Elgin relocates 'Tent City' residents to temporary housing as winter sets in
ELGIN, Ill. - As temperatures drop to single digits, Elgin officials are relocating the roughly 40 residents of "Tent City" to the Lexington Inn & Suites.
For the next four months, the individuals will have access to food and resources while staying in the temporary housing.
What we know:
The decision to clear the encampment, located north of Kimball Street between Metra tracks and the Fox River, comes after three accidental fires in recent weeks. Authorities attribute the incidents to makeshift heating devices and a propane heater placed too close to flammable items.
Last month, Elgin’s city council approved a $2.5 million temporary housing plan aimed at providing shelter for the homeless during the harsh winter months.
What's next:
Once all residents have been relocated, the city plans to dismantle all structures and tents at the encampment.
The site will then be fenced off, according to Jeff Knox, Elgin's director of communications and engagement.