Jamestown’s homelessness issue during the past summer was almost in your face. Within two blocks of the National Comedy Center, there were camps of individuals who were living near the Chadakoin River.

It ultimately led to a State of Emergency being called by Mayor Kim Ecklund.

In the north county, the problem is not as evident but it is definitely growing. During a Zoom conference that discussed code-blue shelter planning, the topic was addressed by Liz Cardona, who heads the Dunkirk Housing Authority.

“We’re having homeless individuals sleeping in our stairwells, on benches and even in some (generous) people’s homes,” she said.

In a direct message, Cardona told The Post-Journal and OBSERVER, “At one point my only option was to hire armed guards,” she said. “Elderly residents do not feel safe. Top concerns – mental health and addiction.”

Without question, this region is feeling economic pain. Our largest municipalities have finances that are in shambles. That sends an ominous message to those who are considering investing in our region — or bringing business here.

Poverty rates are around 25% in both Dunkirk and Fredonia. That is not counting those who are homeless.

We may seem like rural America, but on both ends of the county we are facing big-city problems.

Cardona put north county homelessness in a spotlight last week. It is something that will need more attention moving forward.