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Longview task force urges HMIS, housing navigator and damage-mitigation fund to reduce homelessness
Summary
A mayoral task force proposed 22 recommendations to better coordinate homelessness services, including a pilot Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), expanded data sharing, funding for a robust point‑in‑time count, a housing navigator post, and a landlord damage‑mitigation fund; council acknowledged the proposals but noted the request is unfunded and staff will review.
The mayor’s coordination task force on homelessness presented a 22‑point plan on Nov. 13 to knit city staff, nonprofit partners and faith organizations into a coordinated system aimed at reducing duplication and preventing people from falling through gaps.
Dr. and Reverend Evan Doleif, who chaired the task force, told council the recommendations focus on four goals: real‑time coordination and data sharing, an improved point‑in‑time (PIT) count and volunteer mobilization, resource guides and navigator services for people transitioning out of programs, and incentives to increase landlord participation in housing formerly unhoused people.
"We recommend developing a comprehensive HMIS system for real‑time data entry and designate a city department to oversee implementation," Doleif said, referring to the Homeless Management Information System commonly used to coordinate services. He acknowledged cost constraints for nonprofits and said a pilot program that links organizations already compatible with HMIS would be the first step.
The task force recommended expanding Greater Longview Optimal Wellness Program data‑sharing protocols, funding PIT operations and technology, appointing a housing navigator, creating a damage‑mitigation fund to encourage landlord participation, and studying a community land trust to expand affordable units. Doleif cited Abilene’s multi‑year effort as a model that took five years and required sustained funding and training.
Council members praised the recommendations but noted they are unfunded. The mayor said staff would meet with the task force and provide a response within 30 days indicating whether the city will fully fund, partially support, or ask for community assistance to implement the proposals.
