HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Comment from Guenther in OppositionDear Chair Dewey and Zoning Board of Appeal Members,
I watch almost all your meetfngs and appreciate your tfme and dedicatfon to the Town. I’m also a lifelong
supporter of those in need, and ask that these comments be read with this in mind.
Regarding the locatfon of shelter, the CEO of HAC recently, publicly stated (on the radio), that the Town
asked them to move the emergency overnight shelter from Winter Street, away from downtown
Hyannis. Assuming that this was because of its’ proximity to tourists and businesses, I questfon why
another locatfon, equally close to tourists and businesses, was selected. Why weren’t West Main Street
businesses like Steve and Sue’s given the same consideratfon?
Other issues include :
-the amount of traffic on West Main and the danger this poses to the homeless guests walking to and
from the shelter.
-the March 6, 2026 legal opinion from the Town statfng that it is unlikely that the shelter is protected by
the Dover Amendment.
-lack of a comprehensive day program on site for all homeless guests who don’t have a place to go -the
proximity of both Winter Street and West Main Street to schools. The safety of our kids and the
homeless guests are high prioritfes, and the school committee letter highlights some of these concerns.
For the above reasons, I respectiully ask that you deny the permit.
Sincerely,
Stacey Guenther
Resident - Town of Barnstable