Proposal meant to help open emergency homeless shelters could make it harder, advocates say
Louisville Metro Council has passed a new ordinance aimed at clarifying how emergency shelters can operate. It defines three shelter types — day shelters, overnight shelters hosted by religious groups, and extreme weather shelters that open during hazardous conditions.
Supporters, including Councilwoman Betsy Ruhe, say the ordinance will provide much-needed guidance for groups trying to offer safe spaces, particularly during dangerous weather. The move comes after the closure of a pop-up shelter at the Louisville StrEatery earlier this year.
But some advocates worry that new licensing requirements for accessory overnight shelters could create additional barriers. While the ordinance is intended to simplify the process, concerns remain about how quickly and easily shelters will be able to open when the need is urgent.
