Residents of Poughkeepsie, New York, are urging Dutchess County officials to reconsider the current plan for a homeless shelter at 26 Oakley Street. The proposed plan includes a 120-bed facility for single men and women, but locals are advocating for it to serve families and single women instead. A petition circulating online aims to gather support for this change, emphasizing the importance of community safety and fair resource distribution.

According to the City of Poughkeepsie, residents believe the current plan places an unfair burden on the city's 5th Ward, which already hosts several public service facilities. The petition highlights that the previous proposal to split services between the City and the Town of Poughkeepsie was more balanced and aligned with community needs.

At a recent rally at Warring Elementary School, local leaders, including New York State Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson and Poughkeepsie City Administrator Joseph Donat, voiced their concerns. City of Poughkeepsie Mayor Yvonne Flowers stated in a video message, "We are not against helping the homeless, but we are against being the only community expected to carry that burden."

Residents and officials have suggested alternatives, such as scatter-site shelters across the county, to better distribute services and alleviate pressure on the 5th Ward. The City of Poughkeepsie Common Council is also considering legal action against the county. The next Dutchess County Legislature meeting is scheduled for June 5, where residents plan to express their opposition to the current shelter plan.

Jeff Stevens