Hotels will need Council approval before converting to COVID-19 aid

NORWALK - In the wake of the current COVID-19 emergency, hotels, motels, and other businesses in Norwalk will need to seek city approval before converting or utilizing their property for homeless and/or coronavirus housing or uses.

An emergency moratorium establishing these conditions was unanimously approved by council on Tuesday.

During their discussion on the item, both the City Council and City Manager Jesus Gomez were adamant that the action was not meant to deter or close conversations with other elected officials or partners, and was for “the protection of all residents.”

Gomez described it as a “time out.”

“[The moratorium] gives us time to look at the project, regroup, and had conversations,” Gomez said.

The moratorium was – however – also meant to send a message that the council should have a say in the goings on of the city, especially during the current state of emergency.

“Local control belongs at the local level,” said Councilwoman Margarita Rios.