Maple Grove Considers Transitional Housing for Veterans
A nonprofit that serves Minnesota veterans wants to build transitional housing in Maple Grove.
Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) is asking the city of Maple Grove to donate a vacant lot at 9567 Nathan Ln. N. to the project.
The organization proposes to build a single-family home in the neighborhood and use it to provide temporary housing and services to homeless veterans.
“[Their] housing programs are designed to quickly help veterans and former service members find housing of their own,” wrote Joe Jablonski, director of land development for Lennar, a housing developer partnering with MACV on the project. “Assisting veterans and former service members living in Minnesota with finding sustainable housing gives them the time and confidence to focus on work, school, long-term planning and stabilization.”
Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans is asking the city of Maple Grove to donate a vacant lot at 9567 Nathan Ln. N. for transitional housing for homeless veterans.
Neighbor Concerns About Transitional Housing
The developer requested the proposal be removed this Monday’s city council agenda.
Meanwhile, some residents that live near the project expressed concerns. They asked to have a meeting with the developer before the project moves forward.
“[Neighbors aren’t] against a veterans organization,” said Maple Grove resident James Penaz. “We’re not against veterans. We’re not against helping homeless anybody. The questions we have need to be answered. Who’s going to be in this house? What’s the vetting process?”
Maple Grove City Council Member Kristy Janigo spoke highly of the work done by the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans.
“I just want to say that I’ve been hoping for a MACV home to come to Maple Grove for a long time,” Janigo said. “MACV just does not build a house and leave. They provide ongoing wraparound services and case management for their clients.”
Maple Grove City Council Member Rachelle Johnson requested that the council discuss the matter at future work session.
“We have a responsibility in the suburbs to help our heroes in need,” Janigo added.
