Bronx residents angered over proposed 2,200-bed migrant shelter: 'Dumping ground'
Bronx migrant shelter sparks debate
Residents in the Bronx are expressing frustration over plans to open a 2,200-bed migrant shelter on Bruckner Boulevard without community input. At a heated community board meeting in Mott Haven, concerns were raised about prioritizing single men over women and families, potential safety issues, and a lack of communication from city officials. FOX 5 NY's Kendall Green has the story.
THE BRONX - Residents in the Bronx voiced their concerns and frustration about a 2,200-bed migrant shelter being proposed without community input.
What we know:
The shelter, which was the subject of Monday night’s community meeting, would house over 2,000 men on Bruckner Boulevard in the Mott Haven section.

With no vote or opinions from residents, the mayor's Office of Asylum seekers Operations plans to open the shelter as soon as late February.
According to officials, the seven-floor facility will have 24/7 on-site security, as well as an 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew.
What they're saying:
At the heated community board meeting, concerns were raised about prioritizing single men over women and families, potential safety issues and a lack of communication from city officials.
"I understand people need a place to be, and it's getting cold and everything in the future, but we feel like it's a dumping ground," said Audrey Dejesus. "We getting the jail right across the street, and now we're going to get a 2,200 bed for homeless men. No. Think about women and families first."
Meanwhile, Camille Joseph Varlack, the city's deputy mayor of administration, had to take some tough questions from residents, admitting communication could have been better throughout the process.
"Clearly, communication could have been better before this shelter was cited, and we want to make sure that we work in partnership with you as we move forward," Varlack said.
Big picture view:
The meeting came as the city plans to shut down 13 emergency migrant shelters, removing 10,000 beds by summer.