SPRINGFIELD — More than 140 people are waiting for shelter in Springfield.
Commissioners said an increase in homelessness has been a problem since before the pandemic and it’s only getting worse.
In a city meeting Wednesday, commissioners said just under 400 students are homeless in the city.
To help solve that problem commissioners said the city bought two hotels — The Village Inn and The Executive Inn.
Together the buildings cost close to $4 million.
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The two hotels have more than 200 rooms and some can host multiple people.
The plan is to open one property in June and prove people with not only shelter but food, and mental health support and make people feel safe.
Commissioners voted unanimously Wednesday in favor of passing an emergency ordinance in order to meet the expected open date.
The city approved more than $90,000 for bed frames and mattresses.
Once The Executive Inn opens it will be short-term help until The Village Inn opens next year.
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