Commissioner Morey says homelessness plan entering Phase 2 as advisory board lauds progress

Commissioner Joseph Morey told the Board of County Commissioners on Sept. 9 that Phase 1 of the county’s Ad Hoc Committee on Homelessness is in full implementation and Phase 2 will begin within weeks, and he urged continued attention to the committee’s aggressive schedule.
Why it matters: Commissioners and the Homelessness Trust Fund Advisory Board said the county is expanding prevention and response programs and that additional research and coordination with partners will be required to implement Phase 2.
What was reported: Commissioner Morey congratulated participants in the County Senior Art Show and then updated the board on homelessness work, saying Phase 1 is fully implemented and Phase 2 will kick off soon. He cautioned Phase 2 has an “aggressive schedule” and urged continued commitment to implementation.
Public response: Hugh Blair, vice chair of the Cape May County Homelessness Trust Fund Advisory Board, told the commissioners the advisory board unanimously thanked the Ad Hoc Committee for “excellent and groundbreaking work” and applauded county staff and commissioners for prioritizing immediate needs. Blair said Phase 1 initiatives will supplement existing prevention programs and that Phase 2 will require additional research and multiple partners.
What remains to be done: Commissioners and advisory board members emphasized Phase 2 will require program development, partner commitment and further research. No formal vote or funding action occurred at the Sept. 9 meeting; the report was informational and meant to update the board and public on committee progress.