Public Input re: Flathead Warming Center from Mark FlatauJudi Funk
From: Mark Flatau <flataulodge@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 28, 2024 4:02 PM
To: Kalispell Meetings Public Comment
Subject: EXTERNAL Public Input Re: Flathead Warming Center
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Dear 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