Council members discuss growing homelessness concerns, highlight Helping Hands services

Council members discussed reported increases in people experiencing homelessness and opportunities to connect them with local services.

Unidentified Speaker 1 said the city was "gonna have to deal with" a growing homeless population and urged identifying resources. Unidentified Speaker 3 reported that a marshal was unaware Helping Hands provides a shower and washer/dryer and supplies, saying, "he didn't even know that Helping Hands had a shower and a washer and dryer that they can use." The speakers suggested producing a flyer and partnering with marshals or nonprofits to alert people to available services, especially as colder weather approaches.

No formal program or funding decision was made at the meeting; council members agreed to discuss this in a workshop or future agenda item so staff can inventory resources and coordinate outreach.