Wheeling’s elected leaders made their thoughts known last week when they voted 6-1 to support the closure of the city’s managed homeless encampment. City Manager Robert Herron followed up with a notice posted at the camp that it would be closed, effective Dec. 1.

Council made its wishes known and the city manager followed through. That’s how the process works. But there are questions that need answered over the coming five weeks.

– Members of council called the camp, in operation for nearly two years, a “failure.” Is there data to back that assertion?

– Council members said there are plenty of other options for those living in the camp, particularly as the weather turns cold, a claim local social service agencies dispute. Just how many beds are available?

– Issues and crimes attributed to the homeless prior to the city’s managed camp seems to have lessened over the past two years. What’s the solution if that increases?

– If folks don’t have shelter for an evening, will they be arrested, a move that could increase the county’s regional jail bill?

These matters and others need addressed prior to the camp’s closure.