HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Comment from Bent & School Committee with Concerns
June 1, 2026
Alisa Magnotta, CEO
Housing Assistance Corporation
Susan Mazzarella, CEO
Catholic Charities
Re: Concerns Regarding Proposed Relocation of St. Joseph’s House Shelter at Winter Street
to 460 West Main Street, Hyannis.
Dear Ms. Magnotta and Ms. Mazzarella:
On behalf of the Barnstable Public School Committee, I write to formally express our
significant concerns regarding the proposed relocation of the St. Joseph’s House shelter
from Winter Street to 460 West Main Street, Hyannis within proximity of Hyannis West
Elementary School, Enoch Cobb Early Learning Center, and Barnstable High School.
The School Committee recognizes and supports the importance of providing shelter and
transitional housing programs within our community. We acknowledge the value these
services provide to individuals seeking stability and shelter. However, the proposed
placement of this shelter immediately neighboring Hyannis West Elementary School and
Enoch Cobb Early Learning Center and near Barnstable High School raises serious concerns
regarding student and staff safety, and operational impacts on the school environment.
Hyannis West Elementary and Enoch Cobb Preschool—both surrounded by wooded areas--
serve young children during critical developmental years. Parents, staff, and community
members expect that the area surrounding the school will prioritize safety, predictability,
and appropriate environments for children. While many shelters and related programs
operate responsibly, the proximity of this facility to a school serving children as young as
three years old introduces concerns related to supervision, behavioral incidents,
trespassing, emergency response, and the overall sense of security for students, staff, and
families.
Additionally, the School Committee is concerned about the potential strain this relocation
may place on school resources and local infrastructure. Should the relocation proceed, the
district may be required to upgrade security measures, increase playground supervision,
enhance monitoring procedures, and coordinate expanded safety planning with local law
enforcement and emergency personnel. These measures could create unanticipated
financial burdens for the district and taxpayers.
HAC/Catholic Charities Page 2
Accordingly, we respectfully request that HAC/Catholic Charities:
1. Reconsider the proposed location and evaluate alternative sites that are not in direct
proximity to three Barnstable schools.
2. Conduct a comprehensive public safety and community impact assessment prior to
implementation.
3. Engage in meaningful dialogue collectively with school officials, parents, and public
safety agencies.
4. Identify additional funding sources to support any necessary security enhancements
required to maintain student and staff safety before the shelter opens.
The Barnstable School Committee remains committed to collaborating with community
partners to support both public education and shelter for the homeless in a manner that
responsibly balances the safety of students and school staff. We believe thoughtful planning
and site selection are essential to ensuring the continued safety, stability, and success of our
school community.
Thank you for your consideration of these concerns.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Bent, Chair
School Committee
Barnstable Public Schools
cc: Sara Ahern, Superintendent of Schools
Barnstable Public School Families and Staff
Mark Ells, Barnstable Town Manager
Barnstable Town Council
Fall River Diocese
Barnstable Police Department