Killeen Nonprofit Steps Away From Homeless Shelter Site Due to Costly Rezoning Conditions

Armor of God Outreach, a nonprofit organization in Killeen, Texas, has decided to step away from plans to open a homeless shelter at a proposed site on Medical Drive after facing significant financial hurdles tied to rezoning conditions. The city council recently voted to rezone the property, but the process came with additional requirements that have raised concerns for the group.

The site had been earmarked for a new homeless shelter to address growing housing insecurity in the area. Friends in Crisis, the only existing shelter in Killeen, plans to shift focus to its veteran and domestic violence programs, leaving a gap in services for the homeless population. Armor of God Outreach had been working to fill this gap, providing outreach and temporary housing through its existing center while preparing to open the new shelter.

JT Haun, founder of Armor of God Outreach, expressed concern over the added costs associated with the Conditional Use Permit. The permit, recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission and city staff, includes requirements such as 24-hour staffing and a security upgrade. Haun noted that while many of these elements were already part of their plans, the additional expenses—particularly the replacement of a wooden privacy fence with a masonry one—have made the project financially unfeasible.

The cost of these upgrades could reach into the tens of thousands of dollars, straining an already tight budget. Haun mentioned that the organization has not yet fully launched its thrift store initiative, which is intended to support the shelter’s operations. “We were already on a tight budget to be able to do the first year just because we haven’t gotten up and running at the thrift store like we want too yet,” he said.

Killeen City Council member David Bass acknowledged the council’s support for Haun’s mission but emphasized the need to balance community concerns. “We have a responsibility to the residents, we have a responsibility to the school, we have a responsibility to businesses like Sonic. So, we have to compromise, and I hope we can all compromise to make this happen,” Bass said.

The situation highlights the complex interplay between public policy, community needs, and financial realities. As the city and nonprofit organizations navigate these challenges, the broader issue of housing insecurity remains a pressing concern for many in Killeen. Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, urging compassion and justice for the vulnerable.

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