WATERVILLE, Maine — While this plan is still in its beginning stages, it strives to provide a warmer and more stable environment for those living on the streets.
The Mayor of Waterville, Jay Coelho, introduced the idea of utilizing yurts as an alternative to traditional tents for those experiencing homelessness in the city.
Yurts, Coelho explains, are essentially double-layered canvas tents designed to offer enhanced protection from the elements. Coelho's vision for this project is to provide a more dignified space for Waterville's unhoused residents.
He acknowledges the potential financial hurdles but remains determined to secure the necessary funds, whether through the city or other means.
"I don’t know. I don't know if the city will give me that kind of money. But I'm sure I can raise that kind of money," Coelho said.
Todd Stevens, the Community Outreach Coordinator, presented the proposal to the city council on Tuesday.
The plan calls for an allocation of up to $10,000 from the city's general fund to acquire yurts. The goal is to have them set up by mid-November to ensure unhoused residents a warmer place to stay before the harsh winter weather arrives.
The four-season yurts would serve as a short-term solution to the problem, this winter.
Currently, there are 25 tents and 50 people residing at the encampment in Head of Falls Park.
Coelho envisions replacing the existing tents with 10 yurts, discreetly located out of the public's view.
While the mayor acknowledges these yurts aren't luxurious accommodations, he says they will provide a significant improvement in terms of warmth and security.
Each yurt can accommodate between two to four people.
In addition, Coelho said he would like there to be a system in place to inspect the yurts and ensure that the individuals staying in them receive the support they need.
Not everyone is on board with this innovative proposal.
Dr. Katie Spencer White, President and CEO of the Midmaine Homeless Shelter and a member of the Statewide Homeless Council, noted that yurts, still fall short of providing the necessary shelter.
"It's one thing to stand up the yurt, the challenge is how to staff it and provide the service to make sure they are safe," Spencer White, said.
The future of this groundbreaking proposal is uncertain, and officials will convene later this month to discuss its feasibility.
The outcome of these discussions will determine whether yurts, a unique approach to addressing homelessness, will indeed become a reality in Waterville.