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Cadence Kitchen reports 6‑month warming‑center operations; council sets $400,000 conditional shelter allocation
Summary
Cadence Kitchen told the Lewiston City Council that its emergency warming center served more than 350 clients over six months and averaged 65–75 people nightly. The council approved a $400,000 set‑aside as part of FY26 appropriations; staff said any disbursement will require a plan, facility and a memorandum of understanding.
Cadence Kitchen representatives told the Lewiston City Council on May 6 that the organization’s recent emergency warming center sheltered more than 350 individual clients over a six‑month period and reached maximum capacity of 98 on some nights.
“We provided safety, comfort, and shelter for more than 350 individual clients,” Kevin Bollard, president of Cadence Kitchen, said during public comment, adding that average nightly attendance was “between 65 and 75 individuals.” Bollard described community meal partners and volunteer support and said Cadence Kitchen is positioned to help with longer‑term shelter needs.
During budget debate the council approved a resolve authorizing use of $7,374,530 from the general fund balance for capital and one‑time items; councilors and staff confirmed $400,000 of that amount has been identified to support shelter operations if the city and the shelter operator reach an agreement. “We’re not just handing out $400,000 after this is approved,” Deputy Administrator Brian O’Malley said, explaining the administration expects an operator to present a plan, secure a building and enter an MOU before funds are released.
Public speakers and some councilors pressed for clarity on the distinction between shelter operations and long‑term housing. Councilor Nejean said using general fund dollars for ongoing operations could set a difficult precedent and emphasized that shelters are emergency solutions distinct from permanent housing programs. The council and staff said other funding sources, grant requirements and partner commitments will shape final agreements.
Cadence Kitchen’s remarks and public testimony also referenced an outstanding $2.5 million grant the organization expects could support a shelter; councilors said city support might be needed as a local match or to underwrite start‑up costs but that any draw on city funds would be conditioned on a formal agreement.
The council approved the appropriation and related budget votes; staff are to return with implementation details and agreements if and when a shelter operator satisfies conditions identified by the administration and council.
