Norristown ZHB to hear county housing proposal May 14

Let’s build a stronger, safer community together.

You can help support the approval of new, year-round supportive short-term housing in Norristown by coming out in support and offering public comment! If you plan to do so, please email your name and address to NorristownZHB@gmail.com.

On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, a Zoning Board hearing will be held in Norristown regarding a proposal by Montgomery County to open short-term housing for single adults at 1430 Dekalb St. (entrance on E. Freedley Street). The space is desperately needed and would play a critical role in addressing the growing issue of encampments in the area.

Meeting details:

Norristown Council Chambers, First Floor, Municipal Hall

235 East Airy Street, Norristown

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.

My thoughts:

Over the past six months, both Pottstown and Lansdale have stepped up and provided year-around spaces for our neighbors in need of housing - supportive housing to get homeless individuals out of tents and into safe, warm spaces Where they can work on getting back to independence. 

As you know, Norristown has not had a year-round shelter since June 2022. The ZHB has a pivotal decision before them May 14.  Thank you for your vote In 2023 that allowed a Code Blue shelter to continue at the Norristown Hospitality Center. 

This vote May 14 is about a few things:  What solutions do we offer for those 6 to 8 months of the year when the temperatures are not below 32 degrees or are not scorching hot (Code Blue or Code Red)?

There are some in your community who want to pretend like homelessness will just go away to the next town if you ignore it. They may say things like we have a disproportionate amount of "Section 8" housing.  The truth is that low income individuals fortunate enough to literally win a lottery and obtain a housing choice voucher, they can take that voucher anywhere in Montgomery County where the landlord accepts it. 

Others say that Norristown has a disproportionate share of public housing. Again, that's not really an honest statement.  Pottstown has Smith and Pollack houses for seniors AND Bright Hope for the general population.  Willow Grove has Crest Manor. Royersford has Golden Age Manor. And, yes, Norristown has Marshall Lee Towers. 

For years, Norristown's leaders have begged Montgomery County's  commissioners to help. To shoulder more of the responsibility.  To step up and bring solutions for the unhoused to the table. Well, here they are. Here we are.

Don't allow this opportunity to slip by.