Santa Fe Considers Pallet Communities Amid Shelter Concerns
santa Fe, N.M. – City officials are exploring the expansion of pallet communities as a strategy to address homelessness. This initiative coincides with growing uncertainty surrounding the future of Pete’s Place, a prominent local shelter. A recent city council meeting highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to combat homelessness, with Mayor Alan Webber proposing the construction of a new micro-community capable of housing up to 50 individuals.
Micro-communities: A Promising Solution?
The proposed micro-community, modeled after a accomplished pilot project at Christ Lutheran Church, aims to provide complete support for its residents. Mayor Webber emphasized the potential benefits of these communities,stating:
In the past,we have seen that these micro-communities are very well managed. They have 24/7 oversight and security, along with wraparound services and hygiene facilities.They work very, very well in cities across the country, and the one here at Christ Lutheran has been very successful as a pilot.
Mayor Alan Webber
the proposed location for the new micro-community is near Rodeo Road and Cerillos Road. Since joining Built for Zero in 2019, a national movement focused on ending homelessness, the city has been actively seeking innovative housing solutions.
pete’s Place: A Shelter in Jeopardy?
While the city explores new avenues for housing the homeless, concerns are mounting over the future of Pete’s Place. The shelter, known for providing food, medical care, and othre essential services, faces an uncertain future as its lease with the city is set to expire in October.
During the city council meeting, numerous residents voiced their support for Pete’s Place, urging the council to secure its future. Many advocated for increased funding to either expand the shelter or relocate it to a larger facility.
Council Deliberations and Future Plans
The city council convened in an executive session to discuss the fate of Pete’s Place. While the specific details of the discussion remain confidential, Mayor Webber indicated that the city is actively searching for additional properties suitable for establishing more micro-communities.
