San Diego selects operator for new safe parking lot amid impending lawsuit.

Members of the San Diego City Council have taken a significant step forward in addressing homelessness in the region by granting initial approval for a contract that would enable a local nonprofit organization to operate a safe parking lot designed for hundreds of homeless residents. However, this initiative could be jeopardized by a lawsuit filed by a developer aiming to halt the project.

The unanimous vote from the Land Use and Housing Committee facilitates the hiring of Jewish Family Service, an established nonprofit with experience in similar initiatives, to manage the H Barracks site located adjacent to the San Diego International Airport. The site previously housed U.S. Navy barracks, notable for their distinct “H” shape, which gives the location its name.

City officials expressed optimism about the project, noting that they hope to accept vehicles at the H Barracks as soon as early May. Despite the anticipated benefits, the project has faced opposition from local residents concerned about its potential impact on nearby businesses and educational institutions in Liberty Station. This resistance has led to legal actions, with a lawsuit filed by McMillin-NTC, a subsidiary of Corky McMillin Cos., claiming that the proposed homeless services would violate longstanding agreements pertaining to land use.

According to the developer, situating a homeless facility in such proximity to hospitality businesses could endanger the viability of future developments, including a planned third hotel in the area. McMillin Chairman Scott McMillin remarked on potential financial implications, expressing concern that nearby homelessness may deter tourists and adversely affect existing hotel occupancy rates, thereby threatening the broader community’s economic development goals.

In contrast, city leaders argue that the pressing issue of homelessness, with thousands residing on local streets or in vehicles, poses a more significant threat to both public safety and economic health than the concerns raised by the developer. Public records indicate a rise in homelessness in the area, emphasizing the need for increased shelter capacity to accommodate those seeking assistance.

The California Coastal Commission has authorized the establishment of two large tents on the H Barracks property, which could serve around 600 people, potentially making it the largest shelter in the city. However, funding for this aspect of the initiative remains uncertain for now, and the site will initially be limited to accommodating individuals residing in vehicles.

The parking lot is expected to serve up to 190 cars, trucks, and RVs, a capacity nearly double that of existing safe parking facilities in the city. Operational hours are set from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m., a schedule designed to balance fiscal responsibility with the realities of many residents who work during the day.

Recent statistics reveal that a significant portion of individuals utilizing San Diego’s existing safe parking programs, over two-thirds, have some form of income. The data highlights that nearly 40% of participants are employed, while around 31% receive government assistance or Social Security, with only a third reporting no income.

The anticipated cost for the H Barracks initiative is projected at approximately 0,000 through June, with Jewish Family Service contributing an additional ,600, leading to a total budget of roughly 4,500 for the initial few months. For future operations, an annual budget of about .6 million is expected. Economic analysts within the city believe this expenditure is manageable amidst existing budgetary constraints.

City officials anticipate that construction on the site will conclude by the end of the month. The full City Council must still vote to finalize the contract. Even if the court ruling favors the city, the H Barracks lot is slated to become part of the broader Pure Water recycling project in the future.

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