Arizona Legislator Slams ‘Misguided’ Homeless Housing Plan in Mesa

On Sep 26, 2023

TL/DR –

Mesa city officials are considering purchasing a motel for $7.4 million to provide shelter for unhoused residents, a part of the Off the Streets Program that started in 2020. This decision has provoked criticism from some state lawmakers and concerns from residents related to public safety, property values, and the use of American Rescue Plan funds for this purpose. The proposed motel, the Grand Hotel on Main Street and Power Road, would house families, seniors, and survivors of domestic violence while the Housing and Community Development Advisory Board is set to discuss the project further.

Mesa City’s Proposed Motel Acquisition to House Residents Draws Criticism

Mesa city officials are being criticized for their $7.4 million motel purchase proposition intended to serve as a shelter for those without homes. The motive is being questioned by both communities and lawmakers, as other cities have failed attempts to provide such temporary housing solutions.

State Representative Matt Gress, a noted conservative, openly praised the unsuccessful attempt by Scottsdale to house displaced individuals from “The Zone” in a hotel, labeling it as “good news for taxpayers” in late August.

Republican Barbara Parker deemed Mesa’s similar plan under the Off the Streets Program as “misguided and controversial”. Initiated in 2020, this program has drawn both support and criticism from different quarters.

Public meetings have seen residents express fears about public safety, property value, and the use of American Rescue Plan funds to establish a permanent base for the 90-day transitional housing program.

The proposed site, The Grand Hotel on Main Street and Power Road, would offer accommodation to families, seniors, and survivors of domestic violence.

The Housing and Community Development Advisory Board is set to discuss the project further. No official agenda is currently available, but at the board’s next meeting on Thursday, Oct. 5, residents will have the opportunity to express their thoughts through spoken or written comments.