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Ellensburg leaders weigh shelter options; HopeSource reports strong volunteer support for cold-weather shelter
Summary
HopeSource delivered a positive report on the 2024–25 cold weather shelter and requested more shower days, cots and day storage; City Manager proposed leasing a church building for 2025–26 and recommended halting active siting for a sleep center in favor of continuing the seasonal shelter.
HopeSource CEO Susan Grindle and HopeSource Navigator Billy Brimley reported to the joint meeting on May 8, 2025 about the 2024–25 cold weather seasonal shelter in Ellensburg. Grindle said volunteers and food donations reduced operating costs and that attendees gave positive feedback; program staff requested more shower days, additional cots and secure day-storage options next season.
City Manager Heidi Behrends Cerniwey opened discussion about partnership, site and operations for the 2025–26 shelter season and said one option is leasing a building from a local church. In a related presentation, Behrends Cerniwey recommended discontinuing active siting efforts for a dedicated sleep center and instead continuing the seasonal cold weather shelter model.
Housing and Grants Administrator Frey provided a brief update on current and upcoming affordable housing projects and developer incentives; the minutes do not specify project names or dollar amounts.
No formal vote or ordinance was recorded on the sleep center recommendation; the manager’s recommendation will require further action by council and staff follow-up to confirm site leases, operational details and funding for the coming season.
