In a recent South Salt Lake City Planning Commission meeting, officials discussed a significant petition from Shelter the Homeless aimed at establishing a new family interim non-congregate housing facility, known as FINCH, at 315 West 33100 South. The proposal includes both an ordinance amendment and a zoning map change for the 1.88-acre site, which was previously a motel.

The facility is designed to provide temporary housing for families experiencing homelessness, specifically those with at least one minor child. The proposed zoning change would transition the property from its current Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) designation to the new FINCH zone, which would be exclusive to this facility.

City staff outlined the extensive process involved in the petition, noting that Shelter the Homeless has been working on the application since September 2023, with a kickoff meeting held in August. The facility aims to support families in stabilizing their housing situations while providing essential services.

Key components of the proposal include a maximum capacity of 85 bedrooms for up to 400 individuals, with strict operational guidelines to mitigate potential impacts on the surrounding community. These guidelines encompass on-site management, security measures, and a comprehensive management plan addressing various operational concerns.

The Planning Commission serves as a recommending body to the City Council, which will make the final decision on the petition. The discussions highlighted the need for a dedicated zone to accommodate such facilities, as current zoning regulations do not allow for this type of use within South Salt Lake. The outcome of this petition could significantly impact local efforts to address homelessness and provide necessary support for families in need.