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Title:
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Consideration of a Citizen Petition Submitted by Ms. Elizabeth Venable - Citywide
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Title
Consideration of a Citizen Petition Submitted by Ms. Elizabeth Venable - Citywide
Description
This report provides the City Council with information in response to a Citizen Petition made by Elizabeth Venable of Fund for Empowerment regarding the shower water temperature of the new shower trailers at the City’s Safe Outdoor Space (SOS).
Summary
The petitioner submitted a Citizen Petition regarding complaints that the water in the SOS's new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant showers is too hot. Specifically, the report recommends testing the water temperature utilizing the guidelines provided by the American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines.
Options for Council Action:
Accept the petition.
Deny the petition.
Staff recommends denying the petition since Office of Homeless Solutions staff have already addressed the water temperature concerns.
Background
Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS) has been monitoring the temperatures of the new shower facilities since we heard from participants at the July City Council meeting that the water was very warm. OHS also promptly initiated physical testing of the shower facilities on October 8, 2026, in response to a citizen petition. Water temperature logs and testing were conducted across multiple intervals on October 8 to evaluate temperature fluctuations and usability. Water temperatures were found to be between 88 and 94 degrees throughout the day. Additionally, OHS has requested the Office of the City Engineer conduct water temperature testing to ensure the testing completed by OHS was accurate. If the water temperature exceeds standards, OHS will pursue mitigation measures.
OHS and its partners will continue to monitor water temperatures throughout the year as the outdoor air temperature fluctuates.
OHS and its SOS partners have not received any complaints from individuals staying at the SOS related to shower temperature since July 2026.
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Gina Montes and the Office of Homeless Solutions.