Homeless Industrial Complex
As I pointed out on Thursday, Plymouth Housing’s (@PlymouthHousing) website says the Kenmore facility is opening in 2025. Problem is, it hasn’t been approved by the city council. Based on last night’s vote, it’s likely toast. So I asked Plymouth CEO Karen Lee why her non-profit would take this presumptive posture. She declined to answer all my questions, including the one about failures of “housing first.”
As I tried to squeeze in more questions, one of her handlers blocked my path and bumped me numerous times. It got so heated, a Kenmore cop had to intervene. Bottom line, the public must demand more transparency from all homeless non-profits. In my experience covering this beat, the ones that have nothing to hide will talk openly and attempt to answer tough questions. Once again, King County elected officials must demand more accountability and measurable metrics for success. The Kenmore City Council deserves credit for doing that.
Final Blow
Late Thursday evening, the Kenmore City Council signaled Plymouth Housing will not be allowed to set up in the downtown core. Barring any last minute curve balls, the council will vote to seal Monday night.
Too Big to Fail
Big salaries and big money in the homeless space. So many jobs at stake. What happens if homelessness in America gets solved?
Last Time
In December, council voted 6-1 against the project. Angry residents claimed it was sold as affordable housing for veterans and senior citizens. But then it got switched to housing for the chronically homeless and drug addicted individuals.