along Boulder Highway in Las Vegas. The privately owned lots, located near the intersection of Boulder Highway and Russell Road, have been a source of frustration for local businesses.

Evelyn Guin, owner of FlowerEve Gift and Home, has been facing issues with homeless individuals harassing customers, begging for money, and stealing from shops. She and her husband have owned their business for seven years but have seen a decline in business due to the encampment. Guin mentions that they have tried to shut down their business multiple times because of the situation, with many customers afraid to come to the area.

Across Boulder Highway, Duck Creek RV Park’s Maintenance and Security Manager, Gerald, also acknowledges the growing camp and the challenges it presents. He says that his business has experienced similar problems with theft and vandalism as a result of the encampment.

Metro’s Homeless Outreach Team has offered resources to the encampment multiple times but many have declined. When resources are declined, officers work with Clark County Code Enforcement and property owners to clear the area. Officer Baron Bybee emphasizes the importance of giving individuals appropriate time and attention when conducting cleanups and offering resources to the homeless.

Business owners are encouraged to contact either the Southeast Area Command or Metro’s Homeless Outreach Team directly if they are facing issues related to the homeless encampment. Efforts to reach out to the owners of the vacant lots for their plans regarding