Health
Emergency declaration made in La Crosse through holiday weekend; two building are open for shelter
An emergency declaration was issued Wednesday by the city of La Crosse to open two government buildings for overnight shelters through the Christmas weekend.
Mayor Mitch Reynolds said the Southside Community Center (map) and the Northside Policing Center (map) will be available for emergency shelter because of predicted storms.
The emergency period was put into effect at 5 p.m. Wednesday and continues until 8 a.m. Monday.
This will provide for 24-7 shelter through the duration of the severe weather.
“With the winter storm approaching and the potential for life-threatening weather conditions, I have decided to issue a temporary emergency declaration to allow use of city buildings for shelter,” Reynolds said in a message to council members. “We do not know how many people may utilize the locations. Staff are prepping for small and large numbers.”
In the Declaration of Emergency, Reynolds states, in part: The City finds that a state of emergency exists. Accordingly, the City is authorized to perform the following:
- Operate an emergency warming shelter at the following locations: 1300 6th St. S. and 713 St. James St.
- Expend ARPA funds previously allocated to address issues of homelessness; and
- Contract with outside providers, which may include contracts for security, cleaning, and to provide emergency services.
