The only alternative solution that makes sense - and which was part of Bloomberg's 2004 original plan - is to have de-centralized intake centers (one in each borough) for people seeking emergency shelter. Easy access, localized services.

The plan for de-centralization was already in motion, and groups had already bid (or were even chosen?) to operate these intake centers, but the DHS pulled the plug at the last minute.

Some cynics say it's because the DHS wants direct control over the intake center(s) so they can keep down numbers and costs lower, maybe by making it harder get in (total cost of providing a single shelter bed including facilities and services is $24,000 per year)...something stinks at the DHS. Definitely more for a reporter to investigate here.

Posted by: nycnyc at August 13, 2008 11:59 AM in response to Homeless Intake Center Plan Provokes Broad Opposition

Regarding earlier comments on finances, the DHS has cited long-term cost savings as one of several justifications for moving the intake center to Brooklyn.

However, the NYC Comptroller William C. Thompson has publicly contested their "alleged" cost-benefit analysis and he is opposed to moving the intake center. He criticizes the DHS for its "failure to use an open and transparent process" and notes that "DHS operations remain opaque and plagued by accounting irregularities." This is all from his in a public letter to Mayor Bloomberg - http://www.comptroller.nyc.gov/press/2008_releases/pr08-06-095.shtm,

As a city agency, DHS should be held accountable for its dismal record and be more inclusive and transparent in its decision-making process.

This is not just a Brooklyn issue - the DHS has been negligent in representing the best interests of the people of the city as a whole, financially and socially...and they refuse to release any records, which is an abuse of public trust.

The Manhattan Community Board where the current intake center at Bellevue is located also opposes the move, as does the Manhattan Borough President because they know it is bad policy and will lead to more homeless on the streets.

NYC Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum is opposed to the plan as are the vast majority of homeless advocacy groups. Gotbaum cited the "deplorable" conditions at the Bedford armory and adds that selling the Manhattan center for the construction of a luxury hotel is "just outrageous."

Deputy Mayor Linda Gibbs (who used to be head of DHS) is determined to push this through, but when will she and DHS learn that they can't sneak things through behind closed doors? The DHS has been running things like this for so long and it's time for the NY press and involved communities to expose them for these abysmal practices.

Posted by: nycnyc at August 13, 2008 11:47 AM in response to Homeless Intake Center Plan Provokes Broad Opposition