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Residents report bed bugs, medication theft and staffing shortfalls at Norma homeless shelter to county committee
Summary
Two residents of the Norma homeless shelter raised complaints during public comment about bed bugs, limited laundry, theft of medication and construction-blocked intake areas, and requested more funding and staff to address ongoing problems.
During the public-comment portion of the Cuyahoga County Committee of the Whole meeting on July 22, two residents who identified themselves as staying at the Norma homeless shelter raised concerns about pest infestations, missing medication and insufficient facility operations.
Kimberly Novak said she stayed at the shelter in 2022 and observed "bed bugs" at that time and reported more recent sightings in the shelter—9s downstairs bathroom. Novak said a pregnant resident had captured a bed bug and shown it to staff, and that staff responded dismissively. Novak also said the shelter—9s laundry facilities are insufficient and that an intake area used previously to wash new residents—9; clothing has been blocked due to construction. She said those conditions, together with two instances of mail theft that led to loss of medication, have aggravated her bipolar disorder and anxiety.
Another resident who identified himself only as Lou said the problems have persisted since services moved to the current facility and said the building has structural issues, including a broken foundation. Lou urged the committee to authorize proper funding to hire qualified staff and improve daily operations so residents can access medication, identification and other supports.
Council members and the chair thanked the speakers for sharing their concerns. The clerk announced there were no further public commentators and closed the public comment portion of the meeting.
