Vista council seeks clarity on shared housing program costs and effectiveness

The City of Vista's Standing Committee on Homelessness convened on August 28, 2025, to discuss critical updates on local homelessness initiatives, particularly focusing on the shared housing innovation pilot program. A key highlight of the meeting was the ongoing evaluation of the program's effectiveness and cost efficiency, which aims to transition individuals and families from homelessness into stable housing.

Brenda Viveros from Townspeople provided an update on the shared housing program, reporting that in July alone, 11 individuals, including two children, successfully moved into permanent housing. Since the program's inception, a total of 67 individuals have been served, with an impressive 83% of participants achieving housing stability. The program currently operates nine master-leased units, with a total of 40 individuals housed since its launch.

Committee members emphasized the importance of tracking the program's financial metrics, particularly the cost per adult per month for housing assistance. There was a strong call for detailed data to assess the program's efficiency and to ensure that public funds are being utilized effectively. The committee expressed a desire for clearer reporting on the average costs associated with housing placements and the overall expenditure on the program.

The discussion underscored the committee's commitment to transparency and accountability, with members urging for a comprehensive summary of financial investments in homelessness programs over the past year. This data is crucial for evaluating the success of the initiatives and for making informed decisions about future funding.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members reiterated their dedication to improving the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Vista, highlighting the need for ongoing support and effective management of resources to foster self-sufficiency among participants. The next steps include a follow-up on the requested financial data and a tour of a potential navigation center site, aimed at further enhancing the city's response to homelessness.