Interface Sanctuary seeks community support for new transitional housing project in Boise

The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held on July 8, 2025, in Boise, Ada County, Idaho, focused on discussions surrounding the proposed Interface Sanctuary project, aimed at addressing homelessness in the area. The meeting featured testimonies from various community members, highlighting both support and concerns regarding the initiative.

The session began with a speaker expressing anticipation for the good neighbor plan from Interface Sanctuary, emphasizing the need for mediation to rebuild trust between the community and the project developers. The speaker noted a lack of follow-up on previous inquiries about guest behavior at the shelter, suggesting that communication issues have contributed to a breakdown in good faith between stakeholders.

Julia Robinson, another participant, shared her experiences advocating for individuals with disabilities and emphasized the importance of transitional housing models that provide support services. She highlighted the potential benefits of having medical care on-site, which could significantly improve the lives of residents. Robinson also corrected a previous statement regarding police presence, clarifying that there would be a security presence instead.

Chris Alvarez, the director of Interface Sanctuary, spoke about the positive impact the shelter could have on local artists and the broader community. He noted that the organization has successfully helped many individuals transition out of homelessness and emphasized the importance of addressing the homelessness crisis in Boise.

In contrast, a letter read on behalf of Rhonda Gibson raised concerns about safety and the potential negative effects of the shelter on the surrounding neighborhood. The letter cited issues related to weapons possession among homeless individuals and referenced past incidents of weapons being found near shelters in other areas.

The meeting concluded with a call for further testimonies, indicating ongoing community engagement and the importance of addressing both support and concerns regarding the Interface Sanctuary project. The discussions underscored the complexities of developing solutions for homelessness while balancing community safety and support for vulnerable populations.