CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Amid weeks of debate over a proposed City of Clarksville partnership to create a homeless outreach center downtown, Urban Ministries announced Monday that it will “pause the process.”

“We know that some residents are worried about the impact of the location on nearby neighborhoods and businesses, and we want to acknowledge and honor those concerns,” Urban Ministries said in a public statement.

Public meeting held on Friday, Jan. 2, over The Well as a possible homeless outreach center with expanded services. (Christian Brown)
Public meeting held on Friday, Jan. 2, over The Well as a possible homeless outreach center with expanded services. (Christian Brown)

The statement said they “recognize that pressing forward in a way that creates tension or division within the community is not the right path. Rather than continue the ordinance at this time, we choose to listen, to stand with our neighbors, and to work collaboratively toward a solution that supports both the needs of the individuals we serve and the broader priorities of downtown Clarksville.”

Clarksville Now has reached out to the City of Clarksville for comment.

| MORE: Read the full Urban Ministries statement here.

This article will be updated.

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