At the November 17 City Commission meeting, Chelsie Wilkinson, Executive Director of Room at the Inn (RATI), requested permission to use the Baraga Gym for the month of December as a temporary overnight shelter to accommodate an increase in individuals seeking shelter. The Commission expressed interest in using the gym as an overflow space for unhoused community members receiving services from RATI.

City staff reviewed operational needs, staffing requirements, facility readiness, and potential impacts on city programs and services. During this assessment, staff identified an alternative location, Presque Isle Pavilion.

Following a work session on November 24, the City Commission voted to direct the City Manager to proceed with a contract for overflow use of Presque Isle Pavilion. However, during contract drafting, City staff and RATI mutually agreed that Presque Isle Pavilion is no longer a feasible option for the current need. Alternative temporary solutions that do not involve city facilities have since been identified.