During a recent council meeting, discussions centered on the future of a proposed homeless shelter and the ongoing debate regarding the old Fire Station number 16, currently occupied by the Scotlandville High School Alumni Association.

A community member urged the council to reconsider plans for a new $1 million homeless shelter, suggesting instead the renovation of underutilized buildings, such as the Old Women's Hospital on Airline. They emphasized that many homeless individuals prefer outdoor living and proposed the creation of pavilions with open walls and facilities, similar to models seen in other states. The council acknowledged this input, noting ongoing collaborations with Saint Vincent de Paul to explore alternative sites for the shelter.

Councilwoman Amoroso confirmed that the item for the new shelter was being deleted from the agenda as the city works to identify more suitable locations that align with community feedback. The council is currently in discussions with the Louisiana Housing Corporation to establish a clearer timeline for the project, which involves federal funding and environmental reviews.

The meeting also featured passionate testimonies from members of the Scotlandville Alumni Association, who opposed the termination of their cooperative endeavor agreement (CEA) with the city regarding the old fire station. They highlighted their efforts over the past decade to revitalize the building into a community arts center, emphasizing the significant investments made in repairs and community programs. Alumni members argued that the building has become a vital resource for local youth and the broader community, countering claims of neglect and blight.

Several alumni expressed their commitment to the project, detailing past successes in community engagement and arts programming. They urged the council to support their ongoing efforts rather than rescind the agreement, framing the situation as a critical moment for community unity and investment in the future of Scotlandville.

As the council deliberates on these matters, the outcomes could significantly impact both the homeless population's support structures and the revitalization efforts of the Scotlandville community.