City Council Member Robert Holden received confirmation on July 27th that negotiations were underway for a proposed homeless shelter at 78-16 Cooper Avenue in Glendale, this time for homeless men.

Holden learned from Department of Homeless Services Commissioner Steven Banks that a sealed bidding process under a Request For Proposal was submitted for a large facility at the location and that a DHS review committee believed the proposal was strong. A provider believed to be Lantern Community Services is currently in negotiations with the DHS. Although not a completed deal, the proposed shelter would house up to 200 beds—with 200 being the maximum quantity per DHS regulations.

“This is not a proper location for any shelter, it is out of character and in no way will be accepted by the community,” Holden said. “I vehemently disagree with 78-16 Cooper Avenue as a viable site for a large men's shelter and will vigorously fight against it as I have in the past.”

In addition, Assembly Member Mike Miller wrote to the police commissioner, the schools chancellor and the commissioner of Veterans Services to alert them to the fact that the property would be more suitable for a police precinct, a school, or affordable veterans’ housing.

On August 23rd, the building permit was amended to include the language, “This facility will be classified as a lodging house. Sponsored by DHS.” This is obviously moving forward quickly. The Glendale-Middle Village Coalition has been reorganized and their flyer is included in this magazine for those who wish to donate to the group’s legal fund.