Chair Solve Spiones told the Athens City Affordable Housing Commission on Nov. 19 that a proposed change at the federal level could alter how local programs serve people experiencing homelessness. "We have had a housing-first policy, which is considered best practices for some time now, but this administration has decided that they don't want that," Spiones said. "They want short term housing and force people into treatment and work."

Spiones urged the commission to invite a representative from integrated services to brief members at a future meeting so they can understand potential local impacts and prepare advocacy. She said the change could push people back onto the street and noted that many people experiencing homelessness are working or are families who cannot afford rent. "A lot of families out there who are on house living in their cars…they're working," she said, calling for the commission to "badger" decision-makers if the rule passes.

Commissioners discussed ways to respond, including arranging a presentation by integrated services and planning public messaging to clarify how local housing-first programs operate. The commission did not take any formal action at the meeting; Spiones said she would reach out to integrated services to request a speaker.

Why it matters: housing-first models prioritize placing people into stable housing before requiring participation in treatment or employment programs; local agencies and nonprofit partners frequently rely on these federal program rules and funding structures to design services. A shift in federal guidance could change eligibility, intake practices or funding priorities for local shelters and housing programs.

Next steps: Spiones said she would contact integrated services to schedule a briefing at a future commission meeting and the commission may coordinate outreach or advocacy depending on what the briefing reveals.