Local

Kissimmee leaders shoot down proposal for homeless shelter. Here’s what officials decided instead

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Osceola County doesn’t have a homeless shelter, and now it looks like a new one in Kissimmee won’t be coming anytime soon.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

The city had planned to use almost $10 million in CARES Act money to rebuild services leaders say are desperately needed. But now, they’re starting over again.

The city of Kissimmee asked a committee to come up with requirements and to pick candidates that would be a good fit to address homelessness in the county.

READ: Seminole County commissioners to approve nearly $3 million to help homeless shelter

Three proposals came in: one from the Church and Community Assistance program that asked for $9.6 million for 50 tiny homes, and another $3 million for services at a central hub.

Then, Ability Housing wanted the $9.6 million for a shelter and bridge program for three years along with the services.

A motion was made to pick The Salvation Army, which would continue to operate in Osceola County and enhance services at a new center.

READ: Homeless Coalition of Central Florida hands fresh Thanksgiving meals out to families in need

But last week, the commission decided not to take any of the proposals, including The Salvation Army.

Instead, the council decided in a 3-2 vote to develop a plan to construct a city-owned facility after Commissioner Jim Fisher said they should start over. There’s no word yet on a timeline for that city project.

READ: Fundraising campaign launched to help Coalition for the Homeless as resources strain due to pandemic

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

Shannon Butler

Shannon Butler, WFTV.com

Shannon joined the Eyewitness News team in 2013.

Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.