KILLEEN, Texas (KXXV) — A Killeen city council member has apologized after comments about homeless veterans sparked public backlash, as the Friends in Crisis shelter faces closure.
The Killeen Friends in Crisis homeless shelter could close as soon as Sept. 1 without new funding from the city.
Last week, city council members received a report from the Friends in Crisis shelter outlining the funding needed to remain open and continue serving residents experiencing homelessness.
During the meeting, Council Member David Bass made a statement that drew sharp criticism from community members.
"In my opinion any veteran living on the street is choosing that lifestyle," Bass said.
Since then, Bass held a town hall to apologize to the public as the city looks for solutions to strengthen local resources.
"I was looking at it from a very narrow personal perspective. I'm sorry that I said that," Bass said. "This is a great opportunity for us. To come together. And find every veteran who is living on the streets in Killeen of Killeen. And find every other person who's living on the streets of Killeen and make sure that we offer them a way off of the street whatever that avenue is. And give them that choice."
The council will meet again Tuesday to discuss funding the shelter for the remainder of this year and next year.
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