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 munici...
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