St. Paul and Ramsey County Invest $2.2M in Shelter Beds, Confirming Use by 7 People After Camp Closure

In a recent development, St. Paul and Ramsey County invested nearly $2.2 million to expand shelter capacity, a decision made in anticipation of the closure of the Pig’s Eye Park encampment. Despite this significant financial commitment, the mayor’s office confirmed that only seven individuals have utilized these newly available beds.

The investment included a $1.08 million contribution from St. Paul to Ramsey County for additional shelter beds. Further scrutiny revealed that the county had allocated an additional $1.1 million to this initiative. This information came to light during a City Council meeting, where St. Paul City Council President Rebecca Noecker expressed her need to understand the full extent of the investments made.

Council President Noecker, who had previously supported the city’s plan to clear Pig’s Eye Park contingent on the promise of increased shelter capacity, acknowledged the shortfall in achieving the intended outcomes. “I agree that this was not a success,” she stated, reflecting on the situation.

Assistant Mayor Cedrick Baker, during his presentation to the City Council, admitted that the goal of moving more individuals into shelter spaces was not met. Despite the financial outlay, the initiative fell short of its aspirations, prompting discussions on the effectiveness of such emergency responses.

Noecker remarked on the high cost of temporary solutions, emphasizing the need for long-term systemic investments to ensure adequate shelter and housing for all. “So when you’re talking about an emergency situation, you need to spend the money in the moment to take care of that situation,” she noted, highlighting the gap between immediate actions and sustainable solutions.

Part of the funding was allocated to Catholic Charities, which added 49 beds in preparation for the camp closure. Keith Kozerski, Chief Program Officer for Catholic Charities Twin Cities, confirmed that one individual from Pig’s Eye Park utilized these resources. He also noted a 40% increase in the use of their daytime center since the closure, suggesting that more individuals from the encampment might have sought services without explicitly stating their origin.

This situation underscores the complexity of addressing homelessness and housing insecurity. As Proverbs 31:8-9 calls us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,” it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for advocacy and action in the face of such challenges. In reflecting on Isaiah 58:7, we are reminded that true justice involves actively working towards the well-being of the vulnerable in our communities.

Source: Read the original report