The Austin City Council is ready to spend big once again on another piece of property to address homelessness.
Austin City Coucnil agreed to postpone a vote and discussion on buying another motel untill, Tuesday 12/10.
It was weeks ago council approved $8-million for the Rodeway Inn motel, a property valued by Travis County at only $2.66-million. This week, council could buy the Microtel Inn and Suites near the Airport. Assistant City Manager Rodney Gonzalez says this has been endorsed by the Ending Community Homelessness Coalition, “when they endorse it, they have committed to fundraise for those motels, for the ongoing maintenance and operations.” But again, the valuation is below what the city wants to pay. Travis County values it at $5.6-million. Council may spend nearly $7-million on that purchase.
The Microtel Inn and Suites was chosen due to its proximity to things like transit and low-cost health care. Assistant City Manager Rodney Gonzalez says its part of the partnership with the Ending Community Homelessness Coalition to acquire hundreds of motel units.
(Photo:Sutterstock/Photographee.eu)
