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Office of Homeless Services reports relocations and symposium; pallet-shelter RFP draws no applicants after grant cuts
Summary
Office of Homeless Services reported a state-of-homelessness symposium, a July relocation of more than 35 people from a river camp into interim housing using ARPA funds, Continuum of Care leadership elections, and that a pallet-shelter pilot RFP received no applications after service-funding support was cut.
Allison Cantwell of the Office of Homeless Services reported highlights for July including a well-attended "State of Homelessness" symposium, the safe relocation of more than 35 people from a camp near Nissan Stadium between June 28 and July 1 using ARPA homelessness funds, and leadership elections for the Continuum of Care.
Cantwell said the campsite relocation was a proactive public-safety and sheltering effort because the site was in the fallout zone for Fourth of July fireworks and posed elevated fire risks. She told the committee multiple agencies participated — Fire, OEM, MNPD and community partners — and that subsequent fire activity in the area underscored the decision's safety rationale.
The Continuum of Care elected Rico X as chair and Liz Mallard as vice chair; Cantwell noted Mallard is a person with lived experience, which the office prioritizes in planning.
Cantwell also said a request for proposals for up to 25 pallet shelters drew no applications. She said one reason is the loss of attached support-services funding after a health-department grant (ELC) was cut; several agencies expressed interest in the shelter concept but could not proceed without service funding. The office will reconvene stakeholders to consider next steps and alternatives for pilot uses or reallocation.
Cantwell closed by reporting OHS sent staff and sponsored community members to the annual National Alliance to End Homelessness conference and that the office will continue to engage national experts and local providers on best practices.
