Responding to a forum question about enforcement, services and housing for people experiencing houselessness, candidates described a multi-layered approach that emphasized housing-first principles and a mix of emergency shelters, supportive services and targeted enforcement.

Candidate Lucas Moody said, “I support a housing first policy,” and favored expanding temporary safe outdoor shelter capacity beyond existing units and adding long-term supportive-care options for people who can’t reenter the labor market. Moody drew on prior work at homelessness services overseas in explaining service-first preferences.

Candidate Rebecca Dawson urged “a compassionate approach” while saying she also supports law enforcement’s role in applying city rules: “I do think that we need to allow our law enforcement to enforce the law,” she said, adding that enforcement should be measured and not involve mistreatment.

Candidate Betsy Kraske called for individualized responses that combine stable housing with mental-health and addiction services: “Housing is the biggest issue is getting people into housing and into stable housing, and helping them access services that they need.” Justin Ponton cited the prior “housing sprint” and said the city should build on successful elements while seeking sustainable long-term placements.

Why it matters: The mix of enforcement, shelter capacity, and long-term supportive housing affects public safety, human services budgets and outcomes for people experiencing houselessness. Voters in multiple wards named houselessness among top concerns during the forum.

Discussion vs. decisions: Candidates described policy preferences and program types but did not adopt binding measures at the forum. They recommended reviewing prior program outcomes (housing sprint) and expanding proven interventions.

Ending: All four candidates voiced concern and urged multifaceted responses; emphasis ranged from expanding shelter and services to measured enforcement alongside a housing-first priority.