Sheepshead Bay residents feel misled about shelter

Residents in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, are upset about a new homeless shelter being built in their neighborhood. Many thought it would be affordable housing. This has caused frustration among locals, leading to a heated board meeting. Community Board 15 Chair Theresa Scavo expressed surprise when she learned the project was actually for a homeless shelter. Originally, the plan included affordable and rental housing. Hundreds of residents protested outside the construction site, voicing their concerns. Some community members are not against homeless shelters but dislike the location. Jake Lipkovich, who runs a daycare nearby, worries about the impact on local families. Meanwhile, Lina Chen, who works with seniors, highlights the need for affordable housing in the area. The original proposal was changed after the property ownership shifted between developers. City Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse criticized the process, stating that the community's input seemed to have been ignored. The mayor's office acknowledged that the decision came from the private owner, not the city. The shelter is expected to aid 169 homeless families, including children, in finding stability. The mayor's office assured residents that they would continue to address concerns from the community.