Salina hires SHG Advisors for $71,899 homelessness strategic plan

City staff recommended contracting with SHG Advisors to develop a strategic plan addressing homelessness across the region Salina serves. Michelle Martin summarized the RFP process: 12 proposals were received, the review committee ranked and interviewed finalists and SHG Advisors emerged as the unanimous top candidate. The proposed scope includes a needs analysis, stakeholder convenings, assistance identifying funding sources and an emphasis on producing actionable recommendations rather than only theory.

Commissioners asked whether the consultant would implement programs; staff and the consultant’s proposal made clear the contract covers planning and recommendations, not long-term implementation, although follow-on implementation support could be negotiated separately. Commissioners and staff discussed expecting the final plan to recommend whether the city should create a dedicated staff position or a stakeholder coordinating body; staff said placeholder funding could be included in future budgets depending on recommendations.

The commission authorized the city manager to execute the $71,899 contract with SHG Advisors by vote 5–0.