Government Involvement in Transforming Old Hotels for Homeless Housing and COVID-19 Quarantine

In today's challenging socio-economic climate, the question arises: Would the U.S. Government be willing to help civilians in transforming old hotels into safe spaces for the homeless and for those needing quarantine during the ongoing pandemic?

The case of Palmer Court in Salt Lake City, Utah, offers a glimpse of what can be achieved through collaborative efforts. Purchased via a generous grant from the federal government, Utah State government, and local charitable organizations and churches, the facility was once a Holiday Inn, which relocated in 2008. This article delves into the legal and practical challenges and considerations involved in such transformations.

Legal Framework and Practical Challenges

There is a legal requirement that the Federal government - at least theoretically - must seriously consider converting unneeded buildings into housing for the homeless before disposing of them. While the regulation may be complex, it highlights the overarching intent to address homelessness through such means. However, the actual implementation requires substantial modifications to the buildings, including: Wheelchair Accessibility: Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures that the facility is accessible to all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities. Fire Safety: Installation of fire sprinkler systems is mandated to prevent and control fires, safeguarding the lives of occupants and staff. Electrical Upgrades: The addition of necessary electrical power to accommodate modern amenities and facilities. Code Compliance: Ensuring that the building meets current local and federal building codes.

Additionally, in areas with no nearby amenities, further considerations such as bus transportation, grocery stores, and health clinics need to be in place. Addressing these multifaceted challenges is crucial for the smooth functioning of the facility.

Republican Stance and Challenges

The current administration, led by President Trump, is a point of contention. While the President and his cronies are successful capitalists, their approach to homelessness is not aligned with providing additional housing. The Republican party's fear-based platform may drive them to oppose such initiatives, as an increased homeless population can be politically damaging. Instead, their inclination may be to push for more punitive measures, such as incarcerating the homeless rather than providing them with safe housing.

From a personal perspective, one might argue that such housing should come from private or philanthropic efforts, rather than government intervention. However, under the current administration, these efforts are unlikely to receive support, given the political climate.

Practical Solutions and Considerations

If one is still determined to undertake such a project, several steps need to be considered:

Obtain Funding: Applying for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans or grants is a possibility. However, a detailed business plan is required, outlining the costs and operational sustainability. Charitable Support: Seeking assistance from charitable organizations is another viable option. Financial support and expertise could be crucial in making the project feasible. Business Plan: A comprehensive business plan should include a detailed budget, an operational strategy, and risk assessments.

Notwithstanding these potential avenues, the feasibility of such a project remains questionable. Transforming a former hotel into a homeless shelter involves significant capital investment, ongoing maintenance, and sustained community support. The likelihood of long-term success is uncertain without a robust financial and operational backing.

In conclusion, while the government's willingness to assist in this endeavor is currently limited, the transformation of old hotels for the homeless and quarantine needs is a viable solution in principle. However, the practical and political challenges make it a daunting task. Nonetheless, every effort to address such pressing societal issues is crucial and commendable.