Lenexa Denies Permit for Homeless Shelter Project

The Lenexa City Council has voted to deny a special use permit required to convert the La Quinta Inn at I-35 and 95th Street into a homeless shelter, despite a six-hour meeting and significant community input. The council's decision aligns with recommendations from city staff and the Planning Commission, citing concerns about the shelter's impact on neighborhood character, local resources, and law enforcement. The shelter, meant to address the growing homelessness issue in Johnson County, was to be operated by reStart Inc. and funded by federal COVID-19 money. Advocates, including faith leaders, expressed disappointment and vowed to continue seeking solutions for homelessness. Mayor Julie Sayers emphasized the need for a broader countywide approach to address homelessness. The denial of the permit means the same application cannot be resubmitted for one year.