Proposed Homeless Shelter - Updates

The ongoing discussion surrounding the proposed homeless shelter at the former Early College of Arvada (ECA) building in the Arlington Meadows neighborhood has seen several significant updates in recent weeks. These developments touch on both the future of the shelter itself and broader changes within the City Council.

1. December 7 Study Session on Homelessness Revised

In a surprise move, the City has shortened the scheduled Study Session on Homelessness from 4 hours to 1 hour; after briefly removing the session from their calendar. This session was expected to provide updates and discussions on the proposed navigation center, which would serve as a homeless shelter for individuals in need. The session agenda or topics have not been shared. The significant reorganization of this meeting signals a lack of respect by the City in their timeline and approach to the project, which has faced significant community concerns. The session is closed to the public and public comment will not be allowed, but individuals may watch the session via Zoom.

2. Questions from September 17 Town Hall Shelved

Following the September 17 Town Hall meeting, many community members submitted questions about the proposed navigation center and its potential impact on the Arlington Meadows neighborhood. However, it has been announced that these questions will not be addressed, as the proposed shelter project is now officially on hold. This has left many residents frustrated, as their concerns remain unanswered for the time being.

3. Lisa Feret Resigns from City Council

In another significant turn of events, Lisa Feret has officially resigned from her position on the City Council. While she prepares to assume her new role in the Colorado House of Representatives for District 24, it is currently unclear how her departure will impact the City Council's ongoing discussions about the homeless shelter and other key local issues. A video recording of council members discussing this transition can be viewed here: City Council Discussion Video.

4. Council Members Advocate for ECA as Emergency Shelter

In early November, the City faced a particularly harsh snowstorm, prompting some City Council members to propose using the former ECA building as an emergency shelter for those in need. While this idea was initially discussed, the City ultimately secured an alternative location. It should be noted that Mayor Lauren Simpson stated on October 12 that the ECA would not be used for emergency sheltering. This incident further highlighted the tension surrounding the future of the ECA building and its potential role in the community.

5. Public Engagement and Concerns Over Communication

On October 6, Lauren Simpson made a written statement via email emphasizing that discussions on public engagement regarding the homeless shelter project should not be conducted solely through email. This remark suggests a shift in the City’s approach to community input and reflects ongoing concerns from residents about the lack of transparency and clear communication from the City regarding the shelter’s future.

6. Council Member and City Manager Positions Up for Grabs

In light of Lisa Feret's resignation, the City has begun the process of accepting applications for her vacant position as Council Member At-Large. In addition, the City is also accepting applications for the position of City Manager, which offers a salary range of $300,000 to $320,000 per year. The outcome of these appointments could have a significant impact on how the City moves forward with its homelessness strategy and other major projects, including the navigation center.

While many uncertainties remain surrounding the proposed homeless shelter in Arlington Meadows, these recent updates offer a glimpse into the evolving nature of this project. The City’s next steps will likely depend on the outcomes of leadership changes and continued community feedback. As always, residents are encouraged to stay informed and involved in the process. Show your support by signing our petition!

For now, it seems the future of the former ECA building remains in flux, and the City’s plans to address homelessness in the area are on hold.