Grand opening today for Redmond’s newest homeless hotel. But King County officials blocked me from coming in. Why are they so afraid of questions?
King County is also preventing Salvation Army from talking to me about this specific project. This is how politicians try to control the narrative. They know local media will not ask hard questions. Bottom line, some angry neighbors and business owners are concerned this project will turn into a drug den and spill out into the community. They’re putting up extra lights and video cameras. Others are now preparing to move out of this Overlake neighborhood.
Happening Now
King County’s controversial homeless hotel is finally opening Tuesday morning in Redmond’s Overlake neighborhood. It will house more than 100 chronically homeless men and women through the “Housing First” low barrier model. That means drug addicts will be allowed to live here. Treatment and counseling will be available, but it will not be required. Most neighbors are concerned this will attract crime and a spike in 911 calls, draining resources to from the city.
Since 2021, it’s been the center of opposition and protests. Activist groups like Safe Eastside and small business owners accused Executive Dow Constantine and Mayor Angela Birney of working backroom deals, leaving the community out of the decision making process. For a little while, the building remained empty and even housed Afghan refugees since the county could not find a legitimate operator. Salvation Army was finally chosen to run daily operations.
While many neighbors are taking a wait and see approach, there is hope that it won’t be problematic as some of the other homeless hotel locations since this Christian non-profit has a strong track record of success. But now Salvation Army opens itself up to scrutiny if something goes wrong. I’ve been covering this story since 2021. Here’s a quick recap of how we got to this point.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility requirements for the homeless to live at this Redmond location. It appears King County wants people who have recently spent time in jail or prison.
Salvation Army’s Code of Conduct.
Back in 2021, Mayor Birney told me she was 100% committed to getting this across the finish line.
Birney totally dismissed concerns by most of her Redmond constituents.
If Birney has her way, Redmond could be bringing in even more homeless housing. She’s now trying to shepherd in Plymouth Housing’s project in the downtown core.