Oaks Village Closure

Posted on 03/17/2026

Oaks Village Closure

The City of Monroe recognizes that access to safe shelter and supportive services is critically important for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

A recent building and fire safety inspection at the Oaks Village Homeless Shelter, located at 1018 East Second Street, identified significant life-safety concerns that must be addressed before the building can continue operating as an overnight shelter.

Due to these violations, the facility cannot safely remain occupied and must close until the required corrections, permits, and inspections are completed and a Certificate of Occupancy is issued.

The City understands that this situation creates uncertainty for individuals and families who rely on shelter services. The decision to require the building to be vacated was based solely on protecting the safety of occupants and staff.

The City of Monroe continues to work with community partners to help connect individuals with available resources and ensure that those in need have access to safe, supportive services. Monroe County Opportunity Program (MCOP) and the Homeless Network are assisting with case management and placement for individuals currently in the shelter.

Community members who are seeking assistance, or who are helping someone in need, are encouraged to reach out to the organizations listed above for immediate support and guidance.

Questions or concerns regarding access to placement or services can be directed to MCOP (734) 241-2775, walk-ins welcome from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM M-F.

FAQ's

Why is Oaks Village being required to vacate the building?

In accordance with state and local laws, in order for a property to be occupied by the public, a facility must have a valid certificate of occupancy issued by the City.

Following a recent comprehensive Certificate of Occupancy inspection to help Oaks Village achieve compliance, the City identified numerous serious building, fire, and life-safety violations at the facility.

Based on those findings, the building was determined to be unsafe for occupancy until the required corrections are completed.

Was this decision based on the services being provided?

No. The City’s action was not based on the mission of the organization or the need for shelter services in the community. The City of Monroe recognizes that access to safe shelter and supportive services is critically important for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Our community continues to rely on a network of nonprofit organizations, faith-based partners, and service providers working together to support residents in need of overnight shelter. The determination was based solely on documented building, fire, and safety code deficiencies that present an immediate risk to occupants and staff.

Did the City work with Oaks Village before this decision was made?

Yes, the City has worked with Oaks Village leadership for 22 months behind the scenes to help the organization rectify outstanding issues.

City staff provided guidance, documentation requirements and expedited timelines to help address the issues and allow the shelter to operate safely.

The City also took initiative in 2025 to amend existing ordinances to allow for the operation of emergency overnight shelters in the city based on community need.

What kinds of violations were identified?

Examples of Critical Violations Identified:

Absence of a required fire suppression (sprinkler) system
Lack of required fire barrier separation between sleeping quarters and other uses
Absence of a fire and carbon monoxide alarm system
Non-functioning exit signs and emergency lighting
Emergency exits and windows blocked by flammable foam board materials
Numerous open electrical boxes and exposed wiring creating imminent fire hazards
Extensive use of extension cords and power strips in place of permanent wiring
Commercial kitchen ventilation and fire suppression deficiencies
Installation of mechanical and HVAC equipment using improper ventilation without the necessary inspections and certifications, including State-required certification.
Lack of accessible routes for individuals with mobility challenges, including no handicap-accessible access within the entire facility

Is the building permanently closed?

Not necessarily. The inspection report states that the building cannot be occupied by law until the identified deficiencies are corrected, required permits are obtained, and a final occupancy inspection confirms compliance with applicable building and fire code requirements.

Can Oaks Village reopen in the future?

Yes, but only after all cited violations are corrected and the facility operators successfully complete the required inspections and approval process for occupancy.

Why couldn’t the City allow operations to continue while repairs were made?

The inspections were done in accordance with State of Michigan Building and Fire Safety codes. The findings identified conditions qualified as critical life-safety concerns which presented an imminent threat to the health and safety of occupants if the building were continued to be occupied.

Because of the severity of those conditions, the City determined the building must not be occupied until the issues are resolved.

Did the City provide a deadline to vacate?

Yes. Oaks Village was asked to confirm that the property had been vacated no later than Friday, March 20, 2026 at 4:00 PM.

What support is available for individuals affected by this situation?

The City recognizes that this situation creates uncertainty for residents who rely on shelter services. Individuals in need of assistance are encouraged to contact local service providers and community organizations that assist with shelter, housing, food access, and related support services.

The City is working with Monroe County Opportunity Program (MCOP) and the Homeless Network who will assist with case management and placement for individuals currently in the shelter.

Questions or concerns regarding access to placement or services can be directed to MCOP (734) 241-2775, walk-ins welcome from 8:30 AM -4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

Is the City working with community partners?

Yes. In the immediate and short term, the City remains committed to working with community partners and service providers, including Oaks Village, to help connect individuals with available resources and support during this transition.

The City is working with Monroe County Opportunity Program (MCOP) and the Homeless Network who will assist with case management and placement for individuals currently in the shelter.

In the long-term, the City is committed to collaborating with Oaks Village to determine the next steps necessary and the resources that may be available in consideration of the future operations of the shelter.