During a recent government meeting, key discussions centered on the governor's focus on three main priorities: homelessness and housing, behavioral health, and education. These topics align closely with the priorities of the city of Eugene and its community partners.

The Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) proposed a budget of approximately $218 million for the state's shelter system. The governor has included this proposal in her recommended budget. However, there is an expectation that additional funding will be sought from the legislature. This is due to the recommendation of a new category of shelters, which includes safe camping spots and vehicle camping options. The aim is to ensure that existing shelters receive necessary funding while expanding eligibility for new types of shelters.

In addition to the shelter budget, the governor proposed $188 million to help transition Oregonians out of homelessness and into housing. Another $173 million is aimed at preventing homelessness, while $105 million is designated for long-term rental assistance. These efforts are in line with ongoing initiatives in Lane County and Eugene to provide rent assistance and outreach services.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of addressing behavioral health needs in relation to housing. A budget of $3.5 million is proposed to expand housing support for individuals with behavioral health challenges. This reflects the interconnectedness of housing, homelessness, and mental health services.

Furthermore, the governor is advocating for $880 million in new bonding authority to build affordable housing and create pathways to homeownership. A new housing infrastructure program is also being proposed, with $100 million allocated for its funding. This program aims to support various infrastructure projects that facilitate housing development.

The city of Eugene has already received $6 million for infrastructure improvements related to housing. Local officials are actively engaged in discussions about the evaluation metrics for these projects, ensuring that they align with community needs.

Lastly, the governor has included $57,000 to support first-time homebuyers in Oregon, addressing the ongoing challenge of high rental rates and the need for affordable homeownership options. This initiative is particularly relevant for Eugene, where many residents are renters seeking pathways to owning their homes.