Lexington Officials Prepare for Winter Challenges Facing Homeless Population Amid Rising Numbers

Lexington, Ky. — As winter approaches, local officials are focusing on strategies to protect the city’s homeless population from the cold. According to the recent LexCount survey, 825 individuals are experiencing homelessness in 2024, marking a slight 1% increase from the previous year. However, a street survey conducted by nonprofit organizations suggests a much more alarming nearly 26% rise.

City officials explain that more than 1,000 individuals currently residing in the Catholic Action Center are not classified as homeless due to their participation in recovery programs. Despite this, the need for comprehensive support remains critical.

Charlie Lanter, Lexington’s city commissioner of housing advocacy and community development, announced plans to utilize local hotels as temporary accommodations for those in need. This method was successfully implemented during the pandemic, allowing for social distancing and safer recuperation for individuals affected by COVID-19. Lanter stated, “You couldn’t put them in these big rooms like we do with shelters, so we used a lot of hotel rooms during the pandemic.”

Last winter, Lexington operated a temporary village for the homeless, but this year, Lanter mentioned that securing land for the village was not feasible. Instead, the city will block out rooms in selected hotels, ensuring a more stable environment for residents. “In some ways, it’s better,” Lanter noted, highlighting the privacy and facilities that hotels can provide compared to traditional shelter settings.

Lanter confirmed that contracts with three area hotels are currently being finalized. Numerous organizations are poised to offer services to those staying in hotels, enhancing the overall support structure for the homeless population.

Despite this initiative, skepticism remains among some city officials. District 1 Councilmember Tayna Fogle expressed concerns regarding the hotel plan, labeling it a “temporary fix” for an ongoing crisis. Fogle proposed a budget allocation of $9 million for a permanent shelter, which was not approved. “We are in a state of emergency,” she stated.

Lexington currently allocates over $3 million each year to tackle homelessness issues. Lanter emphasized the gravity of the situation, acknowledging that regardless of the number, “One is too many,” and the city’s commitment to addressing homelessness will remain steadfast.

Per the LexCount data from 2024, nearly 7% of those experiencing homelessness fall within the 18-to-24 age bracket, further underscoring the urgent need for effective solutions to this growing crisis as winter sets in.