By Blake Haas

BLOOMINGTON – A long-term solution could soon be in place for those living in tents near Home Sweet Home Ministries.

Over the past several months, city leaders have discussed long-term options for around 30 individuals calling the tents home.

Chief Executive Officer of HSHM, Matt Burgess, told WJBC that long-term plans could include a local hotel.

“We’re really seeing that as the primary option for us, that we can convert that. Obvisouly, it’s already configured for people to sleep in, so there is some significant advantes to looking at that as a solution.

But we’re also looking at contingent plans. We’re also looking at buildings like warehouses where we could build in some interior rooms.”

While Burgess did not disclose what local hotel was an option, the CEO said the price tag could be expensive.

“But it would be a long-term investment in what we believe is a legitimate long-term solution. It would radically change what our ability to provide services looks like in this community.”

According to Burgess, if the hotel plan is signed off on, it would make the largest homeless shelter in the twin cities.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].