Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Dear Portlanders,

Next Tuesday, 9/26 at 5pm, the City Council will continue to discuss the issue(s) of Encampments in the City of Portland. (Here's the video of the Workshop that took place on September 14th: here)
As a municipal government we continue to try to find both operational and policy pathways to address the urgent needs in our community, stretch resources and expand capacity, work with community partners, and respect the needs of the whole community. 

On Tuesday, City Staff will present information to the City Council and community about the possibility of temporarily increasing emergency shelter capacity indoors at Portland's Municipal Homeless Services Center (HSC) -- before the coldest months in Maine.

The idea in concept was presented at the Workshop on September 14th (see link above!).
It proposes additional bed capacity at the HSC so that people currently in tents have access to shelter and the wrap around services provided by both the City and community partners. 
Public Comment will be taken at this Workshop. 

This is not a decision-making meeting. This is a Workshop to further explore ideas and options. 

Before the Workshop on Tuesday - I'll be hosting my Monthly Mayor Zoom. Please join me on Tuesday, September 26th at 12:30pm. As always - this is a time to share what's on your mind, ask questions, share ideas, and hear from your neighbors. There is no agenda. It's a come one, come all open forum.  Zoom Link to Join 9/26 Mayor Zoom at 12:30pm

Sincerely,
Kate Snyder