During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing issue of homelessness in Davis County, particularly in light of the upcoming winter months. The meeting highlighted the formation of a task force mandated by House Bill 499, which requires counties to develop a winter response plan to shelter unsheltered individuals from October 15 to April 30. The task force, composed of the county commission chair and six mayors, has been working since April to create a \"code blue\" response plan, which includes temporary shelter provisions when temperatures drop below 18 degrees.

The county is under a deadline to submit this plan by August 1, and discussions have centered around the size and location of the proposed code blue facilities. The state requires that at least 16 cots be available, with projections indicating that 10 to 30 individuals may need shelter on code blue nights. Currently, the plan has involved providing motel vouchers, but the task force is exploring more permanent solutions.

Concerns were raised about potential locations for the code blue facilities, particularly regarding their proximity to Kaysville Elementary School. Residents expressed fears that placing a shelter near the school could increase anxiety among students and families. Public comments reflected a strong sentiment against locating any shelter in Kaysville, with residents questioning why Kaysville was being considered at all when the homeless population is not significant in the area.

Several speakers emphasized the need for a temporary solution that does not lead to a permanent shelter, arguing that once a facility is established, it could become a long-term solution. They suggested that shelters should be located where homeless individuals are already congregating, which would reduce transportation costs and better address the needs of the homeless population.

The meeting concluded with a call for transparency and community involvement in the decision-making process, as residents voiced their concerns about safety, the potential for increased homelessness, and the overall impact on the community. The task force is expected to continue its discussions and work towards a viable plan before the August deadline.