By Bill Parry
A Queens lawmaker is objecting to a proposed 4-1/2-year, $39 million permanent contract for the shelter for homeless women in Dutch Kills. The city Department of Homeless Services and the service provider Acacia submitted the bid to operate Pam’s Place at the Verve Hotel with City Comptroller Scott Stringer, who has 30 days to approve or reject the contract.
“First I object to the 4-1/2-year term,” state Assemblywoman Catherine Nolan (D-Long Island City) said. “I am opposed to any term greater than one year. This is lengthy especially in light of the history of the provider at this location.”
Nolan said there were more than 400, 911 calls during a six-week period after the shelter opened last year and last month security was upgraded after complaints of violent incidents from the 114th Precinct.
“Acacia mismanaged this shelter, clearly showing an inability to handle the 200 residents,” Nolan said. “The neighborhood was negatively impacted since the shelter opened in October 2015. Although the situation has improved, I remain deeply concerned for the welfare of the residents and with the operators ability to properly assist them.”
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
