The city's functional zero plan aims to tackle unsheltered homelessness by considering multiple shelter options, such as congregate shelters, tiny homes, motels, and safe parking. CEO Elizabeth Funk emphasizes that providing a basic shelter is achievable, highlighting a need for policy shifts. The city plans to balance its $60 million budget deficit while possibly converting temporary solutions into permanent housing post-implementation. The council's receptiveness to the plan is tempered by concerns over costs affecting other functions, while a substantial $575 million is identified for permanent housing needs to enhance the shelter system long-term.
"Unsheltered homelessness is very solvable; it is four walls and a roof. Everything else is a lot harder," said Elizabeth Funk, the CEO of DignityMoves.
Mahan said he feels the city has long clung to "an overly strict" reading of the Housing First approach to addressing homelessness.
City staff reports noted that about $575 million would be needed to create enough permanent supportive housing for some of those who use the shelters.
After the city reaches a functional zero goal, Mahan said some of the temporary shelters could be converted into permanent affordable housing.
Collection
[
|
...
]