City to apply for $400,000 pilot to hire housing navigator and stabilization supports

City staff told the Government Operations Committee on Sept. 4 they will apply for a $400,000, two-year grant opportunity to fund a pilot housing navigation and stabilization program aimed at increasing successful transitions from homelessness into stable housing.

The proposal, presented by city staff, would hire one full-time housing navigator and set discretionary stabilization funds to cover one-time needs such as security deposits, basic furnishings and short-term assistance intended to reduce recidivism to homelessness. Staff said the navigator would coordinate with outreach providers, shelters and public-health teams, help cultivate landlord relationships and serve as a single point-of-contact for property owners providing units to people transitioning from homelessness.

Councilors asked about the program’s sustainability and evaluation. Staff said the application requires a program start early in 2025 and that the city has a draft program design ready to implement if the grant is awarded. The pilot includes planned evaluation checkpoints and feedback mechanisms so staff and councilors can assess performance during the two-year period. Council members asked about continuation post-pilot; staff said they would seek additional grants or local funding if the demonstration proves successful.

A motion to approve applying for the grant and submit the application was moved and seconded; the committee approved the application (no objection recorded on the meeting record). Staff said they will return with details on the application and program if the council votes to authorize submission at the full council meeting (the item proceeded through committee action this night).