U-District residents got their chance to voice concerns over the return of the Nickelsville homeless camp to the parking lot of the University Congregational United Church of Christ.  A community meeting, announced earlier in the day via email, was held last night inside the church’s sanctuary and our news partners at The Daily were there.

Community meeting on Nickelsville. Photo by Qixiu Hu, The Daily.

“Every time they have this program, our residents feel a little insecure that they’re gallivanting around at night,” said the manager of a nearby apartment building.

But one UW student who lives in that apartment building supports the roving tent city.

“I completely support the church hosting them, and I’m totally fine with it,” said Kali Brandt. “They don’t cause a problem, and I haven’t heard anything other than the stereotypical general dislike.”

If Nickelsville residents stay the entire three months, it will cost the church around $27,000 in fees and lost parking revenue.

Reporter Nick Visser covered the meeting for The Daily.  You can read his full report here.