MILFORD, Del.- In an effort to combat homelessness, city leaders have identified three promising locations to build a pallet shelter village.
Milford officials have been looking for ways to address the issue of homelessness, especially after homeless community members were forced to vacate an unofficial encampment known as 'tent city.'
There has been talk of building a pallet shelter village, similar to the one recently built in Georgetown. Feedback from neighbors has been mostly positive.
"It can only help because if we don't do anything to help them they will never get out of the situations they are in," shared Cynthia Sammons from Milford.
The looming question, is where exactly this transitional housing should go. Now, there are three options on the table: near the Milford solar farm, behind the current police department building or on the property next to the future Milford Police Department, which is currently under construction.
There was a consensus among the community members WBOC interviewed Monday.
"The old police department might be the best place," said Mark Gajda.
Kimberly Gillard agreed, saying "maybe the homeless people could possibly go near the police station or somewhere that someone can keep an eye out."
While placing shelters near the solar farm could take an 'out of sight, out of mind' approach, many agreed those in need should be within walking distance to essential services.
"Having them closer to town allows them to actually be part of the town number one," said Sammons. "And closer to the resources they need."
All three properties being considered are owned by the City of Milford. No decisions will be made about the pallet shelter village plan until public hearings are held.
