With the COVID-19 impacting our community for nearly ten months, many Savannah residents have experienced financial harm and distress, and City Council would like to continue implementing measures to assist these individuals. The proposed resolution supports the issuance of a temporary use permit for the Mayor and Aldermen to provide a location for temporary emergency dwellings for the growing number of persons displaced from permanent housing due to the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. The site is located at 65 Dundee Street, a property owned by the City of Savannah.

On May 14, 2020, City Council approved the property for a community use. Since this time, the City of Savannah partnered with Georgia Power, Collins Engineers, Terracon, the Coleman Company and CHA Civil Engineering to conduct a survey as well as undertake civil design, geotechnical, and structural design services. Representatives from Gunn, Meyerhoff, and Shay Architects have also been providing in-kind services to design a community room.  To date, security cameras, lighting and fencing have been installed.

     The temporary use permit will start on January 1, 2021 and run through December 31, 2021. A team comprised of representatives from Savannah Police Department, Savannah Fire Department, Development Services, Human Services, Sanitation, and Planning and Urban Design will provide monthly assessments to the City Manager for the site. The Housing Authority of Savannah will also be invited to participate in the evaluation. Language has been included in the resolution to discontinue the program by the City Manager if any issues arise.

     Conditions of the temporary use permit will incorporate compliance with the Center for Disease Control standards to include social distancing and other measures intended to inhibit the spread of COVID-19. In addition, a site plan and public safety plan will be required prior to its opening.

Approval