County approves funding for warming shelter amid rising concerns
November 21, 2024 | Monongalia County, West Virginia
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In a recent government meeting, the Monongalia County Commission approved additional funding for warming shelter operations for the upcoming 2024-2025 winter season. The commission agreed to provide up to $40,000 on a reimbursable basis to support the shelter, which is managed by Catholic Charities. This decision follows a request from the city, which outlined a total project budget of $80,000, with the county's contribution aimed at prioritizing Monongalia County residents.
Commissioner Bloom expressed concerns regarding the shelter's operation, particularly the potential for non-residents to occupy beds intended for local individuals. He emphasized the need for a clear policy to ensure that county residents are prioritized, especially as neighboring cities have begun passing similar encampment ordinances, potentially increasing the demand for shelter services.
The commission also discussed the shelter's operational hours, which are set from 8 PM to 8 AM daily, regardless of weather conditions. Some commissioners voiced apprehension about the financial implications of maintaining the shelter during warmer nights when occupancy may be low. They acknowledged the challenges of running a shelter on an ad hoc basis and the necessity of having a consistent operational plan.
In addition to the warming shelter funding, the commission approved engaging legal services from Ballard Spahr, LLP, to assist with proposed changes to existing bonds related to the University Town Center Economic Opportunity Development District. This decision aims to streamline legal processes by utilizing familiar legal counsel.
Lastly, the commission revised the project budget for the Morgantown Area Use Services Project, reallocating funds from the opioid settlement grant to better utilize staffing resources. This adjustment allows for the full deployment of the grant funds, ensuring effective service delivery.
The meeting underscored the commission's commitment to addressing local homelessness while navigating the complexities of funding and resource allocation.
Commissioner Bloom expressed concerns regarding the shelter's operation, particularly the potential for non-residents to occupy beds intended for local individuals. He emphasized the need for a clear policy to ensure that county residents are prioritized, especially as neighboring cities have begun passing similar encampment ordinances, potentially increasing the demand for shelter services.
The commission also discussed the shelter's operational hours, which are set from 8 PM to 8 AM daily, regardless of weather conditions. Some commissioners voiced apprehension about the financial implications of maintaining the shelter during warmer nights when occupancy may be low. They acknowledged the challenges of running a shelter on an ad hoc basis and the necessity of having a consistent operational plan.
In addition to the warming shelter funding, the commission approved engaging legal services from Ballard Spahr, LLP, to assist with proposed changes to existing bonds related to the University Town Center Economic Opportunity Development District. This decision aims to streamline legal processes by utilizing familiar legal counsel.
Lastly, the commission revised the project budget for the Morgantown Area Use Services Project, reallocating funds from the opioid settlement grant to better utilize staffing resources. This adjustment allows for the full deployment of the grant funds, ensuring effective service delivery.
The meeting underscored the commission's commitment to addressing local homelessness while navigating the complexities of funding and resource allocation.
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