The ongoing dispute concerning a men’s shelter in the city of Corvallis has reached a deadlock, according to those involved. Two groups – one interested in building a permanent men’s shelter and one opposed to the shelter – are unable to come to an agreement concerning the situation.

The group against the shelter, the Citizens for Protecting Corvallis, is opposed to the construction of the facility based on what it considers public safety. The proposed shelter would be 15,000 square feet located downtown and would provide a permanent option for homeless men in the area. Neighbor to Neighbor Inc., a Salem-based mediation company, has been working with the two groups for some time, but not believes there is no value in continuing the mediation process.

Citizens for Protecting Corvallis believes the pro-shelter group Housing First did not approach discussions with the honesty they expected and they believe it would be impossible to resolve the dispute, based on Housing First’s unwillingness to be open during the mediation proceedings. CPC says they do not trust Housing First to act in good faith and that it was clear they never had any intention of working together to resolve the dispute.

In response, Housing First accused CPC of attacking the character of the organization and the individuals involved. They believe it would be best to walk away because they are being attacked and the conversation is no longer respectful, and they have decided to walk away from mediation attempts. CPC stated it remains committed to seeking solutions to help the city’s homeless population, but their main purpose is to preserve and protect the safety and character of Corvallis.