Last Updated on September 19, 2021
Memorandum
DATE: 12/9/2019
TO: Friends of the Unsheltered
FROM: Rick Bowers
SUBJECT: Astoria Planning Commission work session on temporary emergency shelters
On Tuesday, December 10, 2019 at 6:30pm, the Astoria Planning Commission (APC) will resume work on their recommendation for updating the Astoria Development Code concerning emergency shelters. There are multiple items on the agenda (so lots of sitting), however, witnesses are important! 1095 Duane Street, Astoria 2nd Floor, Council Chambers. I just sent a letter to the commissioners expressing my thoughts: 2019-12-09 APC re temporary emergency shelter. You might find it interesting for background information.
Background. About a year ago the APC began this work but it was put on hold by higher priority items. Prior discussions indicated to me the perspective of our homeless residents would be overshadowed by the “concerns of the neighborhood.” I’m looking for win-win solutions where everyone’s needs can be met. Several new members are on the current commission so it’s unclear to me what impact they will have. Last July I wrote a letter to the Astoria City Council on this issue. You can see my letter here: https://tinyurl.com/astoria-cp.