NEWS AFFAIRS 7 : WHERE EVERY STORY HAS IT'S AFFAIR!
Introduction to the Budget Approval
Despite facing a tough fiscal year, the San Jose City Council has unanimously approved a multi-billion-dollar budget aimed at addressing various city needs. Mayor Matt Mahan highlighted the significance of this budget, calling it one of the most crucial votes of the year.
Major Focus on Homelessness
Mayor Mahan emphasized that this budget represents “the most significant and strategic investment in addressing unsheltered homelessness in the history of our city.” The plan reflects a strong commitment to finding effective solutions for the city’s homeless population.
Homeless Encampment Regulations
About six months ago, the city received an ultimatum from the Regional Water Quality Control Board to clear homeless encampments near waterways or face substantial fines. This added pressure has driven the council to take decisive action in addressing homelessness.
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Measure E Fund Flexibility
As part of the budget approval, the council also decided to allow more flexibility with Measure E funds. Originally, these funds from the property transfer tax were designated for affordable housing. However, some of these funds will now be redirected to more immediate homelessness solutions.
Mayor Mahan explained, “We have a pathway now to be in compliance with our stormwater permit and the Clean Water Act. But to do that, we have to follow through on the investments we’ve outlined in this budget.”
Planned Homeless Solutions
Over the next year, the city aims to move 1,200 people off the streets and into various alternative sleeping sites. This includes placing 600 individuals into temporary shelters, 500 into new safe sleeping sites, and 100 into new safe parking spots. These managed locations will provide sanitation, security, and basic case management to help the homeless stabilize their lives.
Out of the $5.3 billion budget, $120 million is specifically allocated for homeless solutions. This substantial investment underscores the city’s dedication to addressing the homelessness crisis effectively.
Advocates’ Concerns and Different Approaches
While the budget has been celebrated for its focus on homelessness, not all advocates are in agreement on the best approach. Some homeless advocates are not in favor of congregate shelters and would prefer to see more transitional housing options.
Todd Langton, executive director of the nonprofit Agape Silicon Valley, voiced his perspective. “A lot of my colleagues and peers that do advocacy work don’t agree with me on this. They want the money earmarked solely for permanent housing. And my philosophy is – if we don’t get people off the streets and out of the fields immediately, they’re not going to be alive long enough to get the permanent housing if and when it does come,” Langton said.
Calls for Better Organization and Management
Langton also stressed the need for better organization and management to address the homeless crisis more effectively. He pointed to Houston’s model, where homelessness has significantly decreased due to coordinated efforts under one managing organization. “We’re wasting so much money in Santa Clara County,” Langton said, emphasizing the need for a more streamlined approach.
This year, Langton’s organization has been able to place 20 people into housing. They are currently working with a family of four who are living in their car in Roosevelt Park.
“I am a firm believer you don’t really understand the unhoused situation until you go out there and meet with the people on a regular basis,” Langton added, highlighting the importance of firsthand experience in understanding and addressing homelessness.
