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Temporary shelter reserved for privileged few

The Gazette Opinion Staff

Dec. 6, 2012 11:34 am

Each Christmas, local news media present touching stories about our overcrowded homeless shelters and plead for donations. Actually, plenty of public money is budgeted for temporary shelter, but it's been reserved for a privileged few.

Cedar Rapids allocated $25 million last year to buy a 238-bed hotel and completely redecorate it. Low-income people, though, aren't likely to ever experience those rooms or the hot tubs, room service and indoor pool.

So, homeless families will continue to rely on charity this winter while taxpayers subsidize (the preparation of) deluxe accommodations for guests at the municipal Hilton (Doubletree Inn). Merry Christmas!

Dave Gregory

Marion

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