Westchester?s homeless population will now be able to use the county?s new overnight drop-in shelter.

The controversial shelter opened its doors in White Plains on Court Street Tuesday. The mayor of White Plains and many who live and work in the downtown area are opposed to the shelter. Many fear the facility will house several dangerous sex offenders.

Lawmakers say the county is required to provide shelter for those in need, including sex offenders. They say the shelter will help the homeless because there is counseling and other services nearby. Lawmakers add the shelter will be locked at night, preventing people from leaving the building until morning.