On March 20th and April 3rd, the Joint Office of Homeless Services (JOHS) will hold meetings regarding shelter plans for Multnomah County-owned property at 333 SE 82nd Avenue. The Montavilla United Methodist Church, located nearby at 232 SE 80th Avenue, will host public gatherings from 6 to 7:30 p.m. each night. Event organizers ask that people RSVP for the meeting they plan to attend.
JOHS officials began working on a usage strategy for the shelter site, now called Montavilla Community Village, in 2022. Multnomah County purchased the former RV sales lot and another site several blocks south to create shelter services along 82nd Avenue. However, it was not until officials selected 333 SE 82nd Avenue’s operator, Straightway Services, that the County announced the shelter’s format. Resident selection for Montavilla Community Village will prioritize individuals living in passenger vehicles. The site provides Pallet shelters, 33 onsite parking spaces, trash services, showers, restrooms, laundry, and a communal kitchenette.
In late 2023, JOHS staff prepared to secure approval for the alternative shelter with 29 sleeping pods offering space for up to 40 people. On December 7th, the Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners unanimously voted to postpone the two agenda items related to this project, asking for more community engagement before breaking ground on the SE 82nd Avenue site. Since then, the JOHS began working with the Montavilla East Tabor Business Association, Montavilla Neighborhood Association, and 82nd Avenue Business Association to create a Good Neighbor Agreement. The two upcoming public meetings will inform engaged community members about the shelter project and allow people to share feedback.
The JOHS encourages neighbors to complete an email sign-up form to receive communications regarding Montavilla Community Village’s progress and asks those who can attend a meeting to RSVP for March 20th or April 3rd.
Disclosure: The author of this article serves on the 82nd Avenue Business Association Board
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