Title
Citizen Request: Clarissa Peterson, Karla Kendall, Randy Kelling, Erik Richardson - District 7 & Citywide
Description
This report provides the City Council with information in response to comments made by Clarissa Peterson, Karla Kendall, Randy Kelling and Erik Richardson at the June 3, 2026, Formal City Council meeting.
Report
Summary
During the aforementioned City Council meeting, Ms. Peterson and Mr. Kelling expressed concerns that the pet area at the Safe Outdoor Space (SOS) was not cleaned frequently enough. The SOS features a designated dog run for participants with animals. To maintain hygiene standards, the dog run is cleaned and sanitized three times a day and is documented by Keys to Change staff.
Mr. Kelling also inquired about an upcoming project to install additional Americans with Disability Act (ADA) restrooms at the SOS and requested port-a-potties during the construction. Construction began on the two new ADA restroom trailer installation the week of June 8 and temporary restrooms/handwashing stations are available throughout the project duration.
Ms. Kendall expressed concerns regarding the cleanliness of the showers at the SOS. Showers are cleaned multiple times per day. Showers that are being cleaned are temporarily closed during the cleaning process.
Ms. Kendall also indicated concern that participant transportation is available until 2 p.m. and that participants are only able to retrieve their mail from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday afternoon. Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) provides transportation to and from the SOS for participants with appointments until 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. If transportation is needed outside those hours, CBI works with participants to arrange transportation through another provider or they are issued a transit pass. Mail is delivered to the SOS from the Key Campus mail room each Monday afternoon. Participants are able to obtain their mail from Keys to Change staff daily from Monday to Friday from 1 p.m. to 4 pm.
Mr. Richardson expressed concerns about the continental breakfast served on the weekends at the SOS, which he believes has recently decreased in quality. The SOS provides three meals daily in accordance with the contract, in addition, people may access additional meals at Andre House or at the Key Campus. Weekend meal service differs from the Monday through Friday meal types while still complying with the contractual requirements.
The Office of Homeless Solutions is committed to working with the community, service providers and partners to best serve participants at all our shelter sites and will continue to make improvements where necessary to ensure we are creating a safe and sanitary environment.
Location
Safe Outdoor Space, 1537 W. Jackson Street
Council Districts: 7 and Citywide
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Gina Montes and the Office of Homeless Solutions.