In a recent meeting, the Monongalia County Commission discussed funding for a warming shelter operated by Catholic Charities for the upcoming winter season. The commission agreed to provide up to $40,000 on a reimbursable basis, contingent upon certain conditions aimed at prioritizing Monongalia County residents. The total funding request from Catholic Charities was approximately $87,258, with the city of Morgantown contributing an additional $10,000.

Commissioner Bloom expressed concerns about the potential for non-residents to occupy shelter beds, particularly as neighboring cities enact similar encampment ordinances. He emphasized the need for a clear policy to ensure that local residents are prioritized for shelter services. The shelter is set to operate nightly from December 15 to March 15, regardless of weather conditions, which raised questions about the efficiency of funding if the facility is underutilized during milder weather.

Commissioners acknowledged the challenges of running a shelter on an ad hoc basis and recognized the necessity of having a consistent operational schedule. They expressed a desire for better planning and earlier communication regarding funding requests for future shelter operations to avoid last-minute decisions.

In addition to the shelter funding, the commission approved engaging legal services from Ballard Spahr LLP for proposed changes to existing bonds related to the University Town Center Economic Opportunity Development District. The commission also revised the budget for the Morgantown Area Youth Services Project, reallocating funds to better utilize grant resources.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the commission's commitment to addressing homelessness while balancing the needs of local residents and the operational realities of emergency shelter services.