Sheepshead Bay neighbors push back against 110-bed men’s shelter
The Gold Star Inn, which previously housed families with children, is now set to become a 110-bed shelter for single men.
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A planned transition from a family shelter to a single men’s shelter in Sheepshead Bay is sparking concern among some neighbors, who say they want the city to reconsider the location.
The Gold Star Inn, which previously housed families with children, is now set to become a 110-bed shelter for single men. Some residents say the change has raised safety and quality-of-life concerns in the surrounding community.
“The families lived here. They didn't cause anybody any trouble. Now that you've got men literally lurking in bushes - and we're just like sitting ducks!” neighbor Virginia Webster said.
The Department of Social Services says nearly 90% of the families who stayed at the site have been moved to other facilities with in-unit kitchens and additional supportive amenities. Additionally, the transition brings the agency “one step closer to [their] goal of phasing out the use of commercial hotels for families” while “providing safe and dignified settings for men experiencing homelessness.”
But some neighbors say they believe the change in shelter population could impact the community. Resident Valentin Mokrov said he is especially concerned about the shelter’s proximity to nearby families and children.
“We were frustrated - especially in the proximity of our kids' playground. I don't feel safe anymore. Not only for kids, but for our neighborhood,” Mokrov said.
City data shows reported crime in the area is down 6% year to date, with 687 incidents reported. Still, some community members continue to push back, including Council Member Inna Vernikov, who has called the location “poorly suited” in an X post earlier this month and is advocating for a relocation.
Some neighbors say their concerns are not about the people who need shelter, but rather the placement of the facility. Neighbor Dennis said he believes the shelter could impact the neighborhood.
“I don't have anything against those people, and I understand they have a place in there somewhere in the community - but this actually brings the value of the neighborhood down,” Dennis said.
As residents prepare to protest, they say they hope their concerns will lead to a new conversation with city officials.
“We hope that the decision will be not only postponed, the decision will be canceled,” Mokrov said.
Ahead of the protest, the Department of Social Services tells News 12 that it will continue following the city’s Right-to-Shelter mandate while working with neighbors through a community advisory board.
