High-Level Summary
The city council meeting started at 1:01 PM, chaired by Mr. Kennedy, and attended by Ben Kennedy, Travis Blackmore, and Jeff Babcock. Key discussions focused on managing the Lionhearts program at the 38 County Street Shelter, along with community integration efforts and a head leasing program.
Important Topics Discussed
Lionhearts Program at 38 County Street Shelter:
- The Adel Shelter, with 60 spaces, is managed by Lionhearts and operates at full capacity most nights. "We do have 60 spaces there; Lionhearts runs and manages this shelter in every aspect. We are at full capacity most nights," stated Mr. Kennedy. Recent upgrades like new flooring were also noted, delivered at no cost to the city.
Incident Rate and Community Complaints:
- The shelter maintains a low rate of serious incidents but receives community complaints that Lionhearts plans to address through better community engagement. Mr. Kennedy highlighted, "We have a very low rate of serious incidents such as overdoses or other urgent situations that require police intervention." This indicates a safe environment within the shelter but a need to improve resident-community relationships.
Weekend Day Programming:
- From March, the shelter has offered weekend and holiday programming from 9 AM to 9 PM aimed at community engagement and resident integration. This initiative helps to fill gaps during non-operational periods, making the shelter a more supportive environment.
Head Leasing Program:
- The program has successfully placed 26 people in housing units across eight locations, providing a $400/month subsidy and an initial $2,500 top-up fund. "We work with ODSP and other funding programs to be able to make it a manageable cost at lower than market rent," explained Mr. Blackmore. This initiative facilitates the transition of participants into independent living with continued support.
Community Integration Efforts:
- Planning events like community barbecues to build bridges between residents and the local community is a key focus. "We want to put together a small community barbecue to allow some of the residents to see the programs and pieces of what we're doing here," Mr. Kennedy mentioned. These events aim to foster mutual understanding and integration.
Public Comments and Questions
- Head Leasing Program Clarifications: Tara asked for more details on the head leasing program. Jeff Babcock explained the structure, funding, and agreements involved.
- Referral Process: Tara also queried about referrals to the head leasing program. Ben Kennedy responded, explaining that referrals are taken from various Frontline agencies like Providence Care and city initiatives.
Opportunities to Provide Input
The community is encouraged to participate in Lionhearts' community integration activities, such as upcoming barbecues. Residents can also engage in ongoing discussions with the council about supportive housing and homelessness initiatives.
Motions and Outcomes
- Approval of the Agenda:
- Motion passed. Moved by Ian, seconded by Jackie. Outcome: Approved.
- Confirmation of Minutes:
- Motion passed. Moved by Jackie, seconded by Ian. Outcome: Approved.
Follow-Up Actions and Next Steps
- Weekend Programming Expansion: Continue enhancing weekend and holiday day programming.
- Community Barbecue: Schedule and organize community events to boost resident and community relationships.
- Head Leasing Program Expansion: Work on adding more housing units quickly to meet demands and address any renovation issues.