City Manager Sam Sanders presented a multi‑year timeline on Sept. 15 showing the city’s ongoing work to address homelessness, including a $3 million contribution the city made to the Salvation Army’s Center for Hope capital campaign and newly adopted FY26 budget commitments to support capacity for a low‑barrier shelter.

Why it matters: Sanders described homelessness as a regional problem requiring coordinated public, nonprofit and philanthropic action and reiterated city priorities including a year‑round low‑barrier shelter, family‑centered facilities, senior‑focused housing, and annual point‑in‑time counts.

Key points from the manager’s report: Sanders said the city has been pursuing potential sites, including the Cherry Avenue thrift store property, and has engaged with the Salvation Army about an operations plan for a low‑barrier shelter. He said the city contributed $3 million to the Salvation Army capital campaign to expand overnight shelter capacity from 55 to 114 beds and to enlarge the dining room and supportive services. Sanders also flagged Vista 29 (formerly Premier Circle) as a permanent supportive‑housing project expected in 2026 with about 80 units, and described city budget commitments adopted in FY26: funding of $500,000 per year to help operate a low‑barrier shelter once a provider is secured, and up to $1 million to offset operating losses should the Cherry Avenue thrift site be used.

Discussion and providers: Sanders summarized outreach to regional peers and nonprofit partners and described site feasibility work, including CRHA properties and tours of model programs (Caritas in Richmond). Council members asked for more detail about vouchers and project‑based supports; the manager said staff would provide further information and that the city continues to seek properties for acquisition and upfits.

What residents said: During public comment, West Haven and Fifeville residents repeatedly urged urgency on affordable housing and favored city actions that prioritize long‑term residents; several residents said shelter and affordable housing must be paired with protections against displacement.

Next steps: Sanders asked staff to continue property searches and feasibility analysis, to work with partners on an operations plan should the Salvation Army propose one, and to return to council with further details; councilors signaled continued interest in a low‑barrier shelter and additional permanent supportive housing projects.

Ending: Councilors emphasized the need for regional cooperation and philanthropic support; staff said more detailed project and funding information would be provided at later meetings.