CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Clarksville Finance Committee approved an ordinance to purchase The Well outreach center, a proposal that prompted public concern over its downtown location and whether it could eventually become a homeless shelter.
Public comment moved ahead of vote
Before the discussion on the ordinance began, Council member Deanna McLaughlin requested that public comment be moved up from the end of the meeting so residents could address the proposal before a vote. “I believe a lot of the people that are here have comments related to what we’re about to discuss,” she said.
Council member Stacey Streetman voted against the motion, citing concerns about setting a precedent.
Three speakers addressed the committee during public comment.
Downtown business owner questions location
Matt Cunningham, one of the owners of Strawberry Alley and the Mailroom, said he supports homeless shelters and the services they provide but believes the proposed location conflicts with downtown revitalization efforts. “We’re really invested in downtown, Clarksville, the community as a whole,” he said. “We love this town – it’s our hometown – and we want to see nothing but the best of it.”…