FORT WORTH, Texas — After hours of public feedback, a new shelter to help victims of human trafficking now has the green light from Fort Worth City Council Members.
Their vote came after passionate comments from people for and against what will be called the "Justice Residences" operated by Mercy Culture Church.
“This is not about opposing the fight against human trafficking," said Joseph Nevel, "We all want to help those impacted by this tragedy, especially in our own communities and the city. The opposition is to its methods, its messaging, and the location of the project.”
According to the church's website, Justice Residences is a ministry that currently provides spiritual training for survivor advocates and intercessors who will walk alongside and pray for sex-trafficking survivors throughout their healing process.
“Will you be known as a leader in our city who did everything in their power to end sex trafficking or someone who refused to move the needle forward," Jasmine Wheeler said.
More than 70 people signed up for public comment before the city council's final vote.
"These women will graduate to be strong productive citizens. You hold the power to make that possible," Sean Turner said.
Mercy Culture Church shared renderings of the proposed 100-unit facility. The religious organizations' attorneys had already sent the council a letter threatening legal action if not approved.
Fort Worth Sgt. Brian Johnson oversees the department's human trafficking unit. He believes Fort Worth’s major interstates and proximity to the border are major contributors to more cases. Not only does Sgt. Johnson encourages parents to talk to their kids but also gives a stark warning to anyone responsible for human trafficking in Fort Worth.
Watch the full interview with Sgt. Brian Johnson below
“It’s a difficult conversation to have but they need to be involved in their kid's lives," Sgt. Brian Johnson said, “You think you can get away with it and you think you can hide, and we know who you are and we are going to find you and put you in jail.”
Much of the opposition came from people who live in the Oakhurst neighborhood which borders the church property.
"Legal perspective, increased traffic, inadequate parking, improper zoning, likely loss of property value, and numerous other reasons," Jared Miller said.
Speakers against the project broadly said they are supportive of the cause behind the Justice Residences, but believe the church’s property is not the right location for the shelter and worry that publicity surrounding it may make it a target.
The council vote eventually took place into the early hours on Wednesday with the majority of the council voting in favor.
Six council members, Mattie Parker, Macy Hill, Gyna Bivens, Alan Blaylock, Michael Crain and Charlie Lauersdorf, voted to approve the application. Council members Elizabeth Beck, Carlos Flores, Chris Nettles and Martinez voted to deny the application. Jared Williams was absent.