Stellar Students were finally recently recognized by the Town Council, but only after 10 minutes of dark, disturbing language.
Before preschoolers and their families were honored, they heard repeated references to darkness, demons, hell, a shooter, murder, assassination, death, hatred and rage. The majority came from Turning Point employee and Councilmember Hannah Larrabee, seemingly oblivious to the young children in front of her. In contrast, Councilwoman Earle used her time for a moment of silence. Mayor Friedel later quipped, “Let me be the downer now,” as if he hadn’t noticed what children just endured while waiting to be recognized for their kindness and leadership.
Councilmember Skillicorn pressed his agenda against people experiencing homelessness, declaring “the problem has gotten worse,” despite an earlier MCSO report noting “no uptick” in calls. Skillicorn, no stranger to law enforcement issues himself, must have hoped the public wasn’t paying attention.
Even more troubling, Councilmember Larrabee described homelessness as “a choice,” tied to mental illness and drug use. She suggested the Council act like a “parent” and impose “ramifications for urban camping,” saying it needs to be “scarier to not do it” so people will accept shelter. Her words echo those of her employer’s founder, who said, “Every single one of them has mental problems or drug disorders,” and “Homelessness is a choice.”
Research tells a different story. Homelessness is driven by poverty and a shortage of affordable housing, compounded by unsafe shelters, family separation or restrictive rules — not by “choice.” Evidence shows Housing First and supportive services reduce homelessness and save taxpayer dollars. Punishment deepens hardship.
Our community — especially its children — deserves dignity, compassion and proven solutions. No child should hear speeches filled with demons, death and hatred, and no family should face fear-based policies criminalizing those struggling in poverty. Fountain Hills deserves better leadership and values.
