Brooklyn's Borough Park neighborhood has become the epicenter of tension over the city's plan to introduce a homeless shelter, sparking varied reactions from the local community. According to a report by ABC7 New York, residents gathered in hundreds to protest against the decision, expressing their frustration at being misled into believing the site would be used for affordable housing instead.
The controversial site in question, originally presented to Community Board 15, has now given rise to heated discussions and rallies. Residents have not only questioned their safety but also the loss of affordable housing crucial for the area's demographics, including a significant senior population. "They need affordable housing, they need like senior housing," said Lina Chen in an interview with ABC7 New York. Amidst the unfolding events, the ownership of the property changed hands and along with it, the plans for its use, leading to the current community backlash.
Over in Sheepshead Bay, similar scenes unfolded as residents came out in force to make their voices heard. Community Board 15 Chair Theresa Scavo was shocked upon discovering the switch in plans, stating, "I got a phone call, 'Did you know that you gave the rights to a homeless shelter?' I said, what?" As detailed in an ABC7 New York article, the sentiment was that they were completely caught off-guard by this development.
However, not all community members oppose the shelter. Alec Shea, a local resident, stood alone but firm at the Borough Park rally. In a statement obtained by CBS News New York, he expressed his support for the shelter, saying, "We have children and families that are homeless. Every neighborhood, including the one I live in, should do its part to deal with this crisis."
The upcoming City Council special election also seems to be caught in the crosshairs of this debate. With the City Council's 44th District seat vacated, the homeless shelter issue is quickly becoming a pivotal one among the candidates and voters alike. "It's terrible that we don't have representation. But on the other hand, if you have improper representation it's worse than not having representation," a local father named Joseph told CBS News New York. The Department of Homeless Services, meanwhile, has committed to maintaining open lines of communication with the community to address any concerns that arise as the project moves forward.
