Vancouver updates homelessness response; Safe Stay providers urge permanent status

City Council on Feb. 24 heard extensive public testimony in support of Safe Stay alternative shelters operated by Outsiders Inn and received a monthly homelessness situation report from city staff detailing placements, shelter exits and an upcoming encampment closure.

The reports and public comments focused on housing exits, winter‑shelter use and a March 5 deadline to clear an encampment along the Mill Plain sound wall. Jamie Spinelli, the city’s homelessness operations lead, said the report covered January 2025 operations and the city was preparing for the sound‑wall closure: "March 5 is the day," she said, adding that notices had already gone out and additional move‑outs were expected as Safe Stay residents finish paperwork and accept housing offers.

The council heard a series of public comments from residents and Outsiders Inn staff and program participants. Adam Kravitz, executive director of Outsiders Inn, thanked the council and asked that Safe Stay sites be treated as a long‑term part of the city’s response: "Will you champion these non…