HHS recommends quarterly or ad‑hoc meetings for homeless housing task force; role remains planning and prioritization

Gina James of Health and Human Services briefed the commissioners on the homeless housing task force, the member survey, and options for ongoing meeting frequency and role.

James said the task force exists to develop and maintain the county five‑year homeless housing plan and that members generally favored quarterly meetings or an ad‑hoc approach to convene as needed. She said the task force’s historical role includes prioritizing plan elements and producing recommendations for board action, but it does not supplant city‑led projects such as Hope Village; cities may request county funding but the task force is primarily a planning and advisory body. James also noted that changes to the plan can be made and resubmitted to the Department of Commerce when the board or task force sees a need.

Commissioners discussed whether the task force should continue meeting on a regular schedule or move to ad‑hoc meetings now that the plan's groundwork is largely complete; several commissioners favored fewer meetings and an ad‑hoc model. Staff will narrow options and solicit further member feedback to return a recommendation.