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Council approves submission of state JAG grant tied to Pathways to Stability task force
Summary
The council voted unanimously to apply for Washington State Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant funds to support the newly announced Pathways to Stability Task Force, requesting funds for a nonpartisan facilitator and a feasibility study (staff also discussed surveillance equipment in relation to the task force).
Mayor announced the creation of a Pathways to Stability Task Force earlier in the meeting to study homelessness in Oak Harbor; the council later authorized staff to apply for Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) funds to support that work.
Grant request and purpose: Grants administrator Wendy Horn described the city’s proposed application to the Washington State Department of Commerce's JAG program, noting the federal program’s priority areas and the state advisory board’s selected priorities for the year. Staff described a request that included $50,000 for a nonpartisan task-force facilitator and $175,000 for a feasibility study that would include data gathering, needs assessment, gap analysis and recommendations to the task force. During discussion staff also referenced a separate $50,000 line for camera and surveillance equipment as part of potential community-safety enhancements; the presentation included both the facilitator/study amounts and a later mention of surveillance equipment as a possible funded item.
Why it matters: The task force is intended to coordinate city leaders, service providers and community advocates to review recommendations and identify actionable solutions related to homelessness and stability. Staff said the study would evaluate service options, current gaps, best practices and alternatives for relocating or supporting services such as Spin Cafe and The Haven.
Council discussion and vote: Council Member Marshall moved and the Mayor Pro Tem seconded a motion to approve submission of the state JAG application; the council voted unanimously to submit the application.
Implementation notes: Staff said the proposal requires no local match. If funded, the city expects to contract with an external facilitator and consulting firm to conduct the feasibility study and to coordinate recommendations with the Pathways to Stability Task Force. Specific award amounts and project scope will depend on the final grant award.
