Free housing for a felon? Kirkland neighbors concerned over homeless hotel

Kirkland residents are voicing their alarm over a planned homeless hotel after discovering that a felon with 57 prior arrest warrants lived in a similar complex in Bellevue. This information has intensified fears about community safety and possible increases in crime. Local officials are being inundated with concerns from residents, who question the appropriateness of housing individuals with extensive criminal records in their vicinity. The situation has sparked discussions about the management of homelessness and its implications for urban neighborhoods. Officials have not yet addressed the specific worries raised, leaving residents feeling unsettled. The incident is part of a larger national conversation about homelessness and public safety. In Bellevue, the presence of the felon previously raised alarms, highlighting the need for careful consideration in such housing decisions. As the situation unfolds, community members are urged to engage with local governance to address their fears.