Locals protest incoming homeless shelter after alleged NYC bait-and-switch: ‘Community is outraged’

Throngs of protestors flooded the streets of Sheepshead Bay over the weekend to voice their opposition to plans for a family homeless shelter in the neighborhood. The demonstration, which saw a long caravan of cars and crowds carrying signs, was sparked by what locals claim was a bait-and-switch tactic by the city to get the shelter project approved.

The controversy centers around a proposed 169-family homeless shelter at 2134 Coyle St., a site that was initially approved for affordable housing back in 2022. However, after a developer backed out, city officials gave the green light for a homeless shelter at the location in 2023 without consulting residents.

Community activist and mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa joined the march, denouncing the city’s decision and calling for affordable housing instead of shelters. Sliwa criticized the lack of communication from city officials and other mayoral candidates on the issue.

Local store owners and residents lined the streets in solidarity with the protestors as they marched through the neighborhood. Many expressed concerns about the impact of the shelter on the community’s safety and peace.

One resident, Fruma Feldman, highlighted the potential dangers of placing a homeless shelter in the area, citing previous incidents of crime and disturbances when migrants were housed nearby in 2024. She emphasized the need for safe and suitable accommodation for homeless individuals.

Dimple Willabus, a candidate for the local District 46 council, urged local officials to listen to residents’ concerns and take action before construction on the shelter begins. She criticized Council member Mercedes Narcisse for her handling of the situation and called for immediate intervention.

The protest on Sunday was just the latest in a series of demonstrations against the shelter plans. Residents had previously camped out in tents outside the shelter site for over a month to show their opposition. Narcisse visited the encampment in April and expressed support for the protestors’ cause.

The community’s strong opposition to the homeless shelter reflects a deep-seated concern about the impact it could have on the neighborhood. As the debate continues, residents and activists are determined to ensure their voices are heard and their concerns addressed by city officials.