At the April 15 Council Meeting, Medford Police Department reported on the Livability Team’s expansion of services and latest encampment survey results.
Thanks to funding from the public safety fee, the Livability Team has grown from three officers when established in 2019 to now include a sergeant, corporal, six officers, five Community Service Officers (CSOs), and a records specialist who work with community partners to address livability and homelessness issues in Medford.
Twice a year, the team conducts a citywide survey of illegal encampments. As of March 2026, the number of illegal encampments was 13, a significant decrease from 186 in March of 2023. This reflects not only the work of the Livability Team, but the strong collaboration across the community.
In addition to addressing illegal encampments, the team focuses on building connections between individuals experiencing homelessness and critical resources such as housing, mental health, and addiction services.
The team includes an Outreach Coordinator who works with local agencies to ensure compassionate support alongside enforcement. The coordinator facilitates the CONNECT (Collaboration, Outreach, Navigation, and Networking to Empower Community Transformation) group, previously known as CHOP. The group is made up of service providers and community partners who meet monthly to drive solutions for community change by addressing both systemic and individual challenges.
The team also collaborates with the Downtown Medford Association, local businesses, and community members to address safety and livability concerns, helping to create a safer and more vibrant Medford. Two officers on the team are dedicated specifically to the Downtown Corridor.
This work is a testament not only to the hard work and dedication of the Livability Team, but also the support from the community and the City Council. At the meeting, Councilor Nick Card noted, "this is what effective policing and real compassion look like in action. We’re proud of the work being done to support a safer, healthier community for everyone."
Learn more about the Livability Team and the work they do
here.