Title
Maricopa Association of Governments Regional Homelessness Planning Efforts
Description
This report provides Council the efforts underway to strengthen the regional response to homelessness, focusing on the efforts undertaken by Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG). In addition, MAG staff will provide a report of the work underway, to receive feedback from Phoenix City Council on priorities, and to discuss the most viable regional actions that will move people from homelessness to stability.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION.
Report
Summary
The focus of the current efforts at MAG is to develop regional strategies that will reduce the number of people experiencing homelessness, make homeless assistance programs available in more communities throughout the entire region, and strengthen the safety net for all people. Significant research and outreach are underway to inform these efforts.
To date, more than 1,000 people from a variety of sectors have shared their perspectives and priorities on this work. Research has resulted in the development of a local inventory of strategies, analysis of national best practices, and a variety of studies aimed at better understanding the various elements impacting homelessness, including the financial commitment made now by municipalities, the role of law enforcement, and existing considerations to address when implementing new programs.
All of these efforts are driving toward the development of a regional portfolio of strategies that will be offered for approval in May 2021. These strategies will address action steps in the areas of housing, shelter, services, prevention/diversion, and coordination. An implementation plan will be offered for approval in August 2021.
Both documents will be offered for approval to the Maricopa Regional Continuum of Care Board, the MAG Management Committee, and the MAG Regional Council. In addition to these groups, this work is supported by the Regional Collaborative on Homelessness, a partnership among ASU Action Nexus on Homelessness, Arizona Housing Coalition, MAG, Maricopa County, Valley of the Sun United Way, and Vitalyst Health Foundation.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by City Manager Ed Zuercher and the Office of Government Relations.