HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Works April 10 20121
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WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
Public Works, Health, and Safety Committee
April 10, 2012
CALL TO ORDER
Committee Chair Barbara Brenner called the meeting to order at 1:33 p.m. in the
Council Chambers, 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, Washington.
ROLL CALL (1:33:50 PM)
Present: Barbara Brenner, Ken Mann and Pete Kremen.
Absent: None.
Also Present: Bill Knutzen.
COMMITTEE DISCUSSION
1. DISCUSSION OF THE PERMANENT INTENSIVE SUPPORTIVE HOUSING
PROJECT FOR CHRONICALLY HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS (AB2012-149)
Ann Deacon, Health Department, submitted and read from a presentation (on file).
(2: 01: 44 PM)
Brenner asked to have the information presented before the meeting, to include
actual numbers in addition to percentages, and to read the actual studies.
Kremen stated the gist is that the program is largely successful. Take a deeper look
into the details.
Knutzen asked and there was discussion of who pays for the onsite services required
by the program to be successful, such as medical and food, and how they prevent people
from taking advantage of the service instead of helping people in need.
Kremen stated it would be helpful in the future to have information on how much
money the County would save by such a program to justify the expenditure.
Mann asked and there was discussion of whether the Sheriff's Office and hospital are
willing to contribute because they will realize reduced demands on their services. He is
concerned about finding an appropriate location for the facility.
Brenner stated she would like to visit the facility in Seattle. She has mixed feelings
about grouping this population in one location versus scattered housing. She supports
having one location for providing services.
Knutzen asked and there was discussion of whether any of the $9 million project cost
is committed.
(2:20:09 PM)
Public Works, Health, and Safety Committee, 4/10/2012, Page 1
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Steve Powers, Catholic Community Services, described and answered questions
about their project and its funding.
Mann asked and there was discussion about an existing Catholic Community Services
housing project that is having problems with security.
Deacon stated she will set up a tour of the project in Seattle and provide a more in-
depth funding analysis. They must ensure the quality of the program to replicate the
positive outcomes. They must identify the type of ongoing services they will need for a
successful program and to target the population they want to help.
Brenner stated engage the City of Bellingham. Don't tie up too much behavioral
health money on an annual basis.
Kremen stated the staff must present a compelling case regarding the return on
investment given limited public funding. However, they must also consider the
improvement in the quality of life for these individuals.
Brenner asked and there was discussion of the requirements of the residents who
live in the facility. She would like a concrete program before the Council decides whether to
vote to fund it.
OTHER BUSINESS
There was no other business.
ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m.
ATTEST:
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Please contact the Council Office to obtain an
official, signed copy:
360-676-6690 or council@co.whatcom.wa.us
Public Works, Health, and Safety Committee, 4/10/2012, Page 2