County moves to buy duplex for behavioral health bridge housing to house people sooner

Mariposa County’s Health and Human Services Department asked the Board of Supervisors on Nov. 18 to adopt a resolution of intent to purchase a five‑bedroom duplex at 5130 Bullion Street to serve as Behavioral Health Bridge housing. Director Christina Kahili said the purchase—rather than rebuilding a previously acquired but demolished property on Jones Street—would be faster and less costly, allowing residents to be housed sooner.

Mandy Brum, division director, and Amy Woodward, senior analyst, summarized the county’s housing programs and grant awards. Brum said behavioral health bridge housing and related grants have allowed the county to house people who are homeless and navigating severe mental illness or substance‑use disorder. The county previously acquired a property on Jones Street in 2021 that was later found to be uninhabitable; the new purchase is presented as a way to accelerate housing outcomes.

The board debated the proposal and asked questions about ownership, ongoing operations, and the future of the Jones Street parcel. Christina Kahili said the Jones Street property might be sold or repurposed depending on need. Supervisor Manatray moved and the board approved a resolution of intent to purchase the Bullion Street duplex; the motion passed 5‑0.

Staff said the duplex will be used for transitional supportive housing under the Behavioral Health Bridge Housing grant and that the county will combine that grant with the Alliance Housing Fund match to support operations and case management for tenants.