Major budget shifts aim to tackle unsheltered homelessness

During a recent government meeting, officials provided an extensive overview of the budget and organizational changes related to the Housing Opportunities for Seniors and Transitioning (HOST) program, particularly focusing on efforts to address unsheltered homelessness in the city.

The meeting highlighted the establishment of two key pillars within HOST: the Shelter and Stability pillar, which encompasses the legacy shelter system and housing stability initiatives, and the All In Mile High initiative, aimed specifically at addressing unsheltered homelessness. This initiative includes outreach programs and safe parking options, reflecting a strategic shift in how the city approaches homelessness.

For the fiscal year 2023, HOST reported a total expenditure of $13.1 million against a budget of $48 million, resulting in a significant underspend of $35 million. This underspend is expected to roll over into the 2024 budget, which has been set at $39 million. Officials noted that a substantial portion of the funding for these initiatives comes from one-time federal funds, with $56.3 million allocated for the overall homelessness resolution efforts, of which $41.8 million is designated for one-time costs.

The meeting also addressed the anticipated recurring costs for 2024 and beyond, estimated at $57.5 million annually to sustain the programs. This figure translates to approximately $28,750 per person served, which is notably lower than the costs associated with traditional shelter beds, which range from $30,000 to $36,000.

Council members raised questions regarding the allocation of funds and the impact of the new approach to homelessness under Mayor Johnston's administration. Discussions included the need for clarity on how much of the budget represents new funding compared to previous expenditures on homelessness.

Additionally, the council reviewed three bill requests totaling $17 million to support the All In Mile High initiative in 2024. These requests include reallocating funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and appropriating FEMA reimbursements for pandemic-related expenses.

As the meeting concluded, council members expressed a desire for more detailed data on the effectiveness of the current homelessness strategies and the financial implications moving forward, particularly in relation to the city's overall budget for 2025 and beyond.