Greensboro City Council considers incremental funding for Interactive Resource Center

The Greensboro City Council is considering incrementally funding a local day center that serves the homeless as neighbors have continued to voice safety concerns.

The Interactive Resource Center (IRC) is requesting nearly $900,000 in funding from the city to remain open in its around-the-clock model and address recent complaints. Business owners and residents have said the Greensboro nonprofit is creating an unsafe environment.

IRC Executive Director Kristina Singleton told the city council at its work session Thursday that part of the new funding request includes hiring an unarmed guard.

"The security officer will be walking the perimeter of the outside, on the inside, checking bathrooms, you know, constantly on the move and monitoring all of the areas," Singleton said.

The IRC began transitioning to an around-the-clock model earlier this year as the number of people without housing has increased. But the nonprofit's leadership has said these numbers far surpass their capacity.

The city council proposed providing the funds in phases with an expectation to see improvements before delivering the next installment.

Councilmember Tammi Thurm said at the meeting the organization should give periodic updates to highlight what's working and what's not.

"I don't think this is something that's going to be solved with one decision," Thurm said. "I think it's a work in progress, and it's something that we've got to do in partnership with you all."

The council is expected to vote on the first six months of funding at its meeting on Aug. 5.