DAYTONA BEACH, FLA. — A Volusia County official said one of the dozens of homeless people camped outside the Volusia County Property Appraiser's Office accosted an employee.
Morgan Gilreath, the county’s property appraiser, said the incident convinced him to close the office Monday to protect not just employees, but also the public.
"When people feel fearful to be able to get out of their car (or) walk into the building or out of the building, things have gone too far," Gilreath said.
Raw: Community weighs in on Daytona Beach homeless issue
Photos: Homeless camp outside property appraiser's office
Dozens of homeless people have been camped outside the building on Beach Street for weeks, and county leaders have been trying to come up with a plan to move the camp.
As a result of the recent incident, employees will report to other locations.
"I'm apologetic if someone felt unsafe or was in fear," said homeless advocate Michael Pastore.
Meanwhile, the camp will remain at the same location. People dropped off coats and blankets to the camp on Sunday.
A local congregation offered their church as temporary location.
"Something needs to be done now for the people who are sleeping out here. They need help now," said Pastor Jeffrey Robinson.
County officials said help is coming, but have not said when that is or when the building doors will reopen.
WFTV
