In Lansing, a prolonged legal dispute concerning a homeless settlement on the city's north side has been resolved through a court-approved agreement. The city has committed to providing accommodation at the Causeway Bay Lansing Hotel for the encampment's inhabitants for a minimum period of six weeks.
Court Hearing Details
During a recent court session, representatives for Lansing confirmed that hotel rooms are ready for immediate occupancy by those affected. Transportation to the hotel will be arranged by the city, with services scheduled to begin early next week.
According to the court order, any individuals still present at the encampment site after December 23 will be deemed trespassers and subject to removal by city authorities. Property owners involved in the case have been directed to secure the area and clear any remaining waste or debris.
Future Support Plans
Following the initial six-week stay at the hotel—which may be extended based on city funding and occupancy rates—more permanent housing solutions are anticipated. Additional social services, including employment assistance, help with obtaining identification documents, and access to medical care, are also planned.
Judge Rosemarie Aquilina, who has overseen the case since its filing in May, praised the city's actions. Previously, she had extended a clearance deadline to ensure those living in the encampment had a safe alternative.
"I don't want you removed and discarded, because you are all valuable human beings who have fallen on hard times," she stated, echoing sentiments expressed throughout the hearings. "You will be together at the Causeway. You'll still have connection. You can still reach out to each other, but in this way, you'll be safe. It is unconstitutional, as far as I'm concerned, and inhumane, to leave you out in the cold."
Judge Aquilina also noted that while this order concludes the current case, she will retain jurisdiction to address any future issues. "If there's a problem, on either side, or any of you want to bring it to me, I'm still here," she said. "I need you to be safe, warm, happy and together. Everybody worked really hard to make sure you can stay together. Your animals can be with you, and you can bring your belongings on the buses."
Addressing concerns from a resident about staying with his wife, who has a neurological condition requiring companionship, the judge assured that families would be accommodated together at the hotel.
