City approves $425K plan to relocate homeless from Tent City to Litchfield Motel

In a recent City Council meeting held on December 18, 2024, the Elgin City Council addressed a pressing issue regarding homelessness in the community. The council discussed a proposed agreement with Litchfield Motel, operating as Lexington Inn and Suites, to provide temporary shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness. This initiative comes in response to a significant increase in encampments, particularly in an area known as Tent City, located along the Fox River.

Tent City has been a site for homeless encampments for over 30 years, but the situation has worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic, with recent police visits indicating as many as 60 to 70 active encampments. The urgency of the matter was underscored by two recent fires in the area, which highlighted the public health risks associated with living in such conditions, including exposure to dangerous heating sources and potential biohazards.

The proposed agreement aims to secure 50 rooms at the motel for a four-month period at a cost of $65 per day for single occupancy. The plan includes provisions for couples and pet owners, reflecting a comprehensive approach to accommodating diverse needs within the homeless population. The council is seeking authorization for $425,000 to fund this initiative, which is seen as a critical step in providing safe and warm shelter for those in need.

City officials emphasized that this proposal is the result of years of collaborative efforts involving city staff, social service agencies, and community organizations. Assistant City Manager Corina Nava has played a pivotal role in coordinating these efforts, which aim to create a sustainable plan for addressing homelessness in Elgin.

As the council deliberates on this agreement, they are set to hear from subject matter experts to better inform their decision-making process. The outcome of this meeting could significantly impact the lives of many individuals experiencing homelessness in Elgin, marking a proactive response to a growing crisis in the community.