Placer Board of Supervisors authorize funding to manage temporary shelter in Auburn

Settlement leads to an experimental program in search of solutions

AUBURN, Calif. — The Placer County Board of Supervisors voted last Tuesday to amend an agreement with First step communities To allow up to $1.088 million to be spent to provide 24/7 on-site management Mobile temporary shelter in Auburn Until June 30, 2023.

The portable temporary shelter is located in the Placer County Government Center and consists of approximately 50 tents with cots and basic beds. The shelter will also provide showers and toilets, a garbage service and access to drinking water.

First step communities

First Step Communities is a Sacramento-based nonprofit organization with extensive experience operating similar tented shelters. The contract will require 24/7 on-site shelter supervision and basic case management services.

The mobile temporary shelter is located next to 11517 F Avenue and adjacent to a county building, which can serve as a heating and cooling center during severe weather conditions. The facility will also be used by First Step communities and county staff to provide case management and supportive services.

chance

“We intend to get boots on the ground at the shelter to make sure that contact is made each day to build relationships with campers and encourage them to participate in our programs and services,” said Senior Monitoring Officer Marshall Hooper. “Our approach is to build trust through consistent effort and ensure accountability. Our Probation Officers are experienced in assisting under-housed individuals and understand the importance of using a balanced approach.”

Program objective

The goal of the program is to provide temporary shelter to those experiencing homelessness, to understand the conditions that led to their homelessness and to help them find a better way forward. Program participants are expected to adhere to basic codes of conduct to promote the health and safety of participants and nearby neighbors. While a drug test will not be required, alcohol, drugs and weapons will not be permitted on the premises.

“I support the concept of a low-barrier shelter that has clear rules for individuals to follow,” said District 2 Superintendent Shanti Landon. “I see this as an opportunity for a safer option than what currently exists for both non-dwellers and close neighbors, as this facility will be monitored 24 hours a day and crime will not be tolerated.”

part of the settlement

The construction of the mobile temporary shelter is one of the components of a settlement agreement With the law firm of Mark E. Mirren, which filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of several unhoused individuals, alleging loss of property during the removal of homeless camps on county property in the spring of 2022. The seller’s contract is not required under the settlement. If all goes as planned, the sanctuary will open in mid-February.

“This six-month pilot project is an opportunity for the county to address one aspect of homelessness and see what might work in the long term,” said Bonnie Gore, District One Supervisor. “We can make adjustments and changes as we seek an effective solution.”