NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A Metro Council member is sounding the alarm about what he said is a growing homeless population in Hermitage.

He said multiple people have reached out to him with safety concerns.

The increase in homelessness and illegal activity, Metro Council member Jordan Huffman said, is along Lebanon Pike near Tyler Drive.

"You'll find individuals with needles hanging out of their arms, I've seen that," Huffman said. "Residents have reported that. It's common, unfortunately."

Huffman said unhoused people are congregating behind a nearby business.

Residents are posting to social media about their concerns.

"Anytime you want to pull up to pump gas, you don't want to see a drug deal going on or someone using drugs," Huffman said. "Also with that comes other nefarious activity."

Huffman said some neighbors have reported a variety of crimes in the area.

"A neighbor reached out to me three weeks ago and said her husband was solicited for services," Huffman said. "Outside of that being illegal, I am concerned because it's outside of two public schools."

Huffman said he's working closely with police to address these issues.

News 2 reached out to several homeless advocacy groups.

The Metro Office of Homeless Services said it partners with 47 different agencies that offer support from addiction, recovery, medical assistance and housing options.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/nashville/metro-council-member-warns-of-growing-homeless-encampment-in-hermitage/