Neighbors near St. Vincent de Paul's Day Center, located on Pentland and W. Second Place, have expressed concerns about the non-profit's operation affecting the neighborhood. Pentland Street in particular has been brought up, as many people experiencing homelessness have been sleeping and storing their things there.
Neighbors near St. Vincent de Paul's Day Center, located on Pentland and W. Second Place, have expressed concerns about the non-profit's operation affecting the neighborhood. Pentland Street in particular has been brought up, as many people experiencing homelessness have been sleeping and storing their things there.
THE DALLES — St. Vincent de Paul Society of The Dalles (SVdP) has announced the voluntary and indefinite closure of its facility on Pentland Street between W. Third and W. Second streets.
According to a press release provided by City Manager Matthew Klebes, the closure will remain in effect "as SVdP works with the city and other community stakeholders to address some of the neighborhood impacts associated with the charitable services provided at the facility."
Klebes said SVdP has indicated it intends to cease operations at the facility on Jan. 5 at 2:30 p.m. In light of that voluntary closure, the city intends to pause its public nuisance litigation against SVdP as the parties work together to find a solution that best serves the community’s interests, he said.
"The growing problems associated with nuisance offenses and crimes in The Dalles have caused increasing public health and safety concerns for the community, including SVdP’s Pentland Street neighbors," Klebes said.Â
The Dalles City Council authorized City Attorney Jonathan Kara to file a public nuisance action against the St. Vincent de Paul Society of The Dalles following an executive session on Sept. 11, as previously reported in Columbia Gorge News.
"The city hopes this voluntary closure will allow SVdP to focus on strengthening their collaborative relationships, and — through engagement with community stakeholders and SVdP’s Pentland Street neighbors — that the parties will quickly be able to find an effective path to provide healthy and safe services for all who need it," Klebes said.
Numerous local organizations continue to provide a variety of community services, including Mid-Columbia Community Action Council, Mid-Columbia Center for Living, Columbia Gorge Food Bank, Windy River Gleaners and the Salvation Army, he added.
The city will provide updates of future developments.
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