The city’s plan to sell the former Boys & Girls Club building on 21st Street to The Lord’s Diner for a satellite location to feed the needy is on hold for the moment, according to city council member Lavonta Williams, who represents the district.
In recent weeks, Williams met with neighborhood representatives to try to reach a consensus. But that didn’t work out. She hopes to discuss solutions with City Manager Robert Layton on Friday, but said she’s not sure when the council might consider some type of agreement.
The arguments are complex, but generally boil down to some being concerned that the location could lead to an increase in crime in an area they’ve fought hard to clean up and others believe it’s the best location to reach out to those in need with a no-questions-asked meal.
“We understand that everyday there’s more of a need for a feeding station,” Williams said today. “So we do have to find a place. There’s no doubt about it.”
Many people have offered suggestions, Williams said, but an agreeable location has proved elusive thus far. “It’s a difficult situation,” she said.