Title
a. Receive a presentation on the results of the 2026 Homeless Point-in-Time Count; and
b. Provide direction to staff as necessary.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Receive a presentation on the results of the 2026 Homeless Point-in-Time Count; and
b. Provide direction to staff as necessary
SUMMARY:
The Homeless Point-in-Time Count, or “Homeless Census” provides a snapshot of homelessness across the county and helps inform funding, policy, program planning, and system coordination. This biennial activity is required under 24 C.F.R. Part 578 and is conducted by the Coalition of Homeless Services Providers to estimate the number of people experiencing sheltered and unsheltered homelessness.
The 2026 results show that Monterey County experienced a 15% decrease in overall homelessness, from 2,436 people in 2024 to 2,073 people in 2026. Unsheltered homelessness also decreased by 23%, from 1,883 people in 2024 to 1,459 people in 2026.
While the overall decrease is encouraging, the data also highlights continued system pressures. Approximately 70% of people counted were unsheltered, older adult homelessness continues to rise, and the region is seeing an increase in people experiencing homelessness for the first time. These trends indicate that continued investment in housing, prevention, diversion, behavioral health coordination, and cross-system discharge planning remains essential.
DISCUSSION:
The 2026 Homeless Census was conducted through a coordinated effort among service providers, city and County staff, community volunteers, and regional partners. The sheltered count was completed on the evening of January 29, 2026, followed by the unsheltered count during the early morning hours of January 30, 2026. More than 200 volunteers participated in the effort, helping to produce a one-night estimate of homelessness across Monterey County.
The results demonstrate meaningful progress, including a 15% decrease in overall...
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