Updated 11-30
(WGTD)---Any disagreement that existed between a downtown Racine homeless shelter, its neighbors and the city appears to have been resolved.
The Hospitality Center at St. Luke's Episcopal Church drew attention this fall when it requested permission to expand services. The daytime only shelter wanted to extend its hours of operation and serve full meals--not just snacks.
The subsequent conversation morphed into an overall discussion of some perceived operating problems.
A compromise--recommended for approval this week by the Plan Commission--calls for monitors to be stationed outside of the church to guard against loitering, loud conversation and smoking where smoking isn't allowed.
The center will be able to extend its hours of operation, but not by quite as much as it originally requested. They'll also be able to serve meals. The agreement includes several other conditions.
Mayor Cory Mason Wednesday had praise for those involved in striking the compromise. "It was nice to see the community come together to reach a compromise of their own volition to make space for everyone," Mason said. "I certainly appreciate those efforts," he said.
Development Department staff reported last month that the church has had spotty compliance with existing conditions, and periodically generates noise and loitering complaints from some of its neighbors.
The Hospitality Center is currently operating under a set of conditions that was agreed to some six years ago after a round of neighbor complaints.
The Plan Commission recommendation on the operating revisions now goes to the full council.
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