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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1986r Minutes of the. MANOR'S BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE ON THE HOMELESS February 4, 1986 7:30 P.M. Messbers Present: Ald. Sine Brady (Chair) Ald. Roberta Warshaw Rills Carper, Interfaith Oversight Committee Tarrence Jenkins, Washington National Insurance Lucile Lrasnov, Gimcracks (Business) Ray Ganey, St. Francis, Adult 6 Child Guidance Center Nmbers Absent: lid. Dennis Druwwr Rev. David Handley Staff Present: Jeanine Fox, Mental Haalth Board Swan Austin, Human Services Intern Melissa ?lets, Managment Intern Other Present: Marilyn, Gehant, Evanston Ecumenical Action Council MAC) Sandy Hubbard, EEAC Eduardo Schoua, Citizen A. Introduction Chair Brady called the seating to order. The members introduced themselves and gave a brief background: Ald. Sue Brady - worked with the homeless situation since April 1, 1985; involved on the tvo previous homeless committees. Ald. Roberta Warshaw - involved with low income housing issues for many years. Ray Caney - Director, St. Francis hospital Adult and Child Guidance Center; involved with the homeless Case Manager. Lucile Rrasnow - awns Gimcracks, a business near the First Baptist Church. Hilda Carper - member of the Interfaith Oversight Committee Terry Jenkins - business representative; involved with many boards in the past. Chair Brady invited comments from the public and hopes to include non -com- mittee members in the discussions. She suggested that a representative from the Mental Health Board be asked to attend the meetings. B. Communications: - Memorandum from Mayor Joan Barr regarding Committee's charge. on the Homeless Minutes of 2/4/86 2 - - Update on Program for the Homeless, November 25, 1985 to January 2, 1983 from Adult and Cbl]A Guidance Center. C. Historical Overview Following is an overview of the homeless situation in Evanston: The City governent and cosmmuaity groups began to notice the growing sabers of homeless in 1983. V the used for a shelter became more apparent, the Center for Public Ministry stated its intent to operate a shelter at the First Baptist Church in Novesmber 1984. Since shalters are not authorised by the Boning ordinance, a reference was made to the Zonis= Anewdaaat Comittea (ZAC) to investigate changing the ordinance. In the asentiae, the shelter was allowed to operate at a 21 person lied t . In August 1985, the Mayor appointed the first Special Committee an the Homeless because of the large number of citizen complaints about the homeless and disagreement over the ZAC recommendation which limited shelters to churches in R7 zones. The first Special Committee reported to Council on September 23, 1965. Its major recommendations were: (1) allow shelters as special uses in any church (Proposed Ordinance 50-0.85); and (2) licanse and acaitor shelters (Proposed Ordinance 51-0-85). At the October 14 Council rating, the Council approved Ordinance 50-0-85 to make shelters special uses in churches. On October 28, Ordinance 51-0-85, licensing of shelters, was sent back to Committee due to the religious comem ity's dislike of its provisions. This second Special Committee included several members of the religious coemoniry. On November 18, 1985, this Committee reported to Council. In the meantime, the City and St. Francis Hospital agreed to fund a case manager for the homeless. The second Special Committee resulted in the following: 1. Several changes Were made to Ordinance 51-0-85 that allowed more flaxibiliry. The Council approved this licensing ordinance on November 18, 1985. 2. Resolution 89-R-85 places a moratorium on enforcement of 50-0--85 (the shelter will not need a special use permit), and allows the shaltar to serve a maxi== of 30 persons until June 1. 1986. Council approved this resolution on November 18, 1985. 3. Resolution 89-R-85 also asks the Zoning Amendment Committee to considar axemeptlmg the present shelter from 50.0-85. 4. Finally, 89-R-85 establishes the Blue Ribbon Committee on time flawless to determine affective means of delivering support ser- vices and integrate the homeless into the community, and to in- vestigate resources to carry out these actions. -Blue Ribbon Committee on the Homeless r F s Minutes of 2/4/86 ... 3 E D. Current Situation Two items will be discussed at the March 6, 1986 Zoning Amendment Coe- mittee public hearing: 1. Whether to exempt the present @halter fray Ordinance 50-0-85 which requires the Center for Public Ministry to obtain a special use pexstit. 2a. Whether to allow shelters to exist in buildings other than churches. b. Whether shelters should be special uses or permitted uses. Par Ordinance 51-0-85, the Center for Public Ministry has applied to the Director of Health and Human Services for a license for the shelter at the first Baptist Church. The Center disagrees with many of the current provisions in Ordinance 51-0-85. E. Questions and General Discussion Staff was directed to find out if the rule about 2500 feet between shelters still holds. Another question: Who dots the Interfaith Oversight Committee report to? It was agreed that the Blue Ribbon Committee as a whole should not monitor the Oversight Committee. Perhaps the Oversight Committee could report to only a subcommittee. Hilda Carper reported that the shelter houses about 33-34 persons per night. Ray Ganey shared some statistics that the Case Manager, Ed Harrod, had collected. Mr. Ganey said that Mr. Harrod has facilitated the move- ment of persons out of the shelter into jobs or other facilities. Marilyn Gehant of EEAC was also very pleased with Mr. Harrod's progress. She commented on the hard work of 70-80 volunteers. Ms. Krasnow reported that the area near the shelter is quiet - probably because of the cold weather. In response to a question, Ms. Carper told the Committee that the Center for Public Ministry (CPH) may discontinue their support of the shelter in June 1986. Chair Brady summarized the discussion with three points: (1) the number of homeless persons in Evanston is over 30; (2) the Case Manager has helped; and (3) the Drop -In Center at Immanuel Lutheran Church may close or reduce its hours after April 1, 1986. F. Group Purpose and Discussion Jeanne Fox explained that any community planning process should be future oriented, involve the community, turn conflict into solutions, develop i.l'L' IU Minutes of 2/4/86 ... 4- leaders and enhance resources. Ms. Fox lad a brainstorming session of what Evanston should have in five years for the homeless. 'Following are the Committee idw: 1. Lour cost housing iaaluding transitional, permanent and single room dwellings. 2. Bridge style cams management and a network of private/church ser- vices to deal with the homeless on a one-to-one basis. 3. State law changas. 4. Funding for colsnity mental health centers. 5. Ordinance for group bows. 6. Provisions for homeless women and children. 7. Encourage other comities to develop housing. S. Regional plataing for the marginally employable. 9. Co■aaity acceptance of the homeless. 10. Business cosauaity service and backing. 11. Permanent emergency shelter. 12. Reduction in numbers needing shelter. 13. Substance abuse rehabilitation center. 14. Coordination of cburcbas, providers and the City. 15. Coordination among service providers. 16. Address the issue without creating a new entity. 17. Individual financial support. 18. Knowledge of the root of homeless. 19. Change the Township funding mac ands. 20. Greater flexibility in zoning ordinance. The Co®nittee conti:wsd discussion about the purpose of the group. There was some confusion about this. The following issues were brought up: Should we look at the problem: separated from the current situation? Does "long tart" mean next winter or farther in the future? '.,-- Lb" -a V.. .L.■ an the Roseless Minutes of 2/4/86 ... S - Does Evanston need a permanent shelter? - How is this Committee different from the other two Committees? - Should this Committee represent how the community feels on the issue? Row can ve use the community -at -large in this process? The Caemtittae dial not resolve any of the above questions or decide an a plawing process, however, the Committee may pursue some of the issues below: 1. Permanent emergency shelter 2. Transitional housing (Beal estate tax for low income housing?) 3. Services for the homeless 4. The role of the City - facilitator? - funder? - monitor? S. Statement of the problem/neads 6. Encourage regional cooperation 7. Financing G. Other Business Chair Brady asked for a section for Alds. Brady and Collens to appear before the Zoning Amendments Committee at their March 6, 1986 meeting to discuss the homeless issue. Me. Krasnow so moved; Mr. Caney seconded; motion passed unanimously. Chair Brady announced a conference on Local Government and the Homeless at Harvard university an March 25-27, 1986. The Committee recommended that the City Manager send a staff person to this conference if possible. The next meeting will be held February 15, 1986 at 8:30 a.m. at the Civic Center. The meeting adjourned at 10:15 p.m. Melissa Metz ' Management Intern I I Minutes of the BLUE RIBBON HOMELESS COMnTTEE February 15, 1986 8:45 A.M. Present: Ald. Sue Brady, Ald. Dennis Dru mmer, Ald. Roberta Warshaw, - Hilda Carper. Ray Caney, Terry Jenkins, Jack Lynch Absent:- Rev. Davis Handley, Marilyn Gehant rStaff: Jeanne Fox, Susan Austin, Melissa Mats - A. Introduction The Committee decided that the Interfaith Oversight Committee should T inform the Blue Ribbon Committee of the number of persons using the homeless shelter. Hilda Carper, a member of the Oversight Committee, will share this and other information as needed. The Blue Ribbon Committee will continue to receive the detailed case information compiled by the case manager. Chair Brady introduced Jack Lynch, a er of the Mental Health Board, as a new member of the Committee. Mr. Lynch also lives near the shelter. Chair Brady noted that Township Supervisor Edna Summers may join the Committee. Ald. Warshaw mentioned that several attorneys are working ou the issue of State and Township general assistance. Chair Brady commented that at some point a meeting might be necessary on this single issue. B. Minutes - February 4. 1986 Ray Caney requested that the statement "real estate tax for low incase housing", on page 5 under 2. Transitional Housing, be omitted. With this correction, the minutes of February 4, 1986 were approved. C. Discussion of Policies and Goals of the City 1. Values Chair Brady suggested a discussion of the policies and goals of the City. In this discussion, the Committee should set aside the current shelter situation and concentrate on addressing the problem of home-lessness in Evanston. Jeanne Fox led a discussion about values. Values drive the develop- ment of policies. The Committee carried on a lively discussion of the value statements that Ms. Fox included in the packet. The Com- mittee generally agreed to the following values: a. A majority of the Evanston community believes that homeless persons are entitled to food, clothing and shelter. Blue Ribbon Homeless Comittee Minutes of 2/15/96 ... 2 b. We must maintain a balance and keep the City economically strong. functional and attractive in order to maintain and support services for persons with special needs. e. The Evanston community wants to provide, with surrounding commmities, a continuum of services for persons with special needs. d. Current planning for the homeless has only focused on the single adult sale and female. s. Public -private partuarships are needed to most the fiscal requirements of resources for the homeless. f. Planning is necessary for pro -active solutions. S. Good demographic information is available on persons at tba shelter, however, little is known about the "potentially homeless". b. Our Committee needs to embrace the views of other groups and individuals to produce a stable solution to the homeless problem. 2. Goals The Committee began to develop a goal statement to guide its think- ing of policies. Earl Lewis, a member of the Evanston Ecumenical Action Council, said that the churches and private sector should concentrate an support services and short-term shelter. The City and Township should put their efforts toward long tars housing and the causes of homelessness. Terry Jenkins suggested that the "goal" be a moral statement on behalf of the Evanston community about the homeless. Ms. Carper asked if the Committee had the power to speak for the community. Mr. Ganey replied that the Committee will carry its point of view to the Evanston community and City Council. Chair Brady added that the Co=ittee'e recommendations Would become part of the City's policies. The Committee's tentative goal statement is as follows: To provide a means to less an/address /eliminate the problem of homelessness in Evanston through housing efforts and support services, recognizing fiscal and neighborhood impact in address- ing the problem. D. Hommork No. Fox presented a list of problems associated with the homeless issue. Problem statements can lead to formulation of objectives and policies. Chair Brady directed each member to develop objectives and policies from at least one of the problem statements. this work will be compiled for discussion at the next meeting. IF Blue Ribbon Homeless Committee Minutes of 2/15/86 ... 3 E. Meeting Dates and Other Items The next meeting was set for March 5. 1986 at 7:30 p.m. March 12 and April 2 were set as tentative dates. Mr. Jenkins stated that the two most controversial issues are sites of shelters and the definition of resident. He said the Committee should address these "tough" issues in its objectives and policy statements. Chair Brady told the Committee that any member may visit the shelter. She commented on the good condition of the First Baptist Church shelter. Meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m. L Management Intern • r'rr J.. .� ru" Yer j.r,�,.c✓CCU • Minutes of the BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE ON THE HOMELESS March 5, 1986 7:30 P.M. Members Present: Sue Brady (Chair), Hilda Carper, Ray Caney, Marilyn Gehant, Tom Jager, Terry Jenkins, Lucile Krasnow, Jack Lynch, Roberta Warshaw, Barbara Watkins Members Absent: Dennis Drummer, Rev. David Handley Staff Present: Jeanne Fox, Susan Austin, Melissa Betz Citizens Present: B. Braschi A. Introductions Chair Brady introduced two new members of the Committee: Barbara Watkins, Mental Health Association; and Tom Jager, United Way. She noted that Edna Summers, Township Supervisor; and Candy Schafer, Housing Commission, will join the Committee. For the record, Chair Brady enumerated the organizations who sent representatives to the Committee: Mental Health Board, Mental Health Association, United Way, Township, Housing Commission, and Evanston Ecumenical Action Council (EEAC). B. Minutes of February 15, 1986 Lucile Krasnow should be listed as absent. The minutes were approved with this correction. C. Informational Items - Memo from Susan Austin re Services to the Homeless, dated February 27, 1986. Ald. Warshaw announced a conference called Women and Safe Shelter on April 25-26 in Chicago. Marilyn Gehant, EEAC, announced that the Drop -In Center at Immanuel Lutheran Church plans to close on March 29, 1986. EEAC is working on some alternative plans for the summer. EEAC may run a drop -in program two days per week and offer case management five days a week. w Ms. Gehant said the number attending the Drop -In Center has dropped to 17-18 per day. The Case Manager has seen over 120 unduplicated indivi- duals. She commented that homelessness is a problem that will continue for many years. Some services must be offered in the summer to minimize the problem in the Winter. She said that churches want a partnership with the City, volunteers and professionals. EEAC has approached the Salvation Army to begin a drop -in program. Jeanne Fox told the Committee that many community organizations are applying to FEMA for emergency food and shelter grants. Bob Thompson from the Center for Public Ministry has applied. 11 Blue Ribbon Homeless Committee Minutes of 3/5/86 ... 2 D. Development of City Objectives and Policies Chair Brady asked the group to set aside the current shelter situation so long range objectives could be developed. She asked the members to pretend they were aldermen developing city policy. Chair Brady offered four areas of discussion for development of objectives: housing, services, advocacy, and community. The Committee brought up the following issues: 1. What is the commitment of the non-profit sector and the City on the homeless issue? 2. How do we deal with persons who refuse to use the shelter services? 3. How do we deal with non -Evanston connected persons? 4. Do homeless persons get first priority when low-income housing becomes available? 5. Should a shelter operate year-round? Will a year-round shelter draw more homeless from Chicago? 6. Can housing vouchers and private homes be used as a housing alternative? Chair Brady asked for an update on the Reta Reingruber case. The Committee agreed on the following objectives: 1. Assure that the homeless population of Evanston has adequate housing. 2. Assist and coordinate the appropriate services for the homeless of Evanston. 3. Vigorously advocate at the State and Federal levels for funding, programs and legislation affecting the homeless. 4. Assure that the needs and concerns of all the Evanston community are addressed when planning for shelter and services for the homeless. w E. Homework The Committee was directed to write policies for the objectives. These will be discussed at the next meeting on March 12, 1986. Meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m. Management Intern Blue Ribbon Committe on the Homeless Minutes of 3/12/86 ... 2 3. Enact legislation that enables development of housing options and shelter. 4. Assist groups to develop transitional housing. S. Assist groups to develop permanent, low cost housing. 6. Provide technical assistance, to the extent available, to groups developing housing options for the homeless. 7. Facilitate placement of persons in long term care facilities for those unable to live independently. S. Encourage development of group homes as needed. Wective 2: Assist and coordinate appropriate services for the homeless of Evanston. Tentative Policies: 1. 8ncourage a community partnership of public and private services for the homeless, particularly daytime program(s). 2. Insure case management services as an adjunct to overnight shelter(s). 3. Reassess needs and numbers of the homeless on a regular basis. 4. Develop and maintain a network or clearinghouse of services and eligibility for funding in the metropolitan area. S. Support identification or development of work opportunities and training. Objective 3,: vigorously advocate at the state and federal level for funding, programs, and legislation affecting the homeless. Tentative Policies: 1. Work in coalition with other agencies, municipalities and groups to obtain funding for the homeless. 2. Promote regulation and planning for the homeless. 3. Support efforts of community agencies to obtain funding from the state and federal government. 4. Seek revision of Mental Health Code regarding involuntary and voluntary hospitalization and referrals to outpatient services. S. Keep current and informed regarding available resources. 6. Seek incentives for housing development. 01 RECORDED BUT NOT APFYt0 = Minutes of the BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE ON THE HOMELESS March 12, 1986 Present: Ald. Brady, Chair; Hilda Carper. Jack Lynch, Lucile Krasnow, Ray Caney, Tom Jager, Marilyn Gehant, Ald. Warshaw, Barbara Watkins, Candy Schafer Absent: Tarry Jenkins, Ald. Drummer. Rev. Handley Others Mary Ann Kearns, Chairman, Drop -In Center Committee of Present: Immanuel Lutheran Church Eduardo Schoua, Citizen Minutes of March 5. 1986 The last sentence of "C". paragraph 6. should read: "City staff has approached the Salvation Army to begin a drop -in program." The minutes were approred as corrected. Informational Items: Bay Caney announced that the Case Manager has resigned for personal reasons. St. Francis Hospital Adult b Child Guidance Center is looking for a replace- ment. The qualifications are creativity, ability to confront people, energy, a car, and flexibility. Chair Brady suggested that YOU may have some ideas about this. Chair Brady introduced Candy Schafer as the representative from the Housing Commission. Chair Brady asked about the Reta Reingruber case. Jeanne Fox said that an administrative hearing was held. The case is Waiting to be heard in court. Ma. Fox noted that three Evanston women and two children stayed in the shelter recently. They are now in the Sheridan Chase Hotel or rooming houses. The shelter staff took steps to move them out of the shelter. Development of Policies The Committee broke into three sub -groups to individually develop policies for the objectives. ,The results of these discussions are: Objective 1: Assure that the homeless population of Evanston has adequate housing. Tentative Policies: 1. Encourage the development of emergency year-round shelter, including shelter for homeless families. 2. Assist groups to locate necessary funds to operate emergency shelter. y Blue Ribbon Committe on the Homeless Minutes of 3/12/86 ... 2 3. Enact legislation that enables development of housing options and shelter. 4. Assist groups to develop transitional housing. 5. Assist groups to develop permanent, lore cost housing. 6. Provide technical assistance, to the extent available, to groups developing housing options for the homeless. 7. Facilitate placement of persons in long term care facilities for those unable to live independently. S. Encourage development of group homes as needed. Obiective 2: Assist and coordinate appropriate services for the homeless of Evanston. Tentative Policies: 1. Encourage a community partnership of public and private services for the homeless, particularly daytime program(s). 2. Insure case management services as an adjunct to overnight shelter(s). 3. Reassess needs and numbers of the homeless on a regular basis. 4. Develop and maintain a network or clearinghouse of services and eligibility for funding in the metropolitan area. 5. Support identification or development of work opportunities and training. Obiective 3: Vigorously advocate at the state and federal level for funding, programs, and legislation affecting the homeless. Tentative Policies: 1. Work in coalition with other agencies, municipalities and groups to obtain funding for the homeless. 2. Promote regulation and planning for the homeless. 3. Support efforts of community agencies to obtain funding from the state and federal government. 4. Seek revision of Mental Health Code regarding involuntary and voluntary hospitalization and referrals to outpatient services. 5. Keep current and informed regarding available resources. b. Seek incentives for housing development. • Blue Ribbon Committee on the Homeless Minutes of 3/12/86 ... 3 Objective 4: Assure that the needs and concerns of all the Evanston coewwunity are addressed when planning for shelter and services for the homeless. Tentative Policies: 1. To assess the concerns of all segments of the community as to the current and potential homeless issues in Evanston. 2. To develop a strategy for active participation of all segments of the coessunity, including the homeless, in the development of solu- tions for concerns related to the homelese. 3. To develop a strategy for ongoing communication with all segments of the community regarding the homeless issues. Discussion The Committee talked about several other issues and whether to incorporate thews into the objectives and policy statements: - how to respond to the needs of non -Evanston homeless persons. - legal definition of "resident". - legal and political rasifications of the Committee's recommendations. - how to prevent homelessness. Other Items: Chair Brady stated that she would like to make the Committee's ideas available for public comment during the month of April. Staff was asked to prepare the policies in the appropriate form, along with a form for written public comments. Ald. Warshaw commented that the response will be low until actual implementa- tion begins. Ms. Fox pointed out the need to make the community aware of the Committee's existence and work. Staff was directed to notify the Review of the Committee's progress and upcoming meetings. The Committee's policies should be mailed to citizens who spoke about the homeless during the Council meetings. Meetings were set for April 2, 9, 16, and 30 at 7:30 p.m. Management Intern 611f, j' RECORDED BUT NOT APPROVED 0 Present: Absent: Minutes of the BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE ON THE HOMELESS April 2, 1986 Ald. Sue Brady, Chair; Hilda Carper, Ald. Druamer, Ray Ganey, Tom Jager, Terry Jenkins, Lucile Krasnow, Candy Shafer, Ald. Warshaw, Barbara Watkins, Lonnie Wiebe, Anna Willis Marilyn Gehant, Jack Lynch Staff: Jeanne Fox, Susan Austin, Melissa Metz Others Present: B. Braschi, Citizen I. Minutes of March 12, 1986 The minutes were approved as submitted. 11. Announcements: Chair Brady announced that Rev. David Handley resigned from the Coamittee. Rev. Handley has not been able to attend any of the meetings. The Mayor will appoint Rev. Royce Scherf, Pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church on April 14. Rev. Scherf will join the Committee at the next meeting. Chair Brady introduced Lonnie Wiebe, Coordinator of Volunteers and Comxaunity Resources at ACORN, as a new member of the Committee. Chair Brady said .she had talked with Mayor Barr about the Committee's work. Mayor Barr was very supportive and wants to be kept informed. A letter from the Mayor regarding the Committee's work will appear Thursday, April 3, in the Review. III. Informational Items: Facts on Homelessness in Illinois This report describes the homeless programs in other Illinois citifies. Ray Ganey asked about the Illinois Department of Public Aid grants. Staff was directed to see if Bob Thompson at the Center for Public Ministry receives IDPA grants. Portland Oregon Report Chair Brady went to Portland recently and talked to their City staff. The City has several shelters for different groups. All are run by non-profit groups. The Committee received a copy of their plan for the homeless. Agenda for "Women and Safe Shelter" Conference Brochure on Symposium for Creating Housing, for People with Special Needs Memo regarding results of Zoning Amendment Committee Blue Ribbon Committee on the Homeless Minutes of 4/2/86 ... 2 Glossary of Terms Hands Across America Information This project will establish a human chain of 10 million people from coast to coast. Proceeds will be used to fight hunger and homelessness in the United States. Ald. Drummer moved that the City Council endorse this effort and that staff forward this information to the Human Services Coa- mittee in the form of a resolution. Mr. Ganey seconded; motion passed unanimously. Report on Program for the Homeless from St. Francis Chair Brady asked that the Committee review the report for discussion at the next meeting. Mr. Caney noted that a new case manager has not been hired yet. The recent report shows that the overwhelming number of home- less seen by the case manager from November to February were from Chicago. In a separate packet the Committee received: Mental Health Special Report Homeless: Creating a Bridge - Susan Austin IV. Report on Homeless Conference Jeanne Fox and Susan Austin attended a conference called: "Homelessness. - Critical Issues for Policy and Practice" at Harvard University, March 25-27, 1986. The conference covered: the sociology of homelessness, types of shelters, populations, model programs, health care, homeless families, and policy issues and strategies, Ms. Fox noted that all cities are experiencing similar problems. A big debate at the conference was whether shelters should be sanctuaries or treatment centers. Ms. Fax said that some cities have found that SRO housing often becomes "warehouses" of people and bottom- less pits for tax dollars. She learned that small separate facilities for different groups Work best. Volunteers are needed to prevent staff burn- out. Volunteers should be carefully trained. One new model is foster care. This is when a church has 2-3 families to take care of. This works well for homeless mothers and children. Philadelphia lost a recent lawsuit and now must provide General Assistance to anyone living in a shelter. Other big issues in all cities is Whether to provide public toilets, and the residency question. Susan Austin and Ms. Fox reviewed several model programs. They concluded that all cities have common problems and many are dealing with the issue in creative ways. Hilda Carper mentioned that she had a video tape of a model program in Philadephia. V. Providing for Communitv Input The Committee debated about hog- to receive public input and ideas. The • Blue Ribbon Committee on the Homeless Minutes of 4/2/86 ... 3 mdobera agreed to hold a public forum on April 30, 1486 to solicit public comment. Candy Shafer suggested that the meeting take a form that would solicit comments in a constructive Tray rather than the traditional public hearing style. The Committee will also ask for written- comments froze the Boards and Commissions and various community groups. The Committee will ask these groups to help it develop activities from the policy statements. VI. Review of Draft Policies, Goals and Objectives Objective 1 was changed to read: "To provide the opportunity for safe and decent shelter for the homeless population of Evanston." The Committee vas directed to develop activities under each policy for the next meeting. Staff should put together a mailing list for the public comment, and a press release for the April 30th forum. Meeting adjourned at 10.15 p.m. Management Intern Recorded but not approved r Minutes of the BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE ON THE HOMELESS April 9. 1986 Present: Ald. Sue Brady, Chair; Terry Jenkins, Ray Caney, Marilyn Gehant, Ald. Warshaw, Rev. Royce Scherf, Barbara Watkins Absent: Hilda Carper, Ald. Drummer, Tom Jager, Lucile Krasnow, Candy Shafer, Lonnie Wiebe, Edna Summers, Jack Lynch Staff: Jeanne Fox, Susan Austin, Melissa Metz Others Present: Bill Anderson. Frank D. Jeffries, Tony Bieniosek. Daphne Davis, Cahn V. Le, Carol Zaolnay, Michelle Sicat, B. Braschi, Bob Siedenberg I. Minutes of April 2, 1986 The minutes of April 2. 1986 meeting were approved as submitted. II. Announcements: Because of the number of citizens present, Chair Brady explained the Com- mittee's role and work so far. She welcomed Rev. Royce Scherf from Immanuel Lutheran Church as a new member of the Committee. Rev. Scherf replaces Rev. David Handley. Chair Brady asked that the Committee tentatively set aside all the Wednesdays in May for meetings. III. Review of Case ManaSement Statistics Ray Caney explained that the report shows only statistics on persons seen by the Case Manager. From the end of November to the end of February, the Case Manager dealt with 91 unduplicated clients. Mr. Ganey pointed out that the majority of clients were male. single, under 40, and from places other than Evanston. Chair Brady remarked about the high number of clients leaving to take jobs. Mr. Caney said that many times these jobs last only a short time. Rev. Scherf indicated that many more persons used the shelter than the drop - in center. By March 1986, over 150 unduplicated homeless persons had used the shelter. Mr. Caney felt that the drop -in center population was repre- sentative of the shelter population. Marilyn Cehant said she would ask Ann Wimberly, Coordinator of Volunteers, about this. It was noted that EEAC is looking at the development of a new drop -in program. If a new case manager is found, a drop -in center may open. Mr. Caney reported that 25 people had applied for the case manager position. IV. Staff Report Susan Austin noted that the number using the shelter per night is decreasing. She included several articles of interest in the packets: - Massachusetts Approach to Homelessness - Homeless Families: Single Mothers and Their Children in Boston Shelters Blue Ribbon Committee on the Homeless + Minutes of 4/9/86 ... 2 - A legal brief on the case St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church v. Hoboken V. Hands Across America Resolution Terry Jenkins moved to affirm the language of the Council resolution re- garding the Hands Across America project. Ald. Warshaw seconded; motion passed unanimously. VI. Plan April 16th Meeting Staff had arranged for several speakers for the April 16 meeting. Because of the preparations needed for the public forum, the Committee decided that they would not hear speakers on April 16, VII. Editing Policies and Objectives The Committee discussed the staff recommendations for policy and objective statements. The Committee came to a consensus on several voints: - the City government should not operate a shelter, - the City government should not be responsible for 100% of a shelter's operating budget; - the homeless issue is a viable human service issue and should be a part of the Unified Budgeting Process. It was recognized that the UBP funders may have to contri- bute more funds for the homeless. Several other points were discussed: - The size of a shelter facility and the amount of funding available, not residency requirements, Will limit the number of homeless people a community can serve. - The Human Services Committee advised the Center for Public Ministry to apply to UBP last year, but they declined. No one from the Center for Public Ministry was present to comment. - The policies recommended by the Committee should establish some accountability. - Washington National Insurance has people who can provide technical assistance on how to put together a Board of Directors and apply for funding. The Committee made some changes to the policy statements. At the next meeting, when more members are present, the Committee will review the revisions briefly. Blue Ribbon Committee on the Homeless Minutes of 4/4/86 ... 3 VIII. Plan April 30th Meeting Staff presented a framework for the Public forum. The Committee did not want a tight structure as outlined in the staff recommendation. The Committee will discuss this item further at the next meeting. Meanwhile, staff will begin to put together the mailing list for notices of the forum. Meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m. Management Intern Recorded but not approved J Minutes of the BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE ON THE HOMELESS April 16, 1986 7:30 P.M. Present: Ald. Sue Brady, Chair; Hilda Carper. Tom Jager, Ray Caney Marilyn Gehant, Lucile Krasnow, Jack Lynch, Rev. Royce Scharf, Ald. Warshaw, Lonnie Wiebe, Anna Willis (Township) Absent: Ald. Drummer, Terry Jenkins, Candy Shafer, Barbara Watkins Staff: Susan Austin, Melissa Metz Others: Karlyn Wilkins, Tony Bieniosek, Janice Kumano, Sue Bernstein, Charlene Fu Chair Brady asked that members call her or staff if they will be absent from a meeting. I. Minutes of April 9, 1986 In Section III, paragraph 2, the sentence: "If a new case manager is found, a drap-in center may open." was deleted. In Section III, paragraph 1, Rev. Scherf's statements Were incorrectly recorded. Correctly stated, it should read: "Rev. Scherf said that over 150 unduplicated persons had used the drop -in center by March 1986." With these corrections, the minutes were approved. II. Information Items - Memo from B. Braschi Mrs. Braschi presented an idea about placing a drop -in center north of downtown Evanston, to give the homeless an incentive to leave the down- town area during the day. Rev. Scherf commented that many of the home- less that frequented the Raymond Park area did not use the drop -in center at Immanuel Lutheran. - Women and Safe Shelter Conference Chair Brady encouraged members to attend. - Announcement of Prayer service on Homelessness on April 20, 1986, 2:00 p.m. at St. Peters Church Chair Brady commented on the articles that were received in the last packet. She found the article regarding homeless families very depressing. Susan Austin has some information on a model program to address this issue. Blue Ribbon Committee on the Homeless Minutes of 4/16/86 Page 2 Lonnie Wiebe from ACORN distributed some information to the Committee. According to her graph, ACORN served about 10 to 20 homeless persons in FY '84 and FY '85. In FY '86, ACORN has served about 50 homeless; in March, the figure was 57. Another chart showed a continuum of residen- tial housing. This diagram shows that Evanston has a sizable gap in meeting housing needs. Lucile Krasnow suggested that the Committee hold on to this handout for future reference. Ms. Wiebe described ACORN's pilot program of homeless transitional housing units. It serves two homeless individuals. Hilda Carper reported that about 27 people/night use the shelter at this time. This figure is lower than in previous months. Chair Brady noted that the number in the Chicago shelters is falling, despite the fact that many of the Chicago shelters closed on March 30th. Ms. Carper attended a conference on Urban Ministries. She described a program in Washington, D.C. for homeless families. III. Plan for April 30th Public Forum There was some discussion about the purpose of the forum. The Committee generally agreed that the public should be encouraged to comment on the Committee's work so far. Chair Brady hoped that those speaking will offer constructive comments and not speak unfavorably of the homeless. The Committee approved a format for the flyer. At the beginning of the forum, Chair Brady will make some opening remarks, Ms. Wiebe and Ms. Carper will prepare to give statistics if necessary, and the Committee's objective statements and glossary will be distributed. IV. Review of Objectives and Policy Statements The Committee generally agreed to the revisions made at the April 9th meeting. Following are several statements to be discussed at a later time: A. Homelessness is a serious human service problem that requires community planning, accountability, and monitoring. The City government in Evanston addresses human service needs through the Unified Budget Panel. Funding requests for operating homeless shelters or services should be directed through the Human Services Committee to the Unified Budget Panel. B. Churches and non --profit agencies are able to operate shelters and services for the homeless more effectively than the City. C. Tax dollars should not be the only source of funding for the operation of homeless shelters or services. Blue Ribbon Committee • on the homeless Minutes of 4/16/86 Page 3 IV. Identify Activities The remainder of the meeting was spent developing a list of activities. The Committee used the results of the February 4 brainstorming session. Each item on this list was placed under the appropriate objective and designated as a short-range, middle -range, or long-range project. Meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m. Melissa Metz Management Intern i MINUTES PUBLIC FORUM ON HOMELESS ISSUES APRIL 30, 1986 7330 P.M. The Blue Ribbon Committee on the Homeless held a Public Forum to discuss Evanston boneless issues. Aid. Sue Brady, Chairman of the Committee, opened the meeting. She stated that the meeting was not a public hearing, but rather a community exchange. She hoped that the community could help the Committee with the boneless issue. She stressed that the Committee did not know the answers to this difficult issue. She explained that the Committee is developing a City plan for dealing with homelessness. The Commaittee's view is that the City should be involved with a solution for the homeless people. Chair Brady called on the individuals who signed up to speak. The speakers were grouped according to the Committee's five objectives. After each speaker, Chair Brady summarized the remarks and asked staff to record them on the overhead projector. The Committee hoped that this meeting could lead to a commounity consensus on solutions. Chair Brady stressed that speakers should not express their opinion about the 1st Baptist Shelter. Under Objective 1 - To assure that the concerns of all the Evanston community are addressed when planning for shelter and services for the homeless - the following oommtents were recorded: Richard Alan Davis. 1801 Hinman Avenue Mr. Davis applauded Evanston for its strong citizen participation. Be said that homelessness results from a problem of national priorities. The national administration is not committed to human services. The Evanston community needs to get involved in activities to shift the responsibility for social services from the local to national level. James P. Hatykiewicz. 602 Lake Street Mr. Matykiewicz said that the City cannot serve all the groups of homeless people. The homeless can be classified in one of two broad categories: the mentally ill or disabled, and the non -mentally ill. The non -mentally ill can be classed as the jobless or the vagrants. Each group of people must be treated differently and some of their problems cannot be solved by local agencies or government. Many of these people cannot be helped until the individual admits he/she has a problem. He suggested a regional shelter for those with drug and alcohol dependencies. Supporting individuals from Chicago stretches the taxpayer's generosity beyond its limit. Mr. Matykiewiez suggested that Evanston deal with E`►anston's mrentally ill, jobless, and substance abusers in ways other than by supporting a shelter. -2- J2k_Jnsner. 404 Asbor!r Mr. Summer stated the need to get the opinion of everyone in Evanston by the ballot box or some other vochanism on this issue. The following citizens spoke about Objective 2 - To provide the opportunity for safe and decent shelter for the homeless population of Evanston. .Qvice Rill. 2120 Jackson Street He. Bill expressed frustrations about outsiders receiving 3eotion 8 housing certificates ahead of Evanston residents. Dawn• Craig, 145 Greenleaf Ms. Craig also pointed out the need for more affordable housing. She asked about the fairness of the process that distributes the housing certificates. Bruce Copeland, 630 Library Place Mr. Copeland is a realtor and involved with ACORN. He suggested that a variety of housing options and year round shelter are necessary. He stressed the need for regional cooperation and pointed out a new effort by Skokie for low-income housing. Evanston should not attempt to exclude homeless persons coming from Chicago or other places. He said that the City should avoid large shelters and work toward small, individualized housing and services. The City should support community agencies and de- velopers by easing restrictions and red tape. Ray Smith. 823 trey Ave Mr. Smith talked about families opening their hosts to distressed youth and the homeless. He stressed the need for professional oar* and a team approach (resident manager, psychologist, volunteers) for homeless persons in transitional living units or group homes. For Objective 3 - To assist and coordinate services for the homeless the following spoke: Laura Guilfovle. 2247 Ridge #13. Ms. Guilfoyle stated that about 25% of the homeless are mentally ill and there is a growing number of homeless single women with children. She stressed that ease management should accompany shelters and the need for more low i*come housing and groups homes. She believes that Evanston's group home ordinance is too restrictive. -3- Janine Xnons. 909 Foster Hs. [noes presented ACORN's emergency shelter policy statement. She described ACORN's transitional living unit and other services for the homeless. She said that homeless persons should not receive continuous 24 hour care; this encourages independence. She commented on the success of the Homeless Case Management Group, composed of service providers, which coordinates services for the homeless. For objective 4 - To reduce and prevent homelessness by vigorously advocating for funding, programs and legislation from regional, state and federal sources - the following citizens spoke: Crystal L. Borten. 405 B. Callan Ms. Bowen urged that the City not give away its "scattered housing* to Chicago residents. She stressed the need for more affordable housing for Evanston residents. J A There were no comments on Objective 5. Chair Brady asked if any other member of the audience would like to speak. m Sherman Brown. 1000 Grove Hr. Brown identified himself as a homeless person. He currently lives at the YMCA and has been in Evanston for 9 years. Several of his friends died because they were without ample shelter. He hoped that the community ! will recognize the struggle of the homeless people. Candy Schafer, a Committee member, stated that all present tonight hoped that homelessness Was only a temporary condition and the Committee was working toward that goal. Leon Intrater. Chicago Mr. Intrater is the Director of a new program called Neon Street Center that serves runaway and homeless youth. He urged the Committee to recognize the problems of homeless youth; there are about 10,000 in the Chicago area. He commented that the Committee should actively work with other groups such as the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. The Director of Social Services at the Chicago Coalition, Les Brown, asked Mr. Intrater to mention this point to the Committee. Hatt KenAeily. 2217 NOY63 Hr. Kennelly was glad that the City recognizes homelessness as a social problem and is taking some action. Be encouraged the City to facilitate, not restrict, the efforts of private groups. He also urged that the Alderman stand up to opposition and political pressure from people who oppose shelters in their neighborhood. -3- Janine Tnoyo 904 Foster Ms. iaops presented ACORN's emergency shelter policy statement. Sbe described ACORN*s transitional living unit and other services for the homeless. She said that homeless persons should not receive continuous 24 hour care; this encourages independence. She commented on the success of the Boneless Case Management Group, composed of service providers, which coordinates services for the homeless. For objective b - To reduce and prevent homelessness by vigorously advocating for funding, programs and legislation from regional, state and federal sources - the following eitisens spoke: Crystal L. Bowen. 405 B. Callan Me. Boon urged that the City not give away its `scattered housing• to Chicago residents. Sbe stressed the need for more affordable housing for Evanston residents. There were no comments on Objective S. Chair Brady asked if any other a tuber of the audience would like to speak. Sherman Brown. 1000 Grove Mr. Brown identified himself as a homeless person. He currently lives at the YMCA and has been in Evanston for 9 years. Several of his friends died because they were without ample shelter. He hoped that the community will recognize the struggle of the homeless people. Candy Schafer, a Committee member, stated that all present tonight hoped that homelessness was only a temporary condition and the Committee was working toward that goal. Leon Intrater. Chica&o Mr. Intrater is the Director of a new program called neon Street Center that serves runaway and homeless youth. He urged the Committee to recognize the problems of homeless youth; there are about 10,000 in the Chicago area. He commented that the Committee should actively work with other groups such as the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. The Director of Social Services at the Chicago Coalition, Les Brown, asked Mr. Intrater to mention this point to the Committee. Hatt Kennelly. 2217 Noyes Mr. Kennelly was glad that the City recognizes homelessness as a social problem and is taking some action. He encouraged the City to facilitate, not restrict, the efforts of private groups. He also urged that the Alderman stand up to opposition and political pressure from people who oppose shelters in their neighborhood. -4 - John Keane. lot Sa2list Shelter Mr. Keane, a homeless person, pointed out the difficult life of a homeless person. He hoped that the City would not restrict the churches because so many people depend on them. Nike Johnson. 819 Dobson Mr. Johnson, a volunteer at the Shelter, made several points. He said the City should get a mandate from the community via a referendum; eawbje groups to creatively solve homeless problems; find hard data on the different categories of the homeless; coordinate volunteers; and build bridges between volunteer and professional service providers. He stressed the need to eliminate red tape, especially in the zoning ordinance. Chair Brady said that the Committee meets almost every Wednesday night at 7:30 p.m. in the Civic Center. She explained the Committee's next steps of developing activities and implementation strategies. Terry Jenkins, a Committee member, noted that the Committee can only make recommendations to City Council, which has the final authority. Mr. Jenkins co=ented that he hoped that »rend tape" was not confused with "accountability". He said a big aueston is whether or not homelessness is as important as other human service issues and if so, how should it be funded? Chair Brady thanked the audience for its participation. !Meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m. Communication: One citizen anonymously responded to the Committee's objectives by mail. The citizen wrote that Evanston should not support temporary shelters and that the current network of services and aid is sufficient. The citizen suggests that the City could employ the homeless people to clear the icy sidewalks in downtown Evanston in the winter. N�anagesenL Intern �