SAN DIEGO (KGTV)- The co-owner of the Crystal Pier Hotel in Pacific Beach is raising concerns about homelessness and safety near one of San Diego's most recognizable landmarks.
Julie Neal, co-owner of the Crystal Pier Hotel, says she has seen an increase in homelessness around the property, along with what she describes as aggressive behavior toward guests and employees.
"I've seen several homeless people lunging into families' faces with kids, yelling foul language, I've seen them throwing bricks, throwing rocks, exposing themselves in front of people and children, which is wrong. I mean, someone is going to snap one of these times, and something bad is going to happen," Neal said.
Known for its cottages over the water, Crystal Pier draws millions of visitors to Pacific Beach every year. Neal says the situation is affecting the experience for both hotel visitors and staff.
"People love coming here, but it's embarrassing when you're sitting on your deck, and you're looking out, and you just see filth. It does affect some people you know. It's just turned into not what it used to be," Neal said.
Neal says she feels the hotel's concerns are not being taken seriously by authorities.
"You call the police, they come down, they do an intervention, they send someone with a pad of paper, and they take some notes, and they move on, and nothing gets done," Neal said.
Neal is calling for more enforcement and more resources to address homelessness, while also ensuring people living on the street have access to help.
"It's totally preventable, so I don't understand why there is no enforcement and no one seems to be doing anything that matters about it," Neal said.
Neal says the hotel wants to provide guests with both an enjoyable and safe experience.
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