Anaheim declares state of emergency over homeless population

ANAHEIM, Calif. (KABC) -- Anaheim has officially declared a health and safety state of emergency in response to the city's growing homeless population.

A vote from the city council in favor of the proposal came after midnight Tuesday.

The city council unanimously approved measures to open emergency homeless shelters and increase outreach services.

They're also calling for more law enforcement along the river trail.

During the meeting, some residents argued the homeless should not automatically be considered criminals, while others said they feared for their safety as the homeless population grows.

More than 50 people voiced their concerns late into the evening.

The resolution takes effect immediately and the city of Anaheim will begin cleaning up and repairing the damage along the trail.