A mental health advocate says the city of New Hope took “very drastic steps” when it used the Rental Permit Ordinance to close two state-sanctioned facilities that care for people with disabilities. increase.
In a letter sent Tuesday to the mayor and city council members of New Hope, four local nonprofits that represent and advocate for individuals with mental health issues warned of the dire consequences of the city’s decision. .
The decision evacuated more than a dozen people suffering from severe mental illness and other disabilities.
NAMI-Minnesota executive director Sue Abderholden said he began looking into the situation after seeing a report from 5 INVESTIGATES last month.
“We were concerned that New Hope wasn’t seeing the big picture and that people with mental illness, including those with severe mental illness, need to live in communities.
Last summer, after police responded to disturbances, nuisance calls and drug overdose deaths at group homes, the city began repeatedly referring to two group homes for “disorderly conduct” violations.
According to New Hope acting mayor and police chief Tim Hoyt, the action justified the city’s decision to revoke the rental license, effectively evicting those who lived there.
“We want to make sure the residents who live in these group homes are safe,” Hoyt said in an interview with 5 INVESTIGATES last month.
“Looking at the reasons given for closing these homes, I don’t think safety was the reason, frankly,” the quote was “particularly cruel.”
“I don’t want you to be afraid to call 911 when you need to. 911 should not be used as a weapon and should not be used to evict people.”
-Sue abderholden, NAMI- Minnesota
In the letter, proponents said the decision to close group homes would have a negative impact on other providers and staff, especially in situations where police were needed to assist individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. I warn you that it is possible.
“Don’t be afraid to call 911 when necessary,” says Abderholden. “It should not be used as a weapon and should not be used to evict people.”
5 The team contacted the city and requested a response to the letter. I also asked about the Special City Council meeting on Tuesday night, wanting to see if the issue was discussed.
A city spokesperson did not directly answer these questions.
The coalition also called for city guidance in the process of revoking rental licenses after neighbors and some city leaders publicly questioned whether the facilities should be allowed to operate in their communities. We have also addressed your comments.
“The language used at the hearing was concerning, including asking whether there were enough staff to ‘manage’ the residents,” the letter said.
Supporters and lawmakers fear the tactic could be used to close unnecessary facilities in other Minnesota cities.
“Some homes were closed because they couldn’t find staff,” said Abder Holden. “Now, if the neighbors don’t want the house and the house is nearby… where are the people going? Where are you going to let them go?”
