Several Sunnyvale residents are up in arms over a proposed homeless shelter in the city's Victory Village neighborhood.
In a community meeting held late Monday, residents expressed their anger and frustrations over the city and county over the possible shelter moving at the corner of North Fair Oaks Avenue and East California Avenue.
The 100-bed temporary shelter would be in place during the winter months -- November through March.
"It's a centrally-located area," said Andrea Urton of HomeFirst. "It's close to bus lines -- a large lot so it can accommodate 100 people."
But many residents who attended the meeting at the Braly Park Community Center do not agree a homeless shelter in the area would be the best location.
"It's not that we're against the homeless people having shelter in any way shape or form. This area in particular is just inappropriate because it is right smack in the middle of the historic village," resident Evelyn Dubocq said. "It's a very busy area, so it's dangerous. And there's nothing for them here."
Dubocq also pointed out there are no public restrooms for at least a mile and a half and no immediate areas to get food.
Local
Safety was also a concern among nearby residents.
The site is just over an acre and is near the on ramp to Central Expressway.
Santa Clara County Homeless Housing Director Bob Dolci said his agency looked at about 65 possible sites and insists the proposed site, which is owned by the county, is the best place for a modular building.
The shelter will be equipped with showers and restroom facilities on a temporary basis, according to Dolci.
The county will also have staff on hand to provide service and safety for the homeless, as well as security for neighbors, Dolci said.
A hearing for the proposed homeless shelter is expected to go before the Sunnyvale City Council and Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors on Aug. 25.
