Crossroads eyes location next to Lexington High for homeless shelter, planning commission to vote

UPDATED STORY WITH PLANNING COMMISSION VOTE

LEXINGTON, Neb. — A Central Nebraska non-profit is continuing its pursuit of opening a permanent homeless shelter in Lexington.

Crossroads Mission Avenue already operates facilities in Hastings, Grand Island and Kearney. It opened a thrift store in Lexington in February and was fundraising to convert a former daycare into a small shelter. Now, Executive Director Daniel Buller is thinking bigger.

“As the conversation has developed about homelessness in and around Dawson County, we have seen a lot of people reaching out asking for help,” Buller said.

Buller says 60 people have reached out seeking shelter since December. Pastor Rob Kuefner with Trinity Lutheran Church presented checks today from his church foundation and the Lexington Ministerial Association worth a total of $16,000. He says there’s a clear need in the community.

“We have to deal with people coming into our churches who are homeless and looking for a place to stay," Kuefner said. "A lot of times we have to put them on the bus or send them to Kearney, Hastings or Grand Island.”

In response to the increased need, Crossroads made an agreement to purchase the former Plum Creek Care facility for $2.3 million.

“It’s a building that is not in use in the community, so it’s a deteriorating building. It’s really fit for our use,” Buller said.

There is community pushback about the location for the homeless shelter. The former nursing home is immediately across the street to the north from Lexington High School. The Lexington school board voted 6-0 for a resolution to oppose a conditional use permit for Crossroads Mission Avenue. The planning commission will take up the issue tonight.

“What I think is that, regardless of whether or not we get a permit, if God opens the door or not for us to use this facility, the important thing for me is that the conversation continues to happen,” Buller said.

Buller says Crossroads could build a new facility, but it would cost more and be smaller. He says he’s willing to work with city leaders on a solution.

“What is the most appropriate place for Crossroads? How can we come together between the city and Crossroads, the public school system and all parties that are interested, and how can we find the best solution that enhances the community that this would be a blessing and not a curse,” Buller said.