Councilors report rising homelessness, scarce subsidized housing and strains on local services

Councilor Gamroth told the Casper City Council on Sept. 2 that local agencies are reporting rising demand for homeless services and a severe shortfall in subsidized housing.

Gamroth said the Casper Housing Authority recently received about 480 applications for subsidized housing and that only 22 applicants qualified. He said many applicants are disqualified for reasons that include debts to utility providers, felony records and current drug or substance use, and that those who do not qualify were “going somewhere” to find shelter.

Why it matters: Councilors said the shortfall is driving pressure on emergency services, food providers and detox programs and is pushing some people into congregate living arrangements. Those trends affect public safety, health services and municipal budgets.

Gamroth…