SAN DIEGO -- San Diego officials say the number of homeless people in the area has gone up, and the San Diego City Council has until Monday to find a new home for the winter homeless shelter.

Earlier this week, Mayor Jerry Sanders told the city council that each member should propose at least one location in his or her district.

Dennis Quinn is homeless and usually stays close to the East Village.

"There are places you can go but no beds, but always a list," said Quinn.

Many homeless citizens are wondering where they will go this winter. Last year, the winter homeless tent was near the corner of 16th and J streets, but in the summer it is closed.

Herb Johnson with the San Diego Rescue Mission said, "No one wants them anywhere. These are human beings, and we have to find an appropriate place for them."

San Diego City Councilmember Kevin Faulconer said it can't always land in his district and added that residents have been patient enough and very accommodating.

"Homelessness is not just a downtown issue; we need everyone in the region to do their part," said Faulconer.

Councilwoman Shari Lightner, who represents areas like Carmel Valley, La Jolla and University City, said she has no idea where she would propose to put a winter shelter.

"I think it would be nice, had we seen this several months ago, to look for alternative sites," said Lightner.

Sharon and Bob Russakoff moved from their East County neighborhood to University City because they felt threatened by the homeless population.

"We couldn't use the bus because they were asleep, or drunk or high," said Sharon Russakoff.

The couple does not mind a winter shelter near a business park, but they hope one isn't set up so close to home.

"I feel everyone says not in my backyard, but it has to go somewhere," said Russakoff.

City officials said it is likely wherever the shelter goes people will have to find their own way there, either by bus or trolley.

It is possible the city council could decide to help find a way to transport them, and the topic will be discussed again in October.