Photo: CBS 12
Local governments around the state are scrambling ahead of next month when a new law takes effect that will prohibit public sleeping and punish counties and cities that allow it.
"We're going to find a solution to homelessness that's economically feasible, that's compassionate and works."
Palm Beach County Mayor Maria Sachs tells CBS 12 News that she and the other six commissioners this week unanimously approved a plan to negotiate the purchase of a La Quinta Inn near the Turnpike, along Okeechobee Blvd.
The plan is to use it as a temporary homeless shelter.
"We're doing everything we can to make sure that every homeless person has a roof over their head."
House Bill 1365 prohibits communities from allowing the homeless to sleep on public property and allows for cities and counties to receive punishment in the form of fines.
The property is for sale and listed at $16 million but recent appraisals point to a fair market value closer to $14 million.
The hotel has 114 rooms and could be in operation by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, Sachs says the county also plans to build mini-houses for the homeless by using kits and/or shipping containers.