Boise commissioners hear divided opinions on Interfaith Sanctuary shelter permit proposal

The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held on July 8, 2025, in Boise, Ada County, Idaho, focused on the proposed conditional use permit (CUP) for the Interfaith Sanctuary to relocate its low barrier shelter to a residential area. The meeting featured a series of public testimonies that highlighted both support and opposition to the proposal.

The first speaker raised concerns about the safety implications of placing a shelter near residential properties, particularly regarding the potential for weapons to be hidden in nearby areas frequented by children and families. This speaker urged the commission to deny the CUP, citing the risks posed to the community.

Following this, Laurie Bruyne, a resident of the area, emphasized that the application must meet specific criteria under Boise City code, particularly regarding the impact on public services and infrastructure. She pointed out that Fire Station 9, which serves the proposed site, lacks the capacity to handle increased demand due to staffing shortages and insufficient infrastructure. Bruyne argued that the application would negatively affect police services and should therefore be denied.

Trish Charlton, a retired social worker, presented crime data indicating a significant increase in criminal activity around the current Interfaith location compared to the proposed site. She noted that the area surrounding the current shelter has seen a higher prevalence of drug-related crimes and assaults, raising concerns about the potential for similar issues to arise in the new location.

In contrast, Naysa Jensen, a long-time volunteer with the homeless community, spoke in favor of the CUP. She argued that the fears surrounding homelessness are often exaggerated and that the new facility would provide essential services, including medical care and mental health support. Jensen emphasized the importance of compassion and community support for those experiencing homelessness.

Brad Gates, a long-time Boise resident, expressed skepticism about the claims that the new shelter would not impact the neighborhood. He referenced experiences from other cities where similar shelters led to increased calls for service related to crime and disturbances.

The meeting concluded with a mix of passionate arguments from both sides, reflecting the community's divided opinions on the proposed relocation of the Interfaith Sanctuary. The commission is expected to deliberate on the CUP application, weighing the concerns of residents against the need for supportive services for the homeless population. Further discussions and decisions will follow in upcoming meetings.