Lewiston enacts 6-month moratorium on new homeless shelters

The Lewiston City Council has approved a 182-day moratorium on new or expanded homeless shelters in the city.

The Lewiston Tribune reports that on Monday the council voted in favor of the moratorium, which officials say will give the council time to enact new zoning codes and standards for the organizations.

Supporters of the moratorium say the recent opening of the ROC Rescue Mission in North Lewiston has had unintended consequences such as attracting more homeless to the neighborhood and increasing crime. They say standards need to be established before more shelters are opened.

Only Councilor Ryan “RJ” Johnson voted against the moratorium, saying he was concerned it would keep people on the streets during the winter.

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Information from: Lewiston Tribune, http://www.lmtribune.com