When Homeless Housing Project Locations and Restaurant Conflicts Occur: A Case Study

As the city of Austin moves to expand housing for the homeless, inevitable conflicts will undoubtably occur as chosen locations put pressure on local businesses in those areas. It appears that the next property to be purchased is the Candlewood Suites in northwest Austin near Pecan Park Road.

This property is adjacent to the popular Freda’s Seafood Grille restaurant and the move is not being well received by Freda Cheng and other business owners.

At first glance, there’s a temptation to suggest that these business are putting profits before charity. But looking more closely Cheng has long been active in providing hundreds of meals to feed those who are hungry. She’s demonstrably altruistic and has continuously supported charitable causes.

The irony here is that while the Candlewood project could potentially negatively impact the restaurant’s gross sales and net profits, Cheng has already been dipping into her own pockets to provide the free meals she serves. A disruption of the restaurant’s business could reduce the number of those meals that are donated.

Circumstances like these are often overlooked by the city council as they evaluate properties for purchase. Perhaps it’s time that they took a closer look.