Item B: Update on Homeless Initiative Action Plan

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Pro Con targeted by the tax. Source will grow as community needs increase RECOMMENDATION B. REGIONAL APPROACH One plan, three jurisdictions The Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Committee was appointed by Eugene and specifically advises the City of Eugene while recommending to all local governments. This committee includes a Lane County Commissioner and a Springfield City Councilor because housing and homeless issues have regional importance. The City of Eugene has close intergovernmental partnerships with Lane County and Springfield through the Human Services Commission and the Housing Policy Board. Eugene and Springfield have formed a consortium to receive federal HOME funds. Eugene worked closely with Lane County in developing a Ten Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness. The Blue Ribbon Committee encourages Lane County and Springfield to work closely with Eugene to provide similar funding levels for housing and homelessness or place a similar initiatives on their respective ballots at the same time. All three jurisdictions could then benefit from increased investment and a single voter education effort. If Lane County approved a funding source it would raise revenue from Eugene and Springfield residents, possibly negating the need for specific funding in those cities. The Blue Ribbon Committee also recommends that each jurisdiction advocate for improved legislation and funding to address these issues. This can be accomplished in the State of Oregon by joining the “Housing Alliance” and at the federal level through the “United Front” process. RECOMMENDATION C. CHANGES IN GOVERNMENT POLICIES Review the impacts of existing regulations The Blue Ribbon Committee is concerned about unintended consequences associated with existing laws and policies. Many regulations that were adopted to respond to important community needs indirectly contribute to the housing and homelessness crisis. These include codes related to land use, growth management, sustainability and livability. It may be that improved “livability” for some is accomplished through limited housing options for those with fewer resources. Locally, the Blue Ribbon Committee recommends that each jurisdiction ensure that they are carefully considering the impacts on low-income households and potential homelessness as part of ongoing planning efforts. For instance, in Eugene there are potential impacts associated with the minor code amendment, in-fill and opportunity siting processes. Jurisdictions are encouraged to appoint a special task force that can examine local codes with regard to affordable housing and homelessness and make recommendations to Planning Commissions or elected officials. 15 Blue Ribbon Committee on Homelessness, Recommendation April 2, 2008 -- Page