The Community Development Commission expressed concerns that impending federal budget cuts could worsen the homelessness crisis in the city. The FY25/26 Action Plan, which outlines the allocation of about $14 million in federal funds, is set for review by the City Council. Commissioners refrained from endorsing the plan, emphasizing the need for a flexible approach to address the increasing risk of homelessness due to economic challenges. The importance of locally funded programs was highlighted as a means to support residents not qualifying for federal services.
Mandy DeMayo emphasizes the need for local funding to supplement federal assistance, stating, 'Where we are not able to meet the community needs with federal funds for a variety of different reasons, we try to meet those needs with our local funds, so this is just a slice of our programs.'
Concerns raised by the Community Development Commission highlight potential surges in homelessness among vulnerable populations: 'Cuts to federal programs, including housing, Medicaid and social service funding, could quickly lead to a surge in first-time or short-term homelessness among seniors, veterans and renters on the financial brink.'
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