Newport Beach is finalizing a deal with Costa Mesa for 29 beds in a homeless shelter that will cost the city $2.6 million for the first year, and $1 million each following year. “It’s phenomenally expensive, and something we have to do,” Newport Beach Mayor Brad Avery said during a Feb. 10 public Zoom meeting. “I say to people, what is the alternative? … This [managing homelessness] is our mission the next 10 years.” Newport Beach city council entered a five-year agreement last Nov. 24 to contribute $1.6 million for construction of the shelter, and an additional $1 million annually for operating costs. Two optional, five-year extensions are included in the agreement. Newport Beach will gain access to 29 of the 70 beds at the shelter, located at an existing industrial warehouse on Airway Avenue in Costa Mesa, near John Wayne Airport. “[The] Costa Mesa shelter was a big win for us,” Avery said. “We’re very appreciative of Costa Mesa for joining with us, …