The City Council would like the community’s feedback on several new options to reduce homelessness in Carlsbad and its effects on the community. The Housing Commission will hold a public meeting on the topic next Thursday:

Housing Commission meeting
Thursday, Nov. 14, 4 p.m.
Council Chamber
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive

You can provide comments in person or email them in advance to christian.gutierrez@carlsbadca.gov

Background
Following a recent Supreme Court decision and executive order from the California Governor, in August, city staff made a presentation to the City Council explaining what these two actions mean to Carlsbad. At that meeting, the City Council also discussed potential changes to the city’s Homelessness Action Plan. Before making any decisions, the City Council asked staff to gather input from the city’s Housing Commission and the public on several options.

You can read more in the Housing Commission staff report and watch the August City Council meeting video for details. We also have a quick summary in this recap prepared after the meeting (it’s about half-way down the page).

Carlsbad’s approach
The city’s approach focuses on creating lasting solutions for those experiencing homelessness in Carlsbad and addressing the impact homelessness has on the community. This includes helping people access permanent housing, providing job training and linking people with the services and support they need to become self-sufficient. A Homeless Outreach Team in the Police Department addresses concerns from residents and businesses, including reports of encampments, unsanitary conditions, nuisance behaviors and other issues.

Next steps

• Staff will return to the City Council early next year with the input received and seek further direction.
• If you’d like to be notified once that meeting is scheduled, sign up for our email list about issues related to homelessness in Carlsbad.

Also at Thursday’s meeting, the city’s homeless response team is scheduled to provide updates on the city’s Homelessness Action Plan: 

1. The annual report detailing the city’s progress for the past fiscal year 
2. The proposed funding strategy for next fiscal year’s implementation of the plan

You are also welcome to provide input on these topics.