FOX 21 News, KQDS-DT

DULUTH - It's been a roller coaster ride for tenants living at the Seaway Hotel as the owner of the historic building and the city of Duluth determine if the building can become livable again.

"What we've heard is that we're shutting down. Then the employees are saying we're staying open. Then we hear that they're shutting down again," said Vincent White, a Seaway resident.

The whirlwind could be winding down, with the “Building Appeals Board" scheduled to make a decision Wednesday.

Even though tenants have had about a month to look for a new home, many aren't having much luck.

White said, "Half these people don't have anywhere to go. I don't even think I have anywhere to go after this."

Churches United in Ministry (CHUM) is a likely destination for some, but they only have so much space.

"This last quarter at CHUM there's been a record breaking 388 people in the last three months that sought shelter at CHUM. That's 100 more than their average numbers," said Joe Kilgour, of Loaves & Fishes.

Joel Kilgour works for Loaves & Fishes, an organization operating three hospitality units in town.

He says there simply aren't enough affordable housing options within the city.

Kilgour said, "There are many people in this town who are living simply on general assistance, which is about $203 a month. Even to rent a room here at the Seaway, two people on general assistance have to double up."

Despite admitting some serious work needs to be done to the electrics, plumbing and roof, Alton Parker sees the good the building has done for him over the past 15 years.

"There's no reason to close it. You know Rick’s (the owner’s) done a very good job. I mean face it; it wasn't probably in the best shape when he got it," said Parker.

So far about a dozen residents have found alternative housing options if the Seaway should close, but the majority are left holding onto what little hope remains.

Parker said, "I think it would be a real tragedy to close the Seaway Hotel."