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Hammond council approves feasibility committee to study warming and cooling shelters
Summary
Council voted to form an ad hoc feasibility committee to explore short-term warming and cooling centers operated by volunteer organizations after public testimony highlighted extreme heat and cold risks for people experiencing homelessness. Proponents emphasized the group will study feasibility and not request city funds at this stage.
The Hammond City Council on March 10 approved a resolution establishing an emergency shelter feasibility committee to study whether a system of short-term warming and cooling centers, run by volunteer organizations and faith groups, is practicable in the city.
Councilwoman Gonzalez introduced the resolution citing recent extreme-temperature events and community interest. Longtime volunteer Jean Vorhees told the council she was not asking for city money at this stage but rather permission to form an ad hoc committee to investigate best practices, operational logistics and potential volunteer partners. Vorhees cited local temperature data and past freezes and heat events to underscore the risks to people living on the margins.
Resident Ellie Campbell (District 1) also voiced support, saying her experience with local food distribution and outreach made clear there is a population that would benefit from a coordinated sheltering protocol during extreme weather.
Council discussion and vote: Councilmembers expressed support for studying the idea. The resolution passed in the meeting with recorded affirmative votes from council members present. Supporters said the committee will return recommendations and an operating-procedures manual if a feasible volunteer-operated shelter system can be designed; if not, the committee will report findings and advise the council.
Next steps: The committee will be formed with community, faith-based and nonprofit participants; it will focus on feasibility, protocol development and identifying potential facilities and volunteer partners. No municipal funding commitment was requested or approved as part of the motion.
