ALMA, Mich. (Great Lakes News) – Temporary housing for migrant children who crossed the southern border without an adult is expected to open in Alma at the beginning of 2022.

Bethany Christian Services said it will release more information in mid-January.

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The issue has intensified in the Gratiot County community in recent months.

In September, Alma Planning Commission Chair Don Ayers resigned after city commissioners approved the zoning change to allow the temporary housing. Ayers said the commission rejected the zoning change but the City Commission ignored the recommendation.

Earlier this month, petitioners began collecting signatures in an effort to recall three city commissioners who voted against the planning commission’s recommendation.