Council adopts sleep‑center closure plan, delays surplus of shelters and orders ordinance changes

Moses Lake City Council voted Tuesday to adopt a transition plan that documents next steps after the council’s April decision to close the city sleep center, while pausing disposal of on‑site shelters for 60 days to seek local interest in preserving the assets.

The council approved staff’s plan, which staff said rests on three pillars: ordinance updates to promote public safety, interdepartmental standard operating procedures for consistent responses to encampments, and expanded community outreach and resource coordination. ‘‘This transition plan is based on some fundamental pillars that include enforcing ordinance to promote public safety, cleaning and maintaining lawful use of public spaces, and coordinating outreach through structured partnerships and services,’’ Housing Manager Liz Murillo told the council.

Nut graf — why it matters: The council’s action sets how Moses Lake will handle encampments, public‑space use and sheltering after the sleep center stops operations. Staff recommended measures that would combine enforcement with outreach and a new ‘‘1+ framework’’ — a proposal for a 24/7 facilitator to provide real‑time case management and transportation coordination.

Key details: Staff estimated approximately $85,000 in one‑time closeout costs for the sleep center (including a 10% contingency) to cover lease obligations, site restoration and return of leased restroom and office units. The transition plan directs updated camping and new sit/sleep/lie sidewalk ordinances, expanded signs and public education, and a resource page for service providers.

Council added two conditions before final disposal of on‑site property: a 60‑day hold on surplusing city‑owned shelters to allow local entities time to express interest, and direction to staff to pursue strengthened ordinances addressing shopping carts on public property. Councilmember concerns focused on not needlessly disposing of city assets while also avoiding the city operating a replacement shelter.

On enforcement, staff proposed a 1–2–3 approach discussed by council members: initial outreach/education, a modest fine for repeat noncompliance and criminal penalties for persistent, serious public‑safety violations. Police Chief Sands and City Attorney Catherine (last name on file) said enforcement emphasis would be targeted and prioritized, and staff will pilot a 30‑day enforcement sweep after outreach.

The plan also authorizes staff to prepare an RFP, subject to council approval, to contract for the ‘‘1+’’ facilitator who would coordinate 24/7 case management and transportation services. The council requested quarterly reporting if the city contracts for that role.

Ending: With the 60‑day hold, council struck a compromise intended to preserve options for reuse of shelters while moving the community toward a coordinated, ordinance‑backed approach to unsheltered homelessness.