LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — The Metropolis of Lansing says it’s working with housing advocates and state officers to search out options for individuals residing in a homeless encampment, whilst the town pursues a lawsuit in opposition to two enterprise homeowners accused of permitting the camp to stay on their property.
Regardless of ongoing discussions, metropolis officers emphasize that the lawsuit won’t be paused or dropped whereas this work continues.
Lansing works to relocate these residing in homeless encampment, metropolis says
Some housing advocates say they had been stunned by this stance. Based on advocates, Mayor Andy Schor had beforehand agreed to a 3-month pause on the lawsuit. Additionally they declare the mayor promised to assist the creation of a sanctioned encampment, with metropolis backing, and to offer monetary assist for the Tenant Useful resource Heart.
Nonetheless, when 6 Information contacted the mayor’s workplace to substantiate these experiences, a metropolis spokesperson stated the lawsuit shouldn’t be paused.
The town says it hopes to go to courtroom with momentary plans that housing advocates and property homeowners can implement to enhance situations, whereas additionally giving advocates the following three months to assist residents transition into long-term housing.
Advocates argue that three months is not sufficient time and that the present housing market is not inexpensive for individuals experiencing homelessness.
“We’ve been working with folks at this encampment for at least three years,” stated Khadja Erickson, a housing advocate. “For the larger part of the encampment, we’re still struggling with the same issue – trying to find available housing. Some people are unable to work and need time to get on disability or other programs that would help them secure sustainable housing. Three months is not realistic.”
