Title
Adopt Resolution declaring a Shelter Crisis in Monterey County through December 31, 2018, in accordance with Government Code Sections 8698 through 8698.2. (ADDED VIA ADDENDA)
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Adopt a resolution declaring a Shelter Crisis in Monterey County through December 31, 2018, in accordance with Government Code Sections 8698 through 8698.2.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Homelessness is a serious and ongoing problem within the County of Monterey which requires immediate action by the Board of Supervisors for the preservation of the public peace, health, and safety. According to the 2017 Monterey County Homeless Census and Survey, the population experiencing homelessness within the County of Monterey has increased by 23% since 2015, with a 57% increase being experienced in the City of Salinas. The presence of homeless encampments and individuals living in vehicles along the side of this road without appropriate services has resulted in serious health and safety problems, including crime and dumping of trash and refuse.
This declaration of a shelter crisis under Government Code Sections 8698 through 8698.2 provides that the County “shall be immune from liability for ordinary negligence in the provision of emergency housing pursuant to Section 8698.2. This limitation of liability shall apply only to conditions, acts, or omissions directly related to, and which would not occur but for, the provision of emergency housing. This section does not limit liability for grossly negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct which causes injury.”
It also provides that the provisions of any state or local regulatory statute, regulation, or ordinance prescribing standards of housing, health, or safety shall be suspended to the extent that strict compliance would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay the mitigation of the effects of the shelter crisis. Political subdivisions may, in place of such standards, enact municipal health and safety standards to be operative during the housing emergency consistent with ensuring minimal public health and safety. The provisions of this section apply only to additional public facilities open to the homeless pursuant to this chapter.’
With this declaration of a shelter crisis the County is able to allow homeless individuals and families to utilize public facilities for housing during the duration of the state of emergency.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The recommended declaration of shelter crisis in Monterey County has been reviewed and approved as to form by County Counsel.
FINANCING:
There is no impact to the County General Fund from this report.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
Homelessness is an issue that has compounding effects on those experiencing it and the average life expectancy for individuals experiencing homelessness is 25 years less than those in stable housing. This safe parking program provides a safe and sanitary short-term solution to homeless individuals who are living in their vehicles while they are paired with support services that will assist them in finding permanent housing. Services that support families in obtaining stable, permanent housing create a pathway to other systems that can ultimately lead to better health and quality of life.
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives
__Economic Development
__Administration
X Health & Human Services
__Infrastructure
__Public Safety
Prepared by: Margarita Zarraga, Community Affiliations Manager, x8492
Approved by: Elliott Robinson, Director Social Services, x4430
Attachments: Resolution