Washington County announces Nov. 4 wait list, highlights preservation gains and presents inaugural Community Cares Award

Washington County’s Department of Housing Services used a public forum to announce program updates, public engagement opportunities and to recognize local workers who serve people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Nicole Sting, strategic initiatives and relations manager, asked attendees to share flyers and noted the department will open a housing wait list on November 4 and has a survey and upcoming public hearing for the county’s supportive housing services local implementation plan.

Molly Rogers, director, reviewed county metrics: last year the county supported more than 20,700 people, the Housing Authority of Washington County invested in 12 new affordable communities totaling 958 apartment homes (exceeding a local goal of 814), and the shelter system expanded from zero overnight beds for single adults to "400 plus shelter beds and units year round." Rogers also said the county preserved or renovated 592 homes across 10 communities.

Chair Kathryn Harrington announced the inaugural Community Cares Award and named Ellie Smith, a housing placement specialist at Open Door, as the first recipient. Harrington said, "shelter is a human right," and praised nominees drawn from local outreach and housing programs.

The county asked participants to take printed annual reports and encouraged continued collaboration among cities, service providers, housing authorities and volunteers. County leaders closed by urging continued partnership to sustain programs in a tighter fiscal environment.

Ending: County leaders asked attendees to stay engaged in upcoming hearings and to share information about the Nov. 4 wait list and other local openings.