Group vows to push on after Jefferson City Council rejects homeless shelter rezoning

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Jefferson City Council's rejection of rezoning for a permanent homeless shelter won't stop a community group working on the project, according to a statement from Housing the Community Jefferson City.

Housing the Community released the statement after the city council voted 6-3 Monday night to reject rezoning for a homeless shelter.

The Jefferson City Council voted to block a measure that would have allowed Jefferson City Room at the Inn to convert a vacant building into a new resource center and emergency shelter.

While Housing the Community is disappointed in the council's decision, leaders emphasize that the community's need for these services remains unchanged.

"The City Council’s vote against our proposal for 107 Adams Street was disappointing, but it does not change our commitment or our goals," Scott Johnston, Housing the Community board president, stated in a news release. "Housing the Community Jefferson City will continue working toward an expanded emergency shelter and a resource center where people experiencing homelessness — or at risk of becoming homeless — can connect with services, support, and a path toward stable housing. The need remains, regardless of what address ultimately becomes home to these programs."

Moving forward, the organization said it will continue to work with municipal leaders.

As the search for a permanent site continues, Housing the Community will continue evaluating its options and asking the community to stay involved.

A special city task force on homelessness reported this spring that expanding shelter beds should be a city government priority.