Miami-Dade Approves Housing Plan for Seniors

The Miami-Dade County Commission has approved a plan to convert a former La Quinta Inn in Cutler Bay into permanent housing for 130 low-income seniors experiencing homelessness, amid rising concerns over a new state law prohibiting public camping that takes effect October 1. The $14 million project faced opposition from local residents and Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins, who argued the costs were excessive and questioned the location. However, the commission voted 11-2 in favor, emphasizing the urgent need to provide stable housing for approximately 1,000 unsheltered individuals in the area. The project will guarantee that units are exclusively for seniors, with management in place and no needle exchange services allowed. The Miami-Dade Homeless Trust will oversee the initiative, which is expected to begin retrofitting the hotel within the next 45 days, aiming to house residents by year's end. Supporters believe this project will positively impact both the homeless community and the local area, despite ongoing concerns about its cost and location.