Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Homelessness topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Planning Commission approves 24-bed expansion for LGBT-targeted shelter at 1050 South Van Ness
Summary
After wide public support from service providers, supervisors and advocates, the commission unanimously approved a conditional use authorization to legalize and expand a Dolores Street shelter to 81 beds, adding 24 beds targeted for LGBT adults and committing existing HSA funding and services.
The Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve a conditional use authorization for 1050 South Van Ness that legalizes an existing 57-bed shelter and adds 24 beds targeted to LGBT adults, bringing the nightly capacity to 81 beds. Planning staff Diego Sanchez described the project as an intensification of a long-standing group housing site with exceptions requested for rear yard and bicycle parking requirements.
Supervisor David Campos urged support, saying the proposal has been years in the making to address safety and service gaps for homeless LGBT adults. He thanked Mayor's office and HSA staff for funding and partnership. Dolores Street Community Services and the Human Services Agency described operations, off-site reservation procedures and case-management services that will complement the beds; Scott Walton (HSA) noted funding for renovation and ongoing operations is in HSA's budget.
Supporters included housing and service advocates who described disproportionate homelessness among LGBT people and safety problems in general shelters. Jennifer Friedenbach of the Coalition on Homelessness said surveys showed transgender residents experience physical and verbal abuse at higher rates. The commission adopted a motion to approve with conditions; the final recorded vote was 7–0 in favor.
