Flathead Warming Center Public Comment from Mark FlatauDear Mayor, Mark Johnson; City Manager, Doug Russell; and City Council Members,
My name is Mark Flatau. My wife and I have lived in Kalispell full time since 2014 and have spent summers here for over 45 years. As you know we have seen many changes to Kalispell
and the Flathead Valley over the past several years. Some good and others not so good. We know as a community grows, particularly with rapid population growth, it is difficult to
keep up with the needs and challenges of a growing community. The unfortunate challenges of a growing homeless population requires a focused, well thought out plan to address the needs
of these neighbors. It will take city and county resources and leadership to properly address and solve this complex issue.
When I retired in 2014, with time on my hands, one of the best things I did was volunteer at the Flathead Warming Center. Whether it was serving dinner in the evening or making coffee
for the morning shift, I found this an enlightening and rewarding experience, one that every community member should experience, particularly the leadership of the community. I know
there is a standing invitation to come and visit the warming center and see for yourself the critical gap that it fills. As a volunteer here are a few of my observations.
* The rules, regulations, and expectations clearly being stated and repeated by staff to ensure each guest knew what was expected of them.
* Regular reminders to all guests of the importance of being good neighbors to the businesses and residences around the Warming Center.
* A genuine appreciation from the guests for the food being served, a shower provided, a fresh cup of coffee, or any other of the many services the Warming Center provides.
* Critical needs being met, be they: job counseling and resources, warm clothing, a welcoming atmosphere, or simply a friendly face to chat with.
* Leadership and staff working hard to provide for the needs of their guests regardless of the challenge or situation.
I fully realize the challenges and concerns that anyone would have with a low barrier homeless center in their neighborhood. But these concerns cannot overshadow the needs that must
be addressed in a humane and caring manner. To close the Warming Center would be a huge mistake and a knee jerk reaction. It would only lead to a higher level of concerns and issues
that still would need to be addressed. I do not know the answer to this issue, I wish I did. But I do know that none of us is as smart as all of us. It will take many heads coming
together to begin to adequately address this issue. I also know that it takes each of us to make a difference for all of us. Let's be committed to properly solving this issue for
the betterment of all citizens of the Flathead.
Sincerely, Mark Flatau