TUCSON, Ariz. — Albrecht Classen has an opinion about De Anza Park.
"Most people who want to go with their dogs are afraid," Classen said, "people who want to take their kids there, might be afraid."
Don't let the park's reputation of garbage and transients fool you Classen's opinion of De Anza Park is actually glowing.
"For me this is one of the best experiences, I love Tucson for that."
For 20 years he says the park has been where he wants to be.
"Young people, old people like me, there are blacks, whites, Native American Indians, Asian guys."
That's what compelled him to join others at Pima Community College to talk solutions with Tucson Police, city officials and Tucson Parks and Rec staff.
The main concern for most people at the meeting are the homeless.
"I don't want them necessarily to be there because they're smoking marijuana or whatever," Classen said. "They're sometimes violent, sometimes they're fighting with each other, really physical fights."
For their part, police say they want proactive solutions for the homeless problem at De Anza Park.
"We do offer them the ability to connect them with resources throughout the community, whether it's housing, whether it's substance abuse treatment, things like that," TPD Lt. Tim Reese, said.
Despite the condition of the park it will always be a special place for Classen.
"So I love De Anza Park, it's my place, but I would love to see it improve."
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