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Activists and council discuss tiny homes, shipping‑container units and wraparound services for unhoused residents
Summary
Councilmember Alicia Washington convened a discussion on services for unhoused residents; nonprofit Green Shades described four alternative housing prototypes and urged a Stonecrest task force and wraparound services to transition people off the street.
Councilmember Alicia Washington opened a work‑session discussion on unhoused and unsheltered residents, saying homelessness remains a persistent local issue and urging the council to consider housing solutions and services. Washington asked code enforcement to explain current city powers. Code enforcement representative Juana Cowie said officers can observe and enter properties visible from public right‑of‑way and empty parcels to identify encampments, and staff are contacting private property owners to address unauthorized encampments. Cowie also said the city recently hired a code officer with experience working with unsheltered populations and suggested a task force or a designated staff person to coordinate services. Deborah “Dr. D” Clark of the Green Shades Foundation described a long‑running, grassroots program that builds and trains residents to use four alternative, lower‑cost housing models: shipping‑container conversions, insulated structural panels (SIPs) and steel structures, lightweight “EcoBrick” units made with recycled polystyrene and cement, and small modular units (200–500 square feet). Clark said Green Shades pairs on‑site construction training with wraparound supports — case management, job training and health services — and offered the city a chance to tour a warehouse prototype and consider live builds. Terry, a project manager working with Green Shades, described hands‑on training and said the approach has helped participants gain skills and community connections. Council members asked about who would occupy the units and how services for people with mental health challenges and chronic needs would be delivered. Clark emphasized that housing must include services; she cited examples of temporary motel placements and phased transitions to permanent units. Mayor Pro Tem George Turner and others said the city will consider task force options and budget timing during the FY26 process. No binding action or funding commitment was made at the meeting; councilmembers requested additional information and follow‑up meetings with presenters.
