(CALHAN, Colo.) — The Calhan Police Department said a nonprofit recently contacted them about opening a facility for the homeless in the area, and Calhan Police said it is encouraging the nonprofit to speak with the community.

According to police, the nonprofit, In Tents of Hope, purchased property off of Funk and Oil Well Roads with the intent to open a facility that would provide shelter to people experiencing homelessness. Calhan Police said, that while the department appreciates the intention, it raises several concerns that require further investigation.

FOX21 reached out to In Tents of Hope and Founder Kelly Morrow told FOX21 the location mentioned by police was not accurate and was unsure where Sgt. Anthony Tribuzio got the information. Morrow wrote the nonprofit is in the beginning phases of starting the tent community and is “currently reaching out to all city and county officials that need to be involved before such a project begins.”

Police stated their concerns were regarding safety and security for both those experiencing homelessness and the general public. They are asking that the proposed facility have adequate security measures in place to prevent theft, vandalism, and any illicit activities.

“We would like it to be understood that the tent community will be safe for both our tent residents as well as current Calhan residents. There are many wonderful people living in Calhan who have expressed a wish to help in any way they can,” said Morrow.

Calhan Police are encouraging the nonprofit to engage with the local community to gather feedback and input from those living in the area along with business owners. Police suggested the organization host a public meeting or conduct a survey to gain insights into the needs and concerns of the community.

Morrow said the group never intended to place the community in Calhan without holding public meetings so that everyone could have a voice.

Calhan Police said it would be working with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office and the community, and added that any additional information would be released to the public as soon as possible.

“Sgt. Tribuzio [of the Calhan Police Department] has since posted on Facebook that he would like to move forward by having a positive relationship between the police department and our organization. Naturally, we seek for the same and will work cooperatively with officials to ensure the tent community is a successful solution to those experiencing chronic homelessness,” said Morrow.