San Rafael is in the process of seeking a $6 million grant to establish a new homeless encampment aimed at transitioning individuals into permanent housing.
The city, in collaboration with Marin County, has submitted a joint application to secure funding for a city-sanctioned site accommodating approximately 40 individuals for a duration of about two years. Equipped with mobile showers, restrooms, and essential support staff including nonprofit management, security personnel, and case managers, the proposed camping area aims to provide vital resources to those in need, as outlined by city officials during a recent City Council meeting.
While specific properties have not been disclosed, city staff are exploring both public and privately-owned sites for the potential location of the encampment. Assistant City Manager John Stefanski stated that efforts are underway to develop a comprehensive project proposal, alongside the pending grant application. The city has already earmarked approximately $750,000 in grants to initiate the project.
City Manager Cristine Alilovich emphasized the urgent need for additional funding directed towards San Rafael, highlighting the detrimental impact of the homelessness crisis on public safety, health, and economic development within the community. Alilovich affirmed the city’s commitment to collaborating with nonprofit organizations, advocates, and community leaders to develop effective solutions to address the ongoing challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.
An update on the progress of the proposed encampment project is anticipated to be presented to the City Council in the coming months.
Despite ongoing efforts to address homelessness, the issue persists, with homeless encampments shifting throughout the city in recent years. Officials have explored various solutions, including shelter communities akin to tiny homes, yet challenges remain.
Chris Hess, Assistant Director of Community Development, noted significant achievements in housing individuals experiencing chronic homelessness, with 729 individuals, including 110 veterans, successfully housed since 2017. Hess highlighted the ongoing success in preventing individuals from returning to homelessness, with approximately 94% of those housed remaining in stable accommodation.
In response to the escalating crisis, the city established a temporary “service support area” in July 2021, which was later disbanded in September 2022. Efforts have also been concentrated on addressing specific areas with high concentrations of homeless individuals, such as the Mahon Creek path, where portable bathrooms have been installed, and support services provided by nonprofit partners.
Approximately 75% of individuals residing in the encampment areas are now enrolled in coordinated entry programs, facilitating pathways to permanent housing.
In conjunction with efforts to address homelessness, the City Council unanimously endorsed new regulations governing homeless encampments, with a second vote scheduled for the following month. The proposed amendments aim to regulate the location and size of homeless camps citywide, with specific attention to areas such as the Mahon Creek path.
The amended ordinance prohibits camping within designated distances of schools, playgrounds, and public utility infrastructure, while also addressing spacing requirements around campsites to ensure fire safety and mobility. Additionally, the ordinance outlines enforcement procedures, emphasizing education and warning prior to enforcement actions.
Anker Aardalen, a resident of the Mahon Creek area and plaintiff in ongoing legal proceedings, expressed support for the proposed ordinance, emphasizing the broader objective of securing stable housing for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Jay Ress, General Manager of East Bay Tire Co., voiced concerns about the impact of nearby homeless encampments on local businesses, citing instances of safety hazards and property damage.
As San Rafael continues its efforts to address homelessness, the proposed encampment and regulatory amendments represent significant steps towards providing essential support and resources to vulnerable populations while ensuring the safety and well-being of the community at large.