BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — A community in Southeast Bakersfield have mixed feelings about the city's plan to build a homeless shelter across the street from them.
The property is located at 1900 East Brundage Avenue and is currently owned by Calcot, a cotton growing company, which has agreed to a $3.83 million with the city for the property.
Lupe Ramirez, a resident across the street from the proposed location, says she's concerned the 7.5 acre property that aims to eventually provide 450 beds, will cause too much foot traffic in her neighborhood.
"If they're just lingering around, you don't want people around that," Ramirez said. "Because here, it's just us and we have to lock our gates and doors and everything."
But other residents like Ernie Cardoza and Gabriela Rodriguez, who live near in the community near Virginia and Washington streets, welcome the homeless shelter, despite its nearness to their neighborhood.
Cardoza says the proposed location is "great," adding that he's "glad they finally found a spot."
Rodriguez says "if it's right here down the street from where I live, I think that's great," adding that she would like to volunteer at the shelter.
Bakersfield spokesman Joe Conroy, says city council members are expected to announce a final decision after their board meeting tonight, which is currently in process.
