Palm Bay Hosts Workshop on Homelessness Solutions

Collaborating on House Bill 1365 to Support Our Community

Nov 05, 2024

Date: Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Council Chambers, 120 Malabar Road SE, Palm Bay, FL 32907

Palm Bay is set to take significant steps in addressing homelessness with a dedicated workshop aimed at fostering community collaboration. The workshop will take place on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 120 Malabar Road SE, Palm Bay, FL. This event will bring together a broad coalition of community organizations, stakeholders, and service providers to discuss the implications of House Bill (HB) 1365 and the city's efforts to tackle homelessness.

What is House Bill 1365 and Why Does It Matter?

House Bill 1365, which came into effect on October 1, 2024, requires counties and municipalities to prohibit unauthorized sleeping or camping on public property. It also mandates designated areas for temporary shelters, with essential access to mental health and substance abuse treatment services. This legislation aims to reduce unauthorized encampments while ensuring that individuals facing homelessness have access to necessary support.

In response, Palm Bay's City Council, led by City Manager Suzanne Sherman and Police Chief Mariano Augello, has been working on a comprehensive strategy that balances both the legal requirements and the compassionate handling of the city's homeless population. Police Chief Augello has emphasized a focus on outreach and resources, offering assistance rather than punitive measures whenever possible.

The Workshop’s Purpose and Agenda

The upcoming workshop on November 19th represents a major step forward, gathering a diverse range of community participants—including churches, faith-based groups, non-profits, and direct service providers—to discuss sustainable solutions. Expected outcomes include:

Drafting a plan for emergency shelters
Identifying potential locations for temporary housing
Developing a list of actionable community outreach initiatives

The workshop will begin with an overview of the current state of homelessness in Palm Bay, a review of HB 1365, and the role of the Palm Bay Police Department in implementing the law.

After the presentation, an open forum will allow attendees to share their perspectives, propose strategies, and engage in collaborative problem-solving. Key topics of discussion will include:

Emergency shelter options
Transitional and permanent affordable housing solutions
Case management services
Mobile health services
Community street outreach initiatives

This open discussion format aims to leverage the collective expertise of local partners to find practical, community-based solutions for Palm Bay’s most vulnerable populations.

Background from the October City Council Meeting

During the October 17, 2024, City Council meeting, residents urged the Council to hold a workshop to address specific requirements under HB 1365. The discussion focused on the need for emergency shelters, law enforcement costs, and the involvement of non-profit organizations.

Council members agreed that addressing homelessness requires involvement from all community stakeholders, with the city playing a role in facilitating cooperation. Chief Augello and City Manager Sherman reiterated the importance of providing services with dignity and respect, while also ensuring compliance with the new state regulations.

Community Involvement is Key

The City of Palm Bay recognizes the invaluable contributions of community organizations in serving homeless individuals. From emergency shelter and outreach services to food distribution and mobile health, community partners play a vital role. The workshop aims to build on these efforts by providing a platform for organizations to coordinate their actions and amplify their impact.

All organizations and community members dedicated to supporting those in need are encouraged to attend this workshop. The city’s goal is to create actionable steps to help alleviate the immediate and long-term needs of homeless individuals in Palm Bay, especially in light of HB 1365’s requirements.

This workshop is an opportunity for the community to come together and make a real difference in the lives of those struggling with homelessness. Whether you're a member of a faith-based organization, a service provider, or simply a concerned resident, your voice matters in shaping the solutions that will benefit Palm Bay.

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