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Home My WebLink About09/06/2023 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA PACKET______________________________________________________________ CITY COUNCIL 345 6th Street, Suite 100, Bremerton, WA 98337 - Phone (360) 473-5280 * * * F I N A L* * * WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2023 CITY COUNCIL HYBRID MEETING AGENDA Most Council Members and staff will be participating in the meeting in-person, and the public is invited to attend. Or beginning at 5:30 PM, the public may participate remotely through one of the following options:  To stream online only (via BKAT Feed, with no interaction possible): https://bremerton.vod.castus.tv/vod/?live=ch1&nav=live  Members of the public are invited to join the Zoom Meeting by clicking on the link below: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89694813320?pwd=Z0JvSXNhSFp1c0xhL1NxUjRhN20xUT09  Or One tap mobile: US: +12532050468,,89694813320#,,,,*173061# or +12532158782,,89694813320#,,,,*173061#  Or Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 253 205 0468 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 669 444 9171 or +1 669 900 6833 Webinar ID: 896 9481 3320 Passcode: 173061 Public questions or comments may be submitted ahead of time to City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us 1. BRIEFING: 5:00 – 5:30 P.M. in COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM 603 A. Review of Agenda B. General Council Business (Only as necessary…) 2. CALL TO ORDER: 5:30 P.M. in FIRST FLOOR CHAMBERS 3. MAYOR'S REPORT 4. CONSENT AGENDA A. Claims & Check Register B. Minutes of Meeting – August 16, 2023 C. Minutes of Study Session – August 23, 2023 D. Confirm Appointment of Ken Riley to the Bremerton Parks & Recreation Commission E. Confirm Appointment of Law Offices of Alex Sidles PLLC as the City of Bremerton’s Administrative Hearing Examiner; and Approve associated Professional Services Agreement F. Contract Modification Agreement No. 2 with Merchant Patrol Security Services, Inc. G. Resolution No. 3365 to authorize Local Parks Maintenance Grant Application with WA State Recreation & Conservation Office to fund the Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground Surfacing Replacement 5. PUBLIC RECOGNITION 6. GENERAL BUSINESS A. Resolution No. 3365 to authorize Local Parks Maintenance Grant Application with WA State Recreation & Conservation Office to fund the Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground Surfacing Replacement Moved up to Consent Agenda Item 4G… B. Ordinance No. 5482 to update BMC Chapter 9.32 entitled “Unauthorized Camping” Information only… 7. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS 8. ADJOURNMENT OF CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations provided upon request. Those requiring special accommodations please contact the City Clerk at (360) 473-5323 at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. AGENDA BILL CITY OF BREMERTON CITY COUNC IL SUBJECT: Study Session Date: N/A Claims & Check Register COUNCIL MEETING Date: September 6, 2023 Department: Legal Services Presenter: Angela Hoover Phone: (360) 473-5323 SUMMARY: Approval of the following checks and electronic fund transfers: 1. Check Numbers 403961-404221 and EFT Numbers V38112-V38253 in the grand total amount of $5,256,660.92 2. Regular Payroll for pay period ending August 15, 2023 in the amount of $1,108,499.88 3. Retiree Payroll for pay period ending August 31, 2023 in the amount of $36,820.17 ATTACHMENTS: FISCAL IMPACTS (Include Budgeted Amount): STUDY SESSION AGENDA: ☒ Limited Presentation ☐ Full Presentation STUDY SESSION ACTION: ☒ Consent Agenda ☐ General Business ☐ Public Hearing RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve the consent agenda as presented. COUNCIL ACTION: Approve Deny Table Continue No Action Form Updated 01/02/2018 4A AGENDA BILL CITY OF BREMERTON CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: Minutes of Meeting – August 16, 2023 Study Session Date: N/A COUNCIL MEETING Date: September 6, 2023 Department: City Council Presenter: Council President Phone: (360) 473-5280 SUMMARY: The Minutes of Meeting held on August 16, 2023 are attached. ATTACHMENTS: Meeting Minutes FISCAL IMPACTS (Include Budgeted Amount): None STUDY SESSION AGENDA: ☒ N/A STUDY SESSION ACTION: ☒ Consent Agenda ☐ General Business ☐ Public Hearing RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve the August 16, 2023 Meeting Minutes as presented. COUNCIL ACTION: Approve Deny Table Continue No Action Form Updated 11/3/17 4B 2 DIGITAL RECORDING CITY COUNCIL HYBRID MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, August 16, 2023 The weekly meeting of the City Council of the City of Bremerton was called to order Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at 5:09 PM in Council Conference Room 603 of the NORM DICKS GOVERNMENT CENTER, 345 6th Street, Bremerton, Washington, with Council President Jeff Coughlin presiding. Council Members present were Jennifer Chamberlin, Denise Frey, Quinn Dennehy, Michael Goodnow (arrived at 5:13 PM), Anna Mockler, and Eric Younger (arrived at 5:30 PM remotely). Also present were Assistant City Attorney Brett Jette; City Clerk Angela Hoover; Legislative Office Manager Lori Smith; and IT Network Engineer Hans Nilsson. At 5:30 PM, the meeting moved to the First Floor Meeting Chambers. President Coughlin announced that the Council Members met at 5:00 PM in the 6th Floor Council Conference Room for a Briefing to discuss tonight’s Agenda, which was amended to add an Item 4J under Consent Agenda; and to pull Item 4E down to General Business as Item 6A. He announced the City Council is conducting the Council Meeting in-person with an option for the public to join in person, participate via Zoom, or view on BKAT, because Community involvement is encouraged; and lastly, provided a reminder that now that it is election season, to refrain from any comments on political campaigns or ballot measures. MAYOR’S REPORT – Mayor Wheeler highlighted…  11th Street Update which includes Sidewalk Development in Manette  Bremerton’s Wastewater Division Team was recognized as the 2022 Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award  Beautify Bremerton will be on September 9, 2023 CONSENT AGENDA 4A – Check Numbers 403799 through 403960 and Electronic Fund Transfers V38001 through V38111 in the grand total amount of $2,980,499.14; Regular Payroll for pay period ending July 31, 2023 in the amount of $1,092,349.21; Regular Payroll Payout & Missed Overtime for pay period ending July 31, 2023 in the amount of $391.00; and Retiree Payroll for pay period ending July 31, 2023 in the amount of $38,911.50 4B – Minutes of Meeting – August 2, 2023 4C – Minutes of Study Session – August 9, 2023 4D – Interlocal Agreement with Kitsap Conservation District for the Rain Garden & Low Impact Development Project 4E – Resolution No. 3364 to adopt the City of Bremerton Stormwater Comprehensive Plan Update Removed from Consent Agenda and heard as General Business Item 6A 4F – Create Stormwater Program Manager position at Pay Band 14 of the Management, Professional Confidential & Fiduciary Salary Plan 4G – Contract Service Order with Astound Business Solutions, LLC for Dark Fiber Services 4H – Water Quality Combined Financial Assistance Agreement with the State of WA Department of Ecology for the Tracyton Beach Road Sewer Improvements Project 4I – Ordinance No. 5481 to amend BMC Section 9.10.030 entitled “Rotating Roster” 4J – Authorization to pursue legal action to abate Nuisance & Code Violations at 1241 8th Street & 723 S. Hartford Avenue There were no questions or comments from the public… 5:39 PM M/S/C/U (Chamberlin/Mockler) Move to approve the CONSENT AGENDA as presented. City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes Wednesday, August 16, 2023 Page 2 of 3 PUBLIC RECOGNITION – Comments from the public were submitted by Mary Lou Long; Zita Bennett; Mikayla Prementine; Karen Vargas; Jo Walter; Justin; Joanna Hayes; Marwan Cameron; Kelsey Stedman; Joslyn LaMadrid; Molly Brooks; Christi Lyson; Jane Rebelowski; Roy Runyon; Mike Simpson; and Carolyn Stein… GENERAL BUSINESS 6A – RESOLUTION NO. 3364 TO ADOPT THE CITY OF BREMERTON STORMWATER COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE: Utility Manager Chance Berthiaume explained that Stormwater system planning is essential for the Stormwater Utility to maintain operational conditions that provide adequate service to residents, protect property from flooding, and protect waters around Bremerton from pollution generated by the developed environment. Comprehensive planning is a new requirement of the NPDES Municipal Phase II Stormwater Permit that defines many actions of the Utility programs. Phil Struck with Struck Environmental added additional comments. Questions and comments from the public were provided by Roy Runyon and Thomas… With a response provided by Mr. Berthiaume… 6:560 PM Motion was made by Goodnow; and seconded by Dennehy… Comments and questions were provided by Goodnow and Dennehy, … With a response provided by Mr. Berthiaume… 7:03 PM Motion was made to postpone this item for the August 23 Study Session; and seconded by Coughlin… Comments were provided by Mockler, Dennehy, Goodnow, Frey, Coughlin, and Chamberlin, … With responses provided by Mr. Berthiaume… 7:32 PM M/S/F (Mockler/Coughlin) Move to postpone this item for the August 23 Study Session. Voted in Favor of Motion to Postpone: Mockler Voted Opposed to Motion to Postpone: Dennehy, Goodnow, Younger, Chamberlin, Frey, Coughlin Motion to Postpone Failed: 1-Yes; 6-No 7:35 PM Main-M/S/C/U (Goodnow/Dennehy) Move to approve Resolution No. 3364 adopting City of Bremerton 2022-27 Stormwater Comprehensive Plan. Voted in Favor of Motion: Frey, Dennehy, Goodnow, Mockler, Younger, Chamberlin, Coughlin Motion Carried: Unanimously COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS Anna Mockler invited everyone to attend the next District 6 Town Hall Meeting on Monday, September 11 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Public Works Facility; commented on a recent ruling in a U.S Climate Trial in Montana; recognized the devastation caused by the wildfires in Maui; and encouraged people to use native plants that are adapted to our weather. Quinn Dennehy commented on the landmark legal decision by a Montana judge who ruled in favor of young people who had accused state officials of violating their constitutional rights by promoting fossil fuels; and further commended anyone and everyone who fights climate change. Denise Frey was happy to learn that Waste Management accepts compost materials; and sadly, shared a “before” photo of beautiful Lahaina, Maui that was recently decimated by a wildfire. Jennifer Chamberlin displayed photos to share her joy having a garden at Blueberry Park; encouraged donations to help the citizens of Maui, such as through the Hawaiian Community Foundation, and encouraged attendance at the upcoming Pacific Islander Festival to be held this Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Pendergast Park. City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes Wednesday, August 16, 2023 Page 3 of 3 Jeff Coughlin was disappointed in the failure of the Bremerton EMS levy and hopes there is a way to bring it back; shared how Vancouver, WA is addressing the homeless crisis with a “shelter village”; provided an update on Perry Avenue; announced upcoming Music in Manette and Rock the Dock Concerts; shared that the USS Carlisle passenger ferry will be running between Silverdale and Bremerton for the Blackberry Festival over Labor Day Weekend; and lastly, mentioned the Annual Beautify Bremerton All City Clean Up will be on Saturday, September 9. Mayor Wheeler added that he is currently organizing a field trip to view tiny home villages. President Coughlin announced the next Study Session on Wednesday, August 23 beginning at 5:00 PM will be held in the 6th Floor Council Conference Room of the Norm Dicks Government Center, and the public is welcome and encouraged to attend. And due to the 5th Wednesday in August, the next regular Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 6. With no further business, President Coughlin adjourned the Council Meeting at 7:58 PM. Prepared and Submitted by: ______________________________ LORI SMITH Legislative Office Manager APPROVED by the City Council on the 6th day of September, 2023. ________________________________________ JEFF COUGHLIN, City Council President Attest: ________________________________________ ANGELA HOOVER, City Clerk JC:AH:ls:cg AGENDA BILL CITY OF BREMERTON CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: Minutes of Study Session – August 23, 2023 Study Session Date: N/A COUNCIL MEETING Date: September 6, 2023 Department: City Council Presenter: Council President Phone: (360) 473-5280 SUMMARY: The Minutes of Study Session held on August 23, 2023 are attached. ATTACHMENTS: Meeting Minutes FISCAL IMPACTS (Include Budgeted Amount): None STUDY SESSION AGENDA: ☒ N/A STUDY SESSION ACTION: ☒ Consent Agenda ☐ General Business ☐ Public Hearing RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve the August 23, 2023 Meeting Minutes as presented. COUNCIL ACTION: Approve Deny Table Continue No Action Form Updated 11/3/17 4C 2 CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION MINUTES Wednesday, August 23, 2023 A Study Session of the City Council of the City of Bremerton was called to order on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at 5:00 PM in Council Conference Room 603 located in the Norm Dicks Government Center at 345 6th Street, with Council President Jeff Coughlin presiding. Other Council Members present were Eric Younger, Anna Mockler, Quinn Dennehy (remotely), Denise Frey, and Jennifer Chamberlin (remotely). Council Member Michael Goodnow was absent. Legislative Office Manager Lori Smith provided staff support. President Coughlin established that the Study Session is open for the public to attend in person or view remotely, but there will be no opportunities for input, the content of these items is subject to change, no action is anticipated…and that tonight’s Agenda was amended to add new Item A5… He further established that a recording will be available online within a few days following the meeting. And any of the items approved for action by the Council tonight, will be placed on the September 6, 2023 City Council Meeting Agenda or as otherwise determined. And lastly, cautioned that the microphones are sensitive and do easily pick-up side conversations and other sounds in the room… A. BRIEFINGS on AGENDA BILL ITEMS 1. Confirm Appointment of Ken Riley to the Bremerton Parks & Recreation Commission Consent Agenda 2. Confirm Appointment of Law Offices of Alex Sidles PLLC as the City of Bremerton’s Administrative Hearing Examiner; and Approve associated Professional Services Agreement Consent Agenda 3. Contract Modification Agreement No. 2 with Merchant Patrol Security Services, Inc. Consent Agenda 4. Resolution to authorize Local Parks Maintenance Grant Application with State of WA Recreation & Conservation Office to fund the Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground Surfacing Replacement General Business 5. Proposal for the City to Apply for $12,000 in LTAC Funds to Hire a Consultant to Study Lodging Tax Fund's Economic Impact and Provide Recommendations for Future LTAC Distribution Information Only (Council agreed with the proposal as presented…) President Coughlin called a break from 6:17 to 6:28 PM… 6. Ordinance to amend BMC Chapter 9.32 entitled “Unauthorized Camping” (5th meeting) General Business Council Member Dennehy left the meeting at 8:03 PM and did not return… 7. Resolution to repeal Resolution No. 3349; and adopt updated Council Rules & Procedures Minimal comments were made; The Item will be rescheduled to the September 13 Study Session B. GENERAL COUNCIL BUSINESS 1. Public Works Committee Briefing (Last Meeting 8/15/2023) – Chair Anna Mockler 2. Finance, Investment & Parking Committee Briefing (Last Meeting 8/22/23) – Chair Jennifer Chamberlin City Council Study Session Minutes Wednesday, August 23, 2023 Page 2 of 2 3. Regional and Other Committee/Board Briefings 4. Other General Council Business was also briefly discussed. President Coughlin established that there are no meetings on 5th Wednesdays, and that the next Council Meeting would be on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 beginning at 5:30 PM in the First Floor Meeting Chambers of the Norm Dicks Government Center, and that the public is invited to attend in person or remotely. With no further business, the Study Session was adjourned at 8:30 PM. Prepared and Submitted by: ______________________________ LORI SMITH, Legislative Office Manager APPROVED by the City Council on the 6th day of September, 2023. JEFF COUGHLIN, Council President ATTEST: ______________________________ ANGELA HOOVER, City Clerk JC:AH:ls:cg AGENDA BILL CITY OF BREMERTON CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: Study Session Date: August 23, 2023 Confirm Appointment of Ken Riley to the Bremerton Parks & Recreation Commission COUNCIL MEETING Date: September 6, 2023 Department: Executive Presenter: Mayor Wheeler Phone: (360) 473-5266 SUMMARY: The Mayor is seeking confirmation for the appointment of Ken Riley to the Bremerton Parks & Recreation Commission. The term expires September 29, 2024. ATTACHMENTS: Application to the commission is available in the Mayor’s office. FISCAL IMPACTS (Include Budgeted Amount): None. STUDY SESSION AGENDA: ☒ Limited Presentation ☐ Full Presentation STUDY SESSION ACTION: ☒ Consent Agenda ☐ General Business ☐ Public Hearing RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to confirm the appointment of Ken Riley to the Bremerton Parks & Recreation Commission for the term expiring September 29, 2024. COUNCIL ACTION: Approve Deny Table Continue No Action Form Updated 11/09/2021 4D AGENDA BILL CITY OF BREMERTON CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: Confirm Appointment of Law Offices of Alex Sidles PLLC as the City of Bremerton’s Administrative Hearing Examiner; and Approve associated Professional Services Agreement Study Session Date: August 23, 2023 COUNCIL MEETING Date: September 6, 2023 Department: DCD Presenter: Andrea Spencer Phone: (360) 473-5283 SUMMARY: The Bremerton Municipal Code (BMC) Chapter 2.13 establishes that the City will have an Administrative Hearing Examiner (“Examiner”) to review and interpret land use regulations, conduct hearings, render decisions, and hear other matters as provided for in the BMC and other ordinances. Sound Law Center, f/k/a Driscoll and Hunter, has been the City’s Administrative Hearing Examiner since 2002. The City was notified on June 20, 2023 that Sound Law Center would no longer be providing hearing examiner services. The Department of Community Development sent out a Request for Quotes (RFQ) which closed on August 4, 2023. Based on the RFQ responses, a review of the applicant’s qualifications and consideration of cost, Law Offices of Alex Sidles, PLLC was selected to serve as the City’s new Examiner. The BMC requires that the selection of the Examiner be confirmed by the City Council. The Mayor proposes the appointment of Law Offices of Alex Sidles, PLLC as the Administrative Hearing Examiner pursuant to the terms of the attached Professional Services Agreement. The annual cost for this contract will be less than $40,000, which is the same expense as the prior contracted Examiner. ATTACHMENTS: Professional Services Agreement Bremerton Municipal Code 2.13 – Administrative Hearing Examiner FISCAL IMPACTS (Include Budgeted Amount): This annual expenditure is budgeted STUDY SESSION AGENDA: ☒ Limited Presentation ☐ Briefing/Full Presentation STUDY SESSION ACTION: ☒ Consent Agenda ☐ General Business ☐ Public Hearing RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve the appointment of Law Offices of Alex Sidles, PLLC as the City’s Administrative Hearing Examiner and authorize the Mayor finalize and execute the agreement with substantially the same terms and conditions as presented. COUNCIL ACTION: Approve Deny Table Continue No Action Form Updated 01/02/2018 4E Page 1 of 7 Bremerton/[Law Office of Alex Sidles, PLLC Administrative Hearing Examiner Rev. 04/2023 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT CITY OF BREMERTON ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING EXAMINER The City of Bremerton (“City”) and Law Office of Alex Sidles, PLLC (“Consultant”), referred to collectively as the “Parties,” enter into the following Agreement for professional services: I. Scope: The Consultant agrees to perform the services more specifically described in the Scope of Work, dated August 7, 2023, including any attachments thereto, attached hereto as Exhibit A, which is incorporated by reference herein. The Scope of Work may be modified only pursuant to Section VII.H of this Agreement. If the Scope of Work provides for unspecified additional services such services shall only be performed upon the express written request of the City. Consultant further represents that the services furnished under this Agreement will be performed in accordance with generally accepted professional practices in effect at the time such services are performed. II. Term: The City and the Consultant agree that work will begin on the tasks described in Exhibit A immediately upon execution of this Agreement. The parties agree that the work described in Exhibit A is to be completed as provided for in the work schedule attached hereto as Exhibit A; provided however, that additional time shall be granted by the City for excusable delays or extra work as provided for in Section X.A of this agreement. III. Compensation: In consideration of the services provided pursuant to this Agreement, the City shall pay Consultant in an amount not to exceed $3,000.00 per month plus $170.00 per hour for services provided in excess of twelve hearings per year. Consultant’s charges and bills shall conform to the fee schedule attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by this reference. The Consultant shall submit regular billing statements detailing work performed and amount charged on each task or portion thereof. The descriptions shall conform to and fall within the categories set out in the Scope of Work and/or Fee Schedule. Upon receipt of a conforming billing statement, the City shall promptly process payment. PROVIDED, HOWEVER, the City reserves the right to prioritize scoped work and accelerate and/or delay work tasks under the time frame set forth in Section II herein. The Consultant's labor rates and billing fees shall be as delineated in Exhibit A. Consultant shall not perform work beyond the Scope of Work, nor shall be compensated for such work, unless the Scope of Work or amount of compensation is modified pursuant to this Agreement. Consultant shall only be compensated for additional services if requested pursuant to Section I and, if not otherwise provided, such compensation shall be in accordance with Exhibit A. If a billing statement does not conform to this Agreement, the City may withhold payment until the statement is brought into compliance. Such withholding does not relieve Consultant of its obligations under this Agreement. IV. Relationship of Parties: Consultant represents that it is skilled in the matters addressed in the Scope of Work and is performing independent functions and responsibilities within its field of expertise. Consultant and its personnel are independent Consultants and not employees of the City. Consultant and its personnel have no authority to bind the City or to control the City’s employees and Page 2 of 7 Bremerton/[Law Office of Alex Sidles, PLLC Administrative Hearing Examiner Rev. 04/2023 other Consultants. None of the benefits provided by the City to its employees, including, but not limited to, compensation, insurance, and unemployment insurance are available from the City to the employees, agents, representatives, or sub-consultants of the Consultant. Consultant will be solely and entirely responsible for its acts and for the acts of Consultant's agents, employees, representatives and sub-consultants during the performance of this Agreement. The City may, during the term of this Agreement, engage other independent Consultants to perform the same or similar work. As an independent Consultant, Consultant is responsible for its own management. The City’s administration and enforcement of this Agreement shall not be deemed an exercise of managerial control over Consultant or its personnel. As an independent Consultant, Consultant is responsible for payment of all taxes and licensing fees necessary to perform its obligations under this Agreement. These taxes and fees include but are not limited to State industrial insurance, Business & Occupation, State professional licensing, and City business licensing. If any taxes or fees due the City have been declared delinquent, the City may withhold the delinquent amount, plus any additional charges arising from the delinquency, from any payments due Consultant. V. Indemnification: A. Consultant shall defend, indemnify and hold the City, its officers, officials, employees, agents and volunteers harmless from any and all claims, injuries, damages, losses or suits, including all legal costs and attorney fees, arising out of or in connection with the performance of this Agreement except for that portion of the injuries and damages caused by the City’s sole negligence, unless Consultant is conducting work pursuant to Subsection B below. The City's review or acceptance of any of the work when completed shall not be grounds to avoid any of these covenants of indemnification. B. Architects, Engineers and Any Other Professional Listed In and Performing Services Defined in RCW 4.24.115. Should a court of competent jurisdiction determine that Consultant’s services provided pursuant to this Agreement is subject to RCW 4.24.115, then, in the event of liability for damages arising out of bodily injury to persons or damages to property caused by or resulting from the concurrent negligence of the Consultant and the City, its officers, officials, employees, agents and volunteers, the Consultant's liability hereunder shall be only to the extent of the Consultant's negligence. IT IS FURTHER SPECIFICALLY AND EXPRESSLY UNDERSTOOD THAT THE INDEMNIFICATION PROVIDED HEREIN CONSTITUTES THE CONSULTANT'S WAIVER OF IMMUNITY UNDER INDUSTRIAL INSURANCE, TITLE 51 RCW, SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS INDEMNIFICATION. THE PARTIES FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THEY HAVE MUTUALLY NEGOTIATED THIS WAIVER. The provisions of this section shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement. Page 3 of 7 Bremerton/[Law Office of Alex Sidles, PLLC Administrative Hearing Examiner Rev. 04/2023 VI. Insurance: The Consultant shall procure and maintain for the duration of the Agreement, insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damage to property which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work hereunder by the Consultant, its agents, representatives, employees, sub-consultants or sub-Consultants. Before beginning work on the project described in this Agreement, the Consultant shall provide a Certificate of Insurance evidencing: 1. Commercial General Liability insurance written on an occurrence basis with limits no less than $1,000,000 combined single limit per occurrence and general aggregate for personal injury, bodily injury and property damage. Coverage shall include but not be limited to: blanket contractual; products/completed operations/broad form property damage; explosion, collapse and underground (XCU) if applicable; and 2. Excess Liability insurance with limits not less than $1,000,000 limit per occurrence and aggregate; and 3. Professional Liability insurance with limits no less than $1,000,000 limit per occurrence/claim; and 4. Workers Compensation insurance as statutorily required by the Industrial Insurance Act of the State of Washington, Title 51, Revised Code of Washington and employer's liability with limits not less than $1,000,000. Any payment of deductible or self-insured retention shall be the sole responsibility of the Consultant. All required policies shall be provided on an “occurrence” basis except professional liability insurance (if required), which may be provided on a “claims-made” basis. The City shall be named as an additional insured on the Commercial General Liability insurance policy, as respects work performed by or on behalf of the Consultant and a copy of an endorsement that is acceptable to the City, which names the City as an additional insured shall b e attached to the Certificate of Insurance. The City reserves the right to receive a certified copy of all the required insurance policies and endorsements. The City further reserves the right to reject any unacceptable policies and/or endorsements. The Consultant's Commercial General Liability insurance shall contain a clause stating that coverage shall apply separately to each insured against whom claim is made or suit is brought, except with respects to the limits of the insurer's liability. The Consultant's insurance shall be primary and non-contributory insurance as respects the City and shall contain a waiver of subrogation against the City for claims arising out of any operations, liabilities and obligations to which coverage applies. It shall be an affirmative obligation upon Consultant to advise the City’s Risk Manager by fax at (360) 473-5161, or by certified mail, return receipt requested to City of Bremerton, Attn: Risk Management, 345 6th Street, Suite 100, Bremerton, WA 98337 within two days of the cancellation, suspension or substantive change of any insurance policy set out herein, and failure to do so shall be construed to be a breach of this Agreement. Page 4 of 7 Bremerton/[Law Office of Alex Sidles, PLLC Administrative Hearing Examiner Rev. 04/2023 The City also reserves its unqualified right to require at any time and for any reason, proof of coverage in the form of a duplicate of the insurance policy with all endorsements as evidence of coverage. In the event that the Consultant employs other consultants or Consultants (sub-consultants or sub-Consultants) as part of the work covered by this Agreement, it shall be the Consultant’s responsibility to require and confirm that each sub-consultant or sub-Consultant meets the minimum insurance requirements specified above. The Consultant shall, upon demand of the City, deliver to the City copies of such policy or policies of insurance and the receipts for payment of premiums thereon. VII. General Conditions: A. Reports and Information: When requested by the City, Consultant shall furnish periodic reports and documents on matters covered by this Agreement. The reports and documents shall be furnished in the time and form requested. Consultant shall maintain accounting records in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) to substantiate all billed amounts. B. Ownership and Use of Records and Documents: Original documents, drawings, designs and reports, including those in electronic format, developed under this Agreement are the property of the City. All written information submitted by the City to the Con sultant in connection with the services performed by the Consultant under this Agreement will be safeguarded by the Consultant to at least the same extent as the Consultant safeguards like information relating to its own business. If such information is publicly available or is already in Consultant's possession or known to it, or is rightfully obtained by the Consultant from third parties, Consultant shall bear no responsibility for its disclosure, inadvertent or otherwise. All data, documents and files created by Consultant under this Agreement may be stored at Consultant's office in Seattle, Washington. Consultant shall make such data, documents, and files available to the City upon its request at all reasonable times for the purpose of editing, modifying and updating as necessary until such time as the City is capable of storing such information in the City's offices. Duplicate copies of this information shall be provided to the City upon its request, and at reasonable cost. All documents, including all reports, drawings, specifications, computer software or other items prepared or furnished by Consultant pursuant to this Agreement, are instruments of service with respect to the project and are the property of the City. Any reuse by the City for other than the specific purpose intended will be at City’s sole risk. C. Use of Photographs and Images. Consultant shall not use or distribute photographs or images depicting City officials, personnel, property, or equipment whether prepared by Consultant or provided by City without prior written consent of the City. The City will not unreasonably withhold its consent. Page 5 of 7 Bremerton/[Law Office of Alex Sidles, PLLC Administrative Hearing Examiner Rev. 04/2023 D. Work Performed at Consultant's Risk: Consultant shall take all precautions necessary and shall be responsible for the safety of its employees, agents, and sub-consultants in the performance of the work hereunder and shall utilize all protection necessary for that purpose. All work shall be done at Consultant's own risk, and Consultant shall be responsible for any loss of or damage to materials, tools, or other articles used or held for use in connection with the work. E. Place of Work: The Consultant shall perform the work authorized under this Agreement at its offices in Seattle, Washington. Meetings with the City staff as described in Exhibit A, Scope of Work, shall take place at the City's offices, or at locations mutually agreed upon by the parties. F. Entire Agreement: This Agreement and its Exhibits constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties, and the Parties acknowledge that there are no other agreements, written or oral, that have not been set forth in the text of this Agreement. G. Severability: Should any part of this Agreement be found void, the balance of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect. H. Modification: This Agreement may only be modified by written instrument signed by both Parties. I. Written Notices: All communications regarding this Agreement shall be sent to the parties at the addresses listed below by registered or 1st class mail, or by personal service, and shall be deemed sufficiently given if sent to the addressee at the address stated in this Agreement or such other address as may be hereafter specified in writing. Notices to be sent to: Notices to be sent to: CITY: CONSULTANT: Attn: ANDREA SPENCER Attn: ALEXANDER SIDLES City of Bremerton LAW OFFICES OF ALEX SIDLES, PLLC 345 6th Street, Suite 100 2400 NW 80th Street, # 146 Bremerton, WA 98337-1891 Seattle, WA 98117 J. Waiver: Failure to enforce any provision of this Agreement shall not be deemed a waiver of that provision. Waiver of any right or power arising out of this Agreement shall not be deemed waiver of any other right or power. K. Non-Waiver of Breach: The failure of the City to insist upon strict performance of any of the covenants and agreements contained herein, or to exercise any option herein conferred in one or more instances shall not be construed to be a waiver or relinquishment of said covenan ts, agreements or options, and the same shall be and remain in full force and effect. L. Compliance with Laws: Consultant shall comply with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws in performing its obligations under this Agreement. Page 6 of 7 Bremerton/[Law Office of Alex Sidles, PLLC Administrative Hearing Examiner Rev. 04/2023 M. Choice of Law and Venue: This Agreement shall be interpreted according to the laws of the State of Washington. Any judicial action to resolve disputes arising out of this Agreement shall be brought in Kitsap County Superior Court. N. Attorneys’ Fees: In the event of litigation to enforce any of the terms or provisions herein, each party shall pay all its own costs and attorney’s fees. O. Assignment: Any assignment of this agreement by the Consultant without the written consent of the City shall be void. VIII. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: In the hiring of employees for the performance of work under this Agreement, the Consultant, its subConsultants, or any person acting on behalf of Consultant shall not discriminate in any employment practice on the basis of age (40+), sex, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation/gender identity, marital status, military status, or the presence of any physical, mental or sensory disability. IX. ADA Statement: The City of Bremerton does not discriminate on the basis of disability in programs and activities, which it operates pursuant to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and ADA Amendments Act. This policy extends to both employment and admission to participation in the programs, services and activities of the City of Bremerton. Reasonable accommodation for employees or applicants for employment will be provided. X. Termination: This Agreement shall remain in force until completion and acceptance of the services. This Agreement can be terminated by either party providing 60 days’ notice of termination. This Agreement may be immediately terminated for cause by a Party if the other Party substantially fails to perform through no fault of the terminating Party, and the non-performing Party does not commence correction of the failure of performance within thirty (30) days of the terminating Party’s sending notice to the non-performing Party. Any Notice by Consultant shall include a report showing the status of all items listed in the Scope of Work current through the termination date. If the City receives reimbursement by any federal, state, or other source for work described in Section I herein, and that funding is withdrawn, reduced or limited in any way, or the project is cancelled or substantially reduced after the execution date of this Agreement and prior to the completion of the work, the City may summarily terminate this Agreement. A. Excusable Delays: The right of Consultant to proceed shall not be terminated nor shall Consultant be charged with liquidated damages for any delays in the completion of the work due to: 1) any acts of the federal government in controlling, restricting, or requisitioning materials, equipment, tools, or labor by reason of war, national defense, or other national emergency; 2) any acts of the City, its consultants, or other public agencies causing such delay; and 3) causes not reasonably foreseeable by the parties at the time of the execution of the Agreement that are beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the Consultant, including, but not restricted to, acts of God, fires, floods, strikes, or weather of unusual severity. PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the Consultant must promptly notify the City within ten (10) calendar days in writing of the cause of the Page 7 of 7 Bremerton/[Law Office of Alex Sidles, PLLC Administrative Hearing Examiner Rev. 04/2023 delay. If, on the basis of the facts and the terms of this Agreement, the delay is properly excusable, the City shall, in writing, extend the time for completing the work for a period of time commensurate with the period of excusable delay. B. Rights Upon Termination: In the event of termination, the City shall pay for all services performed by the Consultant to the effective date of termination, as described on a final invoice submitted to the City. After termination, the City may take possession of all records and data within the Consultant's possession pertaining to this project which may be used by the City without restriction. Any such use not related to the project which Consultant was contracted to perform shall be without liability or legal exposure to the Consultant. XI. Suspension & Debarment. For contracts involving Washington State and Federal funding, Consultant hereby certifies, by signing this agreement, that neither it nor its principals are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction by any State or Federal department or agency. Consultant shall provide immediate written notice to the City if at any time it learns that it is or has become ineligible for certification. Should Consultant enter into a covered transaction with another firm, Consultant agrees by signing this agreement that it will verify that the firm with whom it intends to do business is not debarred, suspended, ineligible, excluded or disqualified. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties below have executed this Agreement. CITY: CONSULTANT: CITY OF BREMERTON LAW OFFICES OF ALEX SIDLES, PLLC By: By: Print Name: Print Name: Its: Its: Date: Date: APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST: By: By: Kylie J. Finnell, Bremerton City Attorney Angela Hoover, City Clerk R:\Legal\Legal\Forms\FORMS ON COBWEB\Professional Services Agreement Rev. 04 2023.docx Service Agreement Exhibit A 08/07/2023 SCOPE OF WORK ESTABLISHMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING EXAMINER. The City of Bremerton Establishes Alexander (Alex) Sidles and the Law Offices of Alex Sidles, a Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC), to serve as the City’s Administrative Hearing Examiner pursuant to Bremerton Municipal Code (BMC) 2.13 . JURISDICTION. The Law Offices of Alex Sidles, PLLC will have the jurisdiction established in BMC 2.13.070. DUTIES. The Law Offices of Alex Sidles, PLLC will fulfill the duties as established in BMC 2.13.080. CONDUCT, PROCEDURES, AND DECISIONS. The Law Offices of Alex Sidles, PLLC will follow the provisions outlined in BMC 2.13 that allows the establishment organizational rules for conducting hearings and agrees to render decisions, recommendations, and reconsiderations pursuant to the provisions contained in the subsections of BMC 2.13. TERM This Agreement will continue in full force and effect until terminated. The parties agree that this contract can be terminated by either party giving 60 -day written notice of termination. COMPENSATION Compensation for the Administrative Hearing Examiner shall be a flat fee of $3,000.00 per month. In a calendar year, this rate will include twelve days of hearings and all duties and activities set forth above. In the event the City of Bremerton needs to schedule additional hearing days, these hearing will be billed at the rate of $170.00 per hour. Any hearing scheduled outside of the regular hearing date should be held on a mutually agreed upon date and time. Invoices shall be payable 30 days upon receipt. Upon termination of this Agreement, matters pending shall be completed and compensated pursuant to this compensation schedule. Final payment shall be withheld until all Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law have been received. Chapter 2.13 ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING EXAMINER Sections: 2.13.010 PURPOSE. 2.13.020 CREATION. 2.13.030 APPOINTMENT AND REMOVAL. 2.13.040 QUALIFICATION AND REMOVAL. 2.13.050 IMPROPER INFLUENCE, CONFLICT OF INTEREST AND APPEARANCE OF FAIRNESS. 2.13.060 ORGANIZATION, RULES. 2.13.070 JURISDICTION. 2.13.080 DUTIES. 2.13.090 FILING OF APPLICATIONS AND APPEALS. 2.13.100 OPEN RECORD PUBLIC HEARING. 2.13.110 DECISIONS AND RECOMMENDATION. 2.13.120 RECONSIDERATION. 2.13.130 APPEAL OF DECISION. 2.13.140 CITY COUNCIL ACTION. 2.13.150 CITY ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF ARE TO BE CONSIDERED A PERSON OR PARTY. 2.13.010 PURPOSE. The purpose of this chapter is to: (1) Separate the land use regulatory function from the land use planning process; (2) Ensure procedural due process and appearance of fairness in regulatory hearings and decisions; (3) Provide an efficient and effective land use regulatory system which integrates the public hearing and decision- making processes for land use matters; (4) Provide for consistency and predictability in decision making and the application of policies and regulations adopted by the city; (5) Provide a forum for conducting public hearings required by the Bremerton Municipal Code; and (6) Provide a forum for hearing appeals of administrative decisions and other matters as established by the Bremerton Municipal Code. (Ord. 4798, Amended, 05/10/2002; Ord. 4778, Added , 11/05/2001) 2.13.020 CREATION. The position of the Administrative Hearing Examiner (also referred to in this chapter as "Hearing Examiner" or "examiner") is hereby created. The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall review and interpret land use regulations; conduct hearings, render decisions, and make recommendations on land use applications; hear appeals from administrative orders, recommendations, permits, decisions or determinations made by a city o fficial as set forth in this chapter, and review and hear other matters as provided for in the Bremerton Municipal Code and other ordinances. The term "Administrative Hearing Examiner" shall likewise include the examiner pro tem. (Ord. 4798, Added, 05/10/2002) 2.13.030 APPOINTMENT AND REMOVAL. The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall be appointed by the Mayor subject to confirmation by the City Council. The appointment may be made as a contract employee or as an independent contractor for a term and on con ditions determined appropriate by the City Council. The Examiner(s) pro tem shall be selected by and serve at the pleasure of the Mayor. In the absence or the inability of the Administrative Hearing Examiner to act, or when expertise is needed to hear a particular matter, the examiner pro tem shall serve in place of the Administrative Hearing Examiner and shall have all the duties and powers of the Administrative Hearing Examiner. The Administrative Hearing Examiner may be terminated in accordance with the contract terms. An examiner pro tem may be terminated by the Mayor at will. (Ord. 4798, Amended, 05/10/2002; Ord. 4778, Added, 11/05/2001) 2.13.040 QUALIFICATION AND REMOVAL. Examiners shall be appointed solely with regard to their qualifications for the duties of their office and will have such training and experience as will qualify them to conduct administrative or quasi-judicial hearings on regulatory enactments and to discharge the other functions conferred upon them. Examiners shall hold no other elec tive or appointive office or position with the City of Bremerton. (Ord. 4798, Amended, 05/10/2002; Ord. 4778, Added, 11/05/2001) 2.13.050 IMPROPER INFLUENCE, CONFLICT OF INTEREST AND APPEARANCE OF FAIRNESS. No city official, elective or appointive, shall attempt to influence the Administrative Hearing Examiner in any matter officially before him so as to constitute misconduct of a public office under Chapter 42.20 RCW or a violation of the appearance of fairness doctrine. No member of the council shall participate in any proceedings on appeal from the Administrative Hearing Examiner’s decision if to do so will constitute a conflict of interest or violation of the appearance of fairness doctrine. The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall conduct all proceedings in a manner to avoid conflicts of interest or other misconduct and to avoid violations of the appearance of fairness doctrine. If such co nflicts or violations cannot be avoided in a particular case, the examiner shall assign an examiner pro tem to act in his absence. (Ord. 4778, Added, 11/05/2001) 2.13.060 ORGANIZATION, RULES. The Administrative Hearings Examiner is empowered to adopt rules for the scheduling and conduct of hearings and other procedural matters related to the duties he is required to perform. The rules shall include any procedural rules for conducting hearings as set forth in the Bremerton Municipal Code. The rules shall pro vide for the process to be effective and efficient while assuring that the participants are afforded an opportunity to present their case without unnecessary emphasis upon formal procedure. The examiner shall have the authority to subpoena witnesses, and to the extent necessary to assure a fair hearing and to afford each party the opportunity to present their case, may allow limited discovery if it is not unduly burdensome, will not unnecessarily delay the proceedings, and the information is not otherwise available. (Ord. 4798, Amended, 05/10/2002; Ord. 4778, Added, 11/05/2001) 2.13.070 JURISDICTION. (1) The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall have jurisdiction to: (a) Conduct hearings, render decisions, make recommendations and to hear appeals of administrative decisions on land use applications as specified in BMC Title 20, as amended. (b) Conduct public hearings on all local improvement districts and utility local improvement districts. (c) Hear an appeal of a department director's administrative decision when provided in the Bremerton Municipal Code. (d) Hear code enforcement matters pursuant to provisions of the Bremerton Municipal Code. (e) Conduct public hearings when required under the provisions of the State Environmental Policy Act; conduct open-record public hearings or closed-record appeals in accordance with the provisions of the Bremerton Municipal Code; conduct such other hearings as the city council may from time to time deem appropriate. (f) Hear such other matters as may be designated by the Bremerton Municipal Code and/or the City Council. (2) It is the intent that all quasi-judicial appeals of land use decisions, which have prior to the enactment of this chapter been heard by the city council and/or the planning commission, now be heard by the Administrative Hearing Examiner pursuant to this chapter, and to the extent other provisions of the Bremerton Municipal Code are inconsistent, jurisdiction for such quasi-judicial appeals will be with the Administrative Hearing Examiner unless otherwise required by state or federal law. (3) Unless otherwise indicated, all other references in the Bremerton Municipal Code to "Hearing Examiner" shall not mean the Municipal Court Hearing Examiner except for those matters established pursuant to Chapter 2.62 of the Bremerton Municipal Code over which the Municipal Court Hearing Examiner will have jurisdiction. (Ord. 4970 §1, 2006: Ord. 4798, Amended, 05/10/2002; Ord. 4778, Added, 11/05/2001) 2.13.080 DUTIES. The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall have the following duties with respect to applications of matters submitted before him or her. (1) Appeals of Administrative Decisions/Determinations. The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall hear open-record appeals of administrative decisions/determinations submitted before him or her, prepare a record thereof, and enter findings of fact and conclusions based upon these facts, which findings and conclusions shall represent final action unless appealed as specified in BMC 2.13.130, for the following: (a) Appeals of all Type I and Type II project permit decisions identified in BMC 20.02.040 and appealed pursuant to BMC 20.02.140(a)(3). (b) Appeals of business license denials, revocations and regulations as authorized pursuant to BMC Title 5. (c) Appeals of right-of-way use permit application decisions made pursuant to Chapter 11.02 BMC. (d) Appeals of administrative decisions on shoreline substantial developmental permits pursuant to BMC 20.02.140(b) and Chapter 7(c)(4) of the City of Bremerton Shoreline Master Program. (e) Appeals of administrative decisions on short subdivisions and plats pursuant to BMC 20.12.100. (f) Appeals of administrative determinations applying the City Building Code pursuant to BMC 17.04.140. (g) Appeals of administrative determinations applying the Uniform Fire Code pursuant to BMC 18.02.180. (2) Decisions of the Administrative Hearing Examiner. The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall receive and examine available information, conduct open-record public hearings, prepare a record thereof, enter findings of fact and conclusions based upon these facts, and render a decision, which decision shall represent the final action on the application, unless appealed, as specified in BMC 2.13.130 for all Type III project permit applications identified in BMC 20.02.040. (3) Recommendations of the Administrative Hearing Examiner. The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall receive and examine available information, conduct open predecision public hearings, prepare a record thereof and enter findings of fact and conclusions based upon those facts, together with a recommendation to the city council, for the following: (a) All Type IV project permit applications identified in BMC 20.02.040. (b) Local Improvement districts and utility local improvement district formation and assessments pursuant to Chapter 11.04 BMC and Chapters 35.43 and 35.44 RCW. (Ord. 4970 §2, 2006: Ord. 4798, Added, 05/10/2002) 2.13.090 FILING OF APPLICATIONS AND APPEALS. Applications to the Administrative Hearing Examiner for a decision, recommendation or an appeal shall be filed with the Department of Community Development. Applications shall be filed with the applicable filing fee as set forth in Chapter 3.01 BMC. When it is found an application or appeal meets the filing requirements of the affected City Code, rule or regulation, the application shall be accepted. The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall be responsible for assigning a date for the public hearing for each application or appeal. Hearings on project permit applications are subject to the notice and hearing requirements set forth in the Bremerton Municipal Code. (Ord. 4894 §1, 2004; Ord. 4836, Amended, 12/20/2002; Ord. 4798, Added, 05/10/2002) 2.13.100 OPEN RECORD PUBLIC HEARING. (1) Before rendering a decision or recommendation on any land use application, the Administrative Hearing Examiner shall hold one (1) open-record public hearing thereon. (2) For all applications, notice of the time and place of the public hearing shall be given as provided in the ordinance governing the application. If none is specifically set forth, such notice shall be given at least ten (10) working days prior to such hearing. (3) The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall have the power to prescribe rules and regulations for the conduct of hearings under this chapter and also to administer oaths, and preserve order. (Ord. 4798, Added, 05/10/2002) 2.13.110 DECISIONS AND RECOMMENDATION. (1) The Administrative Hearing Examiner's recommendation or decision may be to grant or deny the application, or the Administrative Hearing Examiner may recommend or require of the applicant such conditions, modifications and restrictions as the Administrative Hearing Examiner finds necessary to make the application compatible with its environment, with applicable State laws, and to carry out the objectives and goals of the comprehensive plan, the zoning code, the subdivision code, and other codes and ordinances of the City. Conditions, modifications and restrictions which may be imposed are, but are not limited to, additional setbacks, screenings in the form of landscaping and fencing, covenants, easements and dedications of additional road rights-of-way. Performance bonds or other financial assurances may be required to ensure compliance with conditions, modifications and restrictions. (2) In regard to all Type IV project permit applications identified in BMC 20.02.040, the Administrative Hearing Examiner's findings and conclusions and recommendation shall be submitted to the City Council, which shall have the final authority to act on such applications. The hearing by the Administrative Hearing Examiner shall constitute an open-record predecision hearing before the final decision is made by the City Council. The Administrative Hearing Examiner shall file its recommendation with the City Council at the expiration of the period provided for reconsideration, or if reconsideration is accepted, within ten (10) working days after the decision on reconsideration. (3) When the Administrative Hearing Examiner renders a decision or recommendation, the Administrative Hearing Examiner shall make and enter written findings from the record and conclusions therefrom which support such decision. The decision shall be rendered within ten (10) working days following conclusion of all testimony and hearings, unless a longer period is mutually agreed to on the record by the applicant and the Administrative Hearing Examiner. The copy of such decision, including findings and conclusions, shall be transmitted by first class mail to the applicant and other parties of record in the case requesting the same. (4) In the case of shoreline substantial development permits, pursuant to RCW 90.58.140(11)(a)(iii), appeals shall be decided within thirty (30) calendar days of filing of the appeal. (5) The filing fee as set forth in Chapter 3.01 BMC paid by the appellant for any appeal to the Administrative Hearing Examiner shall be refunded to the appellant if the appellant is the substantially prevailing party. (Ord. 4970 §3, 2006: Ord. 4894 §2, 2004; Ord. 4798, Added, 05/10/2002) 2.13.120 RECONSIDERATION. A party of record believing that a decision or recommendation of the Administrative Hearing Examiner is based on erroneous procedures, errors of law or fact, or the discovery of new evidence which could not be reasonably available at the prior hearing may make a written request for reconsideration by the Administrative Hearing Examiner within fourteen (14) calendar days of the date the decision or recommendation is rendered. This request shall set forth the specific errors or new information relied upon by such appellant, and the Administrative Hearing Examiner may, after review of the record, take further action as he or she deems proper. If a request for reconsideration is accepted, a decision is not final until after a decision on reconsideration is issued. (Ord. 5148 §2, 2011: Ord. 4798, Added, 05/10/2002) 2.13.130 APPEAL OF DECISION. (1) Any party who feels aggrieved by the decision or other final action of the Administrative Hearing Examiner may submit an appeal within twenty-one (21) calendar days from the date the final decision of the Administrative Hearing Examiner is rendered to the Superior Court or to another designated forum. (2) No appeal may be made from a recommendation of the Administrative Hearing Examiner. (Ord. 4798, Added, 05/10/2002) 2.13.140 CITY COUNCIL ACTION. (1) Any application requiring action by the City Council shall be taken by the adoption of a motion, resolution or ordinance by the City Council. When taking any such final action, the City Council shall make and enter findings of fact from the record and conclusions therefrom which support its action. The City Council may adopt all or portions of the findings and conclusions from the Administrative Hearing Examiner’s recommendation. (2) The action of the City Council, approving, modifying, or rejecting a recommendation of the Administrative Hearing Examiner, shall be final and conclusive. Appellants have twenty -one (21) calendar days from the date of City Council action to file an appeal with the superior court. (Ord. 4798, Added, 05/10 /2002) 2.13.150 CITY ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF ARE TO BE CONSIDERED A PERSON OR PARTY. For the purpose of BMC 2.13.130 and 2.13.140, the City's administrative staff shall be considered a "person" and/or "party" and shall have the same rights as any other person or party to make requests for reconsideration to the Administrative Hearing Examiner or to appeal decisions of the Administrative Hearing Examiner to Superior Court or to another designated forum. (Ord. 4970 §4, 2006: Ord. 4798, Added, 05/10/2002) AGENDA BILL CITY OF BREMERTON CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: Study Session Date: August 23, 2023 Contract Modification Agreement No. 2 with Merchant Patrol Security Services, Inc. COUNCIL MEETING Date: September 6, 2023 Department: PW & U Presenter: Chris Mottner Phone: (360) 473-2316 SUMMARY: The City executed a Goods and Services Agreement with Merchant Patrol Security Services, Inc. for security services and patrols to various City buildings and properties on May 6, 2020. This Contract Modification No. 02 (CM2) provides for an additional two-year term with a new expiration date of January 24, 2026, and a negotiated rate increase for (COLA) cost of living adjustment for security officer labor and associated service operational costs. This includes increases of 3.5% for 2024 and 2025 to cover operational expenses. Bringing the total cost of the contract to $195,776.83 in 2024 and $202,629.19 for 2025. ATTACHMENTS: 1.) Contract Modification Agreement No. 02 FISCAL IMPACTS (Include Budgeted Amount): Total increase in costs is 2024 - $6,620.47 and 2025 - $6,852.36 with this Contract Modification and are available within the City budgets. STUDY SESSION AGENDA: ☒ Limited Presentation ☐ Full Presentation STUDY SESSION ACTION: ☒ Consent Agenda ☐ General Business ☐ Public Hearing RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve Contract Modification Agreement No. 02 with Merchant Patrol Security Services, Inc. and authorize the Mayor to finalize and execute the agreement with substantially the same terms and conditions as presented. COUNCIL ACTION: Approve Deny Table Continue No Action Form Updated 11/09/2021 4F AGENDA BILL CITY OF BREMERTON CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: Study Session Date: August 23, 2023 Resolution No. 3365 to authorize Local Parks Maintenance Grant Application with WA State Recreation & Conservation Office to fund the Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground Surfacing Replacement COUNCIL MEETING Date: September 6, 2023 Department: Parks & Recreation Presenter: Jeff Elevado Phone: (360) 473-5428 SUMMARY: The Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground became the first “Beyond Accessible” playground in Kitsap County when it opened in 2014. One of the playground’s key inclusive features is the use of artificial turf safety surfacing. While engineered wood chips are considered ADA compliant, artificial turf surfacing is truly accessible for everyone at all abilities. Artificial turf playground surfacing typically lasts 10-12 years with normal use. However, due to the popularity of the playground, high volume of use, and recent vandalism, the surfacing has reached the end of its useful life. The RCO is offering a one-time, no-match grant opportunity for park maintenance projects. The City is requesting authorization to apply for this funding to support replacement of the accessible playground surfacing at Evergreen Rotary Park. ATTACHMENTS: 1) Resolution No. 3365 to authorize grant application; 2) Project Estimate Worksheet; 3) Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground Surfacing Photos FISCAL IMPACTS (Include Budgeted Amount): Project Cost Estimate: $227,484 Project Funding: $100,000 (RCO/Local Parks Maintenance Grant) Project Balance: $127,484 (Parks Capital Construction Fund Balance, REET, Donations) STUDY SESSION AGENDA: ☒ Limited Presentation ☐ Full Presentation STUDY SESSION ACTION: ☒ Consent Agenda ☒ General Business ☐ Public Hearing RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve Resolution No. 3365 to authorize staff to submit for a Local Parks Maintenance Grant Application with the State of WA Recreation & Conservation Office; and authorize the Mayor to finalize and execute the agreement with substantially the same terms and conditions as presented. COUNCIL ACTION: Approve Deny Table Continue No Action Form Updated 11/09/2021 4G Local Parks Maintenance Program Applicant Authorization and Electronic Signature Organization Name (sponsor) Resolution No. or Document Name Project Number and Name This resolution/authorization authorizes the person(s) identified below (in Section 2) to act as the authorized representative/agent on behalf of our organization and to legally bind our organization with respect to the above Project for which we seek grant funding assistance managed through the Recreation and Conservation Office (Office). WHEREAS grant assistance is requested by our organization to aid in financing the cost of the Project referenced above; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that: 1.Our organization has applied for or intends to apply for funding assistance managed by theOffice for the above “Project.” 2.Our organization authorizes the following persons or persons holding specifiedtitles/positions (and subsequent holders of those titles/positions) to execute the following documents binding our organization on the above projects: Grant Document Routing Order Name of Signatory and Title of Person Authorized to Sign Email Address Grant application (submissionthereof) Project contact (day-to-day administering of the grant and communicating with the RCO) Agreement/amendment approver 1 Agreement/amendment approver Agreement/amendment approver Agreement/amendment approver RCO Grant Agreement signer 2 Agreement amendments signer2 ATTACHMENT 1 City of Bremerton Parks & Recreation Department Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground Surfacing Replacement Colette Berna, Parks Preservation & Development Manager colette.berna@ci.breme rton.wa.us Greg Wheeler, Mayor greg.wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us 1 2 3 4 3365 The above persons are considered an “authorized representative(s)/agent(s)” for purposes of the documents indicated. Our organization shall comply with a request from the RCO to provide updated documentation of authorized signers, if needed. 3.Our organization acknowledges and warrants, after conferring with its legal counsel, that itsauthorized representative(s)/agent(s) have full legal authority to act and sign on behalf of theorganization for their assigned role/document. 4.Grant assistance is contingent on a signed Agreement. Entering into any Agreement withthe Office is purely voluntary on our part. 5.Our organization understands that grant policies and requirements vary depending on thegrant program applied to, the grant program and source of funding in the Agreement, the characteristics of the project, and the characteristics of our organization. 6.Any grant assistance received will be used for only direct eligible and allowable costs that arereasonable and necessary to implement the project(s) referenced above. 7.Our organization acknowledges that the grant will only be used for maintenance of local parkproperty owned by our organization. 8.This resolution/authorization is deemed to be part of the formal grant application to the Office. 9.Our organization warrants and certifies that this resolution/authorization was properly andlawfully adopted following the requirements of our organization and applicable laws andpolicies and that our organization has full legal authority to commit our organization to thewarranties, certifications, promises, and obligations set forth herein. This resolution/authorization is signed and approved on behalf of the resolving body of our organization by the following authorized member(s): Signed Title Date On File at: This Applicant Resolution/Authorization was adopted by our organization during the meeting held: Location: Date: You may reproduce the above language in your own format; however, text may not change. 1 Agreement/Amendment Approver: refers to an individual or several individuals who review and approve the electronic document and contacts RCO if corrections are needed. The approver does not sign the document. You may add more than one approver but please designate the order for routing purposes. 2 RCO Grant Agreement/Agreement Amendments Signer: refers to the individual who must officially sign the document with an electronic signature and may be required to enter data such as title, date, agency name, etc. into fields. The signer of Agreements may differ from the individual who is delegated to sign Amendment documents, but we can only accept one signature per document. ATTACHMENT 2 EVERGREEN ROTARY PARK ACCESSIBLE PLAYGROUND SAFETY SURFACING REPLACEMENT ESTIMATE ITEM NO.DESCRIPTION UNIT COST TOTAL COST 1 SITE PREP:$12,100.00 $12,100.00 REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL (RECYCLED) OF EXISTING TURF (APPROX. 7900 SF) 2 MATERIAL COST:$129,937.50 $129,937.50 PLAYGROUND GRASS, ENVIROFILL, 2" FOAM PAD 3 INSTALLATION OF MATERIALS $36,845.60 $36,845.60 4 FREIGHT $8,000.00 $8,000.00 $186,883.10 WSST (9.2%) $17,193.25 SUBTOTAL $204,076.35 PERMIT $3,000.00 CONTINGENCY (10%) $20,407.63 TOTAL PROJECT COST $227,483.98 Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground Surfacing AGENDA BILL CITY OF BREMERTON CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: Study Session Date: August 23, 2023 Resolution No. 3365 to authorize Local Parks Maintenance Grant Application with WA State Recreation & Conservation Office to fund the Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground Surfacing Replacement COUNCIL MEETING Date: September 6, 2023 Department: Parks & Recreation Presenter: Jeff Elevado Phone: (360) 473-5428 SUMMARY: The Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground became the first “Beyond Accessible” playground in Kitsap County when it opened in 2014. One of the playground’s key inclusive features is the use of artificial turf safety surfacing. While engineered wood chips are considered ADA compliant, artificial turf surfacing is truly accessible for everyone at all abilities. Artificial turf playground surfacing typically lasts 10-12 years with normal use. However, due to the popularity of the playground, high volume of use, and recent vandalism, the surfacing has reached the end of its useful life. The RCO is offering a one-time, no-match grant opportunity for park maintenance projects. The City is requesting authorization to apply for this funding to support replacement of the accessible playground surfacing at Evergreen Rotary Park. ATTACHMENTS: 1) Resolution No. 3365 to authorize grant application; 2) Project Estimate Worksheet; 3) Evergreen Rotary Park Accessible Playground Surfacing Photos FISCAL IMPACTS (Include Budgeted Amount): Project Cost Estimate: $227,484 Project Funding: $100,000 (RCO/Local Parks Maintenance Grant) Project Balance: $127,484 (Parks Capital Construction Fund Balance, REET, Donations) STUDY SESSION AGENDA: ☒ Limited Presentation ☐ Full Presentation STUDY SESSION ACTION: ☒ Consent Agenda ☒ General Business ☐ Public Hearing RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve Resolution No. 3365 to authorize staff to submit for a Local Parks Maintenance Grant Application with the State of WA Recreation & Conservation Office; and authorize the Mayor to finalize and execute the agreement with substantially the same terms and conditions as presented. COUNCIL ACTION: Approve Deny Table Continue No Action Form Updated 11/09/2021 6A Moved up to Consent Agenda Item 4G… AGENDA BILL CITY OF BREMERTON CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: Study Session Date: August 23, 2023 Ordinance No. 5482 to update BMC Chapter 9.32 entitled “Unauthorized Camping” COUNCIL MEETING Date: September 6, 2023 Department: Legal Presenter: Kylie Finnell, City Attorney Phone: (360) 473-2345 SUMMARY: The City Council included an update to BMC Chapter 9.32 “Unauthorized Camping” in the Council’s 2023 Goals and Priorities. Council discussed this issue at the Study Sessions on June 26th, July 12th, July 26th, August 9th, and August 23rd. Public comment was received at the Council Meetings on July 5th, July 19th, August 2nd, and August 16th. Council has also received numerous written comments related to this issue. The September 6th Council Meeting will continue the discussion regarding how the Council would like to amend the ordinance. ATTACHMENTS: 1) Draft Ordinance No. 5482 Added 9/1/23 5:15 PM; 2) City Owned Property Maps Updated 4:55 PM FISCAL IMPACTS (Include Budgeted Amount): STUDY SESSION AGENDA: ☐ Limited Presentation ☒ Full Presentation STUDY SESSION ACTION: ☐ Consent Agenda ☒ General Business ☐ Public Hearing RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to pass Ordinance No. 5482 to update Bremerton Municipal Code Chapter 9.32 entitled “Unauthorized Camping.” COUNCIL ACTION: Approve Deny Table Continue No Action Form Updated 01/02/2018 6B Information Only… Page 1 of 5 BMC 9.32 Unauthorized Camping ORDINANCE NO. 5482 AN ORDINANCE of the City Council of the City of Bremerton, Washington, amending Chapter 9.32 of the Bremerton Municipal Code entitled “Unauthorized Camping.” to set forth the circumstances under which unauthorized camping is enforced. WHEREAS, despite City and regional efforts to provide housing, shelter, and related services in the City, including but not limited to Pendleton Place, the Kitsap Rescue Mission shelter at the Quality Inn, and the seasonal shelter at the Salvation Army, the preliminary data from the Kitsap 2023 Point-in-Time count indicates a growing number of unsheltered community members; and WHEREAS, while Point-in-Time counts are considered to be an undercount of the actual number of people experiencing homelessness, preliminary data shows 245 unsheltered individuals in Kitsap County which is a 34% increase from 2022 with 58% of the 245 unsheltered individuals surveyed in Bremerton; and WHEREAS, a majority of unsheltered individuals surveyed indicated they lived outside in places not meant for human habitation such as tents; and WHEREAS, when no overnight shelter is available, some unsheltered individuals have no other option but to sleep on public property and protect themselves from the elements with tarps, tents, blankets, sleeping bags, and similar items; and WHEREAS, in Martin v City of Boise, 920 F. 3d 584 (9th Cir. 2019), the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals held that the Eighth Amendment to the United States Constitution prohibits cities from enforcing ordinances criminalizing camping on all public property when there is no available shelter; and WHEREAS, in Johnson v City of Grants Pass, United States Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit, Nos. 20-35752, 20-35881 decided September 28, 2022, amended July 5, 2023, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals held that ordinances that operate to make it “nearly impossible” to sleep outside with any form of bedding or shelter, or in a vehicle, on public land violate the Cruel and Unusual Punishment clause of the United States Constitution; and WHEREAS, the City’s “Unauthorized Camping” code was drafted in 2004 and prohibits camping in all parks and public places without taking into consideration available shelter space and must be updated; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Article XI, Section 11 of the Washington Constitution and RCW 35.22, and the Charter of the City of Bremerton, the City of Bremerton is authorized to regulate public property; and Page 2 of 5 BMC 9.32 Unauthorized Camping WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the regulatory requirements within this ordinance, which prohibit camping at all times on specific City properties but suspend enforcement on all other City properties if there is no available overnight shelter, are necessary to promote public health, safety and welfare by preserving public use of public spaces for which they are intended while balancing the needs and rights of unwillingly unsheltered individuals; NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BREMERTON, WASHINGTON, DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. Chapter 9.32 of the Bremerton Municipal Code entitled "Unauthorized Camping" is hereby amended to read as follows: Chapter 9.32 UNAUTHORIZED CAMPING 9.32.010 DEFINITIONS. The following definitions are applicable in this chapter unless the context otherwise requires: (a) “Available overnight shelter” means a public or private shelter, transitional housing, or outdoor encampment operated or permitted by the city, located within the city of Bremerton, that offers overnight shelter or camping space to persons experiencing homelessness and shelter staff confirms to a city employee that it has an available overnight space at no cost for that person; or if no such available overnight shelter is available within the city of Bremerton, public or private shelter, transitional housing, or an outdoor encampment operated or permitted by a public entity within Kitsap County provided shelter staff confirms to a city employee that it has an available overnight space at no cost for that person and that it is accessible to the person by public transportation or vehicle for hire at no cost for that person. If an individual or family unit cannot use an available accommodation because of the individual or family member’s sex, familial or marital status, religious beliefs, disability, or length-of-stay restrictions, the accommodation is not considered available. (ba) "Camp" means (1) to dwell, reside within or use camping facilities for temporary or permanent habitation or housing; and/or (2) to use camping paraphernalia. (cb) "Camping facilities" include, but are not limited to, recreational vehicles, motor vehicles, trailers, tents, huts, or temporary shelters. (dc) "Camping paraphernalia" includes, but is not limited to, tarpaulins, cots, beds, sleeping bags, hammocks, or non-City-designated cooking facilities and similar equipment. (ed) "Director" means any Director of a City of Bremerton department having authority over a public place or any other person authorized by the Mayor to exercise such authority or his or her designee. (fe) "Park" means and includes all City parks, public squares, park drives, parkways, boulevards, golf courses, park museums, zoos, bathing beaches, and play and recreation grounds under the jurisdiction of the City of Bremerton Parks and Recreation Department. (gf) "Public place" means and includes streets, ways, boulevards, sidewalks, planting or parking strips, shoulders, squares, triangles, rights-of-way, publicly owned parking lot or Page 3 of 5 BMC 9.32 Unauthorized Camping publicly owned area, improved or unimproved, and other public places appropriated to the public for public use, including buildings, structures and appurtenances situated thereon. (hg) "Recreational vehicle" means a travel trailer, motor home, truck camper, or camping trailer that is primarily designed and used as temporary living quarters, is either self- propelled or mounted on or drawn by another vehicle, is transient and is not immobilized or permanently affixed to a mobile home lot. (i) “Sidewalk” means any and all pedestrian structures or forms of improvement for pedestrians included in the space between the street margin, as defined by a curb or the edge of the traveled road surface, and the line where the public right-of-way meets the abutting property, as set forth in RCW 35.69.010. The term “sidewalk” includes but is not limited to curbs, gutters, and portions of driveways that cross sidewalks. (jh) "Store" means to put aside or accumulate for use when needed, to put for safekeeping, to place or leave in a location. (ki) "Street" means any highway, avenue, lane, road, street, drive, place, boulevard, alley, right-of-way, and every way or place in the City of Bremerton open as a matter of right to public vehicular travel. 9.32.020 UNAUTHORIZED CAMPING IN PUBLIC PLACES. (a) When overnight shelter is available, camping is prohibited on all City property. Except as permitted by permit pursuant to BMC 9.32.040 or as otherwise provided by City Code or ordinance, it shall be unlawful for any person to camp in any public place within the City. Enforcement of BMC 9.32.020(a) is suspended in all public places not listed in BMC 9.32.020(b) when overnight shelter is not available to the individual camping. (b) When overnight shelter is not available, camping is only prohibited on these City properties. Camping is prohibited at all times within public places with the uses defined in this subsection: (1) Any park, unless permitted by permit pursuant to BMC 9.32.040. This prohibition does not include the use of camping paraphernalia and camping facilities consistent with park rules established by the Parks Director at times parks are open to the public pursuant to BMC 13.04.150. (2) Public right-of-way including, but not limited to, streets, sidewalks and the space between streets and sidewalks. (3) City-owned buildings, parking lots, and appurtenances used to conduct the business of the city, including, but not limited to, City Hall, Bremerton Police Station, Bremerton Municipal Court, Bremerton Fire Stations, Bremerton Senior Center, Sheridan Park Community Center, and Gold Mountain Golf Course. (4) Properties owned by the city that are not open to the public and which are posted with signs prohibiting trespass. 9.32.030 UNAUTHORIZED STORAGE IN PUBLIC PLACES. (a) Except as permitted by permit pursuant to BMC 9.32.040, BMC 10.10, or as otherwise provided by City Code or ordinance, it shall be unlawful for any person to store, pitch or park camping facilities or to store or pitch camping paraphernalia in any park or other public Page 4 of 5 BMC 9.32 Unauthorized Camping place. Enforcement of BMC 9.32.030(a) is suspended in all public places not listed in BMC 9.32.020(b) when overnight shelter is not available to the individual camping. 9.32.040 PERMIT. (a) The Director is authorized, by permit, to allow persons to camp, occupy camping facilities, or use or store camping paraphernalia within or on any park or other public place that may be designated by the City for such use in the City of Bremerton subject to other applicable codes or ordinances. (b) The Director may approve a permit as provided under this section if the Director determines that: (1) Adequate trash receptacles, trash collection and sanitary facilities are available; (2) The camping activity will not unreasonably disturb or interfere with the peace, comfort, and repose of property owners in the area; and (3) The camping activity is not reasonably likely to provoke disorderly conduct or create a disturbance. (c) The Director may place terms and conditions on any permit as the Directorhe or she finds appropriate for the conditions considering the use and impacts of such use. (Ord. 4898 §1, 2004) 9.32.050 PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS. (a) Civil Infraction. A violation of any provision of this chapter shall constitute a civil infraction subject to a monetary penalty of one hundred twenty-five dollars ($2105.00). Each day, or a portion thereof, during which a violation occurs shall constitute a separate violation. (b) Habitual Violators - Misdemeanor. Any person, after receiving three or more infractions, singularly or in combination, for prior violations of this chapter within a two (2) year period found to be committed by the Municipal Court shall be guilty of a misdemeanor pursuant to BMC 1.12.020(2) upon a subsequent violation within said two (2) year period. A conviction of a misdemeanor under this subsection shall be considered and counted as an infraction for the purpose of determining whether or not a violator is a habitual violator. 9.32.060 RULES AND REGULATIONS. The Director may shall promulgate maps or lists demonstrating how the availability of shelter space impacts the enforcement of this code on City properties, and other rules and regulations the Directorhe or she deems necessary and appropriate to implement, administer and enforce this chapter. SECTION 2. Corrections. The City Clerk and codifiers of this ordinance are authorized to make necessary corrections to this ordinance including, but not limited to, the correction of scrivener, clerical, typographical, and spelling errors, references, ordinance numbering, section/subsection numbers and any references thereto. SECTION 3. Severability. If any one or more sections, subsections, or sentences of this ordinance are held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this ordinance and the same shall remain in full force and effect. Page 5 of 5 BMC 9.32 Unauthorized Camping SECTION 4. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect and be in force ten (10) days from and after its passage, approval and publication as provided by law. PASSED by the City Council the___________ day of ____________________, 20___. _________________________________ JEFF COUGHLIN, Council President Approved this ________ day of ________________________, 20___. _________________________________ GREG WHEELER, Mayor ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM: __________________________________ _________________________________ ANGELA HOOVER, City Clerk KYLIE J. FINNELL, City Attorney PUBLISHED the ________ day of ______________________, 20__. EFFECTIVE the ________ day of ______________________, 20__. ORDINANCE NO. ________. Published for September 6 Council Meeting 6B – Public Comments From: Jeff Coughlin <Jeff.Coughlin@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Thursday, August 31, 2023 1:18 PM To: Robin Luethe <r.l.luethe@gmail.com> Cc: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: tent locations for homeless Hi Robin, Thank you. I'm proud of the Council and our commitment to addresses this issue and to have spent over 5 meetings soliciting public input and converging on a reasonable middle ground for this issue. I am CC-ing Mayor Wheeler to respond that, if the City were to pursure a regulated encampment to address the lack of available shelter space, as permitted in the recent draft of the ordinance should it pass, would it include the items you've identified. Cheers, Jeff CC: Councilmembers -- This e-mail and further communication may be subject to public disclosure, if requested under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). From: Robin Luethe <r.l.luethe@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, August 31, 2023 11:47 AM To: Jeff Coughlin <Jeff.Coughlin@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: tent locations for homeless I was very pleased to read about the city's recent development for our homeless, and appreciate all you have done on this. I haven't seen, but assume porta-potties and trash bins will be close by. Another step which likely would benefit neighborhoods and those in the tent encampment is security cameras. Rob From: Holly Dains <holly.dains@bremertonschools.org> Sent: Thursday, August 31, 2023 6:48 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Camp Good morning, I realize there are homeless camps everywhere, I will continue to email as I see them becoming out of control. The one on MLK way is absolutely ridiculous. The new one I’m concerned about is the one on the east side of the Warren Ave, bridge, right hand side as you come off the bridge. I’m surprised the nursing home isn’t a bit concerned. Can anything be done to at least have them clean up their mess? Holly Dains Para Educator Bremerton School Dist. August 28, 2023 To Bremerton City Council Re: unauthorized camping Dear Council Members; I am a local home owner, cer�fied cri�cal care RN, former Bremerton business owner, and former Kitsap County Juvenile Deten�on Officer. I am wri�ng to express my concern regarding the unauthorized camping within the City of Bremerton. This leter describes two specific events near the unauthorized camp on Broadway and 7th, and my professional experience working with drug addicts as a registered nurse, and as a deten�on officer. Two months ago, on my way to work I stopped at Starbucks on 6th and Warren. As I was pulling into the parking lot from Broadway, I no�ced an infant car seat. In the car seat was what appeared to be an infant covered with blankets. I was afraid to exit my car! I am a nurse, and I was afraid to exit my vehicle to check to see if there was an abandoned baby. Was the car seat placed in the entrance to Starbucks, hoping that someone would exit their car? If a concerned ci�zen exited their car, would they be robbed or car jacked? I waited just a few minutes un�l another vehicle approached. The driver also saw the car seat and was concerned there was a baby in the car seat. I exited my car, with the other driver observing. Thankfully, it was just a doll that someone staged in the car seat in the middle of Starbuck’s drive thru. I moved the car seat out of the driveway area and no�fied the staff at Starbucks. Then last Friday, August 25th, I entered the Burger King parking lot off of Broadway. Along Broadway I counted approximately twenty tents. Inside one tent, there was a young man with curly hair, si�ng in a staddle posi�on on the ground, with his head bent forward. He was breathing deeply with his eyes open. He appeared to be under the influence of drugs. I did drive slowly past him, to observe that his respira�ons were slow, but regular (he did not appear to require medical aid). At the next tent, I saw a male and female (both between 25 to 35 years of age), entering and exi�ng. Then they approached a white Mitsubishi Gallant at the corner parking space of Burger King. As I pulled into the parking lot, I observed the male approach the car, and shake hands with someone res�ng against the car. The handshake was open handed, with the palms sliding, indica�ve of a drug deal. Then as I drove through the parking lot, I observed someone defeca�ng in a parking space! I expressed my concerns and sympathy with an employee of Burger King. I was told that they were down to two employees that day, and that they were afraid to open the lobby. As a cri�cal care nurse, I provide care to drug addicts on a daily basis. O�en, they are brought in by EMS as “John Doe”. Frequently, the pa�ent is “found down” requiring intuba�on and Narcan con�nuous infusion. Once extubated, the “John Does” are frequently violent with staff members. Unfortunately, many of the overdose pa�ents have chronic health condi�ons, ac�ve infec�ons, ac�ve infec�ous diseases, and acute mental health problems. Most of the “found down” pa�ents would benefit from con�nued hospitaliza�on to treat their illnesses. But providing care is a challenge. The pa�ents are o�en violent. On occasion the friends and family members begin to visit and smuggle drugs to the pa�ents. Many pa�ents verbalize they would like to seek treatment. Many have atended treatment for alcohol and drug addic�on mul�ple �mes. Pa�ents have stated to me that they have “walked out of treatment” several �mes, and some admit to using drugs and alcohol while in treatment. I have observed hospital social workers spending hours to secure a treatment bed, or housing op�on for pa�ents. But the pa�ents refuse treatment, refuse housing, and refuse services. I have even provided care to a pa�ent who was admited for an overdose, worked with social workers to secure a treatment bed, and the pa�ent self-discharged against medical advice before my shi� ended. Then, driving home from work, I have found the same pa�ent at a local grocery store, high on drugs and panhandling. As a Deten�on Officer, I worked with many excep�onal people in the secured facility, the deten�on school, and court services. One of my du�es was to work as the Intake Officer. In this posi�on, I would essen�ally “book” a juvenile detainee into the deten�on facility. Through the “intake process” youth detained in Kitsap County were screened for services including: medical, substance abuse, educa�on, and mental illness. The detained youth in Kitsap County receive excellent care and immediate help. From my experience with Kitsap County Juvenile Deten�on, and my experience working with local law enforcement for detained persons who are brought to the hospital for treatment, I can only infer the Kitsap County Jail also provides excellent services for detainees. Today I spoke with Mayor Greg Wheeler regarding proposed services for persons who are camping in the city of Bremerton. Among the changes discusses was making camping illegal. I understand Bremerton Council Members are proposing the campers be given no�ce to move three �mes, prior to being arrested. I would like the City Council Members to weigh the consequences of this sugges�on. First, who will be able to track the interac�ons with the unauthorized camper? Second, each �me an officer responds to a complaint regarding camping, that is �me the officer is not able to respond to other calls. Third, every �me an officer interacts with a homeless individual they are at risk. Every face-to-face interac�on with an individual who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, places the officer at risk. Please consider the safety of our law enforcement officers. Some�mes detaining someone for a minor criminal charge is a kindness, and a route to much needed services. Everyone in our community is concerned about the unauthorized camping. It is a challenge to support business, provide a safe place for residents, and provide services for persons who are homeless. I hope members of the Bremerton City Council, seek advice from experts in our community. I hope the Council Members seek advice from Kitsap County Correc�ons, Kitsap Sherriff’s Office, City of Bremerton Police, Bremerton Fire Department, Saint Michael Medical Center and Kitsap Mental Health. School is star�ng next week. Star of the Sea Catholic School is two blocks from this unauthorized camp. The Bremerton Dance Center is one block away. The Warren Ave. Football Field is three blocks away. The unauthorized camp is making our community unsafe for our youth. Sincerely, Mary E Schweiger RN, PCCN 1208 9th St Bremerton, WA 98337 From: Jennifer Chamberlin <Jennifer.Chamberlin@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2023 4:36 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; scottfont@gmail.com Cc: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; James Crawford <james.crawford@bremertonschools.org>; Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Jeff Elevado <Jeff.Elevado@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: Public Comments - Homeless Camp With Gas Grill 60' from Armin Jahr Elementary School (Reverend Scott Fontenot) Thank you all for checking in on this issue. I believe that this park and school fall in my district. However, what I understand about this space is that it is likely school district property. I have been in touch with a staff person from Barnacles & Bees who host after school learning on Wednesdays there during the school year. She has been in touch with a family that lives there and also informed me that she was in touch with law enforcement already who felt that "their hands were tied". My wondering is whether private property/trespassing laws can be enforced in this instance. It would be something that the school district might want to pursue if this space is, in fact on district property. My hope is that a behavioral health navigator is already involved so that this vulnerable family can find housing appropriate for the kiddos that seem to be homeless there, as well. Especially as this space is surely going to be waterlogged with the current rains. There is no ideal solution here. I appreciate the compassion that has been shown. Please let me know if there’s any way I can be of assistance. Jennifer Chamberlin Bremerton City Council Vice President District 1 From: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2023 1:29 PM To: scottfont@gmail.com <scottfont@gmail.com> Cc: Steven Forbragd <Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Rodney Rauback <Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Aaron Elton <Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mike Davis <Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Joseph Sexton <Joseph.Sexton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Hillary Hamilton <Hillary.Hamilton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Thomas Knuckey <Thomas.Knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Ned Lever <Ned.Lever@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Dave Carter <Dave.Carter@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Brett Jette <Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mychael Raya <Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Jennifer Hayes <Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: FW: Homeless Camp With Gas Grill 60' from Armhin Jahr Elementary School Dear Reverend Fontenot Thank you for your email and for taking the time to share your comments, questions, and concerns with me. Thank you also for attaching the pictures, that is always helpful! Included in my reply are officials from the City of Bremerton Police Department for their information and follow up regarding potential criminal activity. Hopefully, you and others will continue calling 911 when you suspect or witness a crime being committed. Regarding the camping you are witnessing, you may not be aware, but the city is now down to one shelter (which is full) since the Salvation Army closed. I am working with regional partners including Kitsap County to stand up another homeless shelter. We are working through multiple options and hope to have more information to share soon. This will remain a high priority until completed. City Council is also working on updating the city’s camping ordinance as the current one has been determined to be illegal by court rulings (9th Circuit). They are currently considering options for regulating time, place, and manner for camping and have been included in my reply. This is a high priority for them also. I realize this response does not make things immediately better, so I understand your frustration. You have my commitment to stay on this. In the meantime, besides officials from the City of Bremerton Police Department, I am including officials from the Public Works, and Legal Departments in my reply for their information. Take care, I hope you enjoy the rest of your day. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Scott Fontenot <scottfont@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2023 12:56 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Homeless Camp With Gas Grill 60' from Armhin Jahr Elementary School Dear Mayor Wheeler, Thank you for your work caring for our community and city. I was walking in Community Garden/Blueberry Park and took the trail that leads to Armin Jahr ElementarySchool. I found that a homeless camp is set up there, not more than 60' away from the school. There is a gas grill! My children and grandchildren were or are attending the school, yet few parents are aware of this according to my daughter. I served as Pastor of Hillcrest Church, a relatively large church with 300 attendees, the barn on a hill, across from Wal Mart. 16 years serving our community. We were part of starting the men's shelter and abused women safe houses. I care for folks hurting Mr Mayor. But this brings me extreme displeasure. I have contacted the police, fire and superintendent of schools. With no response I will make the Armin Jahr PTA aware. School starts tomorrow! Thank you for attending to this obvious danger to our children. I am confident in your leadership sir! I trust you will promptly send the necessary agents of our city to investigate this. Thank you! Rev. S. Scott Fontenot scottfont@gmail.com 360.471.3631 From:jane Rebelowski To:City Council; Greg Wheeler Subject:Camping ordinance ( distribute to all Councilors) Date:Friday, August 25, 2023 10:24:29 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. I would like to thank the City Council and City Attorney for taking the time to craft an ordinance that recognizes the needs of our community. Once surplus land is identified as suitable for camping ( minimum of two locations) I hope you move forward with adoption of revised ordinance. A special thanks to Councilor Mockler for leading the Audit Committee to identify surplus properties that can be used for both temporary housing and construction of actual affordable housing in the near future. Jane Rebelowski 1445 17th St 98337 Sent from my iPhone From:Mary Lou Long To:City Council; Greg Wheeler Subject:Post from Jonathan Choe Journalist (Seattle) (@choeshow) Date:Thursday, August 24, 2023 8:56:55 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Jonathan Choe Journalist (Seattle) (@choeshow) posted at 7:03 PM on Wed, Aug 23, 2023: GAME OVER: Wednesday morning, city crews finally moved in to clear the notorious Mercer St encampment in Seattle's South Lake Union hood. This camp's been blamed for assaults, open air drug use, thefts, shootings, fires, rapes, and an unsolved murder. The good neighbors at the… https://t.co/XBpTI1kCvU (https://twitter.com/choeshow/status/1694530802170892475?t=bQND9GHBsW6JgZO- f0jWEg&s=03) From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: City Council Delaine1939@comcast.net City Council; Kylie Finnell; Greg Wheeler; Harold Delos Reyes, General Manager, Impark FW: Public Comment - Mitel voice message from +13605511350 (Delaine Rutt) Thursday, August 24, 2023 3:45:00 PM SEPTEMBER 6, 2023 - COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA.pdf Ms. Rutt, This is to acknowledge the voicemail message you left at the City Council Office. It was a pleasure to speak with you, and I want to let you know that I am sharing your concerns with the Council Members and Mayor Wheeler. I understand that you manage property at McKenzie & MLK Way, which you said you have done for over 20-years. I also understand you are very concerned about the growing homeless encampment on MLK Way. And you hope the City can do something about it due to the frustration and fear experienced by you and your tenants. Your comments will also be included as a part of the record for the “Proposed Ordinance to amend BMC Chapter 9.32 entitled “Unauthorized Camping”, which is scheduled for consideration by the Council Members at their next Council Meeting on September 6, 2023. I have attached the Agenda for your convenience, and invite you to attend the Council Meeting either in person, or by Zoom (see instruction on the Agenda). Lastly, I also understand your specific issue about a blue car that you said frequently parks for days at a time in a spot marked “2-hours”, so I have also included a copy of this email for Impark to review. Thank you for taking the time to contact the City Council, and for sharing your concerns. Lori Smith Legislative Office Manager Bremerton City Council (360) 473-5280 www.BremertonWA.gov From: Mitel Voice Mail <shoretel@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:30 PM To: Lori Smith <Lori.Smith@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Mitel voice message from +13605511350 for mailbox 5280 You have received a voice mail message from +13605511350 for mailbox 5280. Message length is 00:00:11. Message size is 90 KB. From:Carl E Borg To:Greg Wheeler; cotedazure1986@gmail.com; City Council; Kylie Finnell Cc:Doug Washburn Subject:Re: Request for plan to address homeless crisis (Amanda Clark) Date:Thursday, August 24, 2023 11:04:24 AM Attachments:Outlook-53aaqqyz.png 2019 Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan - APPROVED 11 25 19.pdf Kitsap AH Recommendations Report - FINAL (1).pdf Countys response to encampment 9-2022 .pdf CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mayor Wheeler, I have enclosed the county plans that address the questions. We will be updating the counties homelessness plan later this year. I am available to answer any questions. I was online last night and can be online for the next city council meeting. Carl Carl Borg Housing and Homelessness Program Manager Kitsap County Department of Human Services Housing and Homelessness Division ph: (360) 979-6027 ceborg@kitsap.gov Webpage: Housing and Homelessness Division CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT - This message contains information that may be confidential per RCW 13.50.050, HIPAA-HITECH Act or 42CFR, Part2. If this message was sent to you in error, any use, disclosure, or distribution of its contents is prohibited. If you receive this message in error, please contact me at the email address listed above and delete this message without printing, copying, or forwarding it. Thank you HEADING HOME Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan 2019 Update Approved 11/25/19 Kitsap County Department of Human Services Note: This is a Compliance Update to meet new Washington State Dept. of Commerce requirements. Changes from the 2018 Plan were made only in these sections: Action Plan – Detail Matrix, Appendix D, and Appendix E. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update DRAFT 2 Table of Contents Executive Summary ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3 Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5 Crisis and Response …………………………………………………………………………………………………….... 9 A Housing Affordability Crisis ….………………………………………………………………………….. 9 Progress and Innovation ……………………………………………………………………………………… 11 Current Resources ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 15 Kitsap Homelessness Today ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 17 Action Plan Needs, Gaps, Core Strategies, and Action Areas …….…………………………………………… 25 Action Plan Detail Matrix: Goals, Core Strategies, and Action Steps ………………….. 32 Defining and Documenting Success ………………………………………………………………………………… 41 Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 43 Appendices …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 44 Acknowledgements Thanks to the many people and organizations that provided input and supported this effort to update the Plan, including citizens, mayors, city council members, social service providers, and people experiencing homelessness. 0BKitsap County Board of Commissioners Robert Gelder, Chair Charlotte Garrido Ed Wolfe Homeless Housing Plan Update Committee Kirsten Jewell, Housing and Homelessness Division Coordinator, Kitsap County Human Services (Chair) Monica Bernhard, Community Services and Development Manager, Kitsap Mental Health Services Bridget Callahan, Housing Solutions Center Manager, Kitsap Community Resources Marta Holt, Property Manager and Homeshare Administrator, Housing Resources Bainbridge Beverly Kincaid, Partner & Grant Professional, Sound Resources NW Sheryl Piercy, Social Services Director, Salvation Army Sandra Paulino-Winborn, Financial Services Specialist 4, DSHS Sean Raybell, Housing Specialist, Department of Corrections Sarah Van Cleve, Housing Director, Bremerton Housing Authority 1BKitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition Member Agencies Agape Unlimited Kitsap Legal Services Beacon Communities Kitsap Mental Health Services Brain Injury Alliance of Washington Kitsap Public Health District Bremerton Foodline Kitsap Recovery Center Bremerton Housing Authority Kitsap Rescue Mission Bremerton School District Kitsap Transit Catholic Community Services Meals on Wheels Kitsap Catholic Housing Services - Max Hale Center North Kitsap Fishline City of Bremerton CDBG Program Olive Crest Coffee Oasis Crime Victim Assistance Center Parent-Child Assistance Program Peninsula Community Health DSHS – Bremerton CSO R W Martin Youth Services Goodwill Industries Salish Behavioral Health Organization Habitat for Humanity of Kitsap County Society of St. Vincent de Paul Helpline House – Bainbridge Island The Salvation Army House of Hope Ministries Sound Resources NW Housing Kitsap South Kitsap Helpline Housing Resources Bainbridge StandUp for Kids Kingston Cares United Way of Kitsap County Kitsap Community Resources WA Department of Veteran’s Affairs Kitsap County CDBG Grant Program WA Employment Security Department Kitsap County Aging and Long Term Care Weaver Foundation ~ Georgia’s House Kitsap County Housing & Homelessness Div. West Sound Free Clinic Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office West Sound Treatment Center Kitsap County Veteran’s Assistance Program West Sound Youth for Christ Kitsap Interfaith Network YWCA of Kitsap County HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 3 Executive Summary The Kitsap Homeless Housing Plan contains data and information collected in 2017 and 2018, as noted. It was updated during 2018 and approved by the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners on May 23, 2018. The 2019 Update was approved November 25, 2019, as noted in Appendix E. Response to Dept of Commerce Guidelines. History Historically there had been no statewide, integrated approach to homelessness in Washington. House Bill 2163, passed in 2005, attempted to remedy this situation by requiring each county to develop a homeless housing plan, providing a funding source through document recording fees to directly address the goals identified in these plans, and outlining reporting requirements. Subsequent changes to the legislation have added funding and changed requirements. Most recently, legislation passed in March 2018 increased the amount of funding available, specified additional performance and reporting requirements, and changed required components for homeless housing plans. Progress Since Last Plan Action Steps identified in the 2016 Plan and implemented during the last two years resulted in significant shifts in the homeless crisis response system to: 1) Target prevention to those most needy and divert people from experiencing homelessness as much as possible, 2) Identify and prioritize serving the most vulnerable people experiencing homelessness, including expanding street outreach and providing more immediate and accessible shelter beds, 3) Increase alternative housing options, 4) Improve system efficiency and efficacy by using performance measures and evidence-based practices, and 5) Improve communication with the public about homelessness. The 2018 Plan builds on these accomplishments to further improve the Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response System. Development of this Plan The Kitsap Homeless Housing Plan Update Committee, a subcommittee of the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition (formerly called the Kitsap Continuum of Care Coalition), a network of homeless services and affordable housing providers, worked extensively with Kitsap County Human Services Housing and Homelessness Division staff to analyze the needs of people experiencing homelessness in Kitsap County by reviewing the Homeless Point In Time count data, Homeless Management Information System data, results from a survey of community members and providers, a survey of people experiencing homelessness, a stakeholders workshop, meetings with elected officials, and review of national evidence-based practices. The Plan includes data analysis, a needs assessment, coordination and linkage of resources to avoid duplications, and identification of community-wide collaborative approaches. The included Action Plan is intended to address homelessness by promoting a continuum of housing and support services that augment individual and family stability, resiliency, and economic independence. This Plan is intended to complement the 2016-2020 CDBG/HOME Consolidated Plan (HUD), the Kitsap County Comprehensive Plan, the Challenge to End Veteran Homelessness Plan, and other local plans that address homelessness and affordable housing. The Plan has been updated every 3-4 years to respond to changes in legislative and policy requirements, changing availability of homeless services, evidence-based practices, completion of identified action steps, and identification of new focus areas. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 4 Scope of the Plan This plan addresses issues of homelessness throughout Kitsap County, including: • Information about progress made since the last plan was approved, • Current demographics of homelessness in Kitsap, • Resources available, • Current needs and gaps, and • An Action Plan that outlines specific action steps that will be undertaken over the next 3-5 years. Plan Goals The overall goal of the Plan is to work together as a community to make homelessness a rare, brief, and one time occurrence in Kitsap County through an efficient and effective homeless response system. The Action Plan is comprised of five Goals, each with supporting Core Strategies and New Action Steps, which will be used over the next five years to address homelessness. Each Goal also includes Performance Indicators of Success. 1) Make homelessness rare (prevention strategies). 2) Make homelessness brief (crisis response strategies). 3) Make homelessness one-time (ensure long-term housing stability strategies). 4) Continuously improve the homeless response system (increase capacity and efficiency strategies). 5) Expand community engagement (leadership, planning, and communication strategies). Gaps and New Action Focus Areas Needs and gaps in the homeless crisis response system have been identified, with specific new action steps, timelines, and responsible parties identified to address them: • Implement discharge planning for homeless individuals entering the community from jails, correctional facilities, foster care, hospitals, and behavioral health systems of care • Encourage development of affordable housing and alternative housing models through incentives and policy changes • Introduce diverse housing types to meet various needs and income levels. For example: o Add 120 low-barrier night-by-night shelter beds and alternative shelter options (tiny houses, safe parks, etc.) throughout the County o Add 15 respite care shelter beds for people with medical needs that are not able to be supported in other shelters o Add 60-80 Permanent Supportive Housing units for people with long-term behavioral health and physical health issues that create challenges to stable housing • Focus on tenancy supports and employment/education connections, including the new Medicaid Transformation Project Supported Housing and Supported Employment benefits • Expand the use of performance measures and data to ensure the most efficient use of public funds • Implement trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices • Expand leadership, accountability, and opportunities for community education and volunteering It is important to note that this plan does not attempt to specifically identify strategies and actions to increase the number of affordable housing units. An Affordable Housing Task Force and Affordable Housing Inventory and Needs report are part of the Action Plan, which will provide leadership and data to develop a separate plan to address this critical need. The Plan in its entirety is available online at https://www.kitsapgov.com/hs/Pages/HH-Housing-and-Homelessness-Landing.aspx HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 5 Introduction Homelessness Among our Neighbors Here in Kitsap County, homelessness is not as visible as it may be on the streets of Seattle, but it affects hundreds of people directly, every day, right here in our urban and rural communities. These are our friends, neighbors, co- workers, and community members. According to the 2018 Point In Time Homeless Count, on any given day there are estimated to be more than 450 people living on the streets, in vehicles, and in the woods of Kitsap County, in shelters, and in transitional housing. Homelessness happens to people of all ages, genders, education levels, races, income levels, and household types. It happens to good people in our community who work hard to be self-sufficient but live on the brink of economic instability. Health issues, poor credit, job loss, family break-up, domestic violence, mental illness or substance use disorders can also push people into homelessness. Whatever the underlying reason for their homelessness, they are in crisis. Visible or hidden, everyone deserves a safe and decent place to live. History of Homelessness Homelessness was a relatively rare phenomenon until the 1980s, when many economic and social changes converged to cause its dramatic rise. These changes included: • Lack of growth in real earnings for those with low incomes, • Growing scarcity of appropriate affordable housing, • Demolition of old buildings that provided inexpensive Single Room Occupancy (SRO) opportunities, and • Closing of institutions (i.e. beds at Western State Hospital) that had long served individuals with mental illnesses. The number of homeless families and individuals continued to rise during the 1990s. Factors included: • On-going deinstitutionalization of persons with mental illness without the development of adequate community-based housing and appropriate support services, • Reduction of living wage jobs due to foreign outsourcing and modernizing technology, • Rise of a service economy with low paying jobs, and • Flat and/or reduced spending on social programs at the state and federal level. More recently, the Great Recession of 2007—2009 created the highest unemployment rates in decades, resulting in fewer workers employed, a decline in earned income, fluctuating rents, an increase in home foreclosures, and a reduction in state and federal funding for need-based assistance programs. These factors pushed many low-income households, and even some middle-income families, into crisis, including homelessness. Spectrum of Services at Coffee Oasis Spark Charlie’s Hope Street Hope, Coffee Oasis’ Street and School Outreach program found Charlie, age 19, as he exited Renaissance Alternative High School due to lack of stable housing. Charlie’s parents’ addictions to methamphetamines had torn the family apart and his sister was placed in Child Protective Services. Once connected to Coffee Oasis, Charlie’s relationship with the Program’s director blossomed. During that time his father entered an Oxford House to support his addiction recovery. Soon Charlie entered Coffee Oasis’ Partnering Hope program to support his goals of getting a driver’s license, completing his education at Renaissance High School and working with his dad to secure housing in order to bring his sister back into the family. Next steps brought Charlie into Coffee Oasis’ HOPE INC job training program, resulting in an internship, and eventually a permanent job at the YMCA. Also, following monitored weekly visits, Charlie’s sister was returned to the care of Charlie’s dad, who secured employment and rented a three-bedroom home that the three now live as a family unit. Sadly, Charlie’s mom has not overcome her addictions. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 6 Causes of Homelessness Today, many of our community’s low-income households are at-risk of becoming homeless – often a single paycheck away from losing their housing. Many individuals lack education and job skills to be prepared to compete for living-wage jobs, have an insufficient personal safety net to successfully weather temporary or chronic adversity, and may have limited options for improving their situation. Ultimately, they lose hope for a future that envisions economic self-sufficiency and social resiliency. While economic problems and evictions are often the final event leading to homelessness, individuals with serious behavioral health issues are particularly vulnerable. They are often unable to maintain a job (or if they do, it is at very low pay), have difficulty managing medicines appropriately and rely on multiple services to sustain self- sufficiency. Others at risk are members of dysfunctional households who are often victims of domestic violence, runaway or abandoned youth or youth who have aged out of foster care, large families, or veterans who have been negatively impacted by the traumas of war. The combination of rising housing costs, limited income, and a severe shortage of affordable housing are other major factors leading to homelessness. The issue of homelessness is evident across Kitsap County. Ultimately, homelessness is a result of other societal factors that create financial instability and inability to afford housing: lack of affordable housing, inter-generational poverty, expensive health care costs, lack of living-wage jobs, lack of education and training, severe mental illness, and substance use disorders. Addressing homelessness is, necessarily, working backwards attempting to fix the condition (homelessness) and then providing individualized social supports to address the underlying social issues facing each individual household. Social Impact of Homelessness: The Cost of Doing Nothing Homelessness not only has huge impacts on the individuals experiencing it, it is also expensive for our community. Homelessness almost always escalates an already unstable family situation. Youth and adults with mental illness or drug and alcohol problems get worse when they do not have stable housing to get the behavioral and/or medical attention they need. Homelessness costs our community in other ways, as well. Each year, Kitsap County residents’ tax dollars are spent caring for homeless people through our emergency services – including 911, emergency rooms and clinics, law enforcement, fire and rescue units, jails, detoxification programs, public health system, the judiciary system and more. Homelessness has a particularly troubling impact on children. Homeless children often are impacted by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) resulting in impediments to growth and development and overall weak performance in school. Numerous studies have found that housing instability and homelessness lower academic performance, increase the chances of repeating a grade, and reduce high school completion rates. Homelessness also puts children at greater risk of serious physical health problems.0F 1 All of these factors contribute to perpetuating the cycle of homelessness. Homeless adults have a hard time gaining employment and holding a job. Evictions and foreclosures hurt landlords, banks, and neighborhoods. Law enforcement spends countless hours responding to complaints about illegal camping and illegal overnight parking. 1 The Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, Report: Recession Could Cause Large Increases in Poverty and Push Millions into Deep Poverty, 11/24/08. Downhill Slide, Then Hope In his mid-30’s, Tom, who had a long history of using and selling cocaine, arrived at Benedict House, a Kitsap shelter and transitional residence for men. He had worked as a truck driver for most of his life but had a serious accident that crushed his right hand making it impossible to continue driving. Lost, injured, homeless, and stigmatized, Tom ended up at the Benedict House. Tom’s case manager was able to help him access an orthopedic specialist to perform restorative surgery on his hand. Tom is making excellent progress as a result of the restorative surgeries and therapy that he is receiving, while concurrently participating in a 12-Step program to curb his addiction. Tom has been accepted into permanent housing at Catholic Housing Services Max Hale Center and will now live independently. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 7 Cost studies around the nation, however, have proven that many of these individuals and households can succeed in transitioning back to stable housing, and often self-sufficiency, if they access appropriate supportive services. Once housed, their use of emergency services declines sharply as family or individual’s stability improves. The result: a decrease in expenses for society, and a more livable community for all of us.1F 2 (1) 2010 Kaiser State Health Facts (2) Washington State Prison, 2016 (3) Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office, 2017 (4)(6)(7)(8) Washington State Department of Commerce, State Homeless Housing System Overview (5) 1811 East Lake Project, Seattle, DESC. Although implementing the Kitsap Homeless Housing Plan will require significant community investment, it will not cost our community as much as continuing to try to manage homelessness indirectly through law enforcement, emergency services, and less effective temporary solutions over the years to come. History of the Plan This plan is part of a national movement to end homelessness. As part of that national effort, Washington State passed legislation in 2005 (ESSHB 2163), and subsequent legislation in later years, mandating that each county focus on reducing homelessness. Each county is required to (1) develop and periodically update a Homeless Housing Plan, (2) collect funds to pay for its implementation through a document recording surcharge at the county Auditor level, (3) collect data about homeless households and the services they receive to evaluate progress, and (4) coordinate efforts among homeless service providers. The Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition developed the first Kitsap Homeless Housing Plan, which was approved by the Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council in December 2005. Since that time, the Plan has been updated every three to four years. 2018 Plan Update The picture of homelessness and the body of research about the most effective ways to help people regain housing stability have changed rapidly. Since the first Plan in 2005 many new strategies have been implemented, the landscape of providers has changed, we have much better data about our homeless households, and new evidence-based practices have been developed and replicated around the country. While the original 2005 legislative mandate was to “reduce homelessness by 50% by 2015”, there is now a more sophisticated understanding of the causes of homelessness. The goal in Kitsap now, and nationwide, is to make homelessness rare, brief, and a one-time event. Until the underlying social issues that lead people to become homeless are addressed, the homeless crisis response system’s role is to prevent homelessness whenever possible and help people quickly regain stable housing and overcome their barriers to sustaining that housing. 2 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Medicaid and Supportive Housing for Chronically Homeless Individuals: Literature Synthesis and Environmental Scan, Martha Burt, Carol Wilkins and Danna Mauch, 1/6/11 $98 $99 $44 $37 $29 $25 $15 $0 $20 $40 $60 $80 $100 $120 Washington State Prison (2) Kitsap County Jail (3) Transitional Housing (4) Housing First/Permanent Supportive Housing (5) Emergency Shelter (6) Rapid Rehousing/Rental Assistance (7) Homelessness Prevention (8) Approximate Cost of Housing Types per Day Washington State and Local Gov’t Hospitals (1) $2,689/day HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 8 For this latest update, the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition formed an Ad hoc Homeless Housing Plan Update Committee to oversee the process of updating the plan to reflect the current situation. One objective of this update is to focus on gaps in what’s currently being provided and offer specific goals and strategies to fill them. Another objective is to incorporate strategic thinking about what is needed over the next three to five years to continue the progress effectively addressing homelessness in Kitsap County. Input for the plan was gathered from a broad range of sources: • Point in Time Count data, • Homeless Management Information System data, • Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition members through survey of service providers, • Community members through a survey and a stakeholder workshop, • Individuals experiencing homelessness through a survey, • Meetings with elected officials, and • Other plans and evidence-based practices from around the country. This Plan includes three substantive sections: • A Progress Report, which briefly discusses progress made in addressing homelessness since the last Plan update, and outlines the current homeless response system and resources available; • The State of Homelessness, which provides a review of data and statistics regarding homelessness in Kitsap in 2017; and • The Action Plan, including the current needs and gaps, as well as goals, core strategies, and new action steps that our community should undertake to address homelessness over the next three to five years. Although these sections overlap, each can “stand alone,” presenting relevant information on a single aspect of homelessness in Kitsap. Collectively, these sections complete the picture of what will be required to make homelessness rare, brief, and one-time. Purpose of the Plan The Homeless Housing Plan Update Committee identified three main purposes of the plan, in addition to fulfilling the legislative mandate: • Blueprint for Implementation: A clear and concise agreement about the community’s plan to reduce homelessness. • Tool for Advocacy: An informational focal point to inspire local advocacy and leadership to embrace homelessness as a priority for action. • Reference for Funders: An articulation of the community’s priorities for funding, ensuring that these priorities meet the Federal, State, and local requirements that the funded programs are in alignment with the community’s homelessness plan. The plan lays out broad goals and strategies to guide government, non-profit agencies, and other partners to achieve the desired outcomes necessary to reduce homelessness and create community impact. Future Plan Updates The Homeless Housing Plan Update Committee recommends updating the plan periodically to reflect the changing factors that affect homelessness, recent successes in reducing homelessness, new innovations in homeless housing programs, as well as new legislation. The plan should be updated every three to five years, or as required by the Washington State Department of Commerce. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 9 Crisis and Response The past decade has been challenging for many Kitsap County citizens, as the value of their wages has diminished, the number of households living in poverty has risen, and the lack of affordable housing has affected many households, resulting in housing instability and homelessness. In response, Kitsap’s social service providers have created a homeless crisis response system to meet the growing demand, with more beds and units available even in the face of diminishing state and federal resources. Together this “Continuum of Care” has been recognized by the Washington State Department of Commerce as a leader in implementing major changes in the way people are assisted to regain housing stability. However, barriers and gaps still exist that impede progress toward the goal of making homelessness rare, brief, and one-time. A HOUSING AFFORDABLITY CRISIS Although Kitsap’s economy is recovering, mirroring positive economic forecasts around the state, those households at the lowest income levels are still struggling to find and maintain stable housing. Affordable Housing Shortage The gap between incomes and the cost of available housing pushes many people into homelessness, particularly in a market like Kitsap where housing prices rise faster than incomes. A 2017 report by the Washington State Department of Commerce shows that increasing rents is the largest driver of homelessness in Washington State.2F 3 National research indicates that every $100 increase in rent is associated with an increase in homelessness of 6% in metro areas and 32% in non-metro areas.3F 4 Kitsap County includes both. At the end of first quarter 2018, the average rent per unit in Kitsap County was $1,323. The average unit rent increased $128 (10.7%) from the prior year and $424 (47%) since the beginning of 2014. Vacancy rates have fallen from 10.12% at the beginning of 2013 to below 5% for the last several years. Vacancy rates were 5.2% at the end of first quarter 2018. 4F 5 Vacancy rates can also fluctuate due to changes in Naval Base Kitsap personnel levels. Housing is considered “affordable” when it costs no more than 30% of household income. Kitsap housing costs are well beyond the affordability of low-income households, particularly households with children, where an adult must provide childcare5F 6: • In 2017 affordable rent for a person earning minimum wage ($11.00) was $572. 3 “Why is homelessness increasing?”, Washington State Department of Commerce, Housing Assistance Unit, 2017 4 Journal of Urban Affairs, New Perspectives on Community-Level Determinants of Homelessness, 2012 5 Apartment Insights Washington, 2018 6 National Alliance to End Homelessness, Out of Reach Report, Kitsap County, 2017. $33.42 $28.54 $19.98 $15.44 $12.67 $11.94 $11.00 Housing Wage for Four Bedroom Housing Wage for Three Bedroom Housing Wage for Two Bedroom Housing Wage for One Bedroom Housing Wage for Zero Bedroom Mean Renter Wage Minium Wage Out of Reach Report -Kitsap County 20179 0.00% 2.00% 4.00% 6.00% 8.00% 10.00% 12.00% $0 $200 $400 $600 $800 $1,000 $1,200 $1,400 Kitsap Rent/Unit and Vacancy Rates Avg Rent/Unit Vacancy Rate HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 10 • In Kitsap, the estimated mean renter wage was $11.94; making $621 an affordable rent with a single wage- earner. • However, in Kitsap the fair market rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom apartment was $1,039 (statewide: $1,229). The annual household income needed to make this affordable was $41,560, or $19.98 per hour. • For a household of any size earning 30% or less of Area Median Income ($23,130), affordable rent would be no more than $578. • For households receiving a disability payment through Supplemental Security Income (SSI) ($781/month), they can afford rent of only $234. The Eviction Lab at Princeton University recently released data showing that Kitsap County had about one eviction per day in 2016 (357 evictions), a 1.09% eviction rate, nearly double the .58% eviction rate in 2014 (187 evictions). 6F 7 As rents increase and households are unable to keep up with the cost of housing, evictions are an inevitable result. In addition, a 2015 Washington State Housing Needs Assessment revealed that for Kitsap County, there are only 12 affordable and available housing units for every 100 households earning less than 30% of the Median Family Income (about $22,500).7F 8 Declining Value of Wages Nationally, statewide, and locally, the value of wages has not kept pace with inflation and the cost of goods and housing. In 2017 in Washington, a minimum wage worker earned an hourly wage of $11.00 and the average wage earned by Kitsap renter households was $11.94, however those wages are not nearly sufficient to afford housing and other basic needs.8F 9 In addition, in Washington State households with the lowest 30% of income pay the highest proportion of taxes than in any other state due to the state’s regressive tax system which results in a greater tax burden on the poor.9F 10 Rising Poverty Rates According to community health indicators prepared by the Kitsap Public Health District, more of our Kitsap neighbors are experiencing poverty than ever before10F 11: • 10% of residents are living below the Federal poverty level (2015), an increase from 8% in 2005. • 9% of youth are living below the Federal poverty level (2015), an increase from 6% in 2005. • 31% (2015) of households are spending more than 30% of income on housing, similar to 32% in 2005. 7 2018 Eviction Lab data, Princeton University 8 2015 Washington State Housing Needs Assessment. 9 MIT Living Wage Calculator, Kitsap County, 2017. 10 Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, 2015 Report 11 Kitsap Public Health District, Public Health Indicators, September 2017. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 11 Other Causes of Homelessness The lack of income to pay for housing is a result of the breakdown of other social factors, such as economic security, employment, education, and the health care system. The Great Recession that began in 2007 had a huge impact on economic and housing factors that affect homelessness. The effects of the Great Recession still affect many households today. The resulting economic instability, foreclosure, unemployment, insufficient outreach to some of the most vulnerable citizens including veterans, loss of retirement and savings, and loss of health benefits forced an unprecedented number of households into homelessness. Many of these households were not previously considered to be at risk of homelessness, but were affected by prolonged unemployment, foreclosure, or rising health care costs. Mental health, substance use disorders, and physical health issues are a factor in a large number of households’ homelessness. Inadequate resources to address their needs is a significant challenge today. Another key reason for homelessness is discharges from other systems of care, such as jail, foster care, and health care systems. During the Summer 2017 Point in Time Count, surveys collected in the Kitsap County Jail revealed that 43% of inmates had involvement with homelessness in the past or anticipated upon release. Of these, 67% were homeless immediately prior to jail and 78% expected to be homeless upon release. With so many of our neighbors living on the edge of housing instability, small crises are often the tipping point leading to homelessness. These crises are often related to loss of employment or financial hardship, physical or mental health issues, being discharged from other systems of care (jail/prison, foster care, physical or mental health), substance use disorders, or family break-ups11F 12. In addition, emerging research shows the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on the physical and behavioral health of adults, increasing the likelihood of homelessness. PROGRESS AND INNOVATION When individuals or families are in danger of becoming homeless, or have already lost their housing, the goal is to get them into housing and provide services that best meet their needs as quickly as possible. This “homeless crisis response system” involves many organizations, a diverse set of programmatic tools, and multiple funding sources. Twelve years after the originating legislation, Kitsap has made progress in many areas, adding emergency housing beds, expanding outreach, and supportive services and programs. Action Steps identified in the 2016 Plan called for a significant shift in the homeless crisis response system to: 1) Divert people from experiencing homelessness and target prevention to those most needy 2) Identify and prioritize serving the most vulnerable people experiencing homelessness, including expanding street outreach and providing additional immediate shelter beds 3) Increase short-term and long-term alternative housing options 4) Improve system efficiency by using performance measures and evidence-based practices, and 5) Improve communication with the public about homelessness. 12 2018 Kitsap Point in Time Count 19% 37% 10% 34% 25% 14% 0%10%20%30%40% Family Conflict Health Issues/Mental Health Discharged from Systems Job Loss/Unable to Work Eviction/Loss of Housing Substance Use 2018 Point in Time -Causes of Homelessness HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 12 Below are highlighted significant changes or accomplishments since the last update of the Homeless Housing Plan for 2016 – a lot was accomplished in 2 ½ years! Prevention and Diversion The most cost-effective way to decrease homelessness is to intervene before individuals and families lose their housing. Often, a household on the brink of homelessness can avert the crisis with a small amount of financial support and the necessary supportive services to regain financial stability. Contrast this minimal cost for prevention with the immense cost to the family, social service agencies, and the community when individuals or families become homeless. By focusing on diversion and prevention, we can effectively reduce homelessness. The Housing Solutions Center of Kitsap County (HSC, opened in 2012) is our coordinated entry program, a single point of entry where all residents seeking assistance with housing or homeless services are welcomed, assessed, and referred to appropriate housing and resources for which they are eligible. The HSC also keeps a community- wide emergency housing waitlist. In mid-2016, the HSC launched a more robust diversion component to the intake process, working with each client to determine ways to avoid going into shelter if other options are available – such as family and friend resources, employment supports, or assistance negotiating with landlords. Prevention programs were re-oriented to focus on identifying households that had the least other resources available to them, were the most vulnerable, or the least likely to be able to help themselves. Prevention was also targeted to those who would be successful after a one-time infusion of rental assistance. Therapeutic court diversion programs were expanded in Kitsap over the last several years to identify good candidates for alternative sentencing and supportive services to help people get treatment for underlying behavioral issues and keep them out of jail and prison where these issues would not be addressed. There are now therapeutic courts for mental health, substance use, and veterans. The HSC also launched a Steps to Housing program, which provides a weekly drop-in opportunity for households concerned about housing stability to easily get connected with resources. Prevention and Diversion • Housing Solutions Center implemented a Diversion Program • Prevention programs focused on most needy • Therapeutic courts expanded and divert people with behavioral health issues from jail • Steps to Housing program provides easy one-stop connection with resources HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 13 Identifying and Prioritizing the Most Vulnerable Both philosophically and financially, it makes sense to focus on helping those in our community who are most at-risk of harm living on the street and/or least able to help themselves – we often refer to people in these situations as “most vulnerable.” Since its inception, the homeless crisis response system has, by default, focused resources on those who could seek resources and advocate for themselves. Programs prioritized households who were thought to have the best outcomes for the least amount of investment. However, this has meant that people at the other end of the spectrum have been neglected in the system and this has contributed to extending their homelessness. In response to directives from the Department of Commerce and a growing recognition of this problem locally, the 2016 Kitsap Homeless Housing Plan began to shift the system to identify and prioritize the hardest to serve individuals – focusing efforts to bring the services to the people who need it most. The HSC began experimenting with vulnerability assessment tools – giving incoming households an additional screening tool to determine their capacity in various areas. This screening results in a vulnerability index score, which assists with determining who is prioritized for shelter and housing program placement. Through trying various vulnerability index tools, the HSC has developed and implemented a customized tool for Kitsap. In addition, the HSC has expanded outreach to the Bremerton ferry terminal, select libraries, and the Kitsap County Jail. The Coffee Oasis, our primary youth homelessness provider, launched a jail outreach program for young adults, and West Sound Treatment Center started a jail outreach program for people who are seeking treatment for substance use disorders upon discharge. The Kitsap Rescue Mission has stepped up to be a key organization in outreach to encampments, as well as opening a day room program for people to have a safe and welcoming place to go during the day. Building on a program launched many years ago by the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition and the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management (DEM), the Severe Weather Shelter (SWS) program was greatly expanded in the last two years. The SWS program relies on host organizations to supply volunteers to open shelter beds in churches and community centers when the DEM determines that inclement weather make it dangerous for anyone to be sleeping outside. A single SWS operated for many years in Bremerton and moved in 2016 to operate out of the Bremerton Salvation Army. Over the last several years, organizations in Kingston, Poulsbo, Silverdale, and Port Orchard have volunteered to host additional severe weather shelters so that people experiencing homelessness throughout the county are able to survive these winter nights. The Severe Weather Shelter at the Salvation Army was so highly utilized that the Salvation Army opened a 60-bed Winter Shelter, open every night during December through March rather than only on severe weather nights. It has been extremely popular with guests and served more than 470 unique individuals last winter. The low-barrier model welcomed guests with their spouses/partners, accommodated their possessions, and sheltered their pets – this encouraged many people who had not been eligible and/or willing to come into shelter in the past to participate in the program and begin building relationships and accessing other services. The Winter Shelter ran over capacity most nights during the 2017-2018 season. Upon its closing in March 2018, many of the guests will go back to living in the woods and on the streets. Identify/Prioritize Most Vulnerable • Housing Solutions Center implemented vulnerability index screening tool • Greatly expanded outreach, including several programs in the jail • Expansion of Severe Weather Shelter program to North Kitsap and South Kitsap • Opening of Salvation Army low- barrier Winter Shelter and Kitsap Rescue Mission night-by- night shelter • Kitsap Connect program serves most vulnerable high utilizers of emergency services The Salvation Army Winter Shelter served 470+ unique individuals between December 2017 and March 2018. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 14 Also, in Bremerton, the Kitsap Rescue Mission started a night-by-night shelter with 25-beds. Guests are required to register in advance with the HSC and must meet certain requirements. The Mission shelter works closely with the Winter Shelter to take referrals for families and others that need a more structured environment. The Kitsap Connect program was launched through a partnership with Kitsap Public Health, the Salvation Army, the Housing Solutions Center, and Kitsap Mental Health Services. It works to identify the highest utilizers of emergency rooms, emergency medical services, and law enforcement with the goal of reducing costs to these systems and improving health outcomes through a coordinated care model that includes public health nurses, behavioral health professionals, and a housing specialist. The vast majority of their clients are chronically homeless and extremely high-needs. Through 2017, they have assisted 67 individuals to form positive social relationships, connect with resources, improve their health, and (for some) find housing. This shift to focus on outreach to those who may not be accessing resources and prioritization of emergency housing for those who are the most vulnerable has not been easy, but a good start is underway. It has been challenging for shelters to serve people with higher needs, often with staff and programs structures that are not equipped for this population’s needs. Shelter stays can be longer because it can take longer to get high-needs clients stabilized and is even more difficult to find permanent housing placements for them. Action Steps in the 2018 Plan will continue this work. Alternative Housing Options Another focus over the last two years has been expanding alternative housing options, such as legal encampments, boarding houses, home sharing, and tiny houses. Kitsap County Commissioners approved a permanent Transitory Accommodation Ordinance that allows permitting of encampments, tiny house villages, boarding houses, and other temporary housing solutions on both small and large scales. Despite some promising opportunities, no organizations have applied for a permit under this new code to date. In 2016, Kitsap County, Cities, and Tribes sponsored a Homelessness Workshop with nationally recognized guest speakers, drawing more than 120 Kitsap leaders from across many sectors. This convening led to the creation of a cross-sector leadership group, the Homes for All Leadership Group, which has been spearheading the development of tiny cottages for use as emergency housing. Partnering with area churches and a wide array of organizations in different sectors, the Homes for All project hopes to pilot a tiny cottage village in South Kitsap in 2018. The City of Poulsbo has partnered with the Coffee Oasis, a youth housing provider, on piloting a youth boarding house model on city property. The City hopes to expand the model to other sites in the next few years. System Efficiency Each year progress has been made to improve the efficiency of the housing and services delivery system; the last two years continued this work with some additional changes. A Strategic Analysis of Funding Sources undertaken in 2010 resulted in the creation of the Coordinated Grant Application Process, implemented in 2011, which combines the applications for the major local government funding sources for homeless housing, social services, and community development into a single application and review process. This eliminates duplication of funding and increases the efficiency for grant administration and for grantees. In 2017, the Consolidated Homeless Grant, a funding source from the Washington State Department of Commerce, was System Efficiency • Better funding coordination with Consolidated Homeless Grant • Expansion of Project Connects and Point in Time Count outreach Alternative Housing Options • Kitsap County Transitory Accommodation Ordinance • Homes for All Tiny Cottages project underway • City of Poulsbo/Coffee Oasis youth Boarding House HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 15 brought under the administration of the Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division. This has resulted in a more consistent and coordinated approach to funding homeless programs and services. Work will continue to streamline and maximize efficiency in the funding process over the next several years. The Point in Time Count has been conducted in coordination with a low-income services fair, Project Connect, for the last ten years. In 2017, large-scale outreach efforts were added to the survey process to locate more households living on the streets and in wooded areas. Also in 2017, a Summer Point in Time Count was piloted. In 2018, Project Connect resource fairs were added in North Kitsap and South Kitsap to improve access for households throughout the county and to improve data collection during the Point in Time Count. Communication and Engagement As mentioned earlier, elected leaders and key organizations gathered for a Homelessness Workshop in June 2016. This led to the formation of the Homes for All Leadership Group, which is coordinating a tiny cottage pilot program in South Kitsap. Responding to citizen requests for more information about homelessness, the Housing and Homelessness Division began producing data summaries about different aspects of homelessness. In addition, the Division assists organizations and individuals with data upon request. The Housing and Homelessness Division staff, Homes for All Leadership Group and leaders from other Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition organizations frequently respond to requests from community groups (such as Rotary, Kiwanis, Elks, League of Women Voters, citizen advisory groups, and school groups) to make presentations. Over the last two years, they have presented information about homelessness to more than 20 groups. In 2017, the Housing and Homelessness Division launched a volunteer effort to support outreach efforts for surveying during the Point in Time Count. More than 100 citizen volunteers have participated during the last three Point in Time Counts. Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, usually held the week before Thanksgiving, is organized nationally. Over the last two years, the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition has been building support and promoting specific activities to raise community awareness during this week, including a Hunger and Homelessness Awareness March. Specific Population Programs Certain homeless populations require specific services or housing situations to be able to acquire and sustain housing. Several programs exist to serve particular populations, such as veterans, youth, severely mentally ill, those with chemical use disorders, and survivors of domestic violence. In addition, people who are on fixed incomes and/or disabled experience significant challenges affording permanent stable housing. As our population ages, we can expect this to affect a growing number of Kitsap residents. We need to further develop innovative, evidence-based programs in order to move these sub-populations out of homelessness. Homeless youth, countywide, have benefitted from an ever-expanding array of services offered by the Coffee Oasis programs. In addition to youth street outreach, drop-in centers, case management, job training, and a Specific Population Programs • Youth: Coffee Oasis – HOST Home Program, Youth Crisis Hotline, youth boarding home, and Kingston services • Veterans: Homes for All Who Served – Functional zero for unsheltered veterans Communication and Engagement • Homes for All Leadership Group • Homelessness Data Summaries and information available • Community group presentations • Promoting Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week activities • Point in Time Count volunteer project HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 16 youth shelter, over the last two years the organization has brought online a 24-hour youth crisis hotline, is piloting a HOST home program wherein youth are temporarily placed with volunteer families, opened a youth boarding house in Poulsbo, and is expanding services to Kingston. Following the lead of a national initiative to end veteran homelessness, federal, state, and local veteran housing providers came together to form the Homes for All Who Served initiative. The group did a needs analysis, developed a plan to improve services for homeless veterans, and implemented many improvements for service delivery to veterans. Hundreds of veterans have been successfully housed and the goal of “functional zero” for unsheltered veterans was achieved. More work remains to ensure that sheltered veterans are able to find and maintain permanent stable housing. CURRENT RESOURCES Leadership The political and community commitment to address the issue of homelessness is essential. Over the last few years, leadership in this effort has enabled Kitsap to make extraordinary progress in addressing homelessness through HMIS implementation, the Housing Solutions Center, and support for the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition. The leadership has been by Kitsap elected officials, the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition, the Homes for All Leadership Group, and many faith-based organizations. Providers The Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition is a very active organized network of over 50 different homeless housing and service organizations that create a continuum of housing and services for homeless households. Together these organizations comprise the homeless crisis response system. 65 25 111 154 261 191 1151 1892 0 500 1000 1500 2000 Winter Shelter Night by Night Shelter Emergency Shelter Transitional Housing Permanent Supportive Housing Permanent Housing with Services (no disability) Permanent Subsidized Section 8 & VASH 2017 Subsidized Housing Beds/Units HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 17 Housing Units Through these providers, the emergency, interim, and subsidized housing listed on the chart above are currently available. Funding Sources In order to fund these programs, Kitsap County housing and services providers rely on a number of federal, state, local and private funding sources of funds. Many of these funding sources are specifically “targeted” towards homelessness and are restricted to services and projects which directly benefit homeless individuals and families and others with special needs. These charts summarize state and local targeted funding sources and how they are spent on Kitsap program types. In March 2018, the Washington State legislature made a significant increase to the amount of funding available for homeless programs through local and state grants. However, this funding will not start to become available for grants until mid-2019 to 2020. Affordable Housing Grants $237,252 7% Homeless Housing Grants $1,392,966 41% Consolidated Homeless Grants $429,518 13% Housing & Essential Needs $701,147 21% Temporary Assistance for Needy Families $62,426 2% McKinney- Vento Grant $527,588 16% 2018 Homelessness Program Funding Sources Emergency Shelter $447,944 15% Transitional & Bridge Housing $209,592 7% Rapid Rehousing $623,316 21% Unsheltered Homeless Services $71,241 2% Coordinated Entry $330,000 11% Permanent Supportive Housing $491,342 16% Permanent Subsidized Housing $514,692 17% Youth Homelessness $155,000 5% Prevention $178,362 6% 2018 Projected Investments by Project Type HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 18 Kitsap Homelessness Today DEMOGRAPHICS Understanding the scope of homelessness in Kitsap County is an important step in developing key strategies to address it. Homelessness is an extremely complex social challenge and requires significant community investments to create an impact. There is a constant flow of people becoming homeless while others move out of homelessness into housing. Many may only experience one episode of homelessness, while others (often termed “chronically homeless”) may experience multiple episodes over several years or remain homeless for many years. Fortunately, we have better data and statistics on the homeless population than ever before to guide our efforts. Before discussing statistics and data, it is important to recognize that it is very difficult to arrive at a definitive number of homeless households or accurate statistics about our homeless population. The following variables impede our ability to accurately identify the number of individuals and families that are homeless and the complex barriers they face while attempting to overcome homelessness: • The face and composition of homelessness is changing all the time. Each day new households are forced into homelessness and each day homeless households are re-housed and re-gain self-sufficiency. • Due to the ongoing stigmatization of being homeless, many individuals and households either do not self- identify as homeless and do not seek services, or do not admit to being homeless. Our data collection efforts require voluntary participation, so households that do not seek services or volunteer to be counted in our homeless census are not included in statistics. This is the hidden face of homelessness. • Data about homelessness gathered from different sources does not always provide a consistent picture, since each source may define homelessness differently or collect data differently. Data about homelessness is collected in several ways, through the efforts of the social service and housing providers who work with people experiencing homelessness: Point in Time Count The Point in Time Count (PiT) is required by the Department of Commerce and HUD in order to receive homeless grant funds. The information from the count is compiled and submitted to WA State and is used locally for evaluation and planning purposes. The PiT surveys sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness on the fourth Thursday in January during a specific 24-hour period in all Washington State counties. Kitsap County has conducted an annual Point in Time Count of the homeless since 2005. The PiT provides limited information about the full scope of homelessness, because external factors affect the results: weather, volunteers, and the social stigma of homelessness. Many communities consider the PiT to undercount homelessness by a factor of two to three times. However, the PiT provides a large sample, from which we can extrapolate general information about our homeless population, including reasons for homelessness. Homeless Management Information System and Housing Solutions Center The second tool that is used to collect information about homelessness in Kitsap is the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). This is a federally mandated and state-managed database of information that is required to be collected by homeless housing and service providers about every client who receives homeless assistance provided by federal or state funding. Privately funded programs are not required to participate, though in Kitsap several of these programs choose to do so. Required HMIS data includes demographic information such as gender, age, prior living situation, length of time homeless, education level, ethnicity, and family composition. Clients must provide signed consent to have identifying information entered into the system. When a client enters a particular housing or homeless services program, information about their participation in the program is also recorded in HMIS. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 19 2017 Demographics for Households Experiencing Homelessness in Kitsap12F 13 13 Data from the Homeless Management Information System, through the Housing Solutions Center, 2017, Literally Homeless Households. One night or less, 215, 19% Two to six nights, 300, 26%One week or more, but less than one month, 227, 20% One month or more, but less than 90 days, 180, 16% 90 days or more, but less than one year, 117, 10% One year or longer, 100, 9% Length of Stay in Prior Living Situation Single Female 27% Single Female w/Child 10% Single Male 43% Single Male w/Child 2% Couple 6%Family 12% Family Composition 595 295 2 4 0 14 13 0 11 87 1 3 160 1 10 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 Place not meant for habitation Emergency Shelter, including… Safe Haven Interim Housing Foster care home or foster care… Hospital or other residential… Jail, prison or juvenile detention… Long-term care facility or nursing… Psychiatric hospital or other… Substance abuse treatment… Residential project or halfway… Transitional housing for… Staying with Family or Friends Subsidized Permanent Housing Unsubsidized Permanent Housing Prior Living Situation 54 785 850 615 549 356 2 311 319 245 213 107 0 200 400 600 800 1000 <18 18-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60+ Age -Head of Household All Households Literally Homeless Households 118 350 258 133 53 478 244 134 617 575 4 10% 29% 22% 11% 4% 40% 20% 11% 51% 48% <1% Veteran Domestic Violence Physical Disability (Long Term) Developmental Disability Co-occuring Physical/Developmental… Mental Illness Substance Use Disorder Co-occuring Mental Illness &… Male HoH Female HoH Transgender HoH Head of Household Self-Reported Characteristics 524 74 79 229 133 68 17 41 14 9 11 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 Income as a % of Federal Poverty LevelBelow Federal Poverty Level HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 20 HMIS information is used at the state level to develop state-wide statistics and models. At the local level it provides accurate information about clients who access services. Its limitation is that clients who are not using services, either by choice or because needed services are not available, are not included. Thus, it provides limited information about under-served populations or gaps in service. Youth Homelessness Each school district is also is required to collect information about student homelessness and submit it to the state Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction13F 14. This represents students that were identified by school district staff as experiencing homelessness, but is considered to be a fraction of the actual number. SYSTEM PERFORMANCE MEASURES To make sure that what we are doing is having the desired effect, specific system performance measures are used, based on data collected through the HMIS and other sources. Some of the performance measures listed below are mandated by the Department of Commerce – these are indicated by a . RARE: How many people experience homelessness? The Point in Time Count provides information about homeless households who choose to participate in a survey on one particular day, regardless of whether they are seeking or receiving services and includes individuals who are sheltered and unsheltered, by federal definition. The Homeless Management Information System and the Housing Solutions Center provide information only about clients who seek and access services.  At a Point in Time The following table shows data compiled from annual Point In Time count from 2011-2018. • In 2018, 69% were being served by current facilities, staying in emergency shelter or transitional housing. • 31%, or 146 individuals, were not being served by current homeless housing programs and were living in situations not meant for human habitation, such as abandoned buildings, illegal encampments on private and public property, on the streets, or in their cars. 14 Washington State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, http://www.k12.wa.us/HomelessEd/Data.aspx Bainbridge Island, 9 Bremerton, 434 Central Kitsap, 427 North Kitsap, 81 South Kitsap, 192 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 08-09 09-10 10-11 11-12 12-13 13-14 14-15 15-16 Homeless Children and Youth by Kitsap County School District Statistically, this equates to about one student in every classroom experiencing homelessness. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 21 The overall number of individuals who were counted in the annual Point in Time Count has decreased between 2017 and 2018 by 9%. However, the number of sheltered people is a direct reflection of the number of transitional housing units and emergency shelter beds available. For example, the chart above shows an additional 47 people sheltered in the Winter Shelter for 2017 and 66 for 2018. Winter Shelter capacity increased between 2017 and 2018, so that Winter Shelter-stayers plus unsheltered people add up to the same number for both years (212). Annually HMIS data collected upon entry into the Housing Solutions Center program indicates the number of households seeking assistance for housing stability. 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2017(S)2018 Transitional Housing 143 147 72 155 152 199 180 177 152 Winter Shelter 47 66 Emergency Shelter 92 118 104 66 84 75 124 110 103 Unsheltered 93 60 64 77 106 181 165 197 146 Total Count 328 325 240 298 342 455 516 484 467 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 Kitsap Point in Time Count of Homeless Persons: All Individuals, 2011-2018 0 50 100 150 200 250 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2017(S)2018 Kitsap Point in Time Count of Homeless Persons: Unsheltered Individuals, 2011-2018 HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 22 Key 2017 statistics for people seeking housing stability assistance at the Housing Solutions Center: • Housing Status: In 2017, the HSC enrolled 2,826 unduplicated households comprising 4,847 individuals. Of these, 33% or 1,199 households comprising 1,756 individuals, reported being literally homeless. • Prior Living Situation: The prior living situation for literally homeless households: 50% were in an unsheltered situation (such as an encampment, living in a car, or place not meant for human habitation), 24% were previously staying in a shelter, 13% were staying with family and friends, and 7.3% were in a substance abuse treatment facility or detox. • Characteristics: The following are literally homeless self-reported characteristics: Mental illness (40%), domestic violence (29%), physical disability (22%), and substance use disorder (20%). • Income: 43% of literally homeless households reported $0 income, 87% of households have incomes at or below the federal poverty level. $700 is the minimum income for a household to be considered able to maintain housing independently, though at this income level, they are very likely to be severely rent- burdened (paying 50% or more of income on housing). Per Capita Homelessness The Kitsap Public Health District reported that in 2016, 1.7% of individuals in the County were currently or imminently experiencing homelessness, an increase from 1.5% in 2011.14F 15 2017 HSC data indicates that 1,756 unduplicated individuals were literally homeless over the course of the year. With an estimated Kitsap population of 264,811, that means that 1 in every 150 residents experienced homelessness in 2017.  New to Homelessness Another performance metric is measuring the number of people who are new to homelessness. This is measured by the number of households who were literally homeless or at imminent risk of losing housing and who received HSC services, and had not received homeless services within the last two years. 2017 HMIS data indicates that 680 households were new to homelessness (75%) and had not received homeless services in the prior two year period. 15 Kitsap Public Health District, 2017 Kitsap Core Public Health Indicators Report (revised), p. 9, http://kitsappublichealth.org/information/files/KPHD_Health_Indicators.pdf 2014 2015 2016 2017 Q1 1684 729 731 1100 Q2 1076 602 750 708 Q3 1130 602 701 501 Q4 861 484 717 517 Total 4751 2417 2899 2826 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 HSC Quarterly Enrollments by Household: 2014-2017 Literally Homeless and At-Risk HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 23  Prevented from Homelessness In 2017, the homeless crisis response system provided targeted prevention assistance to 259 households, about the same number as in 2016. BRIEF: How long are people homeless?  Length of Time in Housing Programs HMIS records the length of time people spend in different types of housing and the number of households served. Between 2016 and 2017, shelter stays and transitional housing stays increased, while the length of time people were in a rapid rehousing program decreased. Night by night shelter beds were added, so there was as significant increase in the number of households able to be served. As emergency shelter stays increased, the number of people able to be served over the course of a year decreased; the same is true for transitional housing. Waitlist times and households stayed the same between the two years. Shorter stays in temporary housing are considered to be better for building long-term stability. In addition, when people regain permanent housing faster, more people are able to be served with the limited temporary housing resources. HUD sets the goal of less than 20 days in emergency shelter. This data does not include people who are unsheltered and are NOT seeking services – often these individuals experiencing “chronic homelessness” are unsheltered for extended periods of time (1+ years) or repeatedly over the course of many years. Length of Time Homeless Sixty-five percent of Kitsap’s homeless individuals who access services through the Housing Solutions Center are homeless for less than one month before seeking services, being housed through one of Kitsap’s social service agencies, or overcoming homelessness on their own. (Chart under Demographics section.) At the same time, 100 individuals were identified as “chronically homeless” (i.e. they have been without housing 1+ years or have had four episodes of homelessness within three years). 9 4 36 246 334 9 21 48 216 367 0 100 200 300 400 Waitlist Night by Night Shelter Emergency Shelter Rapid Rehousing Transitional Housing Average Stay -Days Enrolled 2016 2017 371 121 497 290 102 367 617 395 215 69 0 200 400 600 800 Waitlist Night by Night Shelter Emergency Shelter Rapid Rehousing Transitional Housing Number of Households Housed 2016 2017 2019 2083 1171 1119 115 327 371 367 824 1114 272 291 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 2014 2015 2016 2017 Homeless Response System: Households Served/Un-served Households newly enrolled in housing programs Households enrolled on waitlist Households unable to be served HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 24 Unable to Be Served This metric reflects whether the homeless crisis response system has adequate capacity to assist all households who need it. When households are assessed at the HSC, they are 1) immediately referred to shelter or a housing program, 2) placed on a waiting list if there is a shelter that they are eligible that will have an opening in the near future, or 3) if there are no housing programs for which they are currently eligible, they are considered “unable to be served”. For these households, they are connected with as many other resources as possible to address their needs. 2017 HSC data indicates that 16.3% of households seeking assistance were unable to be served. A breakdown of reasons people are unable to be served shows that the most frequent reason is that no rental assistance funding or insufficient rental assistance funding was available at the time. Some clients were unable to be served due to being over income or under income to qualify for programs. ONE-TIME: How many people are re-housed? How many people experience homelessness again? A total of 2,917 individuals were housed in the homeless response system during 2017, broken roughly into these demographic categories.  Exits to Stable Housing, Increased Income Households exiting housing programs to stable housing destinations is the ultimate goal of the homeless crisis response system. Increased income indicates a higher likelihood of self-sufficient housing in the future. Of the 456 households exiting emergency shelter, 88 37 26 14 12 12 3 2 2 Qualified, No Funding Available Funding Doesn't Cover Client's Needs Client Over Income Client Under Income/Can't Sustain Rent Not Homeless or At-Risk Client Declined Options Provided Already Receiving Assistance Non-Compliance with Program Denied by Program/Shelter 2017 HSC: Reasons Unable to Serve 348 41 67 114 24 583818 5 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 Emergency Shelter Transitional Housing Repid Rehousing 2017: Household Exit Outcomes Total Exited Exited to Stable Housing Exited w/Increased Income 270 36 80 93 110 164 292 78 601 677 95 293 121 7 At-risk of Homelessness Foster Youth Domestic Violence Survivors Extremely/Very Low-Income Households Mental Health Clients Multiple Barriers/Recovery Veterans Youth Homeless Families Homeless Men Homeless Men w/Children Homeless Women Homeless Women w/Children Homeless Transgender Adult or Family 2017: Individuals Housed HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 25 transitional housing, and rapid rehousing programs in 2017, 196 exited to stable housing and 61 exited with increased income (of those exiting emergency shelter, transitional housing and rapid rehousing programs).  Returns to Homelessness Of the 468 households who exited to permanent housing in the two years prior to 2017, 85% had not returned to homelessness; 15% returned to homelessness (71 households), a significant increase from 7.6% in 2016. Conclusion Though no single data source provides definitive information about homeless demographics, the picture that results from the data sources cited above indicate more than 2,800 households, with a variety of household compositions and needs, require homeless housing and services on an annual basis. Each household has unique needs that must be met in order for them to access a path to regain stable housing and self-sufficiency. Single males make up the largest demographic of literally homeless households, though women are more likely to be head of household. The vast majority have incomes that are below the federal poverty line, making it difficult to secure and maintain long-term housing without some increase in income. Mental illness is the most frequently reported characteristic – highlighting the need for emergency and permanent housing for people with behavioral health issues. Economic factors continue to precipitate households being pushed into homelessness, particularly the dramatic increase in rents over the last several years. People with fixed incomes are particularly vulnerable to rent increases. Overall, Kitsap providers are doing a better job of quickly providing immediate housing and services, however the focus on prioritizing the most difficult to serve, has put a strain on shelters and has slowed exits to permanent housing because of insufficient permanent supportive housing. While the waiting list for shelter time is relatively short for most households, there are a significant number of households that are unable to be helped because we do not have the programs and resources to do so. Most households are able to maintain stable housing after leaving programs to a stable housing destination, which points to successful program models. However, some households cycle through the system and use a higher proportion of resources. This calls for solutions that target highly vulnerable households with many needs and barriers – they will be more expensive to serve in the short-term, but this will have the biggest long-term impact on community resources, the quality of life for these households, and our ability to make homelessness rare, brief, and one-time. BRIEF 1 in 6 were not able to be housed immediately. 1 in 8 were not able to be housed with existing resources. RARE 1 in 150 people experienced homelessness in 2017. About 150 people were unsheltered on a given day; many more when the Winter Shelter is closed. ONE-TIME 75% of households seeking housing assistance were new to homelessness had not received assistance within the last 2 years. 85% of households who exit to stable housing are not homeless again within 2 years. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 26 Action Plan Needs and Gaps, Core Strategies, and New Action Steps We will work together as a community to make homelessness a rare, brief, and one time occurrence in Kitsap County through an efficient and effective homeless response system. Despite strong leadership and a diversity of existing resources, homelessness is still a persistent issue in Kitsap, illustrated by the current demographics of homelessness. The update process revealed specific barriers and gaps that represent some of the underlying causes of Kitsap’s inability to meet the needs of all homeless residents. This plan is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the existing strategies and programs already in place in our county. Instead, it anticipates that the existing continuum of housing and homeless services that has been developed over the last decade is maintained, with improvements that reflect evidence-based practices. This plan also does not enumerate every possible action step that could be implemented; instead it focuses on achievable action steps that are needed to fill identified gaps in housing and services. The Action Plan includes a narrative description of goals, current needs and gaps, core strategies, and new actions steps. It is followed by an Action Plan Matrix organized in the following way: • Goals constitute the overarching critical path to making homelessness rare, brief, and one-time, while improving our response system and engaging our community. • Core Strategies for each goal outline our overall methodology, principles, and current approaches to achieve each goal. They often encompass multiple actions and programs already in effect. • New Action Steps to for each goal are listed with projected timelines and responsible organizations – these action steps are the focus for improving the homeless crisis response system over the next 3-5 years. Because many of the strategies are closely related, some of the action steps support more than one strategy. • Indicators of Success are the performance metrics that help us measure our progress on achieving each goal. These indicators are not linked to individual strategies or actions but show the aggregate impact of all of the strategies and actions. Focus Areas of This Update Building on the re-orienting of the system in the 2016 Plan towards prioritizing the most vulnerable, the 2018 Plan expands emergency and permanent housing options for this population. The first step is to define additional housing types to meet varied needs and income levels. In addition, based on analyzing the many sources of input during the planning process, the additional needs and gaps in the homeless crisis response system have been identified, with specific new action steps, timelines, and responsible parties to address them. • Implement discharge planning for homeless individuals entering the community from jails, correctional facilities, hospitals, and behavioral health systems of care • Encourage development of more affordable housing and alternative housing models through incentives and policy changes o Add 120 low-barrier night-by-night shelter beds and alternative shelter options (tiny houses, safe parks, etc.) throughout the County o Add 15 respite care shelter beds for people with medical needs that are not able to be supported in other shelters o Add 60-80 Permanent Supportive Housing units for people with long-term behavioral health and physical health challenges to stable housing • Focus on tenancy supports and employment/education connections, including the new Medicaid Supported Housing and Supported Employment benefits HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 27 • Expand the use of performance measures and data to ensure the most efficient use of grant funds • Implement trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices • Expand leadership, accountability, and opportunities for community education and volunteering 1. Make homelessness rare One of the most cost-effective ways to decrease homelessness is to prevent the endless flow of individuals and families who become homeless from entering the system. Current Needs and Gaps Increased Demand: The numbers of homeless individuals and households and requests for homeless services have grown over the past decade, as evidenced by data referenced earlier. As long as the myriad underlying social causes of housing crises exist, households will continue to become homeless. National research indicates that many households who report needing assistance to prevent homelessness may actually be resilient enough to resolve the issue independently, whereas those who are most vulnerable should be prioritized for assistance. People Re-entering the Community from Systems of Care: People are frequently discharged from other systems of care, such as jails, hospitals, behavioral health programs, substance use disorder treatment, and foster care, into homelessness due to lack of housing options. In addition, Kitsap currently has very few emergency housing beds for people who have high behavioral health needs, significant medical needs not able to be tended while living homeless, or criminal histories. Affordable Housing Shortage: Kitsap County, like many other cities and counties, is in the midst of a shortage of affordable housing – both subsidized and market-rate. The 2015 Washington State Affordable Housing Needs Assessment estimates that there are only 12 units of affordable housing for every 100 units needed by people earning less than 30% of Area Median Income (AMI). This results in 4,545 renter households at 30% of AMI and 4,110 renter households at 50% of AMI being cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on housing. An addition 2,700 home-owner households at 30% of AMI and 2,845 households at 50% AMI are cost- burdened. These are the households most at risk of housing instability and homelessness. The 2016-2020 Kitsap County Consolidated Plan includes a comprehensive affordable housing needs assessment and gap analysis. Core Strategies Preventing homelessness through targeted prevention can avert eviction or foreclosure for those most likely to become homeless. Diversion programs make smaller investments of funds for non-housing items that prevent housing instability or homelessness. Prevention programs have improved efficacy if connections to existing supports (such as job training and placement, basic life skills, financial literacy, and education) are included, so that households can address the underlying reasons for their housing crisis. Pro-actively planning for housing and services for individuals re-entering the community from jails, correctional facilities, foster care, hospitals, mental health programs, substance use disorder treatment, and homeless shelters, transitional housing, and other housing programs will prevent homelessness among people in these situations. In addition, respite beds are needed for people with complex medical and/or behavioral health needs who do not have stable housing and are in need of related supportive services either temporarily or long-term. Additional units of affordable housing for households at very low- and low- income levels are required to prevent the large number of rent-burdened households being forced into homelessness. This plan does not attempt to specifically identify actions to increase the number of affordable housing units. Instead, it proposes an Affordable Housing Task Force and an Affordable Housing Inventory and Needs Assessment report to provide leadership and data to develop a separate plan to address this critical need. In addition, this Plan’s scope only includes action steps that can be accomplished by local governments, Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition members, the Homes for All Leadership, and other organizations who are part of the Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response System. A more extensive group of stakeholders will need to be involved in the development of an affordable housing plan. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 28 Alternative housing models may also provide some solutions – in other counties Single Room Occupancy units, boarding houses, shared housing and tiny cottage houses have proved to be a viable way for more low-income households to remain intact. New Action Steps Proposed Action Steps for 2018 – 2020 focus on: • Reducing discharges from other systems of care into homelessness • Increase the availability of affordable housing through developing and implementing policies that incentivize development of affordable housing and allowing alternative housing models 2. Make homelessness brief For all households who experience homelessness, being identified, connected with resources, and getting into emergency housing as quickly as possible is the goal. After they are stabilized, transitioning to permanent housing as quickly as possible ends their homelessness. Current Needs and Gaps Accessibility: While the coordinated entry system is successfully doing intake, assessments, and referrals, the accessibility of these beds remains a challenge for some households. Households who are particularly vulnerable and/or unable to advocate for themselves are often not accessing services. The vast majority of shelter beds are located in Bremerton, making it difficult for households in other parts of the county to use these beds. Housing and Resources for Chronically Unsheltered Individuals: Currently individuals with the most severe, persistent, or complex barriers to housing stability are the most under-served. Because they are often not seeking housing, it is difficult to estimate how many are living in places not meant for human habitation, such as camping illegally, living in cars, or in abandoned buildings. They tend to be difficult to place in existing shelter beds and, if they are unwilling or unable to comply with programmatic rules are unsuccessful in existing permanent supportive housing programs. Mental illness is reported by 40% of people experiencing homelessness in Kitsap, and substance abuse is reported by 24% - these factors usually significantly contribute to housing challenges. A growing body of research supports a Housing First housing model for these individuals to become stably re- housed, prioritizing keeping them in housing and then making supportive services available but not mandatory. Immediate Shelter: While Kitsap added 20 night-by-night shelter beds and 60+ winter only night-by-night shelter beds since 2016, the demand still outstrips the supply, particularly when the winter shelter is closed 8 months of the year. Additional year ‘round low-barrier night-by-night and 24 hour shelter beds are needed that will serve people with high needs – accepting people’s pets, possessions, and partners – that will serve as temporary respites for these households until a longer-term solution could be arranged, rather than returning to unstable living conditions or situations unsuitable for human habitation. Permanent Housing Availability: Many people seeking referrals from the Housing Solutions Center are not able to be referred because although they may have housing instability and are at imminent risk of losing their housing. These households are often under income to be able to afford the minimum rent to provide long-term sustainability required for some programs (many have $0 income), or they are over income to qualify for other programs (sometimes with fixed incomes), despite being extremely low-income. In particular, Kitsap has a severe shortage of housing for people with long-term behavioral health and/or physical health impairments that make housing stability impossible without additional supports. Core Strategies Vulnerable and chronically homeless households should be identified as quickly as possible and prioritized for shelter and services. Easy access and appropriate connections to crisis response housing through the coordinated entry program makes unsheltered homelessness brief. Providing immediate shelter beds for all who want it and having low-barrier shelter beds in more geographic locations means that more households will not be forced to survive outside. Alternative models of emergency housing, such as tiny shelters, safe parks, and HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 29 legal encampments can expand the options available for people moving out of homelessness – they should not be considered permanent housing, but an interim step to build relationships with providers and improve connections with supportive services. The goal is to place all households into permanent housing as quickly as possible. To achieve this, appropriate and affordable housing must be available. For households with low barriers to self-sufficiency, rapid rehousing with short graduated subsidies and short term support services is appropriate. Households with more complex behavioral and health barriers are not able to afford or successfully maintain mainstream housing and need permanent supportive housing. Housing First is a model of permanent supportive housing that provides housing with low barriers or requirements, and is paired with tenancy supports and offers of supportive services, with the goal of keeping people with significant behavioral health, chronic substance abuse disorders, and/or physical health issues permanently housed for as long as possible. New state legislation prohibits landlords from discriminating on the basis of income source, such as rental assistance or housing vouchers. It also provides a mitigation fund for landlords who have damage to their units. Education for landlords about these new laws will help expand landlord partnerships. New Action Steps Proposed Action Steps for 2018 – 2020 focus on: • Increasing the number of low-barrier shelter beds. • Increasing alternative shelter options, such as tiny houses and safe park programs. • Creating new units of permanent supported housing for people who need long-term behavioral health and physical health supports to stay housed. • Leveraging more existing housing units to assist people moving out of homelessness, both through Housing Authorities and in the private market. 3. Make homelessness one-time To ensure long-term housing stability, households must be quickly connected with resources to help them address and overcome any barriers to housing stability. Current Needs and Gaps Supportive Services: Expanding connections with supportive services is needed, including consistently incorporating these resources into housing stability plans. In addition, an increased focus on personal safety net and skill-building is needed to help households retain housing stability. Employment and Education: Employment is frequently reported as a challenge for people experiencing homelessness – both the ability to get and maintain employment while living homeless, and to find employment that generates sufficient income to move back into housing when large deposits are often required. Core Strategies Once households are stabilized in appropriate permanent housing, they can address the issues or barriers to self- sufficiency that caused the housing crisis. Rapid connection with individually tailored services and resources, including employment supports and education are essential. In addition, developing resiliency through personal skill-building provides long-term benefits, including prevention of further episodes of homelessness. In addition, criminalization of homelessness should be prevented – a growing trend throughout the country, despite evidence that it is expensive and ineffective. New Action Steps Proposed Action Steps for 2018 – 2020 focus on: • Implementing new Medicaid Supported Housing and Supported Employment benefits HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 30 • Incorporating employment/education strategies into housing stability plans 4. Continuously improve the homeless response system Although Kitsap has a robust homeless response system, it must continuously innovate to respond to changing needs and incorporate emerging successful strategies. Current Needs and Gaps Performance Measurement: Although many individual organizations are using performance indicators, including outputs and outcomes, currently there is not widespread use of performance measures at the countywide and agency level to help identify whether collective progress is being made to accomplish community impact. In addition, organizations could benefit from training on how to use performance measures and targets to improve their performance. Best Practices: Over the last 10 years, significant research has demonstrated the most effective practices in delivering homeless housing and programs (e.g. progressive engagement) , yet in some areas Kitsap has not yet widely adopted these practices. This is often due to the organizational capacity issues discussed below. Limited Capacity: Capacity issues exist on two levels in our community. First, the existing emergency, supportive and permanent affordable housing available is not adequate to meet the demand. Homeless services, such as emergency shelters, are being strained and usually run at capacity. Since there are not sufficient homeless housing units or beds available to meet the demand, homeless individuals and families are forced to find shelter in temporary or unsuitable conditions. Waiting lists for permanent subsidized housing, such as Public Housing, are often years long. Second, some agencies’ abilities to manage the expansion of an existing program or develop a new program are limited. This may be due to a need for more specific expertise and experience within agencies. Agencies can also be reluctant to expand or create new programs without assurance that they have funding for the ongoing operation and maintenance of these programs. Agencies may also need assistance developing their agency capacity through training on capacity-building and emerging evidence-based practices. Core Strategies At a time when demand is increasing and resources are decreasing, doing more with less is imperative. Increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the homeless housing system through maximizing system coordination, provider capacity, and overall system capacity is critical. Using performance measures and data to drive decision-making and improving coordination among different systems of care and among service providers will improve efficiency. In addition, ensuring that planning for homelessness and affordable housing are integrated with other planning effort and the evolution of other services delivery will provide a more cohesive and comprehensive response. We must ensure the strategic investment of public funds through incorporating evidence-based practices in new and existing programs to shift the response system. In particular, incorporating trauma-informed care and person-centered care principles throughout the homeless crisis response system will provide a more compassionate and effective response. Provider capacity and outcomes can be improved through providing training on evidence-base practices, performance measurement, and implementing shelter care standards. New Action Steps Proposed Action Steps for 2018 – 2020 focus on: • Expanding the use of performance measurements, including providing training HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 31 • Ensuring the most efficient investments of grant funds • Increasing the use of trauma-informed care and other evidence-based practices 5. Expand community engagement Community understanding and support for addressing homelessness is essential for generating the leadership and resources to be successful. Current Needs and Gaps Leadership: Although leadership for homeless issues is strong within the homeless response system, it would be strengthened to incorporate a broader representation from other sectors and systems of care that interact with the issues of affordable housing and homelessness and to widen its scope beyond tiny cottages to the many other homelessness issues facing Kitsap. Citizens Outreach and Involvement: One of the most frequent themes at the Stakeholders meetings for this Plan was the need for having coordinated and consistent communication about the issue of homelessness with the broader community so that compassion for those experiencing homelessness can be increased, leading to greater community support and involvement. Planning Integration: Housing stability is increasingly being identified as an important component of the success of other sectors, such as health care and behavioral health. Coordinating and integrating strategies is just beginning to be recognized as essential to success for clients in all these systems of care. The timing of the update to this Plan is intended to allow for increased coordination between planning efforts. Insufficient Funding: While Kitsap County agencies have funding sources targeted to reducing homelessness, the demand for services and housing continues to grow. Federal funding sources that support permanent subsidized and permanent supportive housing have been reduced or stagnated over the past three to five years. More expensive operating costs mean that funding does not stretch as far as it once did. Because of this limited funding, existing funding must be invested as effectively as possible and advocacy at the state and federal level is essential. Core Strategies Leadership on the issue of homelessness by our elected officials and representatives from across the different sectors that touch individuals experiencing homelessness is required to make the policy changes that are needed. Raising awareness and engaging our community is essential to creating the community and political involvement to expand solutions. Creating and implementing a specific communication plan and providing data about homelessness to the community will raise awareness. Paired with specific volunteer opportunities, more community members will be able to engage in solutions. Advocacy at the local, state and federal level increases the likelihood of the needed funding streams to implement this plan and make significant investments into affordable housing flowing into Kitsap County. New Action Steps Proposed Action Steps for 2018 – 2024 focus on: • Ensuring cross-sector leadership and accountability. • Developing a communication plan to improve community outreach and education. • Creating additional volunteer opportunities for the public. • Advocating for additional funding. By focusing efforts on these core strategies and specific new action steps that support them, we can make homelessness rare, brief, and one-time. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 32 Action Plan – Detail Matrix The Action Plan – Detail Matrix outlines the specific core strategies that underly Kitsap County’s framework and approach to homelessness. New Action Steps indicate additional actions to be taken between 2018 – 2024 to further support the Core Strategies and Goals, with dates for initiating the action step and an implementation milestone. Also included are key responsible parties – though other agencies may be involved as well. Performance Indicators of Success provide a reference for how progress on the overall goal will be evaluated – often linked to specific Commerce performance measures. Symbols reference different types of Action Steps: whether we can measure the direct impact of an action step or not ( = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact), whether additional funding is directly needed to implement the action step ($ = Additional Funding), and whether there is a direct role for local government that includes changes in policies, procedures, or production of materials in the action step ( = Local Government involved). GOAL 1 Make homelessness rare.  Performance Indicators of Success Core Strategies PI - 1.1 Fewer people experience homelessness for the first time PI - 1.2 Fewer people discharged from institutions to homelessness 1.1 Prevention and diversion: People are prevented from losing their homes through targeted prevention and diversion programs that keep people out of shelter. 1.2 Prevent discharges to homelessness: People are not discharged into homelessness from other systems of care. 1.3 Diversion in court system: Whenever possible, pre- adjudication and alternative sentencing programs are used to divert people experiencing homelessness from incarceration, to avoid criminal histories and prevent increased financial burdens both for people experiencing homelessness and for first responder systems. 1.4 Affordable Housing: Increasing the availability and accessibility of housing that is affordable to people with low incomes is promoted. 1.5 Alternative housing options: Non-traditional housing options are available and affordable for people at risk of homelessness. 1.6 Connection with services: Households are connected with appropriate existing supports and benefits to avoid homelessness.  New Action Steps Timeline/Implementation Milestones Responsible Parties 1.2.A Create a plan for medical discharge coordination: Establish procedures for coordination between the coordinated entry system and local hospitals to improve housing placements at discharge Initiate: 4Q 2020 Milestone: 4Q 2021 – Procedures in place Housing Solutions Center CHI Franciscan/Harrison 1.2.B Create a plan for behavioral health discharge coordination: Establish procedures for coordination between the coordinated entry system and behavioral health providers to improve housing placements at discharge Initiate: 1Q 2021 Milestone: 1Q 2022 – Procedures in place Housing Solutions Center Kitsap Mental Health Services    = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact  = Local Government involved $ = Additional Funding HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 33 1.2.C Identify homeless youth in Juvenile Court system: Implement a youth homelessness risk-assessment and identification tool in the Kitsap Juvenile and Family Court Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: 1Q 2020 – Assessment tool implemented Kitsap Juvenile & Family Court Services 1.2.D Respite beds: Create 10 medical respite housing beds for short-term stays for people with medical needs that are not able to be supported in other shelters Initiate: 1Q 2019 Milestone: 4Q 2019 – Three medical respite beds are being piloted Catholic Community Services Kitsap Mental Health Services Peninsula Community Health Bremerton Housing Authority 1.4.A Affordable Housing Task Force: Convene a task force including a wide range of stakeholders to specifically develop and implement a plan to increase the availability and number of units of housing affordable to households earning 0% - 80% of area median income throughout Kitsap County Initiate: 1Q 2019 Milestone: 1Q 2019 – KRCC Affordable Housing Committee formed; 2Q 2020 – Affordable Housing Stakeholder Task Force established Bremerton Housing Authority Housing Kitsap Housing Resources Bainbridge Kitsap Community Resources Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Landlords Home builders Housing funders/financers Other interested stakeholders 1.4.B Affordable Housing Inventory and Needs Report: Produce an affordable housing inventory and analysis report to determine Kitsap’s current housing landscape and inventory to determine what types of housing are needed currently and in the future and what policy changes are needed to promote production of affordable housing units Initiate: 3Q 2019 Milestone: 1Q 2020 – Study complete Kitsap County Block Grant Program Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division City of Bremerton 1.4.C Policies supporting affordable housing and Permanent Supportive Housing: Adopt inclusionary zoning and incentives to developers of affordable housing to increase units of affordable housing and permanent supportive housing Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: Ongoing by County and Cities Cities Kitsap County 1.5.A Alternative housing models: Develop and adopt planning policies that allow alternative housing models including SROs, boarding houses, home sharing programs, tiny houses, and others Initiate: 1Q 2019 Milestone: Ongoing by County and Cities Cities Kitsap County 1.5.B Toolkits for Alternative Housing: Develop toolkits for organizations/people who want to operate boarding houses, tiny shelters, home sharing programs, and other types of alternative housing Initiate: 2Q 2020 Milestone: 4Q 2020 – At least 1 toolkit is completed Homes for All Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division 1.6.A Resource Guides: Develop and distribute resource brochures about housing and homelessness services for specific populations, such as youth, seniors, veterans, and jail inmates Initiate: 1Q 2020 Milestone: 4Q 2020 – At least 2 population-specific resource guides are completed Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Other interested stakeholders       $          $  = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact  = Local Government involved $ = Additional Funding HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 34 GOAL 2 Make homelessness brief.  Performance Indicators of Success Core Strategies PI - 2.1 People experience fewer days of homelessness before being sheltered PI - 2.2 People experience fewer days of homelessness in shelters PI - 2.3 Fewer people are experiencing unsheltered homelessness 2.1 Identification and engagement: People experiencing homelessness are quickly identified and engaged. 2.2 Coordinated Entry Program: Kitsap’s coordinated entry program ensures easy access and appropriate connections to crisis response housing and services. All placements to temporary housing are made through the Coordinated Entry Program, with the exception of DV Shelters and Winter Shelters. 2.3 Prioritize based on need: Prioritize assistance for people who are the most vulnerable, unsheltered, and/or chronically homeless, through the use of a standardized vulnerability screening tool. 2.4 Immediate shelter: Immediate shelter is available for all who want it, including a low-barrier shelter option. 2.5 Connection with resources: Households in shelter and in the shelter pool are connected with other community resources and benefits as quickly as possible. 2.6 Appropriate permanent housing: Households are moved as quickly as possible to appropriate permanent housing: • Rapid Rehousing in market rate housing with an income- based sliding scale subsidy; • Permanent subsidized housing for people with fixed incomes and no need for supportive services; or • Permanent supported housing for people with a disability that affects their ability to live independently. 2.7 Partner with landlords: Existing housing units are used whenever possible through partnerships with for-profit and non-profit landlords.  New Action Steps Timeline/Implementation Milestones Responsible Parties 2.1.A Active List: Use an Active List to identify, engage, and build relationships with households waiting for shelter and unsheltered homeless individuals Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: 2Q 2020 – Active List is fully implemented through Coordinated Entry Housing Solutions Center Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Department of Commerce KHHC Members 2.1.B Outreach Tracking: Implement method to collect data about outreach contacts Initiate: 1Q 2020 Milestone: 3Q 2020 – Outreach data is being consistently collected and analyzed Housing Solutions Center Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division 2.4.A Create additional low-barrier shelter beds: Create 70-90 year-round low-barrier shelter beds that accept “pets, possessions, and partners”, are accessible 24-hours a day, and provide supportive services and connections with community resources Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: 3Q 2021 – New shelter is operational Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Other community partners    $    = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact  = Local Government involved $ = Additional Funding HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 35 2.4.D Tiny Houses: Create opportunities for tiny houses to be used as emergency housing – in villages, clusters, or individually sited Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: 4Q 2020 – 1 Tiny House Village is operational Homes for All members Kitsap faith organizations Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division 2.4.E Safe Park: Create a Safe Park Program for men, serving 6-10 men living in their vehicles while connected with housing case management Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: 3Q 2020 – Safe Park for Men is operational Kitsap Community Resources 2.4.F Legal outdoor living options: Create additional housing options to provide safety, sanitation, and security for people who chose to live outside, such as legal long-term camping or legal encampments Initiate: 4Q 2021 Milestone: 4Q 2022 – Additional housing option operational Housing and Homelessness Coalition members 2.5.A Youth Resource Guide App: Develop and distribute a resource guide for youth services, and develop a mobile app with this information Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: 1Q 2020 – Youth Resource Guide complete Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Commission on Children and Youth 2.6.A Permanent Supportive Housing/Housing First: Create 80 new units of permanent supportive housing, including but not limited to units employing a Housing First model, to serve people with severe, long-term behavioral and/or physical health issues Initiate: 2Q 2018 Milestone: 3Q 2021 – Housing units available for tenants Bremerton Housing Authority Kitsap Community Resources Kitsap Mental Health Services Peninsula Community Health 2.6.B Homeless Preference for Section 8 and Public Housing: Adopt a homeless preference for Section 8 and Public Housing units Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: 2Q 2020 – Preference in place Bremerton Housing Authority 2.7.A Source of income discrimination/landlord mitigation program: Produce and distribute materials to educate and inform landlords about new laws prohibiting source of income discrimination and the state landlord mitigation program Initiate: 4Q 2018 Milestone: 4Q 2018 – Brochure distributed; information on websites Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Housing Solutions Center Bremerton Housing Authority Washington Low Income Housing Alliance Department of Commerce GOAL 3 Make homelessness one-time.  Performance Indicators of Success Core Strategies PI - 3.1 More people exit homelessness to stable housing PI - 3.2 More people exit homelessness with increased income and/or benefits PI - 3.3 Fewer people return to homelessness after being stably housed 3.1 Provide supportive services: Supportive services and tenancy supports are provided for people moving out of homelessness to remain in their housing. 3.2 Employment and education connections: Sturdy connections to employment and education are provided for people moving out of homelessness to increase their incomes. 3.3 Tailored services: Connections to appropriate tailored services and benefits are provided. 3.4 De-criminalize homelessness: Homelessness is not criminalized and life-sustaining activities (sleeping, eating) are allowed in       $  $  $  $   = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact  = Local Government involved $ = Additional Funding d HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 36 public places while interim survival mechanisms that create pathways to housing are supported. 3.5 Cultivate Resilience: Resilience strategies for individuals and communities are supported and expanded.  New Action Steps Timeline/Implementation Milestones Responsible Parties 3.1.A Implement Medicaid Supported Housing Program: Implement Medicaid Transformation Project Supported Housing Program Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: 3Q 2020 – FCS Housing Program fully implemented by at least one agency Kitsap Mental Health Services Kitsap Community Resources 3.2.A Employment and education planning: Incorporate employment and education goals into housing stability plans Initiate: 1Q 2020 Milestone: 3Q 2020 – New housing stability plan tool incorporates employment and education goals Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division KC Housing & Homelessness Division Grantees 3.2.B Implement Medicaid Supported Employment Program: Implement Medicaid Transformation Project Supported Employment Program Initiate: 4Q 2019 Milestone: 3Q 2020 – FCS Employment Program fully implemented by at least one agency Kitsap Mental Health Services Kitsap Community Resources 3.5.A Youth Peer Network: Develop a youth network/program to provide support and mentoring for youth experiencing housing instability and homelessness. Initiate: 2Q 2020 Milestone: 1Q 2021 – Youth mentoring program in place Coffee Oasis Kitsap Juvenile and Family Court Services Commission on Children and Youth GOAL 4 Continuously improve the homeless crisis response system.  Performance Indicators of Success Core Strategies PI - 4.1 Countywide performance indicators are being used PI - 4.2 Trauma-informed care practices are being used PI - 4.3 Evidence-based practices are being used PI - 4.4 Shelter care standards have been developed and adopted 4.1 Performance measurement: Performance measures and data are used to drive decision-making and evaluate program progress. 4.2 Data collection and sharing: Accurate data is collected and shared between organizations in the response system and is shared (to the extent legal) with other systems of care working with people experiencing homelessness. 4.3 Systems coordination: There is robust coordination and planning among different systems of care and service providers. 4.4 Best investments of funding: Strategic investments of public funds are prioritized. 4.5 Improve system capacity: Increasing provider capacity to improve outcomes is supported. 4.6 Evidence-based practices: Evidence based practices are incorporated into the response system, including progressive engagement, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, person- centered care, motivational interviewing, and others. 4.7 Racial equity: All households have fair and equitable access to housing and services, regardless of race or ethnicity.        = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact  = Local Government involved $ = Additional Funding HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 37  New Action Steps Timeline/Implementation Milestones Responsible Parties 4.1.A Report on countywide performance measurement: Provide periodic reports on county-wide performance indicators and metrics to track progress Initiate: 3Q 2018 Milestone: 1Q 2019 – Quarterly performance dashboards produced Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division 4.1.B Provide technical assistance on performance measurement: Provide technical assistance to homeless housing and services providers on performance indicators and data analysis Initiate: 1Q 2019 Milestone: 2Q 2020 – At least 2 training opportunities for providers have been provided Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Department of Commerce 4.1.C Washington State Quality Award: Apply for the Washington State Quality Award, an evaluation of overall program efficiency and effectiveness Initiate: 1Q 2019 Milestone: 3Q 2019 – WSQA submitted Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Kitsap Community Resources Catholic Community Services 4.3.A Develop a Juvenile Court Housing Program: Develop and implement a program to improve youth housing stability for youth involved with the Juvenile Court Initiate: 1Q 2019 Milestone: 4Q 2019 – Housing stability in Juvenile Court Program is operational Kitsap Homeless Youth Taskforce Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division 4.3.B Engage McKinney-Vento representatives: Provide opportunities for networking, coordination, and training on homelessness for McKinney-Vento representatives from school districts Initiate: 1Q 2020 Milestone: 1Q 2021 – McKinney- Vento Rep training/coordination system in place Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Olympic Educational Services District 4.4.A Align funding sources: Realign existing funding and new funding sources to meet funding requirements, maximize efficiency, and improve outcomes and reporting Initiate: 1Q 2019 Milestone: 1Q 2020 – Realignment process complete Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division 4.6.A Adopt trauma-informed care model: Implement trauma-informed care practices throughout the homeless crisis response system and the providers who are part of the system Initiate: 1Q 2019 Milestone: 1Q 2022 – Trauma- informed care model adopted by 75% of County homeless sub- contractors Kitsap Strong KC Housing & Homelessness Division Grantees Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition 4.6.B Training on evidence-based practices: Provide training to providers on trauma-informed care and on other evidence-based practices to expand organizational capacities and improve outcomes (e.g. progressive engagement, harm reduction, motivational interviewing) Initiate: 1Q 2019 Milestone: 1Q 2020 – At least 4 trainings for homeless agencies have been provided Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Department of Commerce 4.6.C Implement shelter care standards: Develop and implement minimum standards of care/code of ethics and enforcement method for resident shelters and overnight shelters Initiate: 3Q 2020 Milestone: 1Q 2022 – Shelter care standards developed and adopted Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division KC Housing & Homelessness Division Grantees Housing Solutions Center Kitsap Public Health District  = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact  = Local Government involved $ = Additional Funding        $            HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 38 4.7.A Analyze racial equity: Determine whether race and ethincity are affecting vulnerabilty screening and placements Initiate: 1Q 2020 Milestone: 4Q 2020 – Analysis of vulnerability tool and placements is complete Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Housing Solutions Center 4.7.B Improve racial equity: Convene working group, including leaders from communities of color, to develop recommendations for the HCRS on how to improve access to housing and services for communities that are disproportionately affected by homelessness; implement policy and procedure changes to improve racial equity Initiate: 3Q 2020 Milestone: 1Q 2021 – Recommendations for improvements for racial equity are developed and presented to the KHHC Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division KC Housing & Homelessness Division Grantees Housing Solutions Center Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition GOAL 5 Expand community engagement.  Performance Indicators of Success Core Strategies PI - 5.1 Leadership group is convened and actively engaged PI - 5.2 Communication plan is developed and implemented PI - 5.3 Homelessness and affordable housing are included in on-going planning efforts in other sectors 5.1 Leadership: Accountable community leadership supports this work with strategic and innovative solutions. 5.2 Community education: Materials and opportunities for education about homelessness issues are available to decision- makers and the public. 5.3 Community engagement: Community leaders and citizens are engaged to inspire taking action. 5.4 Integrated planning: Planning for homelessness and affordable housing are integrated with other planning efforts. 5.5 Advocacy to increase funding: Advocacy for programs and funding that support homelessness and affordable housing is critical to implementing this plan.  New Action Steps Timeline/Implementation Milestones Responsible Parties 5.1.A Leadership Group: A strategic community leadership council on homelessness that includes participation at the executive level from a broad range of sectors including but not limited to: elected officials, policy-makers, homeless service providers, behavioral health providers, substance use treatment providers, medical providers, law enforcement, business-owners, emergency responders, land use planners, transit, education, youth providers, faith organizations, and others. The purpose of the group is to provide leadership on ending homelessness, improve cross-sector coordination of programs serving people experiencing homelessness, and devise and implement cross-sector strategies to support implementation of the Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan. Initiate: 3Q 2018 Milestone: Ongoing Homes for All Leadership Group Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Various other stakeholder groups (as listed)    = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact  = Local Government involved $ = Additional Funding     HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 39 5.2.A Communication Plan: Create a coordinated communication and outreach plan about homelessness to community members to raise awareness, de-stigmatize homelessness, promote compassion, encourage community engagement, using as many different avenues as possible (e.g. speakers bureau, newspapers, radio, podcasts, social media, website, events, etc.) Initiate: 1Q 2020 Milestone: 3Q 2021 – Coordinated Communication and Outreach Plan drafted Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division Homes for All Leadership Group 5.2.B Data reporting: Provide periodic easily accessible reports on data about homelessness and affordable housing to stakeholders, elected officials, decision makers, community leaders, and the public Initiate: 3Q 2018 Milestone: 2Q 2019 – Data Summaries and Infographics on different aspects of homelessness available, with regular updates Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division 5.3.A Volunteer opportunities: Work with community partners on specific volunteer events to promote opportunities for personal connection and “humanizing” homelessness through volunteer projects Initiate: 3Q 2018 Milestone: 3Q 2019 – Update “How to Help Brochure” completed Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition United Way Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Division 5.3.B Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week: Sponsor events and activities during the annual national awareness week to increase community awareness and understanding of the issue of homelessness Initiate: 4Q 2018 Milestone: 4Q 2019 – H&H Awareness Week activities increase each year Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition 5.5.A Advocate for additional funding: Advocate for, create, and attract additional dedicated funding to Kitsap for homeless housing and services Initiate: 3Q 2018 Milestone: Ongoing Homes for All Leadership Group Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition Community members and organizations FUTURE ACTION STEPS Action Steps that are needed, but do not yet have responsible parties or an implementation timeline.  Future Action Steps Notes Create low-barrier shelter beds in North Kitsap: Create 20 year-round low-barrier shelter beds in North Kitsap that accept “pets, possessions, and partners” This was originally listed as an Action Step in the 2018 Plan, but there is not currently an organization that is able to sponsor this project Create low-barrier shelter beds in South Kitsap: Create 20 year-round low-barrier shelter beds in South Kitsap that accept “pets, possessions, and partners” This was originally listed as an Action Step in the 2018 Plan, but there is not currently an organization that is able to sponsor this project Employment/training program: Implement a new employment/training program specifically designed for people moving out of homelessness (like FareStart, Millionair’s Club, etc.), possibly including an employment mentorship program Olympic Consortium, Olympic Workforce Development Council and WorkSource are willing to be active partners.           = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact  = Local Government involved $ = Additional Funding HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 40 Subsidized Housing for Households with Fixed Incomes: Develop additional new units of housing for households who are on a fixed income, including seniors and people with permanent disabilities This project would require a lead agency and significant fundraising. Homes for All Leadership Group to assist. Daytime Gathering Places: Expand the number of safe places for people to spend time and connect with services during the day, either in a program that operates in addition to existing housing programs or as part of a 24-hour shelter model Need an organization to sponsor this  = Impact Not Measurable  = Measurable Impact  = Local Government involved $ = Additional Funding HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 41 Defining and Documenting Success Defining Success For many years success in homeless programs was defined by how many people received housing services. Over time, the idea of what constitutes success has shifted to focus on outcomes for the individuals served. It is not enough to say that services were received, but instead we must determine the efficacy of those services in reducing homelessness. This can be a difficult process, since long-term follow-up of people who received housing or services is difficult and impractical. Challenges In addition, determining success in the realm of reducing overall homelessness is an elusive proposition. Several factors contribute to the challenge: • Dynamic Population The homeless population is not static: there is a constant influx of people who are becoming homeless at any given time, while at the same time previously homeless people are being housed. While hundreds of homeless people may have been housed over a period of time, more have become homeless over the same period. Therefore, the overall number of homeless may have stayed the same or increased. • Prevention Efforts Many of our efforts are geared at preventing homelessness and evaluating the long-term effectiveness of these programs is difficult to measure. • Inaccurate Data & Counts There are numerous homeless people who either do not consider themselves to be homeless because they are “staying with friends” or “living in their car” or who do not want to be counted due to a variety of personal issues. Our community experiences these people and their homelessness, but they are not included in our voluntary homeless counts. Challenges notwithstanding, it is crucial that we develop ways to assess whether the time, effort, and financial commitments to the issue of homelessness are effective. Tools In addition to data from community partners, two primary tools will be used to assist with evaluating success: Annual Point in Time Count Each January the Kitsap County Department of Human Services Housing and Homelessness Program in partnership with the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition is mandated to carry out a countywide count of homeless people, both sheltered (currently receiving subsidized emergency or transitional housing) and un- sheltered (living on the streets, in cars, with friends, or identified as incarcerated transients). Participation by people experiencing homelessness is voluntary. Data collected from this effort provides the state with basic statistics about Kitsap’s progress in reducing homelessness and provides the County and the community with information about the housing and services gaps. Homeless Management Information System This state- and federally-mandated database project collects detailed data about users of homeless housing and services. The collected data is used by the state to analyze the resources necessary to move individuals from homelessness to self-sufficiency. On a local level, it facilitates coordination among agencies and delivery of services to homeless individuals. It also allows excellent quality demographic and programmatic information to be collected about homeless households who are receiving services. Performance Indicators For each of the Plan’s five goals, specific indicators of success are listed. Some are data-based, whereas others are performance-based. These performance indicators are also drawn from measures developed by the Washington State Department of Commerce, HUD, and referenced in the HEARTH Act. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 42 Performance Indicators for the Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan Name Measure Metric Source GOAL 1: Make homelessness rare. 1.1  Prevention Fewer people experience homelessness for the first time # of new people who have become homeless HMIS 1.2 Institutional Discharges Fewer people discharged from institutions to homelessness # of people discharged from institutions Hospitals, Jail, Foster Care, etc. GOAL 2: Make homelessness brief. 2.1 Term of Homelessness People experience fewer days of homelessness before being sheltered Average # of days before getting into emergency shelter Community Waiting List, HMIS 2.2  Term in Shelter People experience fewer days of homelessness in shelters Average # of days spent in shelter HMIS 2.3  Unsheltered Homelessness Fewer people are experiencing unsheltered homelessness # of people unsheltered, sheltered, or in temporary housing Point in Time Count, HSC GOAL 3: Make homelessness one-time. 3.1  Exit Destination More people exit homelessness into stable housing # of people exiting from each type of program to each type of destination HMIS 3.2  Income at Exit More people exit homelessness with increased income and/or benefits # of people exiting programs with increased income HMIS 3.3  Housing Stability Fewer people return to homelessness after being stably housed # returns to homelessness within 2 years of stable exit HMIS GOAL 4: Continuously improve the homeless response system. 4.1 Countywide Indicators Countywide performance indicators are being used Countywide indicators report is being produced KHHC, KC Human Services 4.2 Trauma- informed Practices Trauma-informed care practices are being used # of agencies trained in using trauma-informed care practices KHHC, KC Human Services 4.3 Evidence-based Practices Evidence-based practices are being used in delivering services # of KC contracts that include evidence-based practices KHHC, KC Human Services 4.4 Shelter Care Standards Shelter care standards have been developed and adopted # of shelters that have adopted care standards HSC Advisory Council GOAL 5: Expand community engagement. 5.1 Leadership Leadership group and Affordable Housing Task Force are convened and actively engaged Leadership group is selected and is meeting KC Human Services 5.2 Communication Plan Communication plan is developed and implemented Communication plan is being used KHHC, KC Human Services 5.3 Coordinated Planning Homelessness and affordable housing are included in on-going planning efforts in other sectors Housing and homelessness representatives participate in planning efforts KC Human Services, other planning groups  Denotes performance measures that are mandated by the Department of Commerce. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 43 Conclusion Ending Homelessness Requires Commitment Making homelessness rare, brief, and one-time must be one of our community’s top priorities. It will require us to meld specific strategies to decrease homelessness and to implement broader policy changes to achieve an overall increase in affordable housing. Our county’s Homeless Housing Plan is an expression of a collective commitment to actively seek long-term and sustainable solutions to the issue rather than to simply manage episodes of homelessness as they occur. We will need to examine our past assumptions about this issue and honestly and critically assess our present activities and initiatives. We need to do business differently – changing systems, redirecting existing resources, and securing additional funding commitments. We must rely on all community stakeholders to drive policy changes that will result in reducing the number of people experiencing homelessness in Kitsap County: • County Commissioners, Mayors, City Council Members, Port Commissioners • Tribes • Federal, State and County Agencies / Department Heads • Business & civic leaders • Landlords • Kitsap County citizens • Homeless Population • Housing Developers & Service Providers • Non-profit organizations • Foundations • Faith-based organizations Moving Forward to Reduce Homelessness It is evident that a new approach is needed since people continue to become homelessness; those who are chronically homeless continue to lapse into homelessness using precious resources without successfully regaining housing; and too many people are turned away from assistance because of lack of capacity. This Plan proposes strategies to correct the flaws. This will require community investment. It builds on the successful programs we already have in place, expanding capacity to meet the level of need, and implementing policies and agreements to weave them together into one comprehensive and effective countywide system of care. However, our success dependent on all of the organizations that make up the Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response System continuing to work together to implement the core strategies and the new action steps in this Plan. Together, we can make a huge impact on many people’s futures. The Future of Homelessness Many social and governmental factors beyond the control of Kitsap community members contribute to the epidemic of homelessness: low minimum wage, declining job market, lack of affordable housing, and high housing and rental prices. Huge efforts will be needed to meet the needs of people who become homeless. However, with a clear plan to reduce homelessness, the community’s investment of resources, and an unwavering commitment to our community members in crisis, we can be successful in making homelessness rare, brief, and one-time. 44 Total # of beds/units available No Income Single Men Single Women Women w/children Men w/children Couples Large Families w/children Un- accompani ed Youth Veterans Pets Allowed Criminal History Sex- Offender Substance Use Disordered Behavioral Health Severe Weather Shelter about 70  Winter Shelter (Dec - Mar)50  Night-by-Night Shelter 20 Case by Case Case by Case Case by Case Youth Overnight Shelter (ages 16-21)6 N/A N/A N/A N/A Case by Case Safe Car Park 10 Case by Case Legal Tent Camp 0 Respite Shelter (Medical care available)0 Short-term Residential Shelter (up to 3 months)105 No girls 10+ in dorm 18+Case by Case Transitional Housing 174 Case by Case Case by Case  Tiny House Village - Permanent Supportive Housing 0 Permanent Supportive Housing - Rq'd Treatment 122 beds/units Case by Case Case by Case  Housing First Model - Harm Reduction 4 units DV only Crisis Triage Center (up to 5 days stay)16 N/A N/A N/A N/A TBD Case by Case  Residential Treatment Facility 16 total (11-30 day, 5 permanent) Medicaid eligible TBD  Oxford Houses 185 beds outpatient Boarding Houses (identified through HSC)8 rooms  Permanent Subsidized Housing for 55+ or Disabled 191 N/A N/A N/A N/A  Permanent Subsidized Housing for 62+ 331 N/A N/A N/A N/A  Housing Choice Vouchers 1938  Veteran Assistance Suppored Housing (VASH) Vouchers 42 N/A  Permanent Subsidized Housing for Individuals and Families 913  KEY Updated 4/10/18 Appendix A. Kitsap County Homeless Shelter & Housing Availablity Matrix Type of Shelter/Housing Housing Options are Available No Housing Available Case by Case Consideration Accessible to These Populations No CMNo Case ManagementYes Case ManagementNote: This chart shows public and non-profit shelter and affordable housing options. Additional shelter is provided by faith-based organizations on a small scale. Additional units of affordable housing are also available in the private market, some subsidized through rental assistance programs. Appendix A. Kitsap County Homeless Shelter and Housing Availability Matrix HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 45 Appendix B. Homes for All Leadership Group homesforall@co.kitsap.wa.us 360-337-7287 Civic League of Women Voters Education Central Kitsap School District South Kitsap School District Olympic College Community Support Services Kitsap Community Resources Kitsap Connect Kitsap Continuum of Care Coalition Kitsap Rescue Mission Kitsap Strong The Salvation Army YWCA of Kitsap County Elected Official Chair Commissioner Garrido Faith Community South Kitsap Project Share Financial Kitsap Credit Union Health Care Kitsap Mental Health Services Kitsap Public Health Peninsula Community Health Services Kaiser Permanente Washington Housing Bremerton Housing Authority Housing Kitsap HUD Individuals Victoria Hilt Kitsap County Community Development Human Services Prosecuting Attorney’s Office Veterans Advisory Board Law Enforcement Kitsap County Sheriff Washington Department of Corrections Philanthropy United Way of Kitsap County Tribes Suquamish Tribe Workforce Development Olympic Consortium Leadership Group Providing innovative leadership toward ending homelessness HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 46 Our plan: Introduce a new affordable housing type (small cottages) to meet transitional, emergency and temporary needs. The goal is a village in each commissioners’ district, each with about twelve cottages. Volunteers will construct the cottages. Their labor is donated, as are some of the materials. The cottages can be displayed in various locations to showcase them until a village is formed. The village features some shared facilities, and provides security, sanitation, and support services: The residents will share kitchen and bathroom facilities. Fencing and possible vegetation around the village provides a sense of security for residents and neighbors; and residents are responsible to staff the check-in station. A dumpster will be provided on-site, with regular pick-ups. Case management is available to village residents. Governing and strict rules of conduct Why small cottages? Cottages improve our community, benefit businesses and neighborhoods, and create healthy neighborhoods by offering a safe, secure, sanitary, and affordable option for those who have no home. Decent housing is cost saving (on health care, hospitals, law enforcement, and jails). Areas that established the village concept (like in Seattle and Olympia), have seen reduced crime. Funding and friend-raising The United Way of Kitsap County has volunteered to be the fiscal agent for Homes for All donations related to local cottages. Community assistance can help with cash and labor for the small cottages, and more. To recognize this valued support, we propose to place a plaque on each house sponsored by a particular group. A Homes for All slide show relays the message that “We know how to solve homelessness,” and promotes consistent messaging regarding key actions for the project, which include: building small cottages, site selection, neighborhood outreach, screening of the population to be served, * finalizing the village, and providing care support. Reputable organizations will manage a support system for people housed in this program. *The population for this project includes families and individuals, some veterans. Our focus is on persons experiencing housing instability and at high risk for homelessness. The Housing Solutions Center (HSC) will recommend (low/no income and good prospects to stabilize). Small Cottage Communities Providing safe, secure, temporary, and affordable housing for those in need HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 47 Definitions below are offered to assist in understanding some of the terms used in the Plan. Most of these terms refer to complex ideas; the definitions below should be considered a brief starting point for understanding. Additional information about each is available from online resources and local service providers. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that can have negative, lasting effects on health and well-being. These experiences range from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to parental divorce or the incarceration of a parent or guardian. Affordable Housing: This term is used to describe housing, rental or owner-occupied, that is affordable no matter what one's income is. The federal government considers housing costs at or below 30% of one's income to be affordable. At-Risk of Homelessness: People who are living in sub-standard, unstable or unsafe housing. This includes people who are "couch surfing," which means they are staying with family or friends, living in trailers, doubled or tripled up in small apartments or living in unsafe and unsanitary conditions. Chronic homelessness: The experience of homelessness for a year or longer or three or more episodes of homelessness in two years. This is the federal HUD definition. Hardest to House or Hardest to Serve: Refers to people with more complex needs and multiple challenges when it comes to housing, such as mental illness, addiction, other conditions or disabilities, justice-system histories, etc. Harm-reduction: Harm reduction is an approach for substance use treatment that involves a set of practical techniques that are openly negotiated with clients around what is most likely to be achieved. The focus is on reducing the negative consequences and risky behaviors of substance use; it neither condones nor condemns any behavior. By incorporating strategies on a continuum from safer drug use, to managed substance use, up to abstinence, harm reduction practice helps clients affect positive changes in their lives. The harm reduction philosophy embraces respect, trust and a nonjudgmental stance as the essential components of an effective therapeutic relationship. A basic assumption in this approach is that clients want to make positive changes and the skilled clinician uses motivational strategies to help clients move along the change continuum as far as possible. Homelessness: The experience of an individual or family who is not able to acquire and maintain permanent, safe, affordable, and decent housing. Low Barrier Housing: Housing where a minimum number of conditions are placed on residents to enable serving individuals with a higher level of challenges to attaining and maintaining housing. Typically, this includes reducing barriers that might otherwise exclude or screen out tenants such as requirements for ID or documentation, having little or no income, having poor or lack of rental history, having poor credit or financial history, having involvement with the criminal justice system, having active or a history of alcohol and/or substance use, having active or a history of mental health issues, having a history of victimization, or other behaviors that are perceived as indicating a lack of “housing readiness.” Maintaining residency is behavior–based. Low-barrier facilities typically follow a harm reduction philosophy. Motivational Interviewing: Motivational interviewing is a directive, client-centered counseling style for eliciting behavior change by helping clients to explore and resolve ambivalence. Compared with nondirective counseling, it is more focused and goal-directed. Night-by-Night Shelter or Drop-In Shelter: Emergency housing that provides a short-term stay at no cost. Beds are not reserved for multiple days, but are made available on an individual night basis. Permanent Supportive Housing: Permanent subsidized housing that serves individuals or households in need of ongoing supportive services and assistance such as people with mental health issues, substance abuse disorders, physical disabilities, or more than one of these. Progressive Engagement: A strategy to enable service delivery systems to effectively target resources. Progressive Engagement refers to a strategy of starting with a small amount of assistance and then adding more assistance as needed. Residential Emergency Shelter: Emergency housing that provides a short-term stay at no cost. Beds are reserved for residents until they exit the program. In the past, shelter stays were limited to 90 days, but recent guidance Appendix C. Glossary HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 48 from the Washington State Department of Commerce indicates that shelter stays do not need to be time-limited. Shelter stays typically include housing case management and connections with resources with the goal of securing appropriate permanent housing. Subsidized: Housing that receives funding from the government or community organization. Tenants who live in subsidized housing pay rent that is less than market value, and typically is no more than 30% of their income. Supportive Services: Services, other than providing physical housing and housing tenancy supports, which assist an individual or household to remove barriers to acquiring and maintaining housing. Supportive services can include mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment, behavioral therapy, or other types of supports. Transitional Housing: Subsidized housing for up to 2 years with rent typically set at no more than 30% of client’s income. Case management services are included to prepare individuals to obtain housing and live self-sufficiently. Trauma-informed Care: Trauma-informed care is a strengths based framework that is grounded in an understanding of and responsiveness to the impact of trauma, that emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety for both providers and survivors, and that creates opportunities for survivors of trauma to rebuild a sense of control and empowerment. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 49 Appendix D. Diagram of Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response System HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 50 Appendix E. Response to Department of Commerce Guidelines (Rev June 2019) New Legislative Requirement In the 2018 legislative session, Washington lawmakers passed new legislation that directed WA Commerce to issue specific guidelines to counties for updates to each county’s homeless housing plan. Commerce issued this guidance in December 2018, with updates in March 2019 and June 2019. County plans that respond to these guidelines must be approved by their legislative body no later than December 1, 2019. Kitsap County Response and Plan Update Summary of Plan Changes Kitsap County updated this plan in 2018 with extensive community input. It is already substantially in compliance with the Commerce Guidelines. Because of these factors and the short timeframe to complete an update, the decision was made to make only minor updates to the existing Plan: 1. Adding this appendix to describe how the Plan is in compliance with Commerce requirements; including the Commerce Objectives Crosswalk below; 2. In the Action Plan – Detail Matrix, adding and revising several Action Steps to address specific areas to better comply with Commerce requirements – these are noted in the chart below; 3. Adding symbols in the Action Plan – Detail Matrix to indicate three aspects: a. Action Steps that will have a direct and measurable impact on homelessness vs. Action Steps that have an indirect and/or unmeasurable impact on homelessness; b. Action Steps to be undertaken by the County/Cities governments and involve changes to policies, procedures, or products/materials that are produced; and c. Action Steps that require additional funding; 4. Updating Action Steps and Implementation Timelines to reflect corrections/updates and projections and added “initiation” timeframes and “milestone” timeframes and results; 5. Adding Appendix D, a Diagram of the Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response System; 6. Adding the required Plan Impact projection; and 7. Adding the required Racial Disparities Analysis. Populations Covered by the Plan The 2018 Plan and the 2019 Plan Update are intended to provide an Action Plan for all homeless populations in Kitsap, including individuals, families, unaccompanied youth, veterans, and survivors of domestic violence. We recognize that certain strategies need to be targeted specifically for certain populations. In past iterations of Kitsap’s homeless housing plan, strategies for specific populations were called out specifically. However, we found that in a smaller county like Kitsap there is much overlap of services provided to multiple populations by the same programs. In the Action Plan, there are a few Action Steps to specifically address gaps for different populations, such as youth involved in juvenile justice. The intent is also to be as efficient and coordinated as possible – so all populations go through the same coordinated entry program (with some exceptions for DV survivors and a specific access point for youth), have access to rapid rehousing and employment connections, etc. Local Government Responsibility The Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response System is, at its essence, a public-private partnership. The County is responsible for fulfilling legislated mandates – approving a homeless housing strategic plan, investing public funding in homeless programs through grants, collecting and analyzing accurate data, and coordinating the community effort to address homelessness. The County, and Kitsap cities and tribes, rely on a constellation of non-profit and faith-based partner organizations to carry out the work of providing housing programs and homeless services directly to the people who need them. The Action Plan includes different types of Core Strategies and Action Steps – some that are the sole responsibility of local government; some that are that are HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 51 carried out exclusively by community partner organizations (with or without government funding); and some that are a joint effort. As described above, the 2019 Plan Update indicates these different responsibilities in the Action Plan through symbol identifiers. Plan Development Methodology Information about the original development of the 2018 Plan is provided in the Executive Summary and on pages 7 and 8. This response to the new Commerce Guidelines was developed by an ad hoc Homeless Plan Update Committee of the Kitsap Housing and Homelessness Coalition (KHHC), which met six times between May and the end of October 2019. Committee members were solicited from members of the KHHC and included representatives from:  Kitsap Community Resources (the County’s Community Action Partnership agency),  Peninsula Community Health Services (the Federally Qualified Health Care provider),  YWCA (provider of the DV shelter and services),  Kitsap Regional Library,  Kitsap Mental Health Services,  Bremerton Housing Authority,  Kitsap Connect (serving high utilizers of emergency services),  Catholic Community Services, and  Housing Kitsap (Kitsap Consolidated Housing Authority). The Committee reviewed the Commerce Guidelines and developed changes to the 2018 Plan that would bring it into compliance, as indicated above. The Committee and County staff consulted with the technical assistance provider supplied by Commerce to ensure that the changes to the plan would meet the requirements. County staff also participated on technical assistance calls regarding plan guidelines. The Committee presented information about the proposed updates to the Plan at several KHHC meetings. They also provided an opportunity for education and input on the Racial Equity portion of the Plan Update at a KHHC meeting. Input, feedback, and corrections were solicited from the KHHC email list (including representatives of more than 50 organizations). Changes to Action Steps and Timelines were confirmed with the Responsible Parties. The KHHC membership includes a number of individuals with lived experience of homelessness, including some individuals who work for social services organizations and some individuals who are active advocates. In addition, participation in developing the 2018 Plan by people with experience of homelessness was included through surveys and focus groups conducted at shelters. This 2019 Update to the Plan was reviewed and approved by the KHHC membership at its regular meeting on October 16, 2019. The KHHC then forwarded the 2019 Plan Update to the Board of County Commissioners for approval. A Public Comment Period was held from October 29, 2019 – November 13, 2019. The Board of Commissioners conducted a Work Study meeting on the Plan Update on Wednesday, 13, 2019 and approved the 2019 Plan Update at its regularly scheduled and noticed public meeting on Monday, November 25, 2019. Commerce Requirements The following information is Kitsap’s responses to Commerce requirements, including: • Table that crosswalks Commerce’s Objectives with Kitsap’s Plan and notes any changes made in response to Commerce’s requirements. • Plan Impact Analysis, including a summary of data generated by the use of Commerce’s Impact Modeling Tool. • Racial Disparities Analysis, including information provided by Commerce and locally generated data. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 52 2BCOMMERCE OBJECTIVES CROSSWALK 3BCommerce Objective Commerce Measure of Success Kitsap Response Reference to/Changes to Plan 4BObjective 1: 5BQuickly identify and engage all people experiencing homelessness under the state definition, and all unaccompanied youth under any federal definition, through outreach and coordination between every system that encounters people experiencing homelessness. a) Communities with Street Outreach projects: Increase percentage of exits to positive outcome destinations to the level of the top performing 20 percent of homeless crisis response systems nationwide (defined as >76%). b) Compliance with state and federal Coordinated Entry Data Collection requirements in order to build and maintain active lists of people experiencing homelessness and to track the homelessness status, engagements and housing placements for each household. a) Street Outreach is performed by Coordinated Entry Navigators and community organizations. Some of this information is being tracked, but this Plan has been updated to implement a more formal method to track street outreach contacts and outcomes. b) Kitsap’s Coordinated Entry Program (the Housing Solutions Center) is in compliance with all state and federal Data collection requirements and was audited for compliance by Commerce in Summer 2019. Active Lists of people that are seeking housing assistance, but who are still unsheltered, are maintained in HMIS through the HSC’s Interest Pool and Unable to Serve HMIS programs. Households in the Interest Pool HMIS program are placed into housing interventions based on their vulnerability score. In addition, the Housing Solutions Center will develop an Active List of Outreach Contacts – people who are unsheltered but may not necessarily be seeking housing assistance yet. • Change 2.1.A from “Master List” to “Active List” • Added 2.1.B Outreach Tracking: To implement a method to collect data about outreach contacts HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 53 6BObjective 2: 7BPrioritize housing for people with the greatest need. a) Compliance with state and federal Coordinated Entry requirements for all projects receiving federal, state and local homeless funds. b) Consider implementation of the Coordinated Entry Core Element recommendations and the Office of Homeless Youth’s Five Recommendations for Making Coordinated Entry Work for Youth and Young Adults. c) Successful implementation of prioritization policies for all projects receiving federal, state and local homeless funds, resulting in prioritized people consistently housed in a timely manner. a) All programs receiving state or local homeless funds are contractually required by Kitsap County to use only Kitsap’s Coordinated Entry Program (the Housing Solutions Center) for placements, except for DV Shelters which can do direct intake and then refer participants to CE. Winter Shelters do direct intake and must refer guests with stays over 5 days to CE. b) CE for youth in Kitsap is contracted through the Housing Solutions Center to a youth services provider (Coffee Oasis) which is implementing the OHY Recommendations. c) All households entering the HCRS through CE are currently prioritized for placement based on a vulnerability screening tool. Prioritization policies are included in the CE policies. Kitsap’s CE provider recently implemented a dynamic prioritization method for all shelter, transitional housing, HEN, and rapid re-housing placements. • Revised 2.2 – Added “All placements to temporary housing are made through the Coordinated Entry Program, with the exception of DV Shelters and Winter Shelters.” • Revised 2.3 – Added “through the use of a standardized vulnerability screening tool” • Revised 2.4.A – Added “are accessible 24-hours a day, and provide supportive services and connections with community resources” HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 54 8BObjective 3: 9BOperate an effective and efficient homeless crisis response system that swiftly moves people into stable permanent housing. System-wide performance: a) Increase percentage of exits to permanent housing to the level of the top performing 20 percent of homeless crisis response systems nationwide (defined as >59%). b) Reduce returns to homelessness after exit to permanent housing to less than 10 percent (defined as returns within two years after exit from Street Outreach, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Housing and all Permanent Housing types). c) Reduce average length of stay in temporary housing projects to less than 90 days (defined as emergency shelter and transitional housing, based on program start date, exit date, and bed nights in HMIS). The goals of the Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan are designed to support an effective and efficient HCRS. Goal 4 specifically addresses continuous improvements to the homeless crisis response system. Kitsap analyzes systemwide performance each quarter, using Commerce and HUD performance metrics. These performance metrics are included in all sub-contracts in accordance with the type of project. Each quarter sub-contracted agencies are required to report on the performance metrics included in their contracts. Please see Impact Analysis for more information about Kitsap’s current and future performance on these system-wide measures. The Needs and Gaps, Core Strategies, and New Action Steps section of the Plan outlines areas where the HCRS needs improvement. Plan goals 1, 2, and 3 specifically list Core Strategies and New Action Steps that move people from homelessness to permanent stable housing as quickly and effectively as possible. Key measurable changes to the HCRS in this Plan include:  Increasing low-barrier shelter beds  Increasing PSH  Increasing PH units for homeless  Implementing a Homeless preference for Section 8  Refer to other Plan Action steps with symbols that indicate measurable changes/improvements For other system improvements, refer to Action Steps 4.1 and 4.1.A. In addition, 4.1.B assists sub-contractors to better understand performance measures for their individual projects 5.2.B Provides data reporting to elected officials and the public Page 39 lists Performance Indicators that Kitsap uses to track progress, including the ones required by Commerce (Performance Indicators 2.2, 3.1, and 3.3). HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 55 10BObjective 4: 11BProject the impact of the fully implemented local plan on the number of households housed and the number of households left unsheltered, assuming existing resources and state polices. a) An estimate of people experiencing homelessness that will be housed during 2024 after successful implementation of the local plan using existing resources, and the count of households left unsheltered at a point in time in 2024, based on credible data and research; including the data, assumptions, calculations, and related citations necessary for outside parties to review and reproduce the estimate. See Estimate of Households Housed during 2024 below in the Plan Impact Analysis. Assumptions for 2024 Plan Impact Analysis:  All existing housing interventions remain operational  70 24/7 low-barrier shelter beds are added (Navigation Center)  20 additional shelter beds are added (Kitsap Rescue Mission)  80 units of Permanent Supportive Housing are added (Pendleton Place)  17 units of permanent housing for homeless households are added (Morrow Manor and KCR Manette project)  Bremerton Housing Authority adopts a “homeless preference” for a portion of Housing Choice Vouchers – 30 homeless households/year are housed Objective 5: Address racial disparities among people experiencing homelessness. Completion of an initial analysis using a racial equity tool and data provided by Commerce (defined as answering, at a minimum, questions provided by Commerce). See Racial Disparity Analysis below. An Additional Core Strategy was added: 4.7. Racial equity: All households have fair and equitable access to housing and services, regardless of race or ethnicity Two Action Steps were added: 4.7.A Analyze racial equity: Determine whether race and ethincity are affecting vulnerabilty screening and placements 4.7.B Improve racial equity: Convene leaders from communities of color to develop recommendations for the HCRS on how to improve access to housing and services for communities that are disproportionately affected by homelessness; implement policy and procedure changes to increase racial equity HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 56 Plan Impact Analysis Introduction Commerce provided a modeling tool to assist counties in projecting the impact of implementing their Plans. This tool uses a variety of data and factors to show a “current state” of homelessness and to project a “future state” in 2024 after the Plan is fully implemented. Below is a summary of key data and results from the larger modeling tool spreadsheet. Analysis Kitsap’s Plan includes two types of Action Steps: 1) actions that will have a direct and measurable impact on homelessness (e.g. adding shelter beds), and 2) actions that have an indirect or less measurable impact on homelessness (e.g. implementing the Medicaid Supported Housing Program or adopting a system-wide trauma- informed model of care). For the purposes of this analysis, only actions that have a direct and measurable impact are included in the projection. Current State State Fiscal Year 2019 data (July 2018 – June 2019) was used to generate the Current State Data is derived from the 2019 Point in Time Count and HMIS data: SFY 2019 Current State – Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response System Emergency Shelter Transitional Housing Rapid Rehousing Permanent Supportive Housing Permanent Housing for Homeless Households TOTAL Available Beds/Units 139 27 101 60 52 379 Households Served Annually 1,094 43 242 96 78 1,553 % Successful Exits 13% 100% 80% 57% 62% 23% % Returns to homelessness within 2 years of successful exit 14% 16% 6% 14% 0% 12% NET Successful Interventions 212 38 219 77 70 618 NET Deficit of Successful Interventions 1,408 2019 PIT Unsheltered 157 Note that the percentage of Successful Exits is heavily determined by the volume of households participating in each different intervention – Emergency Shelters account for 70% of households served, so shelter exits have the largest impact on overall Successful Interventions. Currently it is very difficult to gather accurate data about shelter exits from the drop-in and Winter Shelter programs because of the transience of the shelter stayers. If this information is not collected, it is considered to be an “unsuccessful exit.” HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 57 Future State Starting in 2020, we will work to improve data collection for exits from short-stay shelters and improve exits from shelters to permanent housing. For the 2024 Future State, the following changes were projected: • All existing housing interventions remain operational. • 70 24/7 low-barrier shelter beds are added – the proposed Navigation Center. • 20 additional shelter beds are added – Kitsap Rescue Mission completes its remodel project. • 80 units of Permanent Supportive Housing are added – Pendleton Place is completed. • 17 units of permanent housing for homeless households are added – the YWCA’s Morrow Manor is completed and the KCR Manette project is completed. • An increase in successful exits is projected for Emergency Shelter (14%  30%), Permanent Supportive Housing (57%  60%, and Permanent Housing for Homeless Households (58% 75%). • A slight decrease in successful exits from Transitional Housing is projected (100%  90%). • Similar returns to homelessness after successful exits are projected across all interventions. Returns to homelessness are beyond the control of the HCRS and are typically due to economic factors, changes in the housing market, household changes, and domestic violence. However, the following constraints have also been identified, which limit the impact of the above changes: • An ongoing shortage of inventory of available and affordable housing, which significantly constrains the ability of households exiting housing interventions in finding permanent stable housing that they can afford. • A long-term trend of rent increases that are outpacing wage increases, with a cumulative impact of rental rates that are out of reach for lower-income households. • A lack of on-going supportive services for clients that are housed with complex needs to assist with tenancy support as well as accessible behavioral and physical health supports. • Returns to homelessness that are affected by market and household conditions that are beyond our control. • An unpredictable and variable transient military population that significantly impacts rental rates and competitiveness in the rental market – military personnel get increases to housing allowances which can drive up rental rates and make these households much more attractive to landlords. • An employment market that is largely stratified into a relatively small percentage of professional and well-paying jobs (such as shipyard employees) and service sector jobs with wages are often insufficient to cover the cost of housing. • Federal benefits for social security and disability that are far too little to support housing costs. • Landlords that continue to find loopholes to not house people with rental subsidy support – including very high move-in costs (such as requiring 3x rent and/or very large deposits). • Funding sources (document recording fees) that are variable and inversely linked to the housing market fluctuation and demand. Because of these factors, we are projecting different performance outcomes that Commerce indicated as targets in the Plan Guidelines. The projected increases in five years are modest and realistic. This chart shows the differences: HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 58 Commerce Performance Measure Commerce Performance Targets Kitsap 2019 Performance Kitsap Projected 2024 Performance a) Increase percentage of exits to permanent housing To the level of the top performing 20 percent of homeless crisis response systems nationwide (defined as >59%). ES = 13% TH = 100% RR = 80% PSH = 57% PH = 58% TOTAL = 23% Exits ES = 30% TH = 90% RR = 80% PSH = 60% PH = 75% TOTAL = 35% Exits b) Reduce returns to homelessness after exit to permanent housing (defined as returns within two years after exit from Street Outreach, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Housing and all Permanent Housing types). To less than 10 percent ES = 14% TH = 16% RR = 6% PSH = 14% PH = 0% TOTAL = 12% Returns ES = 15% TH = 15% RR = 10% PSH = 10% PH = 0% TOTAL = 14% Returns c) Reduce average length of stay in temporary housing projects (defined as emergency shelter and transitional housing, based on program start date, exit date, and bed nights in HMIS). To less than 90 days ES = 46 TH = 229 RR = 152 PSH = 228 PH = 243 TOTAL = 89 Days ES = 46 TH = 229 RR = 152 PSH = 228 PH = 243 TOTAL = 55 Days The projected changes indicated in the above chart result in the following outcomes for the system: SFY 2024 Future State – Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response System Emergency Shelter Transitional Housing Rapid Rehousing Permanent Supportive Housing Permanent Housing for Homeless Households TOTAL Available Beds/Units 229 27 101 130 69 556 HH Served Annually 1,802 43 242 208 104 2,399 % Successful Exits 30% 90% 80% 60% 75% 35% % Returns to homelessness after successful exit 15% 15% 10% 10% 0% 14% Number of Days in Intervention 46 229 152 228 243 55 NET Successful Interventions 580 35 216 171 97 1,100 NET Deficit of Successful Interventions 924 2024 Projected PIT Unsheltered – No inflation 103 (-34%) HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 59 2024 Projected PIT Unsheltered – Including Population Growth & Rent- Driven Increase in Need 124 (-21%) The Impact Analysis Spreadsheet also includes a financial comparison that translates these changes into several key numbers: • The amount of additional funding needed to create and maintain the new beds and units of housing. • The annual amount needed each year to keep up with inflation and basic economic changes. • The year five (2024) amount needed to keep up with inflation and basic economic changes. Financial Comparison SFY 2019 – All interventions, All funding sources (gov’t and private) $3,259,144 SFY 2024 – All interventions, All funding sources (gov’t and private) $4,881,046 Needed increase in funding for new beds/units $1,621,902 33% increase in base funding Annual increase in funding needed to keep pace with population growth, rent-driven increase in need, rent inflation, and general inflation $179,821 4% net increase in annual spending Five-year increase in funding/beds needed to keep pace with population growth, rent-driven increase in need, rent inflation, and general inflation $959,757 20% net increase in spending from 2020 to 2024 Conclusion Overall, the modeling tool projection indicates that, all other factors being equal, if Kitsap implements the action steps in the Plan that have a direct impact on homelessness and the homeless crisis response system makes realistic improvements in the percentages of households successfully exiting programs, the result would be a 21% reduction in the Point in Time Count of unsheltered households between 2019 and 2024. The biggest impact would be through increasing exits to permanent housing from emergency shelter. This is true, in part, because the volume of people receiving a shelter intervention is so large that it skews the average. We will accomplish the change from 13% to 30% exits from emergency shelter to permanent housing by transitioning the current Winter Shelter beds (which inherently have poor data collection methods and no case management) to Navigation Center beds, which will include enhanced services and case management for better housing destinations. The additional units of permanent supportive housing will expand availability of housing placements for high-needs households. However, one of the best predictors of returns to homelessness is increases in rent, which is driven by market forces beyond our control. The spending needed for the 21% reduction in homelessness by 2024 would be a base annual increase in funding of $1,621,902 for the new beds and units. Some of this will be provided through local Homeless Housing Grants; the remaining funding will need to be secured from the 1/10 of 1% Mental Health Tax, private donations, other government grant awards and contracts, Medicaid, and private foundations. An additional $179,821 of annual spending will be needed by 2024 just to keep up with population increases and inflation – a 20% increase over five years. 2019 spending = $3,259,144; 2024 annual spending needed = $4,881,046. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 60 Because of factors listed above that are outside the control of local governments and Kitsap community partner organizations and Commerce’s direction that this Plan update be predicated on the assumption that there are no increases in state or local funding, meeting the target performance metrics that Commerce indicated in the Plan Guidelines will not be realistically possible, with the exception of the average length of stay in temporary housing project, which is already below the target in 2019. The Recommendations to the State section below outlines some potential state policy changes that could have a positive impact on achieving Commerce’s performance targets. Racial Disparities Analysis Commerce provided an Equity Analysis Tool that included racial disparities information for each county, using Point in Time Count and 2017 Census data. Kitsap County additionally analyzed local coordinated entry data to answer the following Commerce-required questions: 1. Are any groups over or underrepresented in the homeless population? How does your county compare to other like size counties in the state? Data from Commerce’s Equity Analysis Tool indicates that compared to 2017 census data of people experiencing poverty, people of races other than White counted in the 2018 Kitsap County Point in Time Count are experiencing homelessness at a disproportionate rate. For Black individuals, there is the biggest disparity, with a poverty rate of 6%, but a rate of experiencing homelessness of 9%. However, the rate of Blacks experiencing unsheltered homelessness (6%) is the same as the rate of Blacks experiencing poverty (6%). For Native American/Alaskan individuals, the poverty rate is 3%, while the homelessness rate is 2% and the unsheltered homelessness rate is 4%. Asian/Pacific Islanders and Other/Multi-Racial individuals have slightly higher percentages of homelessness and unsheltered homelessness than their poverty rates. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 61 In 2018 Kitsap’s coordinated entry program, the Housing Solution Center (HSC), saw 3,949 households who were experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. On the application, heads of households self- identified their race and ethnicity. Of the 3,784 households who chose at least one race, 75.3% heads of household identified as white, 8.6% as Black or African American, 5.3% as multi-racial, 3.6% as Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, 2.9% as American Indian or Alaska Native and 1.3% identified as Asian. One hundred and seventy-four (174) individuals marked “don’t know” or refused to answer. Compared to 2018 Census data for Kitsap County, individuals who identified as Black/African Americans, Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander or American Indian/Alaska Native are over-represented in the homeless population at rates 3x, 3.6x and 1.75x higher than the general Kitsap County population, respectively. For this analysis, the individuals/households included as “homeless” are those unsheltered (sleeping on the street, shelter, car, or other place not meant for habitation). Fewer Asian head of households were being served by the HSC as compared to the general population of Kitsap County in 2018 (5.5% of Kitsap County residents identified as Asian in 2018 vs the 1.3% who identified as Asian and received services from HSC). Individuals served by HSC who identified as Hispanic/Latinx (8.6%) were a similar proportion as the 2018 Census data (8%). Compared to similar-sized counties, Kitsap has similar demographics as Thurston County in terms of race and ethnicity. Yakima has a lower proportion of individuals who identify as white (78% vs 82%) or Asian/Pacific Islander (6% vs 1%) than Kitsap and more people who identify as Other/Multi-racial (16% vs 9%) or Native (4% vs 1%). 2.9%1.3% 8.6%5.3%3.6% 75.3% 1.7%5.5%3.1%6.1% 1.0% 82.6% American Indian or Alaska Native Asian Black or African American Multi-racial Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander White Comparing Literally Homeless Households Applying for Housing Assistance at Coordinated Entry to Census Data -2018 Annual Literally Homeless Households 2018 Census HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 62 2. What does the family data look like compared to all households? Based on Commerce’s Equity Analysis tool, compared to all people counted in the Kitsap PIT count, Hispanic families with children were over-represented in counts for both experiencing homelessness overall and experiencing unsheltered homelessness, at rates 2.8x and 1.9x higher than the individuals in these categories who identify as Hispanic. Other/Multi-Racial Families with Children makes up 24% of the sheltered population and 22% of the unsheltered population, although this category only represents 6% of the Families with Children in Kitsap overall and 14% of all those experiencing homelessness. Only 2% of the Families with Children are Black, yet Black Families with Children make up 11% of those experiencing sheltered homelessness while 0% of those families were experiencing unsheltered homeless. Data collected from the Housing Solutions Center provides an annualized view, showing that in all racial minority groups, households with children are more likely to be accessing services through coordinated entry than households without children. 2.6%5.1%1.7%1.2%1.9%5.5%8.1%12.7%3.1%4.9%8.3%6.1%3.3%6.4%1.0%79.8%65.6%82.6%0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100% Households without Children Households with Children 2018 Census Literally Homeless Households Entering Coordinated Entry Racial Comparison by Household Type -2018 Annual American Indian or Alaska Native Asian Black or African American Multi-racial Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander White HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 63 3. In PIT counts, are there significant differences between sheltered and unsheltered counts? According to the 2019 Kitsap PIT count, 173 people of 478 included in the survey group identified as experiencing unsheltered homelessness. The largest percentage of unsheltered individuals were living out of doors. 5.8%2.2%1.7%0.3%5.5%4.1%13.1%3.1%2.3%9.2%6.1%2.3%3.6%1.0%85.4%71.5%82.6%0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% Unsheltered Sheltered 2018 Census Sheltered and Unsheltered Racial Comparison -- 2019 Point in Time Count American Indian or Alaska Native Asian Black or African American Multi-racial Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander White Out of Doors (street, tent, etc.) 18% Vehicle 12% RV/Boat Lacking Amenities 5%Abandoned Building 1% Emergency Shelter 33% Transitional Housing 31% Housing Types during 2019 Point in Time Count Total Sheltered 64% (305) Total Unsheltered 36% (173) HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 64 An analysis of the racial breakdown of residents during the 2019 Point in Time Count indicates that all racial minorities were more likely to be sheltered than unsheltered, except for American Indian or Alaska Natives, who were more than twice as likely to be unsheltered. 4. Are there specific local or state conditions that might lead to these differences? Because Kitsap’s overall PIT count was somewhat low (n=478) and this is a predominantly White (82%) county, some categories had few people in them, which can make drawing conclusions about certain percentages challenging. However, of note, there are more shelter options for families as opposed to singles which may account for the low number of unsheltered households with children. In addition, we acknowledge that cultural norms and differences can affect a household’s likelihood of accessing services. Cultural norms and expectations can also affect households doubling up and extended families and members of cultural groups providing stronger supportive environments without the involvement of public services. Anecdotally, we have heard that households of color are sometimes refusing coordinated entry referrals for services other than housing – perhaps based on a distrust of the system, the perception of unwanted tracking of individuals, and the fact that primarily white “systems” and white organizations are providing the services. If data bears this out, this will be an area in which we can develop strategies to improve. Conclusion Kitsap’s population is predominantly White. Households headed by Black/African-Americans, Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islanders, or American Indian/Alaska Natives are much more likely to become homeless in Kitsap County than White households. In addition, households with children headed by non- White households were more likely to request housing assistance than non-White households without children. All minority populations, other than American Indian or Alaska Natives, are likely to be living sheltered versus unsheltered; American Indian or Alaska Native-headed households are more than twice as likely to be living unsheltered. These are important aspects of how racial disparity manifests in households experiencing homelessness. However, the Homeless Crisis Response System (HCRS) is not the cause of this disproportionate impact of homelessness on people of color – in the same way that it is not responsible for any households becoming homeless. As referenced earlier in this Plan, homelessness is most often caused by the widening gap between incomes and housing costs. Factors such as un-managed behavioral health issues, long-term physical disabilities, inadequate federal benefits, a severe shortage of lower-cost housing, and social safety nets that are stretched too thin also conspire to keep people from returning to safe and stable housing. The racial disparity in homelessness is exacerbated for households of color by systematic institutional racism and socio-economic systems that perpetuate inequity. The HCRS does, however, have a very important role and responsibility to address this inequity by ensuring that all households are fairly and equitably provided with access to housing and services, regardless of race or ethnicity. Kitsap’s next steps to achieve this are as follows: • Analyze Kitsap’s coordinated entry vulnerability scoring tool to determine if race or ethnicity are affecting the scoring and adjust the tool, if needed. • Analyze placements into shelter and other interventions to determine if race or ethnicity is an unintended factor and make adjustments to the placement policies and procedures to correct this, if needed. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 65 • Convene a working group, including leadership from communities of color, to discuss how the HCRS can improve access and services to populations of color who are disproportionately impacted by homelessness. Action Steps that include this work have been added to Goal 4. Recommendations to the State The following are recommendations for changes to state policies that would assist local governments and community partners in reducing homelessness and improving the capacity to exit people to permanent housing destinations more quickly: • Establish as a statewide cross-system priority to not release any individuals from state systems of care into homelessness. • Develop and implement a statewide affordable housing plan to ensure equitable development of units in every county that are affordable to lower-income households. • Provide additional funding targeted specifically for ongoing program operations to provide supportive services for people living in permanent supportive housing. • Expand Foundational Community Supports to include in-home medical support and mental health supports. • Change Foundational Community Supports benefit to allow multiple agencies to provide housing or employment services to the same client – at this time, only one agency can be reimbursed for services to each client at a time. • Create a subsidy to supplement fixed income benefits (SSI and SSDI), so that elderly and disabled individuals do not lose their housing when rents increase, and their federal benefits do not. • Address the “HEN benefits cliff” so that when someone moves from HEN to SSDI, they do not suddenly experience a significant reduction in their housing subsidy. • Increase the ABD benefit to a level that supports maintaining stable housing. • In analyzing performance results, drill down to more specific different types of housing interventions to better differentiate between what constitutes a positive exit. • Fix the loopholes in landlord discrimination against people with rental assistance, such as requirements for income to be three- or four-times the rent. • Expand and improve the Department of Corrections Earned Early Release program to increase the amount of the rental subsidy to be more consistent with area rents, extend the period of the rental subsidy, ensure that landlord-tenant laws are applicable, and mandate connection with broader community housing resources. HEADING HOME: Kitsap Homeless Crisis Response and Housing Plan – 2019 Update 66 • Change the laws for HMIS data entry to not allow people to opt out of having personally identifying information entered (except for people fleeing domestic violence). This will ensure better coordination of services, reduce duplication of services, and allow better analysis of outcomes and performance metrics. • Remove the Housing Finance Commission cap on the number of projects or amount of funding an affordable housing developer can receive each year, as long as the projects are in different counties or cities. • To the extent possible, allow local governments to grant exceptions for zoning and land use for affordable housing projects. • Advocate for a federal policy change for HUD to adjust the fair market rates for Housing Choice Vouchers to more accurately reflect actual local rates. • Advocate for a federal policy change to increase the percentage cap on Housing Choice Vouchers that can be project-based. • Advocate for a federal policy change that addresses the transient military population and the impact of military base expansions and troop assignments on the local housing markets - something like a housing impact fee or a link to increases in military housing allowances. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Recommendations Report March 2020 Prepared for: The City of Bremerton and Kitsap County FINAL REPORT Park Place 1200 6th Avenue, Suite 615 Seattle, WA 98101 206-823-3060 City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis ii This page intentionally blank City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis iii For over 40 years ECONorthwest has helped its clients make sound decisions based on rigorous economic, planning, and financial analysis. For more information about ECONorthwest visit www.econw.com. ECONorthwest prepared this report for the City of Bremerton and Kitsap County. It received substantial assistance, guidance, and data from staff at the City of Bremerton and Kitsap County as well as the development and affordable housing community. That assistance notwithstanding, ECONorthwest is responsible for the content of this report. The staff at ECONorthwest prepared this report based on their general knowledge of housing development economics and affordable housing, and on information derived from government agencies, private statistical services, the reports of others, interviews of individuals, or other sources believed to be reliable. ECONorthwest has not independently verified the accuracy of all such information, and makes no representation regarding its accuracy or completeness. Any statements nonfactual in nature constitute the authors’ current opinions, which may change as more information becomes available. For more information about this report please contact: Morgan Shook shook@econw.com Park Place 1200 Sixth Avenue Suite 615 Seattle, WA 98101 206-823-3060 Disclaimer The information provided in this report has been obtained or derived from sources generally available to the public and believed by ECONorthwest to be reliable, but ECONorthwest does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to its accuracy or completeness. The information is not intended to be used as the basis of any investment decisions by any person or entity. This report should not be considered to be a recommendation by any individual affiliated with ECONorthwest with regard to the real estate market in Kitsap County and its public jurisdictions. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis iv Acknowledgements The following individuals provided input and vital contributions to this recommendations strategy and the technical memoranda that provide supporting information. § Kirsten Jewell, Housing and Homelessness Division Manager, Kitsap County Department of Human Services § Bonnie Tufts, Block Grant Manager, Kitsap County Department of Human Services § Shannon Bauman, Block Grant Program Analyst, Kitsap County Department of Human Services § Angie Silva, Assistant Director, Kitsap County Department of Community Development § Kristen Howard, Associate Planner, Kitsap County Department of Community Development § Allison Satter, Senior Planner, City of Bremerton § Sarah Achaoui, Community Development Block Grant Administrator, City of Bremerton Funding for this report came from City of Bremerton and Kitsap County Federal Community Development Block Grants and countywide Homeless Housing Grant Program funds. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis v Executive Summary In response to the housing challenges facing many households in Kitsap County, the County and the City of Bremerton sought an Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis to find data and recommendations on ways to encourage more affordable housing. This report concludes this study, and includes key findings and recommendations for the City and County to consider as they continue to work with residents, nonprofits, and the private sector to encourage and support the development of more housing to meet residents’ needs. This report: § Offers an overview of the housing landscape, developers, and planning environment, § Provides key data and analysis on the housing market and future housing demand in the County, § Sheds light on the development considerations that are working well, areas that need improvement, and emerging development issues that require new solutions, § Identifies key recommendations to improve the housing landscape in the county, including potential partnerships to create or strengthen, § And helps Kitsap County jurisdictions plan for additional housing over the next 10-20 years. Kitsap County has several housing related challenges, including the need for a variety of housing types and the need for more housing affordable to low-income households. Based on population forecasts, Kitsap County and its jurisdictions will need approximately 25,150 new housing units through 2036, or about 1,480 per year for the next 17 years, of all types and price points. Over the 2010-2017 time period, jurisdictions across the County produced only 3,600 new housing units (including demolitions), or about 515 units per year (see Appendix B for more information on the current inventory and recent production trends). Thus, jurisdictions will need to almost triple their annual housing production to accommodate the expected 25,150 new units through 2036. Sub-county housing need and the distribution of the 25,150 new units across the county were not analyzed as part of this study. This work can be pursued with new funding grants from the Washington Department of Commerce. Kitsap has also been significantly underproducing housing, producing only 42 new units for every 100 new households formed over the 2010-2017 timeframe. With development and construction costs just as high on the westside of the sound, but rents and price points lower, Kitsap has not been competitive for the post-recession housing supply increases seen in Seattle and the east side of Puget Sound. However, the economic spillover from the rest of Puget Sound has made its way to Kitsap County. Because housing markets operate at a regional scale, the availability and affordability of different types of housing in one area affect the demand for that housing in other areas. Despite recent increases in prices, housing costs in Kitsap County overall have historically been relatively less expensive than elsewhere in the region (see Exhibit 1 below). City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis vi Households across the Puget Sound region facing price increases and cost burdening–as well as increased congestion or traffic–are now looking at the relatively more affordable housing in Kitsap. This increased demand for housing has had major implications for the local market, which has not caught up by building new supply. Residents in Kitsap County are feeling the brunt of these changes, seeing price pressure and low vacancies from growing demand and lack of production. Exhibit 1. Increasing Home Values for Multifamily, Single-family, Condo/Co-op Housing in Puget Sound Counties and Washington State, 1996-2019 Source: Zillow Home Value Index, 2009-2019 These factors (explored comprehensively in the Housing Market Analysis in Appendix C), combined with the rural nature of Kitsap County, the natural land and infrastructure constraints of the area, and the presence of numerous vacation homes or second homes, present challenges in providing housing for Kitsap’s working and full time residents. This report offers 10 high priority, near term recommendations for the City and County to consider in support of housing production and improvements to affordability across income spectrums. In general, they align with three major goals for housing production and affordability: A. Help people stay in affordable housing. This includes work to preserve existing regulated housing, preserve unregulated housing, improve affordability (or reduce $0 $100,000 $200,000 $300,000 $400,000 $500,000 $600,000 $700,000 1996-061998-062000-062002-062004-062006-062008-062010-062012-062014-062016-062018-06King County Snohomish County Washington State Kitsap County Pierce County City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis vii costs) for tenants, and enhance tenant protections. This goal focuses on affordable housing, workforce housing, and low-income homeownership opportunities. B. Encourage the development of more affordable housing. This includes work to expand partnerships, improve local affordable housing development capacity, boost existing programs and resources, and reduce development costs to encourage supply. This goal focuses on rent restricted affordable housing and to a lesser extent, workforce housing. C. Expand housing options and grow housing supply to address existing shortages and future growth. This includes projects and programs relating to reducing development costs or time the it takes to deliver a project from start to finish, changing zoning that limits density, and allowing more housing choices for new construction to meet the varying needs of Kitsap residents. This goal focuses on multifamily housing and alternative housing types, with the understanding that more supply can help relieve price pressure in a tight market. The City, County, and other planning jurisdictions have meaningful work ahead. Recent annual housing production trends need to more than triple in order to meet the expected housing needs by 2036. These ten priority recommendations are aimed at significant changes to boost production and help vulnerable residents at risk of rent increases and displacement. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis viii Table of Contents INTRODUCTION 1 GEOGRAPHIC REFERENCES USED 2 HOUSING, FINANCE, AND DEVELOPMENT TERMS USED 4 I. OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND KEY FINDINGS 8 SUMMARY GOALS 8 OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES 8 KEY FINDINGS 11 INFLUENCING HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IS COMPLEX 13 RECOMMENDED ACTIONS CAN HELP 14 II. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS 15 MANY ACTIONS WILL BE NEEDED TO MEET HOUSING NEEDS 15 MEANINGFUL ACTION WILL INCLUDE MANY PLAYERS 15 ACTIONS TOWARD THREE GOALS 16 III. IMPLEMENTATION 36 IV. METHODS & DATA SUMMARY 39 METHODS 39 DATA SUMMARY 39 ASSUMPTIONS/CAVEATS 41 V. APPENDICES 43 City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 1 Introduction Throughout 2019, ECONorthwest worked with staff at the City of Bremerton and Kitsap County to prepare this Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis. This report offers concrete actions the County, local cities, and local planning jurisdictions can take to advance housing solutions to better meet the housing needs of all residents with a particular focus on improving the affordable housing landscape for low- and moderate-income residents across the County. While the focus of this report is on improving affordable housing options in the County, several actions and recommendations are aimed at increasing the supply and production of housing affordable to moderate and higher incomes, with an understanding that supply of all types can help ease the affordability challenges posed by a tight market. The findings and recommendations advanced herein are informed by three technical appendices that surveyed (a) the housing landscape and existing organizations providing housing and affordable housing in the county, (b) the housing inventory including characteristics, size, type, age, and price of housing, and (c) a housing needs assessment that evaluates the drivers of housing supply, drivers of housing demand, and the future needs for housing of all types and price points across the county over the next 20 years. This report is broken down into the following sections: I. Opportunities, Challenges, and Key Findings lists the most important information from the supporting analysis that inform the recommendations, II. Recommended Actions offers comprehensive action sheets on 10 high-priority actions and another 33 recommendations that can help to increase housing affordability across Kitsap County, III. Implementation outlines the decision points, funding considerations, and lead agencies that can move forward on each action, IV. Methods & Data Summary describes the report creation process and summarizes key data sources, V. Appendices include short summaries of the three technical appendices that provide supporting data. The technical appendices can be found online at www.KitsapGov.com or at www.BremertonWa.gov. Readers should come away with an understanding of the policy recommendations and concrete actions that Bremerton, Kitsap County and the jurisdictions can consider as they continue working to provide safe, affordable housing for all Kitsap residents. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 2 Geographic References Used Throughout this analysis, statistics are referenced for different geographies across Kitsap County. This section steps through the geographic boundaries used, and nomenclature used to address different planning jurisdictions. Cities and Census Designated Places vs Urban Growth Areas Our analysis uses a variety of data sources. Because the U.S. Census Bureau is the main source of data for the appendices that support this report, we use its definitions of “Places” and “Census Designated Places” (CDPs) to analyze and display the data pertinent to this study. Places typically refer to cities, towns, villages, and boroughs, and are “a concentration of population either legally bounded as an incorporated place, or identified as a Census Designated Place.”1 CDPs differ from places in that CDPs are “statistical geographic entities representing closely settled, unincorporated communities that are locally recognized and identified by name.”2 CDPs are statistically equivalent to incorporated places and they are the Census Bureau’s best approximation for unincorporated areas across the country. This analysis uses CDP boundaries instead of Urban Growth Areas (UGAs), which are the County’s urban planning boundaries for Kingston and Silverdale, because the Census provides more data on these areas’ population and economic characteristics. The map in Exhibit A below shows the CDP boundaries in grey, the UGA boundaries for Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Port Orchard, and Poulsbo in black, and the UGA boundaries for Kingston and Silverdale in red. As the map demonstrates, the UGA boundaries for Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Port Orchard, and Poulsbo are aligned with the CDPs, and the Kingston and Silverdale UGAs have meaningful overlap. As such, they are a good approximation and allow us access to more data. 1 U.S. Census Bureau, Place definition. Retrieved from: https://factfinder.census.gov/help/en/place.htm 2 U.S. Census Bureau, Census Designated Place (CDP) Program for the 2010 Census—Proposed Criteria, 72 Federal Register 17326-17329. April 6, 2007. Retrieved from: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2007-04-06/pdf/E7-6465.pdf City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 3 Exhibit A. We use Census Designated Places, Which Closely Align with Kitsap UGAs Source: UGA boundaries come from the Kitsap County Department of Community Development. Census boundaries come from Census GIS files. 104 16 307 305 3 101 Jefferson Snohomish Islan d Clall am King Kitsap Mason Pierc e Bremerton Kingston Port Orchard Bainbridge Island Silverdale Poulsbo 0 5 Mil es study_areas Kitsap Geographies City UGA Kingston UGA Silverdale UGA Census Designated Places City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 4 Kitsap County Inclusive vs Kitsap County Jurisdiction In this analysis, references to “Kitsap County,” “Kitsap,” or “the County” relate to the county as a whole, inclusive of the other planning areas (cities and urban growth areas). For example, if a statistic shows the average age for Kitsap County residents alongside the average age for residents of the City of Bremerton, the ages of Bremerton residents would be included in the Kitsap County average. Readers should assume that in-text references to “Kitsap County” or “the County” are inclusive of all other jurisdictions within the County. At times, we further clarify this point by referencing residents “across the County” or businesses “throughout the County,” or we will discuss “Kitsap County as a whole,” or a statistic for “the entire County.” Housing, Finance, and Development Terms Used Affordable Housing. Regulated affordable housing that is income or rent-restricted to ensure the housing is occupied by households earning a certain income. Regulations are set according to the types of funding used to develop the housing, such as the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, or U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding. Most rent-restricted affordable housing is restricted to be affordable to households earning under 60% MFI, but these restrictions vary. We refer to regulated affordable housing and rent-restricted affordable housing interchangeably in this memorandum. Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). Community development financial institutions (CDFIs) are regulated financial institutions that exist to expand economic prosperity and opportunity to low income communities. They do so by providing access to financing tools, products, and services for residents and businesses. They operate much like banks or credit unions by offering loans, microloans, or venture capital. Most often, CDFIs are regulated by the U.S. Treasury Department. Community Land Trust. A land banking model where a community organization owns land and provides long-term ground leases to low-income households to purchase the homes on the land, agreeing to purchase prices, resale prices, equity capture, and other terms. This model allows low-income households to become homeowners and capture a portion of the growth in home value as equity, but ensures that the home remains affordable for future homebuyers. Cost Burdened. We use the term “cost burdening” to refer to households who pay more than 30 percent of their income on housing costs. We use the term “severe cost burdening” for households paying more than 50 percent of their income on housing. These terms come from HUD, and include mortgage payments and interest, or rent, utilities, and insurance. Development Capital Stack. The mix of funding sources either in a fund or used to pay for construction of a development project. Different types of funding are “stacked” together. Each type of funding sits at a different level in the stack corresponding to risk and rate of return (lower risk corresponds with lower return and vice-versa). City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 5 Development Feasibility. A new development project needs to be financially feasible, demonstrating that the revenues generated from rents are sufficient to cover operations, debt servicing, and capital reserves. A project’s development team will create a pro forma to determine feasibility and adjust the number of units, size, rents, and construction costs until the project revenues match expected operating costs (often referred to as “penciling out”). Affordable housing funders need to understand financial feasibility before they will award a project funding. Development Phases. The typical phases are predevelopment, construction, and operation. Predevelopment can be split into early-stage predevelopment (project visioning, design, and concept planning) and late-stage predevelopment (securing project funding, securing sites, permits, and entitlements such as zoning or rezoning). Early-stage predevelopment projects often end up infeasible and cannot carry debt. Housing Affordability. “Housing that is affordable” refers to any type of housing, regulated or not, that costs less than 30% of a household's pre-tax income. This definition is a generally accepted definition of affordability. Land Banking. See Community Land Trust. Low Cost Market Rentals. We refer to housing that is affordable to low income households but not regulated or restricted by a funding source, as “low cost market rentals.” These housing units are often affordable by nature of their location, condition, age, or the amenities offered nearby or at the property. Median Family Income (MFI). The U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) produces an area median family income each year to measure affordability thresholds against. Affordable housing deals, loans, and other HUD requirements will be assigned to a percentage of the MFI (see sidebar).3 “Missing-Middle” Housing.4 Missing middle housing is a term coined by Opticos Design to refer to medium-density housing like duplexes, triplexes, townhouses, courtyard style apartments, cottage clusters, or accessory dwelling units. These types of housing developments were largely outlawed in the post-war period in favor of single-family housing units. Recent efforts call for relegalizing missing middle housing to increase density and affordability in highly walkable, opportunistic neighborhoods. 3 HUD releases MFI data each year. However most of the data used in this study is through 2017, so we refer to the 2017 HUD MFI for consistency. 4 Opticos Design. 2019. “Missing-Middle Housing.” Available from: opticosdesign.com/missing-middle-housing/ Kitsap County MFI According to HUD, Kitsap County’s MFI was $77,119 in 2017. • 30% of MFI is about $23,135 • 50% of MFI is about $38,559 • 60% of MFI is about $46,271 • 80% of MFI is about $61,695 • 100% of MFI is $77,119 • 120% of MIF is about $92,542 City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 6 Mission-Based Developers. Refers to public or non-profit organizations working to provide affordable housing and services. These developers may sacrifice financial return for the positive social impact of providing affordable housing. Multi-Family Tax Exemption (MFTE). Washington state law (RCW 84.14) allows for cities to exempt multifamily housing developments from property taxes in certain areas for a period of eight or 12 years in exchange for affordability restrictions on some of the units. This exemption reduces the costs of operating (and therefore developing) multi-family housing and helps to increase the supply of market rate and affordable housing. Net Operating Income (NOI). In a new development proforma, NOI is equal to revenues less operating expenses. The amount of permanent financing that can be obtained is determined by the NOI. Permanent Debt / Permanent Financing / Take-Out Financing. A long-term loan (maturity of 15-30 years) that is obtained after completion of construction. It is used to repay the short-term construction loan. Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT). A financing vehicle that generates returns to investors by buying and operating workforce or moderately-affordable housing to generate quarterly cash flow. REITs are stand-alone companies or investment entities that own, and in most case operate, income-producing real estate. REITs generate stable, moderately-low risk real estate- investments for private equity, much like private investors invest in mutual funds. They are used broadly throughout most major development markets. Return On Investment. Measure of profitability: net income as a percent of the equity or funding that went into the project. Banks, institutional investors, and for-profit developers will not build a project if they cannot guarantee a sufficient return on investment. Revolving Loan Fund. A pool of money from which loans are issued to eligible recipients for specific uses. In the case of affordable housing revolving loan funds, the loans have lower interest rates and more generous terms compared to market loans. When the loans are repaid, new loans can be issued. Severely Cost Burdened. See Cost Burdened. Transit-Oriented Development (TOD / ETOD). Development located within walking distance (usually ¼ or ½ mile) of a designated transit network or high-capacity transit stop. ETOD stands for equitable TOD, which approaches TOD with an equity lens to ensure that all communities, particularly minority, low-income or historically marginalized communities, benefit from transit investments and transit-related development. Unregulated or Unrestricted Housing. See Low Cost Market Rentals. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 7 Workforce Housing. The term “workforce housing” is often used to describe housing units that are affordable to households earning more than 60% MFI. These can be regulated or unregulated. Zoning / Rezoning. Regulations are often statewide mandates that are implemented at a local government on the allowable land uses and density on a parcel of land. Landowners can apply to their local government to change the zoning of their parcel of land (whether a specific use and/or the density). City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 8 I. Opportunities, Challenges, and Key Findings This section summarizes the opportunities and challenges facing housing development in and across Kitsap County, and includes key findings from the data analyzed in the Housing Inventory and Needs Analysis. More information, including comprehensive data, charts, and graphs can be found in the three supporting appendices, the Housing Landscape Overview (Appendix A), the Housing Inventory (Appendix B), and the Housing Needs Analysis (Appendix C). Summary Goals These opportunities, challenges, and key findings form the basis of the 10 high priority recommendations advanced in Part II and III. In general, they fall into three major categories of goals for housing: A. Help people stay in affordable housing. This includes opportunities and challenges to preserve existing regulated housing, preserve unregulated housing, improve affordability (or reduce costs) for tenants, and enhance tenant protections. This goal focuses on affordable housing, workforce housing, and low-income homeownership opportunities. B. Encourage the development of more affordable housing. This includes opportunities and challenges relating to expanding partnerships, improving local affordable housing development capacity, boosting existing programs and resources, and by reducing development costs to encourage supply. This goal focuses on rent restricted affordable housing and to a lesser extent, workforce housing. C. Expand housing options and grow housing supply to address existing shortages and future growth. This includes opportunities and challenges relating to development costs, zoning changes that limit density, and allowing more housing choices for new construction to meet the varying needs of Kitsap residents. This goal focuses on multifamily housing and alternative housing types, with the understanding that more supply can help relieve price pressure in a tight market. Opportunities and Challenges The following opportunities and challenges are affecting the development of housing across Kitsap County. Not all opportunities and challenges are present in every jurisdiction, and many do not apply to single-family housing development, the development of which remains relatively strong in Kitsap and its jurisdictions. More information: For more information about Kitsap’s housing inventory, including recent production trends, see Appendix B: Housing Inventory. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 9 Rather, these opportunities and challenges primarily relate to the development that is not occurring in the county: higher-density multifamily housing, alternative housing types (such as accessory dwelling units, “missing-middle housing” or townhomes), and rent-restricted affordable housing options. It is important to note that local context matters greatly as local governments contemplate both the relevance and implementation of these goals. They will need to review zoning, Growth Management Act law, relevant case law, and other applicable regulations as necessary to determine which opportunities and recommendations (in Section II) are implementable at the local level. Exhibit 2. Opportunities and Strengths for Residential Development in Kitsap County Goal Opportunity Stay in Affordable Housing Good partnerships exist between community agencies helping vulnerable residents at risk of housing instability Existing programs like weatherization and minor home repair and housing rehabilitation help residents stay in their homes Housing Resources Bainbridge’s Community Land Trust opens up home ownership opportunities for low- income households Encourage the development of more affordable housing Good partnerships exist between community agencies helping vulnerable residents at risk of housing instability Kitsap County has sufficient land available for housing development within its existing urban growth boundaries Kitsap County has relatively lower land costs compared to elsewhere in the region, helping to improve affordable housing development feasibility Key opportunity sites exist along major corridors and in growing communities Opportunity zones present investment opportunities that can aid development feasibility Bremerton’s infill toolkit is seen as a best practice and helpful guide for high density development Grow housing supply and options Spillover demand from economic growth in Seattle and the underproduction of housing in Kitsap causes rent growth and low vacancy which helps development feasibility of market rate multifamily housing Kitsap County has sufficient land available for housing development within its existing urban growth boundaries Kitsap County has relatively lower land costs compared to elsewhere in the region, helping to improve affordable housing development feasibility Kitsap County and its jurisdictions have planning documents that are generally supportive of housing development Opportunity zones present investment opportunities that can aid development feasibility Bremerton’s infill toolkit is seen as a best practice and helpful guide for development Leadership is open to conversations about improving housing development The online permitting tool has been a benefit for improving permitting timelines and helping development move faster, thereby reducing costs Key opportunity sites exist along major corridors and in growing communities City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 10 Exhibit 3. Challenges and Risks for Residential Development in Kitsap County Goal Challenge/Risk Stay in Affordable Housing Spillover demand from economic growth in Seattle and the underproduction of housing in Kitsap causes rent growth, low vacancy, and high displacement risk for Kitsap residents High housing prices lock low-income residents out of homeownership and wealth building opportunities Expensive home repairs can prevent people from remaining in their homes as needs change Many mobile homes are sitting on valuable land and could be at risk of displacement if land prices create pressure to redevelop Outside of the government and healthcare sectors, there are few high-paying private sector jobs in Kitsap County, which can limit income growth and upward economic mobility for residents Housing near ferries is largely single family, limiting the ability for renter households (who are often lower income) to access high-paying jobs throughout the region Access to transit is limited and reduces access to high paying jobs throughout the region Encourage the development of more affordable housing Kitsap County jurisdictions lack sufficient funding to leverage for affordable housing funding applications Affordable housing developers are generally operating at capacity and lack training or staff to increase development capacity Construction costs are just as high in Kitsap County as elsewhere, making development of affordable housing difficult Few development opportunities exist on larger lots, which are attractive to high density development. Kitsap County has largely already been divided into parcels Many unincorporated areas lack infrastructure and the costs of mitigation make affordable housing development prohibitive Zoning can be a barrier to affordable housing development by disallowing higher density development Jurisdictions in Kitsap County do not offer many zoning incentives to encourage affordable housing NIMBYs can stall or delay affordable housing development Remaining infill lots are generally difficult and costly to develop compared to greenfield development Parking shortages can drive up the cost of new housing development by requiring off-street parking stalls Grow housing supply and options Construction costs are just as high in Kitsap County as elsewhere, making development of higher density housing difficult Few development opportunities exist on larger lots, which are attractive to high density development. Kitsap County has largely already been divided into parcels Many unincorporated areas lack infrastructure and the costs of mitigation make higher density housing development prohibitive Zoning presents a barrier to development by disallowing higher density development, disallowing secondary units in high-demand areas or along transit lines, or by requiring lots to be built to the maximum size or subdivided Jurisdictions in Kitsap County are not offering many zoning incentives to encourage the types of housing needed Remaining infill lots are generally difficult and costly to develop compared to greenfield development NIMBYs can stall or delay multifamily or higher density housing There are few good examples of alternative housing types (e.g. ADUs or “missing middle” housing) for developers new to Kitsap County Moratoriums on new development are not helpful for achieving housing needs There are many second homes and vacation homes in Kitsap County, reducing the overall supply of housing and buildable land The presence of Naval Base Kitsap increases housing demand without providing tools, funding, or incentives for housing or parking in the area City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 11 Key Findings In addition to the opportunities and challenges present in Kitsap County and its jurisdictions outlined above, the following key findings help to shape the recommendations offered in Section II and III. These findings come from data and analysis in the Housing Inventory and Needs Analysis. Kitsap needs 25,150 new housing units by 2036… Kitsap County is expected to need an additional 25,147 total housing units over the next 17 years, or approximately 1,480 per year. As currently zoned, the majority of these housing units are expected to be single-family detached, similar to current development trends. Jurisdictions across Kitsap County will need to more than triple their annual rates of net housing production in the 2010-2017 time period (515 units per year) to reach the rate of production needed to accommodate these new housing units by 2036. And is already behind housing production. Jurisdictions across the county have not been building enough housing to meet the needs of its residents. Over the 2010 to 2017 time period, it only built 42 new housing units for every 100 new households formed. Over that timeframe, fewer than 3,800 housing units have been built, and when accounting for demolition or obsolescence of units, the net new units is about 3,600. Job growth is incredibly strong… Kitsap is seeing strong job growth, in line with the strong national and regional economies. In 2018, total covered employment reached almost 90,000 jobs. The County passed its pre-recession job peak of 84,400 jobs back in 2015. Since the recession, the fastest growing sectors include management jobs, manufacturing, construction and transportation/warehousing jobs, and accommodation/food service jobs. That the fastest growing sectors have moderate to high wages is a sign for continued purchasing power for future housing demand. And Kitsap is gaining a lot of high income households… Due to this strong economic growth and spillover effects from the Seattle region, Kitsap County appears to be gaining households at higher income levels (earning more than $80,000) since 2010. But it lacks sufficient housing for these households. Kitsap has a deficit of rental housing appropriately priced for higher-income households. In the 2010-2017 time period, Kitsap had about 7,000 households earning more than the median family income ($77,119 for a family of four) but only 1,800 units that are “affordably priced” for those households. This means these higher income renter household are competing for available housing stock with lower- income households, putting further pressure on the availability of housing for low- income households. Kitsap is also gaining low income households… In the 2010-2017 time period, Kitsap also gained households at the lowest income levels (earning under $20,000 per year). Trends for households earning between $20,000 and $80,000 were mixed. And has a gap in housing inventory for these households, too. However, as of 2013-2017, Kitsap County had a shortage of almost 5,800 units of rental housing affordable to its extremely low-income renter households (those earning less than 30 percent of the median family income or about $23,135 for a family of four). This lack of housing plus increased competition from higher-income households puts many renter households at risk of rent increases and displacement. Rent-restricted affordable housing is scarce and difficult to build. Rent restricted affordable housing is scarce in Kitsap County and is concentrated in a few locations around the County. Bremerton has the most affordable housing and also has the most deeply affordable housing: about 66 percent of all units restricted below 30% MFI are located in Bremerton, likely due to the presence of the Bremerton Housing Authority (housing authorities often operate deeply affordable units) and the presence of extremely low income households needing housing. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 12 And displacement risks are high for low income mobile homeowners, too. Kitsap County has many mobile homes that are not located in mobile home communities, but are a home located on a unique, often large parcel. The average land value for these mobile homes can be pretty high in some areas, reaching up to $240,000 on Bainbridge Island. Rising land values can create pressure to redevelop, which puts these residents at risk of displacement. Limited employment opportunities prevent earnings growth and upward economic mobility… Outside of the government and healthcare sectors, Kitsap has limited employment options with a high number of residents either entering or leaving the County for employment. A high share of Kitsap’s workers do not live in the county, which is an opportunity when planning for future housing growth. In 2017, more than 46,300 people commuted out of Kitsap County for work, 23,750 people commuted into the county, and about 43,300 people stayed put (work and live in the county). And housing near ferries is largely single-family. With multiple ferry routes to Seattle and other Puget Sound cities, households living near a ferry terminal gain immense access to employment, healthcare, higher education, recreation, and amenities in other areas of the Puget Sound. Approximately 1,550 households on Bainbridge live within one mile of a ferry terminal, about 2,110 households live near a ferry in Bremerton, and so do about 1,180 households in Kingston and Southworth combined. In Bremerton, this figure includes 407 households in multi-family housing. This locks lower-income households out from access to employment opportunities. Because of the prevalence of single-family housing near ferries, and because homeownership is out of reach for most low-income, minority, or marginalized households, these communities are also locked out of important access to jobs, opportunity, amenities, and services in the region. Economic development is important to grow the local economy, and it should include housing considerations. For low-income households that cannot travel outside the region for higher-paying jobs, economic development within the County is critically important. However, these efforts should include considerations relating to housing provision, especially when a large number of new jobs are created. Job creation absent housing creation will not solve the economic insecurity that many Kitsap households face, and can exacerbate issues around traffic congestion, emissions, and cost burdening. Kitsap County is aging… In like with national trends, Kitsap County is aging and seeing older households account for a larger share of the total population. This is most pronounced on Bainbridge Island, in Port Orchard, and in Kingston. Bainbridge saw a seven percentage point increase in the number of residents over age 44 between the year 2000 and the years 2013-2017, while Port Orchard saw a 10 percentage point increase over that time. In Kingston, the share of residents over age 65 grew by 11 percentage points, while the share of residents under age 20 declined in the same timeframe. And Kitsap County is diversifying. The Hispanic or Latinx population almost doubled from four percent of Kitsap County’s total population in 2000, to seven percent of the population in the 2013– 2017 period. Bremerton, Port Orchard, and Poulsbo are more ethnically diverse than the Kitsap County average, with the Hispanic/Latinx population making up nine percent, ten percent, and 12 percent of residents, respectively. Bainbridge Island has the lowest share of Hispanic/Latinx residents, although the proportion doubled across the 2000 to 2013-2017 period. Port Orchard’s Hispanic/Latinx population also doubled over the analysis period. Both of these trends will shift the types of housing needed and demanded in the future. Due to Kitsap’s increasing diversity, the future housing stock consisting of primarily single-family homes could be mismatched with the housing needs of non-white households (for example, larger households who have intergenerational household members, extended family members, or more children). This coupled with Kitsap’s growing baby-boomer population looking to “age in place,” could mean that competition for housing may continue to put upward pressure on housing prices. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 13 Jurisdictions in Kitsap County need to make changes to meet housing needs… Kitsap County jurisdictions will need to almost triple their annual housing production to accommodate the expected 25,150 new units in the next 17 years. Continued spillover demand from the Seattle region and strong local economic growth will likely increase the number of high-income and low-income residents seeking housing in the County. Or continued rising prices, rents, and displacement risk are likely to worsen. These trends, coupled with the gap in housing affordable to both of these income brackets, and compounded by structural difficulties in producing rent-restricted housing in Kitsap, mean that jurisdictions will need to implement meaningful changes where possible to catch up and meet production needs. Rising prices, rents, displacement, and households falling into homelessness are likely to continue if jurisdictions cannot increase housing production at all levels. Housing Development is Multi-faceted and Dynamic Housing development is an incredibly complex and lengthy process. The private sector produces the majority of all new housing development, and this market is governed by economic fundamentals of supply and demand, which is influenced by government regulation. However, many regulations are set at the state level (such as Growth Management Act requirements or environmental review processes). These factors limit local governments’ ability to influence housing development. Private sector development occurs at the intersection of land availability, public policies, market feasibility, and capital funding. In a similar way, publicly supported rent/income controlled housing is subject to the same factors. Housing development relies on inputs set by numerous interrelated markets and players – from the cost of land to the cost of labor and materials to the price of rents – each input to development is its own market with supply and demand factors constantly in flux. Exhibit 4. Development Fundamentals Source: ECONorthwest. Public Policy Market Feasibility Capital Land Development Can Occur More information: For more information about Kitsap’s housing market trends, and factors influencing future demand, see Appendix C: Housing Needs Analysis. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 14 § On a parcel of land, for-profit (which are the majority) landowners and property developers will evaluate a site for the economically highest and best use allowed, be that office, residential, commercial, or vacant land, depending on the parcel’s unique characteristics. § Public policies, like land use restrictions or zoning, dictate what types of development can occur and where, usually for aesthetic, health, safety, or economic reasons. A single policy can have many different impacts; adding new policies and removing existing regulations is a complex process with a lot of influence across many sectors. § Market feasibility is a robust process that assesses the demand for development, comparing the expected revenues against the investment costs (e.g. labor and materials), for the desired types of development. If a development project is not feasible, it will not get built. § Capital is necessary to pay for the costs of development and influences market feasibility due to the expected return on investment. Capital seeking return on investment can flow to other sectors – stocks, bonds, etc. – when development cannot meet return requirements. Development occurs when all these factors align: the land is available and properly zoned, the regulations allow the development, the market says it is feasible, and the capital can be deployed for an investment return. Influencing where development occurs and what is built is challenging, takes time, and requires input from numerous players (government, the general public, impacted neighbors, and the development community). Recommended Actions to Address the Key Issues The 10 high-priority recommendations advanced in the next section can help Kitsap County and its jurisdictions implement changes where possible – to funding structures, zoning patterns, or incentive programs – to increase housing production to meet future housing needs. While we cannot determine that the County will meet its 25,000 housing unit need if all or some of these recommendations are taken, we can point to the trends that will continue if housing production does not increase and housing demand continues: rising prices, rents, and displacement, culminating in more cost burdening, more housing instability, and more households falling into homelessness. Implementing these changes will require involvement from many different partners – including for profit housing providers, non-profit developers, the different jurisdictions, and the community at large. Importantly, further review of zoning, Growth Management Act case law, and other applicable regulations will be necessary to determine which recommendations can be implementable at the local level. However, no single strategy will solve housing affordability challenges for Kitsap’s residents. The recommendations below are for the City of Bremerton and Kitsap County to consider as a starting point. They are not exhaustive of the possible improvements, and can be mixed together or selected individually as the City, the County, and the general public see fit. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 15 II. Recommended Actions The key findings and discussions of housing opportunities and barriers generated a long list of potential recommendations for the jurisdictions in Kitsap County to consider. This section steps through 10 high priority recommendations that, if implemented, could have meaningful impacts on housing supply and affordability, and another 33 recommendations that are lower priority but should be included as part of the City’s and County’s toolbox when considering affordable housing and development solutions. Many Actions will Be Needed to Meet Housing Needs No single change will fix the affordable housing crisis in the region, and many strategies can be deployed at different levels (e.g., affecting a property, a neighborhood, or working across the market) and in different sectors (e.g., for-profit housing, affordable housing, multifamily, or single family). These 10 high-priority recommendations and 33 additional recommended tools and strategies could be implemented in any combination to make a meaningful impact on the development of more housing and less expensive housing across the County. We cannot determine that the County will meet its 25,000 new housing unit need if all or some of these recommendations are taken. But if meaningful action is not taken to increase the rate of housing production, and the County continues to see population growth and housing demand, prices will continue to rise, displacement pressures will continue to increase, and vulnerable households will continue to fall into homelessness. Meaningful Action will Include Many Players Many factors affecting housing production are out of the control of public agencies – such as rent and home prices, costs of labor and materials, and population growth. Many partners and housing providers will ultimately be involved in spurring new housing development. While the public sector can play a lead role in setting the stage for change, implementing these recommended actions will require ongoing coordination with many departments, jurisdictions, developers, and the general public. While these recommendations have been created to help the City of Bremerton and Kitsap County advance housing solutions, there is no one-size-fits all approach. Rather, this list is a starting point for considering different tools that can be mixed together or selected individually depending on circumstances. These recommendations are not exhaustive of the possible improvements that might be identified and should be considered a menu of preliminary ideas to be considered. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 16 It is also important to note that further review of zoning, Growth Management Act case law, and other applicable regulations are necessary to determine which recommendations can be implementable at the local level. Actions Toward Three Goals These 10 high-priority recommendations are grouped by the high-level goals they can help to achieve. These goals summarize the development and housing challenges identified in prior tasks and the paths to creating more affordable housing options for Kitsap County residents. A. Help people stay in affordable housing, such as preserving existing regulated housing, preserving unregulated housing, reducing costs for tenants, and enhancing tenant protections. This includes workforce housing and low-income homeownership opportunities. B. Encourage development of more affordable housing by expanding partnerships, local development capacity, boosting funding, and reducing development costs. C. Expand housing options and grow housing supply to address existing shortages and future growth by reducing costs, supporting zoning changes to increase residential capacity, walkability, and lower price point development, and allowing more housing choices for new construction to meet the varying needs of Kitsap residents. Exhibit 5. Primary Recommendations Assessed Recommendation Goal Achieved Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing Preserve Affordability Increase Housing Options & Supply 1. Create a Preservation & Anti-Discrimination Strategy ✓ 2. Update Comprehensive Land Strategy ✓ ✓ ✓ 3. Create a Revolving Loan Fund ✓ ✓ 4. Create a Real Estate Investment Fund ✓ ✓ 5. Establish Additional Affordable Housing Funding Sources ✓ ✓ 6. Pool Existing Resources ✓ ✓ 7. Expand Community Land Trust ✓ ✓ 8. Encourage “Missing Middle” Housing ✓ ✓ 9. Review and Revise Land Use Barriers ✓ ✓ 10. Review Up-Zoning Urban Land For Multifamily Housing ✓ ✓ 10 High-Priority Action Sheets The 10 high-priority recommendations are assessed via “action sheets” that allow for a quick snapshot of each recommendation, and allow the City and County to compare specific City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 17 recommendations with one another. These actions sheets can be monitored, updated, and edited as recommendations are addressed or as market conditions change. Each action sheet provides a description of the recommendation and evaluates the following considerations: § The primary goal the recommendation is helping to achieve (A, B, or C above), § The development barrier each recommendation helps to overcome, § The sector most likely to lead the action, § The potential scale (works at market level, neighborhood level, or property by property), § The potential impact on housing affordability (high, medium, or low), § Potential partners to work with, § Applicable locations or sites, § Critical considerations about sources of funding, timing, needed analysis, political will, neighborhood opposition, and immediate steps to move forward, and § Relevant resources or links from other communities working on the same issue. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 18 1 Create a Preservation & Anti-Displacement Strategy Primary Goal Sector Preserve Affordability Public Housing Barriers Overcome Preserves aging or expiring restricted units, prevents displacement. Description A county-wide, comprehensive preservation and anti-displacement strategy would work on expanding housing affordability in numerous ways. This could include any of the following facets: § Monitoring regulated affordable housing properties that are nearing their affordability expiration dates, and working with the property owner to recapitalize and rehabilitate the property with new funding. Create a database and mapping system to monitor and plan for upcoming expirations. § Setting up a process to monitor unregulated affordable rental properties and mobile home parks that might be at risk of being sold to private investors and seeing rents/leases increase. Establish criteria to flag properties at risk, such as: low-rents, deferred maintenance, under 20 units, non-institutional owners (aka., “mom and pop” owners), located in amenity rich areas, near recent redevelopments, or on high cost land. o This could be done in conjunction with Action 3; the use of low-interest loans from a revolving loan fund could purchase these properties in partnership with a local affordable housing provider, to maintain affordability and habitability for years. o This strategy could also establish procedures or guidelines to help the residents at these properties to establish a co-operative ownership structure, thereby preventing future displacement. This can be a highly effective model for preventing mobile home parks from being purchased and redeveloped. § Evaluate communities and neighborhoods across the county that may be especially vulnerable to displacement as Kitsap’s housing market continues to rise. Many of the tenants living in unregulated affordable properties will be at risk if their building is purchased and rents rise. Many risk and screening tools exist that can be applied to communities. Special attention should be paid to historically marginalized communities like communities of color, immigrants, or non-English speaking communities. § Establish, update, or strengthen tenant protections and resources, such as policies relating to just-cause evictions, low-barrier application screening, fair-housing and anti-discrimination policies, and anti-price gouging when military personnel arrive with Basic Housing Allowances. Ensure that all new housing resources for households experiencing a housing crisis are coordinated with the countywide one-stop housing resource center, the Housing Solutions Center. Scalability A preservation strategy could be scaled at the market level. Critical Considerations § This is a Medium-term opportunity since funding and an operator may need to be identified, and a plan needs to be put in place. However, discussions could start immediately with the following next steps: o Develop a community engagement plan to meet with and understand the housing challenges of communities at risk of displacement, o Seek out national or state funding sources to staff this effort and create a plan, and o Identify the departments to house, manage, and monitor a database or map of properties at risk. § The Multi-Family Tax Exemption could help preserve unregulated affordable properties in targeted areas such as the City of Bremerton. This tool gives property owners property tax exemptions typically for 8-10 years in exchange for rent restrictions. Under current regulations, this tool is available in Kitsap cities, not the County. Potential Affordability Impact High – potential to maintain rent restricted affordability for low- income households and create the opportunity to preserve affordability in at risk properties. Potential Partnerships Local affordable housing providers, investment companies, mission-based lenders, Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), philanthropic organizations, or foundations. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 19 Applicable Locations Countywide. § Neither a preservation strategy nor an anti- discrimination strategy will likely face political or neighborhood opposition. § A process to monitor private market rentals may face headwinds from a landlord association. Creating these strategies will require significant public engagement and outreach to truly understand the housing and affordability challenges of the communities most at risk. Relevant Resources § Oregon Housing Preservation Program: www.PreserveOregonHousing.org § Urban Displacement Project’s displacement risk factor: www.UrbanDisplacement.org § The Tenants Union of Washington State: www.TenantsUnion.org § CASA of Oregon Manufactured Homeowner Assistance: casaoforegon.org/for- individual/manufactured-housing-cooperative-development/ § Oregon Housing & Community Services Manufactured Communities Resource Center: www.oregon.gov/ohcs/Pages/manufactured-dwelling-park-services-oregon.aspx § Tenant information at Housing Resources Bainbridge: www.housingresourcesbi.org/programs/tenant-resources/ § Example jurisdictions using MFTE: Kirkland, Bellingham, Tacoma, Spokane, Yakima, and Moses Lake (limited to cities with 15,000 persons or more) City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 20 2 Review and Update the Comprehensive Land Strategy Primary Goal Sector Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing; Preserve Affordability; Increase Housing Supply Public Housing Barriers Overcome Prohibitive costs of land, lack of infrastructure on suitable land, small parcel sizes needing reaggregation. Description Review and update Countywide Planning Policies and Comprehensive Plans to include any of the following: § A surplus public land database and strategy, like Sound Transit’s 80-80-80 policy. This policy requires 80% of “surplus land” not used for the light-rail expansion (often temporarily used for construction staging) be used for affordable housing developers, who must reserve 80% of their units for households making less than 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). § A land banking or land acquisition strategy that sets criteria for purchasing land before it appreciates in value, holding it either a short or long period of time, and conveying that land to developers building affordable housing. This strategy can take several forms, from nonprofit entities to city-led programs to cities donating, selling, or leasing publicly-owned land for the development of affordable housing. Criteria on site characteristics, timeline, price per acre, and other considerations should be determined. § A funding and process mechanism for overcoming development barriers in priority areas. Many developers stressed that areas suitable for residential development lack necessary infrastructure, and the cost of installing it makes the deal prohibitive. The jurisdictions participating in this land strategy could source and commit funding to pay a share of these infrastructure costs, in exchange for affordability covenants or priority development types (e.g., larger apartments, live-work studios, or small-scale community centers). Criteria – such as eligible developers, priority locations/development types, and requirements in exchange for funds – would need to be established with developers to ensure they would work in a deal structure. § A process should be created to help developers overcome the site development barriers such as challenges with small parcels needing to be aggregated to make deals work (e.g. Downtown Kingston area has these issues). This was another development barrier discussed by developers in this research and in prior outreach. The land strategy could include commitments from the jurisdictions to streamline, prioritize, or work with developers facing this barrier to ensure that residential housing can get built. § A policy or plan to work with landowners who may have excess land that could be purchased for affordable housing development (e.g. Church parking lots). These deals could provide owners with needed funds and secure well-located land for development. Scalability Land strategies can be scaled across the market to seize opportunities as they arise. Critical Considerations § Near term opportunity: acquiring the land sooner will increase positive impact. § This strategy will need funding. § This strategy would need buy-in and commitment from many participating jurisdictions in the County. However, discussions and negotiations could begin immediately. § Immediate next steps could include: o Getting this idea on the next KRCC agenda to gauge interest o Meeting with affected county and jurisdictional departments to discuss this plan o Identify barriers and departmental hurdles, and what it would take to overcome them o Seek out national or state funding sources o Map out planned capital improvement projects and align with potential residential developments in the pipeline Potential Affordability Impact High – reducing land costs can greatly aid feasibility. Potential Partnerships Housing Kitsap, Bremerton Housing Authority, developers (for profit and nonprofit), land trusts, and philanthropic foundations. Applicable Locations Countywide. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 21 Relevant Resources Sound Transit’s ETOD policy: www.soundtransit.org/get-to- know-us/news-events/news- releases/board-adopts-policy- promoting-equitable- development-near o Coordinate with local developers to understand where the highest priority areas are given rents and development interest. § Analysis needs: funding amounts and sources, leverage opportunities, target geographies and development types, criteria in exchange for funding, decisions on land discounts, and when selling (at market rates) would be more beneficial. § Siting affordable housing may face some neighborhood opposition. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 22 3 Create a Revolving Loan Fund Primary Goal Sector Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing; Preserve Affordability Public/Non-profit/Private Partnerships Housing Barriers Overcome Reduces cost of capital for affordable housing development, deploys capital at scale and quickly in a fast market. Description An affordable housing revolving loan fund is a pool of money that offers low-interest loans to eligible recipients for the development of affordable housing. Revolving loan funds can aid the feasibility of affordable housing development by offering below-market interest rates and generous loan terms compared to market loans, and can be used to fill funding gaps in a development deal (a major hurdle for creating new affordable housing). A revolving loan fund is seeded with capital from numerous investors: public funders, philanthropic funders, banks, financial institutions, or other investors. These investors are often called impact investors because they are willing to have lower rates of return on investment (compared to other investment funds), for a positive social impact (e.g. affordable housing). The below-market rates, loan types, and loan terms offered for affordable housing development will depend on the capital sources and the fund investors’ return requirements. These lower rates of return are passed on to developers as below-market interest rate loans, which reduce the cost of capital and help improve project feasibility, thereby increasing the supply of affordable housing units. Revolving loan funds are generally tailored to meet the local affordable housing development barriers and bottlenecks. Loans have specific purposes, such as acquisition for site control, predevelopment financing when a project is in design and concept, bridge financing before funding is awarded, or construction financing. They are repaid when the property secures its permanent loan at the end of construction. Funds can also be used for preservation deals, to preserve restrictions, or keep add rent restrictions to an unregulated property (see discussion in Action 1). Funds are generally short term (1-2 years for predevelopment, 3-5 years for construction), and they revolve: when loans are repaid, new loans can be issued. Investors commit capital according to the fund agreement, and are repaid after a specified period of time. Scalability A revolving loan fund could be scaled at the market level, but acts property-by-property. Critical Considerations § This is a medium term opportunity since a lot of groundwork needs to be done to understand interest and feasibility of the fund, as well as the major development barriers it would overcome. § However, negotiations and discussions could start immediately. Immediate steps include: o Committing and training staff on how to stand up a fund and guide the capital campaign, o Gauge early interest with likely participants, o Seek out national or state funding sources to pair with local funds understanding leverage points, and o Meet with local affordable housing developers to understand the loans most likely to unlock development potential in Kitsap. Potential Affordability Impact High – revolving loan fund can greatly increase the supply of affordable housing units. Potential Partnerships Socially Responsible Investors (SRIs), Credit Unions, Banks, Foundations, large affordable housing nonprofits, or other philanthropic organizations focused on affordable housing or community development. This could be an effort across the entire Olympic Peninsula. Craft3 CDFI could be an investor. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 23 Applicable Locations Countywide § After doing the groundwork, a formal plan will need to be put in place to understand how development needs can be met with investment needs. Negotiations and additional analysis about capital needs and investment terms will follow. § A capital campaign would be necessary to find seed funding from banks, investment companies, philanthropies, national foundations, and government agencies. § This loan fund will not likely face political or neighborhood opposition. Relevant Resources § Seattle REDI Fund: www.EnterpriseCommunity.org/ financing-and- development/community-loan- fund/redi-fund § Oregon Network for Affordable Housing Preservation Fund: Noah-Housing.org § Metro Vancouver TOAH Fund: www.MetroVancouver.org/servi ces/regional-planning/housing- affordability/transit- oriented/Pages/default.aspx City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 24 4 Create a Real Estate Investment Trust Primary Goal Sector Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing; Preserve Affordability Private and Non-profit Housing Barriers Overcome Preserves aging or expiring restricted units, prevents displacement, deploys capital at scale and quickly in a fast market. Description Similar to a Revolving Loan Fund (see Action 3), a real estate investment trust (REIT) is a financing vehicle that generates returns by investing in workforce or moderately affordable housing. REITs are stand-alone companies or investment entities that own, and in most case operate, income-producing real estate. REITs generate stable, moderately-low risk real estate-investments for private equity, much like private investors invest in mutual funds. They are used broadly throughout most major development markets. A REIT would bring investors into a fund that purchases and rehabilitates unrestricted affordable housing, operates it with moderate affordability restrictions (via deed restrictions), and provides a competitive but less-than-market-rate return to investors in the form of a quarterly cash flow. Investors would need to be either mission-oriented or willing to sacrifice some financial return in exchange for lower risk. Funds come from public sector partners, national philanthropic partners, local banks or investment firms, and CDFIs. A REIT is a market-based investment tool with a dual focus on generating competitive returns and preserving moderately affordable housing. Because it needs to generate returns for investors, it must invest in income-producing properties, so it cannot invest in deeply affordable housing (e.g. aimed at households earning less than 50% AMI). As a non-governmental entity, REITs can act quickly in a tight housing market and can be a partner with local jurisdictions focused on preserving unregulated affordable housing. It can be a key partner in a preservation strategy (see Action 1). Scalability A REIT could be scaled at the market level, but acts property-by- property. Critical Considerations § This is a medium-term opportunity since the city/county would likely play a supportive role and will need to determine a funding source for this type of program. § Next steps include: o Discussions with major real estate investors across the Puget sound to gauge interest and feasibility in Kitsap County, o Discussions of what role the City and County can play to help get a REIT formed, o Analyze the amount of capital necessary for the REIT to achieve scale. o Analyze the market to understand how many properties (and what size) could be investments. § Aspects of this may face some political opposition. Potential Affordability Impact Medium – to be effective, the REIT must be mission-based and willing to receive lower than market returns Potential Partnerships Socially Responsible Investors (SRIs), Credit Unions, Banks, Foundations, large affordable housing nonprofits, or other philanthropic organizations focused on affordable housing or community development. Applicable Locations Countywide Relevant Resources § National Association of REITs: www.reit.com/news/reit-magazine/may-june-2019/social- purpose-reits-tackle-affordable-housing-challenges § Chan, Xiang Ying Estelle. 2016. “Real Estate Investment Trusts as an alternative source of capital for housing development.” hdl.handle.net/1721.1/107862 § Clinton Foundation: www.clintonfoundation.org/clinton-global- initiative/commitments/social-purpose-reit-preserve-affordable-housing § The Meyer Memorial Trust (www.mmt.org) is negotiating with Gerding Edlen (www.GerdingEdlen.com) development company to develop a REIT focused on workforce housing in the Portland region. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 25 5 Establish Additional Regional Affordable Housing Funding Sources Primary Goal Sector Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing; Preserve Affordability Public Housing Barriers Overcome Lack of funding for affordable housing developments, reduces cost of development for affordable housing. Description Kitsap County and its jurisdictions could implement various different local options to increase funding for affordable housing. In addition, the Washington State legislature is very focused on housing affordability and may add more options in the near term. So long as voters approve the uses, these taxing measures can be designed for a wide array of uses. According to the Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC), the following local taxing measures for affordable housing could be considered. A sales tax redirect for affordable housing, allowed under HB1406, is already underway in Kitsap County. 1) A property tax levy (RCW 84.52.105) – allows jurisdictions to place an additional tax up to $0.50 per thousand dollars assessed for up to ten years. Funds must go toward financing affordable housing for households earning below 50% MFI. 2) A sales tax levy (RCW 82.14.530) – allows jurisdictions to place a sales tax up to 0.1%. At least 60% of funds must go toward constructing affordable housing, mental/behavioral health-related facilities, or funding the operations and maintenance costs of affordable housing and facilities where housing- related programs are provided. At least 40% of funds must go toward mental / behavioral health treatment programs and services or housing-related services. 3) A real estate excise tax (REET) (RCW 82.46.035) – allows a portion of city REET funds to be used for affordable housing projects and the planning, acquisition, rehabilitation, repair, replacement, construction, or improvement of facilities for people experiencing homelessness. These projects must be listed in city’s the capital facilities plan. Scalability A housing levy could be scaled at the market level, but acts property- by-property. Critical Considerations § Several of these taxing options are near-term, due to recent legislation. New taxes would be medium-term opportunities since they require voter approval. § Immediate next steps could include: o Provide information to community groups and supporters o Early analysis to understand the target revenue, and potential uses of the revenue. o Early analysis and or polling to understand types of taxes, rates, and the general appetite for these measures with the public. o Early analysis and or polling to see if certain programs, housing types, or locations are more or less favorable with voters. § This could face political or voter-driven opposition. Potential Affordability Impact High – could meaningfully increase funding available for affordable housing. Potential Partnerships Nearby cities (could be paired with a regional bond to cover both capital and support costs) or Kitsap County (if the County is interested in issuing a levy). Housing Authorities and affordable housing service providers would be implementation partners. Applicable Locations Countywide Relevant Resources § Seattle Housing Levy: www.seattle.gov/housing/levy § MRSC tax information: mrsc.org/Home/Explore-Topics/Planning/Specific-Planning- Subjects-Plan-Elements/Affordable-Housing-Ordinances-Flexible-Provisions.aspx § MRSC REET information: mrsc.org/Home/Explore-Topics/Finance/Revenues/Real- Estate-Excise-Tax.aspx City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 26 6 Continue to Pool Together County and Cities Affordable Housing Resources Primary Goal Sector Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing; Preserve Affordability Public Housing Barriers Overcome Lack of funding for affordable housing developments, Kitsap’s uncompetitive experience with state or federal funding applications. Description Departments that fund the development of affordable housing and homeless services could continue to pool affordable housing funds into larger loans or grants and deploy them less frequently, with the goal of increasing leveraging opportunities for state and federal sources and providing increased stability and predictability for developers. New funds that come online in the next few years (federal or state), so future affordable funding that is raised should be pooled to maximize the impact and leverage additional non-local dollars. The uses of these funds could vary from the development of rent-restricted affordable housing, to preservation deals (both restricted and unrestricted – see Action 1 for a description of unrestricted preservation), to offering loans or grants to funding services at existing developments, to building new homeless shelters or resource centers. Most commonly used for rent-regulated properties, this funding could be extended to unregulated properties in exchange for affordability restrictions. Opening up public funding to private, for-profit landlords brings many new questions to the model. Depending on legislated allowable uses, these funds could be used in the form of low-interest loans, deferred payment, interest-only loans, or grants to help bridge funds for acquisition-rehab projects, to help cover the cost of capital repairs, or to cover costs associated with a project’s recapitalization (work done at the end of affordability periods to renew contracts and re-start affordability restrictions). Scalability Resources could be scaled at the market level, but would act property-by-property. Critical Considerations § This is a medium-term opportunity since funding and the lead entities need to be identified, and a plan needs to be put in place. § Beginning steps could include: o Internal department discussions to understand how much funding could be pooled, o Research into past funding applications as well as discussions developers to understand how much funding would make developments more competitive, o Discussions with state agencies and funders to understand how to make Kitsap applications more competitive, o Research and analysis into whether funders would allow this pooling, and if appeals could be made, o Discussions of which departments would manage and deploy the funding, as well as how to set up criteria and guidelines to ensure each department/jurisdiction’s goals are adequately being addressed. § This will not likely face political or neighborhood opposition, but it could be difficult to negotiate with internal departments that want to hold onto scarce resources. Potential Affordability Impact High – this would meaningfully impact affordability at regulated properties. Potential Partnerships Local development community, especially affordable housing developers. Consider partnering with large local employers to gauge their willingness to contribute. Applicable Locations Countywide. Relevant Resources N/A City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 27 7 Expand Community Land Trust Countywide Primary Goal Sector Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing; Preserve Affordability Non-profits Housing Barriers Overcome Few homeownership opportunities for low-income households, rising home prices locking households out of homeownership and wealth-generating opportunities. Description This effort would work with the community land trust (CLT) operating on Bainbridge Island (through Housing Resources Bainbridge) to expand the CLT county-wide. A model, similar to land banking, where a community organization owns land and provides long-term ground leases to low-income households to purchase the homes on the land, agreeing to purchase prices, resale prices, equity capture, and other terms. This model allows low-income households to become homeowners and capture some equity as the home appreciates, but ensures that the home remains affordable for future homebuyers. CLTs may also lease land to affordable housing developers for the development of rental housing or to develop and manage mixed-income or workforce rental housing. This effort would expand marketing and awareness of existing low-income homebuyer programs as the CLT is established. Scalability CLTs can be scaled at the market level, but would act property-by- property. Critical Considerations § This is a near-term opportunity since a CLT already exists to help achieve efficiencies. Groundwork has been done. § Next steps are to identify funding, identify lead partner, perform key analysis, and develop a plan. o Analysis needs: how many low-income households could be served, what purchase price would be affordable to those households, how much funding could be raised, and how the home equity gain would be split. o The plan will need to consider criteria for purchasing a home to be included in the CLT, such as price, condition, size, location, and proximity to transit or other amenities. o Create a community engagement plan to understand incomes needed and appropriate home equity sharing § A CLT will not likely face as much political or neighborhood opposition as other types of affordable housing developments. § Funding could come from HUD’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program which focuses on stabilizing communities that have struggled with high rates of foreclosure and abandonment. Potential Affordability Impact High – a CLT has the potential to greatly improve affordability for the households that participate. Potential Partnerships Housing Resources Bainbridge and other local nonprofits offering homeownership opportunities. Applicable Locations Countywide. Relevant Resources § National Community Land Trust Network: GroundedSolutions.org § Northwest Community Land Trust Coalition: www.nwcltc.org § Washington Association of Land Trusts: WALandTrusts.org City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 28 8 Encourage “Missing Middle” Housing Primary Goal Sector Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing; Increase Housing Supply Public Housing Barriers Overcome Overcome zoning barriers (illegality) of diverse and dense housing types, increase development feasibility via reduced costs. Description Encouraging certain types of moderately-dense housing, such as cottage clusters, internal division of larger homes, duplexes, and accessory dwelling units, can help to increase housing supply and choice in appropriate neighborhoods. In theory, these units can be more affordable than other units because they are smaller. This would not guarantee affordability, but would expand opportunities for unregulated housing types that may be lower cost than single family detached housing. Planning for this type of housing often starts with a review of zoning codes and development standards, and adjusting them to legalize this type of housing where appropriate. In many cities, these types of moderately- dense housing are illegal in urban areas zoned for single-family dwellings. Beyond legalizing this type of housing, jurisdictions may also need to remove barriers that effectively prevent them from being developed (even if legal) in appropriate areas. These changes could include any the following concepts, implemented in combination or separately. This is not an exhaustive list, but is meant as a starting point for incremental changes: § Lower impact fee and utility hookup charges for internal conversions if no net-new square footage is added to a property. § Allowing property owners to finance impact fees and utility hookup charges, thereby spreading the upfront costs over time. § Reduce or waive off-street parking requirements for “missing middle” housing, particularly for internal conversions if no net-new square footage is added to a property. § Having pre-approved designs for ADUs or “missing middle” housing types that homeowners can choose from thereby reducing the complexity, time, and cost for development. Consider by-right development standards for ADUs in areas that are already medium density, walkable, and desirable communities. Beyond removing barriers, jurisdictions can actively encourage this type of housing development via zoning and financial incentives. These may include: § Density bonuses for new construction of a “missing middle” property type. § Streamlined or prioritized permit and design review for “missing middle” properties in high-opportunity areas. Scalability These changes can be scaled and implemented at the neighborhood level. Critical Considerations § This is a medium term opportunity since it would require zoning updates and approval. § Identify the zones seeing change, the types of units allowed, the size, scale, and development standards of those units. § HB1923 sets out example zoning changes, parameters, goals, and also protection from legal appeals for communities that change zoning designation in favor of higher density housing. § A public engagement plan to reduce fears about neighborhood change, upzoning, and density would be helpful to reduce political or neighborhood opposition. This should include conversations on how added density can be designed to blend into communities. Potential Affordability Impact Medium – legalizing middle housing can increase the supply of housing but does not guarantee affordability. Potential Partnerships N/A Applicable Locations Countywide. Relevant Resources § Portland Residential Infill Project: www.portlandoregon.gov/bps/67730 § Beaverton Housing Options Project: www.beavertonoregon.gov/2197/Housi ng-Options-Project City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 29 § Seattle Neighborhoods For All: www.seattle.gov/Documents/Departme nts/SeattlePlanningCommission/SPCN eighborhoodsForAll-ExecSummary.pdf § Seattle ADU By-Right Development: www.sightline.org/2019/07/01/seattle -approves-best-backyard-cottages-rules- united-states/ § Lincoln Institute of Land Policy Density Catalog www.hcccpc.org/wp- content/uploads/2013/02/Density- Catalog-CD.pdf § Missing Middle Housing: missingmiddlehousing.com/ § Analysis needs include: development costs, the number of units likely to be developed, the likely potential rents, and the locations where rents make development feasible. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 30 9 Review and Revise Land Use and Development Regulations Primary Goal Sector Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing; Increase Housing Supply Public Housing Barriers Overcome Overcome zoning barriers (illegality) of diverse and dense housing types, increase development feasibility via reduced costs, increase density and walkability. Description The jurisdictions in Kitsap County should routinely systemically review or audit their major land use and development considerations to see if they present barriers to new residential development or to affordability (by driving up costs). Jurisdictions should work with the development community regularly to understand where and how barriers to development exist. Jurisdictions should work to reduce these barriers and implement cost reduction strategies to maximize the private sector’s ability to create housing that is affordable and create a more favorable environment to build housing for all incomes. Priority should be given to barriers preventing regulated affordable development. Factors that should be reviewed include: § Requirements for new multi-family housing along transit lines, near employment centers, or by ferries, § Zoning requirements (height, setbacks, density, parking) that add costs, time, or complexity to development, § Planning or permitting timelines (which add costs), § Density bonus programs such as inclusionary zoning or vertical housing bonuses in appropriate areas (which will require careful study and calibration), § The uptake and potential improvements or expansion to the MFTE program, and / or § Zoning, permitting, or funding preferences for rent-restricted affordable housing developments. Jurisdictions in Kitsap County should follow the City of Bremerton’s lead in establishing Infill Development Toolkits, and take every effort to reduce review and processing times for housing development. This would allow regulated affordable housing projects to move from design to building permit quicker, thereby reducing carrying and financing costs and delivering affordable units sooner. These steps could include: § Formally adopting shortened review timelines for affordable housing applications § Limiting public comment and appeals for affordable housing projects, § Scheduling pre-application conferences, hearings, meetings with staff, and / or § Appointing staff or an ombudsman to serve as a liaison for affordable housing projects during the development review process. This would allow regulated affordable housing projects to get more quickly from design to building permit, reducing carrying / financing costs and delivering affordable units sooner. Scalability Impact would be at the market level. Critical Considerations Potential Affordability Impact Medium – land use changes would promote but not guarantee affordability. § This is a medium-term opportunity since it will require multiple stages including review, proposed changes, and / or voting. § Immediate steps include: Potential Partnerships Local development community, especially affordable housing developers. o Identify example projects to be evaluated for the permitting steps, o Analyze costs, timeline, and challenges required to develop affordable housing. o Work with development community to identify steps in the process where surprises and unnecessary barriers occur. o Identify departments and staff who would lead this effort, or Applicable Locations Countywide. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 31 Relevant Resources § Oregon City Code Audit: www.orcity.org/sites/default/files /fileattachments/planning/page/ 11252/codeaudit_publicdraft171 017.pdf § Smart Growth America Code and Zoning Audit: www.smartgrowthamerica.org/ap p/legacy/documents/zoningaudit. pdf o Meet with affected jurisdictions and outline concerns and procedural barriers as well as how those could be overcome. § Consider a public education campaign or plan to demonstrate how much delays in planning costs developers and thus translates into higher prices/rents. § HB1923 sets out example zoning changes, parameters, goals, and also protection from legal appeals for communities that change zoning designation in favor of higher density housing. § This could face political or neighborhood opposition, depending on findings (e.g., change to zoning, affordable housing site preferences, etc.). § The plan could consider a cost-benefit analysis of additional staff. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 32 10 Review Up-Zoning Urban Land For Transit-Oriented Development Primary Goal Sector Create More Affordable & Workforce Housing; Increase Housing Supply Public Housing Barriers Overcome Overcome zoning barriers (illegality) of diverse and dense housing types, increase development feasibility via reduced costs, increase density and walkability. Description Up-zoning appropriate areas to allow multifamily and transit-oriented development could be a meaningful approach for Kitsap’s jurisdictions to increase housing production and meet their future housing needs. Up-zoning appropriate areas near transit should be reviewed during the next round of comprehensive plan updates. As the region continues to grow, it will need to accommodate new residents and will need significant new housing. Allowing more housing near transit can help meet these goals while simultaneously easing many other issues like cost burdening, traffic congestion, and emissions. Jurisdictions should also work to ensure that infrastructure investments are made to accommodate more and denser housing types. Understandably, the ability to up-zone land near the transit hubs will vary according to each jurisdiction, neighborhood density, and transit type. This type of up-zoning will look different across the county. Because land prices are higher near transit hubs (including ferries), up-zoning these areas will not create new multifamily units affordable to Kitsap’s lowest-income households (those earning under 30% MFI). However, increasing the overall supply of housing can help to relieve the price pressure on the market stemming from growing demand. With the right combination of development incentives, tax exemptions, and financial support it could be possible to provide workforce housing (affordable to middle-income earners) or a few units of regulated affordable housing. Providing many units of regulated affordable housing would require meaningful development incentives and or government rental subsidies. Land Near Ferries Recognizing that Kitsap’s ferries offer unparalleled access to economic, educational, and job opportunities throughout Puget Sound, jurisdictions should consider up-zoning the land within one mile of ferry terminals (walking distance) to encourage multifamily housing and regulated affordable housing. Doing so could greatly expand access to opportunity by allowing more people (in denser housing) to live near ferries, and could boost economic opportunities for lower-income households. Currently, the vast majority of housing within one mile of ferry terminals is single-family, which is the opposite of transit-oriented development (TOD) planning, and especially equitable transit-oriented development (eTOD) planning. Because renters are most often lower income than homeowners, current zoning results in higher barriers to economic, education, and job opportunities throughout Puget Sound. Land Near Transit Hubs In addition, land near transit hubs, park-and-rides, and high-occupancy buses should also be reviewed for up- zoning potential. Developing more housing near these areas can allow Kitsap residents to access jobs throughout the county without the burden of paying for gas and parking, or spending hours in the car. Scalability Changes should be scaled and tailored to each neighborhood. Critical Considerations § This is a medium term opportunity since it would require zoning updates and approval. § Groundwork associated with examining the current zoning and where there are opportunities for up- zoning should be done before the next comprehensive plan update. Potential Affordability Impact Low – up-zoning has the potential to greatly increase density and supply, with small effects on affordability. Doing so near transit increases walkability. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 33 Potential Partnerships Jurisdictions with ferry service, Kitsap Transit, state and federal transit agencies, local development community, affordable housing developers, and nearby residents. § Discussions would be needed around the neighborhoods seeing change, the new size and scale development, parking, setback and other design standards, and potential transit ridership. § Analysis needs include: the cost of infrastructure, population forecasts for cities with ferry terminals, the number of units needed and the potential rents, and the environmental benefits associated with TOD. § This will likely face neighborhood opposition and will thus require a robust community outreach plan. Applicable Locations Countywide, focus on Kingston, and Southworth. Relevant Resources § Puget Sound Regional Council TOD Guidelines: www.psrc.org/sites/default/files/transit_oriented_development.pdf § Puget Sound Regional Council Growing Transit Communities Strategy: www.psrc.org/growing-transit-communities § Poverty & Race Research Action Council eTOD: prrac.org/pdf/EquitableTOD.pdf City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 34 Additional Recommendations An additional 33 recommendations are listed below that did not rise to the same priority level as the 10 recommendations listed above. However, these strategies can be included as part of the City’s and County’s toolbox when working toward affordable housing solutions. Each recommendation would need to be implemented in an area, neighborhood, or urban place that is appropriate for the action being suggested. These recommendations are grouped toward the three goals (help people stay in affordable housing, encourage development of more affordable housing, and expand housing options and grow housing supply to address existing shortages and future growth) and are arranged according to the ease of implementation: 1. Expand or Enhance Current Programs. These actions are listed first as they expand or enhance programs and efforts that are already being done to encourage housing supply and affordability. Aside from finding more funding (when needed), the implementation of these actions might 2. New, Straightforward Recommendations. These actions are listed second, given that the City and County could reasonable achieve them without major staff, funding, or political obstacles to overcome. However, they will take more planning and effort than the actions listed in Group 1. 3. New, Complex Recommendations. These are actions that would require substantially more effort, staff, or funding, or that would require overcoming major obstacles from political will or neighborhood opposition. 1) Expand or Enhance Current Programs A) Help People Stay in Affordable Housing 1 Expand marketing and awareness of existing assistance programs and services. 2 Expand rehabilitation, repair, and weatherization programs for existing, unsubsidized affordable housing in exchange for affordability restrictions. 3 Work with public and private sector partners to expand utility assistance programs offered via Kitsap Community Resources’ Utility Assistance program. 4 Consider rate relief, utility tax relief, and property tax relief programs for income-eligible residents. 5 Work with developers building multi-family housing in transit-rich areas to provide transit passes in conjunction with the reduced fare Kitsap Transit ORCA card. 6 Expand resources to improve the livability of existing owner-occupied homes and mobile homes through Housing Kitsap’s Home Rehabilitation Program. B) Encourage Development of More Affordable Housing 7 Advocate for changes or expansion to state legislation that would bring more affordable housing units or funding to Kitsap County. 8 Expand Bremerton’s Abandoned Property registration which details vacant homes, ownership, and contact information of the responsible party, and requires that properties be properly maintained by the owners, lenders or other responsible persons. 9 Establish relationships with nonprofit and affordable housing developers around the region who are not yet building in Kitsap County. 10 Formalize and enhance existing relationships with affordable housing providers. Increase communication and data sharing to unlock potential solutions. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 35 11 Work with affordable housing partners and developers to explore innovative, low-cost opportunities to serve persons exiting homelessness. 12 Identify sources and expand assistance for predevelopment, gap financing, or operating subsidies for affordable housing. 13 Identify and expand funding for services for permanent supportive housing. C) Expand Housing Options and Grow Housing Supply to Address Existing Shortages and Future Growth 14 Coordinate future planning within UGAs for annexation into the City of Bremerton. 2) New Straightforward Actions A) Help People Stay in Affordable Housing 15 Consider requiring energy efficiency in the design and construction of regulated affordable properties to reduce energy and utility costs for residents by including these elements as design criteria in county-funded grants or loans. 16 Consider working with developers to subsidize transit passes for income-eligible populations, in exchange for reduced parking at a new development that is located in an area well-served by transit. 17 Explore the feasibility of creating a rental licensing and inspection program to monitor habitability standards, track inventories, and monitor potential multi-family property sales for preservation opportunities. Program should maintain tenant confidentiality of complaints to avoid retaliation. 18 Consider establishing good landlord incentives, such as landlord training programs, crime reduction programs, and financial incentives (e.g. exemptions from fees). Consider use in conjunction with rental registration or inspection programs. B) Encourage Development of More Affordable Housing 19 Consider a risk mitigation pool offering landlords damage insurance in exchange for renting to low-income households. 20 Work with developers to understand opportunities to include affordable housing units in developments occurring in Opportunity Zones or Enterprise Zones. Advocate for or implement changes to these programs to enhance their effectiveness. 21 Consider Community Revitalization Financing to create tax increment areas and reinvest in neighborhoods with increased private investment and market pressure. Dedicate areas that have planned or existing high-capacity transit. 22 Explore innovative development models and build relationships with developers who create low- to moderate- income housing without highly competitive federal subsidies. C) Expand Housing Options and Grow Housing Supply to Address Existing Shortages and Future Growth 23 Explore SEPA categorical exemptions and flexible exemptions for small and medium scale multi-family housing that can help a jurisdiction accommodate its needs. "Flexible thresholds" must be designated through ordinance or resolution by the city or county. 24 Advocate for amendments to state condominium statutes to rekindle interest in condominium development. 25 Establish incentives for the development or conversion of cooperative housing models. 26 Consider an adaptive reuse ordinance encouraging smaller scale multifamily housing, workforce housing, or live- work housing in vacant retail storefronts. 27 Consider code or zoning changes that allow for low-cost development opportunities to serve persons exiting homelessness. 28 Establish Vertical Housing Development Zones/Overlays in areas along transit or near ferries to encourage higher density or mixed-use housing. 3) New Complex Actions B) Encourage Development of More Affordable Housing 29 Consider a pilot program offering incentives in the development of ADUs (grants, fee waivers, etc.) in exchange for renting to homeless or low-income households. 30 Create partnerships with large private employers, financial institutions, philanthropy, or others to fund affordable housing. 31 Evaluate a tax on vacant homes, or vacation rentals to fund affordable housing. C) Expand Housing Options and Grow Housing Supply to Address Existing Shortages and Future Growth 32 Advocate to the Federal Government for more military housing development or parking in urban areas near military bases. 33 Consider establishing a design or development competition for specific parcel that needs a creative solution for smaller scale multifamily, and pair it with development incentives, publicity, or funding. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 36 III. Implementation The recommendations profiled in the action sheets in Part II offer some implementation steps and critical considerations needed to move forward. Recommendations were considered near- term if substantial progress can be made in one year, and were prioritized as medium-term if substantial progress would take 2-3 years. Because these recommendations are aimed at larger scale improvements in housing supply, affordable development, and overall affordability (as shown in Exhibit 7 on the following pages), the majority of them are medium term actions. Larger changes such as these require more participation, ongoing community engagement, and thus take longer to achieve. Exhibit 6. Near and Medium Term Recommendations and Immediate Steps Recommendation Public Non- Profit Private Immediate Steps 1. Create a Preservation & Anti- Discrimination Strategy ✓ § Create a community engagement plan § Seek out funding § Identify departments to manage, monitor preservation database 2. Update Comprehensive Land Strategy ✓ § Discuss at KRCC with affected/participating jurisdictions and departments § Identify barriers to participation and how to overcome them § Seek out funding § Match infrastructure needs to planned capital improvement projects 3. Create a Revolving Loan Fund ✓ ✓ ✓ § Committing and training staff on how to stand up a fund and guide the capital campaign § Gauge early interest with banks, CDFIs, foundations, or other likely participants § Seek funding § Meet with developers to understand what loan products can unlock development 4. Create a Real Estate Investment Fund ✓ ✓ § Start discussions with real estate investors to gauge interest and feasibility § Discuss roles City and County can play § Analyze needed capital to achieve scale § Understand how many properties (and what size) could be investments 5. Establish Additional Affordable Housing Funding Sources ✓ § Establish coalition of supporters § Create staffing and funding plan to lead a campaign § Early analysis to understand needed revenue and potential uses § Early polling to understand appetite for taxes, rates and certain uses with the public. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 37 Recommendation Public Non- Profit Private Immediate Steps 6. Pool Existing Resources ✓ § Internal discussions to understand how much funding could be pooled § Research into why past applications were uncompetitive, including discussions developers and state agencies / funders § Research and analysis into whether funders would allow this pooling, and if appeals could be made, § Discuss which departments would manage and deploy the funding, how to ensure different goals are met 7. Expand Community Land Trust ✓ § Identify funding sources and needs § Identify lead partnership and ways to scale § Create a community engagement plan § Establish criteria for participation, property acquisition 8. Encourage “Missing Middle” Housing ✓ § Create a community engagement plan § Identify the zones seeing change, the types of units allowed, the size, scale, and development standards of those units 9. Review and Revise Land Use Barriers ✓ § Identify example projects to be evaluated for the permitting steps and places where surprises and unnecessary barriers occur § Analyze costs, timeline, and challenges required to develop affordable housing § Identify departments and staff who would lead this effort, or § Get on the agenda and pursue this as a collaborative process via KRCC meetings. § Meet with affected jurisdictions and outline concerns and procedural barriers as well as how those could be overcome 10. Review Up-Zoning Urban Land For Multifamily Housing ✓ § Create a community engagement plan § Identify neighborhoods to see change, new size and scale of development, parking, setback and other design standards, § Analyze potential transit ridership increases § Analyze infrastructure costs, population forecasts for cities with ferry terminals, the number of units needed and the potential rents, and the environmental benefits associated with TOD. Exhibit 7 summaries the potential scale and potential impact to affordability that each of the 10 priority recommendations could achieve. The table below is a legend for Exhibit 7: the shading of green, yellow, and orange to indicate the greatest impact and achievability. Potential Scale Potential Impact on Affordability Market Impacts the greatest number of households High Greatly reduces costs or improves/extends affordability Neighborhood Impacts fewer households, but still has good scale across a community Medium Has a moderate effect on affordability Property Impacts only those households living in the property affected. Low Has a very low effect on affordability (impact is due to effects of market supply on overall prices) City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 38 Exhibit 7. Potential Scale and Impact on Affordability Recommendation Potential Scale Potential Impact on Affordability 1. Create a Preservation & Anti-Discrimination Strategy Market High 2. Update Comprehensive Land Strategy Market High 3. Create a Revolving Loan Fund Property High 4. Create a Real Estate Investment Fund Property Medium 5. Establish Additional Affordable Housing Funding Sources Property High 6. Pool Existing Resources Property High 7. Expand Community Land Trust Property High 8. Encourage “Missing Middle” Housing Neighborhood Medium 9. Review and Revise Land Use Barriers Market Medium 10. Review Up-Zoning Urban Land For Multifamily Housing Neighborhood Low The City of Bremerton and Kitsap County can further prioritize those recommendations that have high impacts on affordability and work at the market level thereby impacting many households. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 39 IV. Methods & Data Summary Methods To prepare this recommendations report and the technical appendices that support the strategies, ECONorthwest took the following approach: § July-September 2019: interviews and survey of housing information in key planning documents (Appendix A: Housing Landscape) § September-December 2019: Created the housing inventory and performed the housing needs analysis (Appendix B: Housing Inventory, and Appendix C: Housing Needs Analysis). § November-December 2019: Created recommendations based on the key findings from the prior steps § December 2019-January 2020: Created recommendations report Data Summary This analysis uses data from multiple sources, focusing on those that are well-recognized and reliable. One of the key sources for housing and household data is the U.S. Census. This memorandum primarily uses data from two Census sources: § The Decennial Census, which is completed every ten years and is a survey of all households in the U.S. The Decennial Census is considered the best available data for information such as demographics (e.g., number of people, age distribution, or ethnic or racial composition), household characteristics (e.g., household size and composition), and housing occupancy characteristics. As of 2010, the Decennial Census does not collect more detailed household information, such as income, housing costs, housing characteristics, and other important household information. Decennial Census data is available for 2000 and 2010. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 40 § The American Community Survey (ACS), which is completed every year and is a sample of households in the U.S. From 2013 to 2017, the ACS sampled an average of 3.5 million households per year, or about 2.9% of the households in the nation. The ACS collects detailed information about households, including demographics (e.g., number of people, age distribution, ethnic or racial composition, country of origin, language spoken at home, and educational attainment), household characteristics (e.g., household size and composition), housing characteristics (e.g., type of housing unit, year unit built, or number of bedrooms), housing costs (e.g., rent, mortgage, utility, and insurance), housing value, income, and other characteristics. § Kitsap County Assessor, which provides descriptive data on the housing stock in the County as well as recent sales data. § Kitsap Economic Development Alliance, which provides data and insights on Kitsap County’s workforce, such as the County’s largest employers. § Permits, provide the active building permits within the last 5 years for each jurisdiction in Kitsap County including: Kitsap County Department of Community Development; Bainbridge Island Building Department; Bremerton Department of Community Development; Poulsbo Building Department; Port Orchard Department of Community Development. § Housing Kitsap and the Bremerton Housing Authority, which provides data on the housing stock and rental prices for publicly subsidized housing in the County. § Washington State Housing Finance Commission, which is the state agency responsible for funding and monitoring Washington’s regulated affordable housing stock. The Commission provided data through a public information request, detailing past and current regulated affordable housing properties that had received low-income housing tax credit financing from the Commission. § The Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics (LEHD) Origin Destination Employment Statistics (LODES), which we access via the Census’s mapping tool, OnTheMap, is a dataset that shows where workers are employed and where those workers also live. § The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), which provides employment and average annual pay estimates of covered jobs, and their Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS), which provides monthly unemployment and labor force statistics for states, metropolitan areas, counties, and cities 25,000 persons or larger. § The Washington Office of Financial Management (OFM), which provides research and data related to Washington state’s demographics, economy, labor force, population projections, and more. § Zillow, which provides economic data such as median home sale prices, monthly home sales, rent indices, and many other statistics for the U.S., metropolitan areas, as well as populous counties and cities. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 41 § CoStar, which provides data on multi-family units development over years. § PSRC, which provided data for 1) Affordable Housing Units managed in the Puget Sound Metro and 2) completed building permits up to 2017. This memorandum uses data from the 2013-2017 ACS for Kitsap County. Where information is available and relevant, we report information from the 2000 and 2010 Decennial Census. Among other data points, this memorandum includes population, income, and housing price data from the Washington Office of Financial Management, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Zillow. It is worth commenting on the methods used for the American Community Survey.5 The American Community Survey (ACS) is a national survey that uses continuous measurement methods. It uses a sample of about 3.54 million households to produce annually updated estimates for the same small areas (census tracts and block groups) formerly surveyed via the decennial census long-form sample. It is also important to keep in mind that all ACS data are estimates that are subject to sample variability. This variability is referred to as “sampling error” and is expressed as a band or “margin of error” (MOE) around the estimate. This memorandum uses Census and ACS data because, despite the inherent methodological limits, they represent the most thorough and accurate data available to assess housing needs. We consider these limitations in making interpretations of the data and have strived not to draw conclusions beyond the quality of the data. The foundation of the housing needs analysis is the population forecast for Kitsap from the OFM forecasting and research. Vacancy rate and household size come from the American Community Survey (ACS). Assumptions/Caveats § HUD Median Family Income & adjusting for household size. In several exhibits we look at the share of housing units affordable to different MFI levels that are occupied by renter households in those MFI levels. A limit to this method is that we are not able to adjust the data to account for household size. The HUD MFI is designated for a family of four. Clearly, not all households in Kitsap County are families of four, and not all units are appropriately sized for a family of four. In addition, HUD income limits are adjusted for household size, and the rents that would be affordable would thus vary by household size. In these ways, this matching exercise is rough and theoretical. § U.S. Census Bureau ACS Public Use MicroSample (PUMS). PUMS are microdata, or person-level responses to the ACS questionnaire. Each record (or row) describes one person’s responses to the questionnaire and these are numerically codified for statistical analysis. Every individual is assigned a statistical weight, which indicates how many 5 A thorough description of the ACS can be found in the Census Bureau’s publication “What Local Governments Need to Know.” https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2009/acs/state-and-local.html City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 42 persons in the population are represented by the sampled response. We make use of these weights to create accurate estimates of populations and their characteristics in Kitsap County. § U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW). It’s important to note that QCEW data are limited to workers that are covered by State Unemployment Insurance (UI) laws and the Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE). This means that QCEW data do not account for every job worked. Important employment exclusions include proprietors, self-employed workers, the majority of agricultural workers on small farms, railroad employees, unpaid family workers, some domestic workers, and some state and local government workers. § The Census Bureau’s OnTheMap tool uses data from several sources, including Unemployment Insurance (UI) wage records, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), and the QCEW. It’s important to note that OnTheMap is a synthetic dataset, meaning statistical noise is injected into the original dataset to protect employer confidentiality. This is worth noting because it explains, in part, why employment numbers provided in the OnTheMap tool do not line up exactly with QCEW employment estimates. City of Bremerton & Kitsap County Affordable Housing Inventory and Market Analysis 43 V. Appendices The following technical appendices provide critical supporting information, data, and analysis and accompany this analysis. The technical appendices can be found online at www.KitsapGov.com or at www.BremertonWa.gov. A. Housing Landscape Overview describes the housing landscape, partnerships, and planning environment in Kitsap County and its jurisdictions. The purpose of this appendix is to set a contextual foundation to better understand the remaining appendices and final report. This appendix relies on interviews with local housing providers, key public sector staff, and the planning documents that govern housing and development in the region. This assessment primarily focuses on the opportunities and barriers for development that is not occurring in the County. As the development market for single-family homes is strong in Kitsap County, this type of housing was not the focus of our research. B. Housing Inventory evaluates the current housing inventory, offering a detailed look at the housing in Kitsap County and its jurisdictions, segmented by type, location, price, tenure, and size, among other characteristics. This inventory evaluates the following aspects of housing in Kitsap County: i) Physical Characteristics of Housing ii) Housing Tenure Characteristics iii) Housing Costs iv) Housing Affordability v) Access to Transit and Employment Centers vi) Recent Supply Trends C. Housing Needs Analysis provides a needs assessment for housing in Kitsap County and its major jurisdictions by examining the drivers of housing supply, drivers of housing demand, gaps in housing supply, and the future needs for housing of all types and price points across the county over the next 17 years. September 2022 Kitsap County’s response and strategies to homelessness and the housing crisis Kitsap County’s ongoing efforts to address a growing homeless and housing crisis, including challenging issues with unauthorized encampments on public property, focuses on a comprehensive response. County Commissioners and staff have developed a strategy leveraging community partnerships; the investment of local, state and federal funds; data gathering and reporting; and coordination of mental health, substance-abuse and employment services. The goal is to support a housing crisis response system that makes homelessness rare, brief, and one-time. Homeless encampment clean-up and prevention Encampment Response Policy – In December 2021, County Commissioners approved a new Encampment Response Policy, outlining specific steps and coordination to govern the County’s approach to addressing encampments. It specifically directs County departments, other public agencies, and community non-profit social service providers how to coordinate efforts in responding to encampments while adhering to current legal requirements. HEART Coordinator – In April of 2022 the County hired a Homeless Encampment Action & Response Team (HEART) Coordinator, a new full-time position dedicated specifically to encampment response and responsible for implementing the response policy, coordinating groups and resources, and directing clean-up efforts. Encampment outreach team – The County is contracting with the Housing Solutions Center through Kitsap Community Resources for an additional two-person encampment outreach team to work closely with the HEART Coordinator, providing consistent and timely outreach to people living in encampments and other outdoor locations. The outreach team will focus on connecting people with shelter referrals, housing programs, and other resources. Increased shelter beds – Since the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020, the County has continually supported an additional 150 emergency shelter beds, operated by the Kitsap Rescue Mission and the Salvation Army. This increased shelter bed capacity has provided more than 750 individuals with shelter during the pandemic. Funding to keep beds operational will continue through the end of 2023 to provide accommodations as people are moved out of encampments and off the streets. Hotel voucher program – The County is contracting with Kitsap Community Resources for a new hotel voucher program to expand the number of alternatives to immediately house people currently living outdoors who can’t be accommodated with the limited shelter beds available. The program will include intensive case management and support services to assist people in moving from these brief hotel stays to permanent housing. The County also designated an additional $2 million for rental and deposit assistance towards this effort. Mile Hill temporary housing program – After purchasing a large building on Mile Hill Drive in South Kitsap, the County is working on renovations and expects to open the facility by 2023. The new shelter will provide 75 beds for 24/7 temporary housing with supportive services on-site for people staying in the housing program. Kitsap Rescue Mission will operate the site through a contract with the County. Services offered are anticipated to include meals, laundry, showers, mental health appointments, substance abuse treatment referrals, medical appointments, employment assistance, and connections with benefits. Permanent supportive housing – Recognizing that many people who are currently living in encampments need long-term housing assistance and permanent supportive services, the County (and many other funders and social service partners) is supporting Pendleton Place, a new 72-unit housing complex targeted to people with severe and persistent mental health and substance-use disorders that might otherwise be experiencing homelessness. Job placement and development – Job development, training and placement through Olympic Workforce Development One Stop centers. Veterans Park restoration – March 5-7. Partnering with the non-profit group Northwest Hospitality, 36 volunteers collected 35,000 pounds of trash and debris. The County hired a clean-up and hauling company, Layland Construction, to supplement the volunteer work and haul away the waste. Layland Construction is experienced in cleaning up homeless encampments and has worked with Pierce County, the state Department of Transportation, and BNSF Railway on similar efforts. The company brought in a 10-person crew to complete the park restoration. An integrated effort with Kitsap County Parks, the Public Works Solid Waste Division and the Department of Human Serves to restore the 48-acre Kitsap County Veterans Memorial Park took place in March and April 2022. A Notice to Vacate posting was posted in March with a deadline of April 29, 2022 following the guidance in the Encampment Response Policy. People living in the park were offered alternatives such as shelters, hotel rooms, inpatient treatment, and transportation. The last person moved out of the park on April 30 and the HEART Coordinator continues to make weekly stops at the park to check for people that have moved back in and to let them know there is no camping allowed and to offer alternatives and services. In total, 300 Northwest Hospitality volunteers have contributed close to 1,000 hours and cleared out over 56,000 pounds of trash at the park and a smaller team of 23 volunteers has put in 130 hours, gathering over 27,000 pounds of trash during weekly maintenance events that began in November 2021. Responding to Kitsap’s housing crisis • Homelessness in Kitsap County – A Point-In-Time Count of people living homeless during a 24-hour period in February 2022 identified 563 people living without homes and local school districts reported 414 homeless children during the 2020-2021 school year. The County recognizes that in recent years the numbers of those living without homes has climbed due to multiple factors including the increased cost of housing, stagnant wages, a lack of affordable and available housing, and barriers that make it difficult for those who are displaced from housing to find new places to live. The average rent has increased 40 percent in the last five years while at the same time, vacancy rates have dropped. The most common cause of homelessness was identified as eviction, health issues, and loss of job or the inability to work. • Preventing homelessness – Kitsap County’s housing crisis response is coordinated to increase housing stability by providing eviction prevention through rental and utility assistance, creating more temporary housing and lowering barriers for people to move into permanent, affordable, supportive housing. Helping people stay in their homes is a vital part of Kitsap County’s strategy. During the pandemic, the Kitsap Eviction Prevention Assistance Program distributed $24.4 million to help keep people in their homes and an additional $30 million is allocated through September 2023. From September 2020 through July 2022, nearly 3,328 households were served with an average distribution of $7,352 in rental assistance and utilities assistance per household. • Increasing affordable housing inventory – With the new affordable housing 1/10th of 1 percent sales tax Commissioners approved in January, the County can provide significant funding for the construction and acquisition of housing to support families and individuals whose income is below 60 percent of the area median income. This can also be used to leverage additional funding from state and federal governments. Collection of the tax begins April 1, 2022. To learn more about housing and homelessness and Kitsap County’s programs and partners or to find out how you can help those living homeless, visit the Housing and Homelessness Division website here. Read the 2020 Housing and Homelessness Division Report here. To volunteer with Northwest Hospitality work parties and their other homeless support efforts, visit nwhospitality.org. October 8, 2019 September 1, 2023 Re: Ordinance amending Bremerton Municipal Code 9.32 “Unauthorized Camping” Dear Council, Thank you for your work creating an ordinance that prohibits camping in our parks, along our streets, and in and around certain public buildings and properties. I sincerely appreciate the Council’s willingness to prioritize preservation of these places for the benefit of our entire community while respecting the rights of our unhoused community members. Because I share your concerns about the impacts of unauthorized camping on our community, I respectfully request that the Council consider an amendment to the enforcement provision of BMC 9.32 and make a violation of this ordinance a misdemeanor without the prior infractions. The code currently requires three “committed” infractions before a violation is a misdemeanor. This means the infraction has been filed with the court and a judge has entered judgment against the person finding that they violated the ordinance. It could take months before three infractions are found committed and a person violating this ordinance is facing a misdemeanor. This escalating scheme worked for Bremerton in the past but unfortunately circumstances have changed. First and foremost, we did not have encampments in the past like we do now after a period of no enforcement. I am hearing from community members daily who want something done now about people camping in the planting strips abutting their properties. Our police officers have experience interacting with people living on the street in these problem areas and anticipate if this ordinance is passed that some people camping in prohibited areas are not going to move to a different area or a shelter when asked. They will refuse. This means the person reporting a violation could have to wait months for the person violating the code to move or be moved even when there is another place to go or shelter space available. Making a violation of this ordinance a misdemeanor will give law enforcement a tool to incentivize compliance earlier. Additionally, police department staffing levels as well as effective use of resources and time are important considerations for managing enforcement. The draft ordinance as proposed requires at least four separate contacts before the person violating the ordinance can be charged with a criminal offense. These contacts are unlikely to be brief. Many people experiencing homelessness have behavioral health issues that will necessitate more time and officer Mayor Greg Wheeler greg.wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us Tel 360-473-5266 Fax 360-473-5883 345 6th Street, Suite 100 Bremerton, WA 98337-1873 ⚫ Page 2 September 1, 2023 involvement for each contact. A police officer working with multiple individuals across the City would be required to interact with each one at least four times under the proposed threshold. Making a violation of this ordinance a misdemeanor will reduce the number of law enforcement contacts involved in enforcing this ordinance. As a result, police response times for life safety issues and other 911 calls will have a better chance of being sustained at current levels. Citizens are also more likely to receive faster relief once a camping issue is reported. Finally, our police practices have changed in response to current needs. Our officers are now trained in de-escalation and interacting with vulnerable populations. There is a focus on implementing best practices to reduce use of force incidents. We want voluntary compliance. No one wants to see surprise enforcement on unsuspecting people experiencing homelessness that results in them going to jail. I am asking that the Council trust the expertise and discretion of our police department to enforce this ordinance fairly and effectively. Let good policing take the place of the months-long multiple infractions and give our police officers the tool they need to effectively enforce the ordinance the Council has crafted. A draft of this proposed change to the code is attached for your consideration. I am happy to discuss this proposal and answer questions at the upcoming Public Safety Committee meeting if that would be helpful. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor 9.32.050 PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS. (a) Misdemeanor. A violation of any provision of this chapter shall constitute a misdemeanor pursuant to BMC 1.12.020(2). Civil Infraction. A violation of any provision of this chapter shall constitute a civil infraction subject to a monetary penalty of one hundred five dollars ($105.00). Each day, or a portion thereof, during which a violation occurs shall constitute a separate violation. (b) Habitual Violators - Misdemeanor. Any person, after receiving three or more infractions, singularly or in combination, for prior violations of this chapter within a two (2) year period found to be committed by the Municipal Court shall be guilty of a misdemeanor pursuant to BMC 1.12.020(2) upon a subsequent violation within said two (2) year period. A conviction of a misdemeanor under this subsection shall be considered and counted as an infraction for the purpose of determining whether or not a violator is a habitual violator. From: jane Rebelowski <janerebelowski@yahoo.com> Sent: Friday, September 1, 2023 7:56 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Camping ordinance Please distribute to all councilors Thank you for all your hard work on a revised camping ordinance. A�er staff has reviewed available City- owned proper�es and publically announces them, a public hearing should be held to discuss pros/cons of neighborhood impacts with each iden�fied property. I hope currently underused proper�es such as land adjacent to the former Engineering Office on Olympus Drive, land set aside for future expansion of the Oyster Bay Maintenance facility, or other proper�es near or adjacent to ac�ve City facili�es are priori�zed for temporary camping. I hope we can also look at funding an earlier opening of the Salva�on Army shelter. People are without a roof for 12 months a year, not only late October to March. Jane Rebelowski 1445 17th St. 98337 Sent from my iPhone From: kim siebens <kimmysiebens@yahoo.com> Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 1:38 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: anti camping ordinance Dear City Council and Mayor, I am writing to respectfully request that you reconsider your approval of the current anti- camping ordinance that has been proposed. It is important to highlight that there are several aspects of this ordinance that raise constitutional concerns and may ultimately result in legal action being taken to protect the rights of those directly affected. As a Registered Nurse with over 17 years of experience working with the unhoused population, I, along with my colleagues from Kitsap and beyond, have consistently provided letters and testimonies aimed at explaining the complex nature of this crisis to you and prior councils. Unfortunately, it seems that our efforts have not been given the attention they deserve. It is disheartening to see this issue persist and not receive the adequate attention it requires. The individuals you are seeking to remove from public view are people who are facing genuine medical and mental health challenges, all of which are entirely treatable. Additionally, some are simply struggling due to low fixed incomes and a lack of affordable housing options. Over the past seven years, I have dedicated myself tirelessly to helping these individuals leave the streets and access the necessary resources to lead more productive and fulfilling lives. All of this work has been done on a volunteer basis without any support from the city. Instead of listening to those who have demonstrated success in assisting individuals experiencing homelessness, it appears that the punitive approach you have chosen will only exacerbate the situation further. I kindly request that you reconsider the wording within this ordinance. Specifically, I propose that under Definitions, language be added clarifying that the law will not apply to those whose "needs exceed what can be provided at a shelter." This would include elderly individuals with incontinence issues. Incontinence is not a disability, and therefore, these individuals would be directed to a shelter that cannot adequately accommodate their needs. Consequently, they would be forced to remain outside and face repeated penalties, potentially leading to misdemeanors and even incarceration. Increasing individuals' records will only make it more challenging to secure housing when it becomes available. Furthermore, there are individuals who are banned from shelters due to their behavioral issues. These individuals also fall into the category of having needs that exceed what a shelter can provide. It is unconstitutional to penalize individuals who have no other place to go and are simply trying to exist. Lastly, we have not received any information regarding the locations where people can camp when no other options are available. Relocation will undoubtedly be a challenging process, and we were assured by the mayor and some council members that a map would be made available. However, as it is now a Sunday during a holiday weekend, it is evident that there has been a lack of transparency regarding where individuals can go. I kindly request a response clarifying the locations where people can camp in such circumstances and urge you to amend the definition of those who will not be penalized due to the shelter's inability to meet their specific needs. Thank you for your attention to these matters, and I look forward to your prompt response. Sincerely, Kimmy Siebens RN Economic Inequity and Health Task Force Member, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, www.wpsr.org https://www.wpsr.org/homelessness President, Their Voice http://www.their-voice.org Founder, Bremerton Homeless Community Coalition https://www.facebook.com/groups/bremertonhomeless From: Shelley Lance <shelleylance74@gmail.com> Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 6:18 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: Homelessness Ordinance issues On Sun, Sep 3, 2023 at 6:14 PM Shelley Lance <shelleylance74@gmail.com> wrote: Hello, I just wanted to address the issues I have after reading the city ordinance on camping. I see nowhere in the ordinance that it addresses the issue of where the homeless are to move too? How they will be helped in moving there things to the new location (we have mentally ill, there are handicapped people in wheelchairs) and will there be facilities on site(restrooms, hand washing stations, security, lockable storage)? Will the new location be close to Salvation Army where they currently receive services (food, showers, assistance)? Are you really going to start handing out civil infractions to the homeless when you have not identified or fixed the above issues? If any of the above is not in place please do not put this ordinance into effect. This would be absolutely horrible for the homeless communities. Please consider fixing the issues and identifying up front the location of where the homeless are to move to prior to implementing this ordnance. Thank you Shelley Lance From: Elissa Matos <elissa.joy.matos@gmail.com> Sent: Sunday, September 3, 2023 10:17 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Anti-camping Ordinance Dear City Council and Mayor, I am writing to respectfully request that you reconsider your approval of the current anti-camping ordinance that has been proposed. It is important to highlight that there are several aspects of this ordinance that raise constitutional concerns and may ultimately result in legal action being taken to protect the rights of those directly affected. It is disheartening to see this issue persist and not receive the adequate attention it requires. The individuals you are seeking to remove from public view are people who are facing genuine medical and mental health challenges, all of which are entirely treatable. Additionally, some are simply struggling due to low fixed incomes and a lack of affordable housing options. I kindly request that you reconsider the wording within this ordinance. Specifically, I propose that under Definitions, language be added clarifying that the law will not apply to those whose "needs exceed what can be provided at a shelter." This would include elderly individuals with incontinence issues. Incontinence is not a disability, and therefore, these individuals would be directed to a shelter that cannot adequately accommodate their needs. Consequently, they would be forced to remain outside and face repeated penalties, potentially leading to misdemeanors and even incarceration. Increasing individuals' records will only make it more challenging to secure housing when it becomes available. Furthermore, there are individuals who are banned from shelters due to their behavioral issues. These individuals also fall into the category of having needs that exceed what a shelter can provide. It is unconstitutional to penalize individuals who have no other place to go and are simply trying to exist. Lastly, we have not received any information regarding the locations where people can camp when no other options are available. Relocation will undoubtedly be a challenging process, and we were assured by the mayor and some council members that a map would be made available. However, as it is now a Sunday during a holiday weekend, it is evident that there has been a lack of transparency regarding where individuals can go. I kindly request a response clarifying the locations where people can camp in such circumstances and urge you to amend the definition of those who will not be penalized due to the shelter's inability to meet their specific needs. Thank you for your attention to these matters, and I look forward to your prompt response. Sincerely, Elissa Matos From: Neal Foley <nealfoley1021@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 7:52 AM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Camping Ordinance Dear City Council, I urge you to cancel the Anti-Camping ordinance in total and replace it with an ordinance that contains the words clearly spoken, over the last few months, by all of the public and City Council. What was put forth by council members and the public for inclusion into the ANTI-CAMPING ordinance - NOT criminalizing homelessness or mental health! Finding a solution for dissolving or managing the homeless communities that have developed on MLK Way and elsewhere in the city, to minimize impact to neighbors and provide a way to better help the homeless people staying there. Not enforcing ANY anti-camping ordinance until a city designated camping area is established for use. The camping area would have simple basic amenities, bathrooms and a hand wash. The area would have security and possibly be fenced providing an opportunity for people to leave without having their belongings rifled. People breaking the law with drug use or other illegal activities would be arrested and removed from the area. This really takes care of most if not all of the “rules” that are needed. Don’t break the law, and you can stay. Transportation to this designated camping area if needed. Located on a bus route. I was pretty astounded after I left the last 08/23/23 CCSS and realized the lack of proximity of what has been put forth by council and the public, and what is actually being written into ordinance. The difference is stark. Why are criminality and penalties written into the current document and all the other parts being left out? The result is criminalizing and prosecuting our homeless and mentally ill and providing no solutions. Why are the items voiced by council and the public not being written into this ordinance? Is there a hidden agenda? If so whose is it? How can what is proposed be constitutional if the current one is not? I see no difference. 10 days after passage of this ordinance the very homeless people we have been discussing will be illegally camped in Bremerton and action taken in the form of fines and or jail time. And it is supposed to be more palatable because we argued about how much of a fine? How does this improve a homeless persons life? This is without providing any secure place to camp or any non criminal solutions. Constitutional somehow? Nowhere in this ordinance is there any mention of city property being used to camp legally? Simply a verbal that the city will not prosecute camping on current city owned properties that are not posted, etc.. Areas that could be closed, per this ordinance, with the simple posting of a no trespassing sign and that currently have no amenities whatsoever. Scattering this problem will not solve it. Again, I urge you to cancel the Anti-Camping ordinance in total and replace it with an ordinance that contains the words clearly spoken, over the last few months, by the public and City Council. Contain and manage this issue for everyone's benefit! I also urge City Council to again consider funding Rock the Block and other organizations that are currently providing what is actually needed by our homeless each and every day RIGHT NOW while this debate continues. On the ground Nursing care, Counseling, obtaining a myriad of services for those in need, actually improving our lives. Porta Potties in place NOW and they are maintaining and footing the bill, supporting businesses in our town with cash dollars and solving a problem that could not be solved in a year, in just one afternoon. Again, I urge you to cancel the Anti-Camping ordinance in total and replace it with an ordinance that contains the words clearly spoken, over the last few months, by all of the public and City Council. Thanks, Neal Foley From: Susan Brooks-Young <sjbrooksyoung@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 2:33 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Susan Brooks-Young <sjbrooksyoung@gmail.com> Subject: Proposed unauthorized camping ordinance Dear council members, I am very concerned about the ordinance on Wednesday's agenda that makes unauthorized camping illegal within city limits. Before the new ordinance is passed, there are several steps that, at the very least, need to be taken including : • Sites are selected and reviewed for encampment suitability (proximity to social services, medical care, grocery and retail stores, public transportation, laundry and bathing facilities, etc.) • Each site is equipped with adequate toilets, handwashing stations, communal food prep facilities, trash containers and disposal, etc. • Staffing at each site to provide wrap-around services to residents, general communications, and security services. • A plan for transitioning people from areas where they are currently staying to approved encampment areas including adequate notice and input on placement. • A plan for what happens when winter arrives to ensure there are still enough sleeping spaces for every person who is in need. I realize this list is a tall order, and yet it is incomplete. If reports about current plans for approving and implementing this ordinance are accurate, it does not seem that the city is well positioned to pass and enact the ordinance this week. If that is not the case, it would be helpful for city officials to share their complete plan with the public. I live downtown and see daily evidence of the toll homelessness is taking on our city. At the same time, I want to know that whatever transpires over the next days and weeks is beneficial and helpful for everyone involved. Please refrain from moving forward on this until you have a solid, workable plan that has been shared with the public well before any ordinance is adopted. Sincerely, Susan Young Bremeton -- SJ Brooks-Young Consulting Telephone: 951-202-2042 Web site: www.sjbrooks-young.org Twitter: @sjbrooksyoung Facebook Business Page: www.facebook.com/SjBrooksYoungConsulting “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou From: Rae Cando <raecando1965@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 2:07 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Ordinance to ban public camping For reading aloud during public comment at the Bremerton City Council Meeting, September 6, 2023. Please delay the vote to make public camping illegal!!! There is much to be done to support the front line workers who are selflessly assisting the unhoused BEFORE displacing those citizens. OR better yet, not displacing them. The community has proven their willingness to step up and do the hard work of consistent one on one mentoring, providing basic necessities, and getting people into substance abuse treatment. They even managed to secure two portable toilets without your promise of funding. Please immediately remedy this injustice and/or tell us how to access and secure those funds. Delay the vote until your staff has created a plan WITH the current Rock the Block constituents to address the needs of the homeless population and make them aware of alternative properties. My personal hope is that our unhoused on MLK Way can stay where they are, close to services, that area can be expanded to the empty lots, and that the City do what is right by them. Sincerely, Raelenea Copus Citizen Advocate From: kim siebens <kimmysiebens@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:49 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Anti Camping Ordinance and unconstitutionality Dear City Council and Mayor, I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to bring to your attention a recent comment made by Mary E Schweitzer RN regarding the anti-camping ordinance, which can be found on pages 46-49 of the current agenda packet. Upon reaching out to Ms. Schweitzer, I learned that she is currently out of state. While this may not invalidate her perspective, it is important to consider the lack of firsthand experience she has in conducting outreach work on our city streets. I believe it is essential to approach discussions and decisions about our community's most vulnerable residents with empathy and understanding. Over the past seven years, I have been actively involved in providing medical care and outreach support to these individuals. Therefore, I would like to express my concern that many of you may not have had the opportunity to witness the realities faced by this marginalized group firsthand. It is crucial that we take the time to engage and build relationships with the people we are making decisions about. Making judgments and forming opinions without direct personal interaction is reminiscent of the injustices experienced by the LGBTQ+ community, which I find deeply troubling and unacceptable. I kindly urge you to vote against this ordinance until it can be revised to ensure its constitutionality. Specifically, I recommend adding a clause to the definitions section stating that the law will not affect individuals "whose needs exceed those provided by homeless shelters." Failure to include such a provision would render the ordinance unconstitutional, potentially leading to legal action, as has happened in other jurisdictions that followed similar advice. Furthermore, I have attached my response to Ms. Schweitzer's comment, as her views do not align with those of any medical provider or nurse I have encountered throughout my 17 years in the same field. It is essential for us to consider a diverse range of perspectives and engage in constructive dialogue to make informed decisions. Thank you for your time and consideration. I am confident that by working together, we can create a more compassionate and equitable community for all. We have a chance to make history here, the right side of history. May our community thrive and be a beacon of hope and unity for all its citizens. You can make this happen. Please help make this come true for us all. Sincerely, Kimmy Siebens RN Dear Mary, I hope this message finds you well. As a fellow Registered Nurse, I wanted to reach out and share my perspective on the current issue we are facing regarding the unhoused population. Having worked at Harborview for the past 17 years in the trauma ICU, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and struggles that individuals experiencing homelessness go through on a daily basis. In addition to my work at Harborview, I have also taken the initiative to start a non-profit organization in Kitsap, where I reside, to support our unhoused neighbors. Over the past 12 years, I have been tirelessly advocating for affordable housing and increased access to vital services such as detox and rehab. Unfortunately, it seems that our efforts have not received the attention they deserve, falling on deaf ears. I understand that the anti-camping ordinance you are advocating for may seem like a viable solution to some, but I respectfully disagree. In my experience, such measures only exacerbate the crisis by pushing individuals to the fringes of society, making it less likely for them to trust and accept the help offered by outreach workers like myself and my team. It is my sincere belief that if you were to spend some time on the streets with me and my team, you would gain a better understanding of our most vulnerable citizens and their desire for assistance. I implore you, as a fellow RN, to reflect on our training in sociology and psychology. Remember Maslow's hierarchy of needs? We cannot hope to find a true solution to this critical issue unless more medical professionals, like ourselves, come forward to advocate for the patients we encounter on the streets. These individuals are dealing with 100% treatable health issues, but they are being failed by an inequitable system. Every day, I encounter numerous people who are seeking treatment, but the reality is that there are simply not enough medical detox beds available when we call around the state. Under these conditions, it is clear to me that we will never achieve a resolution. I believe you can also see the limitations of the current system. It is my hope that we can work together to address this issue in a more compassionate and effective manner. Thank you for taking the time to read my message. I genuinely appreciate your dedication to our profession, and I hope that we can find common ground to advocate for the well-being of our most vulnerable community members. Warm regards, Kimmy Siebens RN Economic Inequity and Health Task Force Member, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, www.wpsr.org President, Their Voice http://www.their-voice.org Founder, Bremerton Homeless Community Coalition https://www.facebook.com/groups/bremertonhomel ess USA Today WA woman of the year 2023 https://www.kitsapsun.com/in- depth/news/2023/03/19/kimmy-siebens- washington-usa-today-women-year/69925589007/ Daisy Award winner https://www.daisyfoundation.org/daisy- award/honorees/kimmy-siebens And my last message : Time and time again Research findings suggest that refraining from providing assistance or withholding essential resources from individuals struggling with drug addiction is ineffective in addressing the root causes of addiction. I will adhere to the utilization of evidence-based research, which has consistently demonstrated its efficacy in addressing addiction, rather than allowing fear to perpetuate an already challenging situation. Over the years, extensive research has consistently demonstrated that the tough love approach tends to be ineffective. It is crucial for us to acknowledge this fact and reflect on how it has contributed to our current situation. Limiting or withholding services can hinder progress and prevent individuals from accessing the support they genuinely require to overcome challenges. As a nurse as experienced as yourself I believe you understand this. Instead, adopting a compassionate and understanding approach can foster positive change. By offering assistance and guidance to those in need, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment that empowers individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. However, when people advocate to withhold services - this issue only worsens and perpetuates the cycle we are currently within . We need more supportive services, shelter beds, detox beds, not less. Your letter empowers the city to not provide these essential services that are desperately needed to truly get a hold of this crisis. I understand and empathize with the difficulties you are currently facing, and I genuinely hope that these challenges in your life find resolution and you experience the much-needed respite you deserve. As a nurse, I firmly believe in the significance of engaging in respectful dialogue, even when our opinions may differ. Our shared intention to prioritize the health and well-being of our community remains at the forefront of our endeavors. Lastly, the letter you wrote is considered public record and accessible to a wide audience. I apologize if this makes you feel that your privacy is being intruded upon. I want to assure you that I have taken steps to protect your personal information. Prior to sharing the letter with my teams, I removed any sensitive details, including your address, in order to safeguard your privacy. I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused, and I appreciate your understanding in this matter. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly. Our invitation still stands anytime you want to meet the people whose lives you affect by your letters. If you encounter any unhoused individuals bothering you please reach out and my team with work to solve those issues for you . Bremerton City Council and Mayor, please see the faces you place judgment upon before you cast them to the fringes: From: Joslyn Snow <joslynjune@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:15 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Letter to Council regarding camping ordinance Please find attached a letter regarding your current proposed ordinance banning camping. Thanks, and see you tomorrow! From: Kelsey S <kelsey.e.stedman@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 9:13 AM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Unauthorized Camping Ordinance--request for extension and clarification Hello Mayor Wheeler and City Council, Many citizens, including me, recognize the hours, effort, and revisions that have gone into the current unauthorized camping ordinance. The current draft is a major improvement from the initial draft and I commend you all for the thought you've put into it. Howeverm I fear passing the current draft will diminish the work that has been completed to date, by the Council, the Mayor, and the people working with the folks living unhoused in Bremerton, as well as open the City up to litigation. Below I outline specific examples of why I am requesting City Council postpone the vote: But first, a little about where I am coming from--I was born and raised in Bremerton. I work in Bremerton in local government, though today I write as a concerned human being worried about other human beings and the impact the current ordinance will have not only on the unhoused, but the agencies working with them (my own included). I have attended or watched the recordings of almost every council meeting and study sessions on this issue, providing public comment, while also volunteering my time and skills as a nurse at the encampments on MLK and Broadway. I have emptied the buckets filled with feces and urine, that would have otherwise been in our waterways, in our business entryways, and in our resident's yards. I helped troubleshoot the issue of sanicans and, along with many other advocates and agencies, helped bring the current two sanicans to fruition, which are fully citizen funded at this point (though we hope the City will entertain reimbursement requests with invoices and written consent for their placement from the property owner). I have been involved in working with people experiencing homelessness for nearly a decade and have acted as Power of Attorney for two family members struggling with addiction and/or Substance use disorder. I have law enforcement officers in my immediate family and friend circles. I have also been a part of revisions to the Kitsap County Housing and Homelessness Plan and participated in Kitsap Point in Time Counts. I have written grants for programs that work with the homeless, been an elected member of state Balance of State subcommittees for funding homelessness and an elected Board Member for Olympic Community of Health. I have attended numerous National Healthcare for the Homeless conferences in my role as a nurse working with unsheltered individuals. Here are my concerns and some suggested solutions: 1. The public has a right to have adequate time to review and comment on draft ordinances. This latest draft was posted after business hours (5:15pm) on a Friday before a three-day weekend. This has left less than two business days for review and public comment, one of which is today, the day of the vote. This draft is drastically different than the initial draft released. The public has not had adequate time to provide feedback on the newest draft. The below observations have taken me many hours to formulate, and I have not had enough time to articulate or research all my concerns, so have highlighted what I am able by the deadline. I have heard similar concerns from other volunteers, advocates, and agency workers who would be tasked with carrying out the activities outlined in the ordinance. 2. Citizens and City Administration have repeatedly asked for ordinances that are clear and actionable. The current draft is neither. There are many places where the ordinance uses language with double meanings or provides multiple definitions. There is a lack clarity on how it will be realistically executed. Below are some examples: a. In the definition of "available overnight shelter" (9.32.010(a)), there is language stating an example as, "outdoor encampment operated or permitted by the city." Later in the ordinance a permit process is discussed. Does the definition of available shelter mean an encampment that possesses a permit from the city? Or does it mean an encampment allowed by the city based on a the yet-to-be-release list of public spaces individuals can reside if no shelter is available, but no permit required? This is extremely unclear. b. To "camp" means either (1) to dwell, reside....; and/or (2) to use camping paraphernalia. Camping paraphernalia is later defined as includes objects such as sleeping bags and hammocks. I have heard in City Council Study Sessions you do not want to prevent people from using such "paraphernalia" in "appropriate ways" (which in and of itself is potentially discriminatory and subjective). The current draft would mean that someone hanging a hammock in Evergreen park at noon on a sunny day would be considered "camping." To camp should NOT include a definition of simply using camping paraphernalia. c. In section 9.32.040 PERMIT. Section 9.32.040(a) states "The Director is authorized, by permit, to allow persons to camp....subject to other applicable codes or ordinances." Yet no example ordinances are included. Section 9.32.040(b) goes on to take language from the current ordinance of basic considerations for a permit to be approved. I appreciate these minimum standards. However, these are only a subset of the standards outlined in BMC 20.46.090 required for an encampment permit. It is extremely unclear if an encampment need only to meet subsection (b) to be approved as an authorized encampment, or if it needs to meet all standards and processes outlined in BMC 20.46.090. Which is it? Either? Both? If a city releases a list or map as mentioned in 9.32.060, will they meet at least the minimum standards required in 9.32.040(b)? d. SECTION 4. If this passes tonight, what happens on day 11 after passage if no encampment has been authorized by permit as outlined in 9.32.040? Is that up to the City Administration to determine? What is the expectation from BPD in this situation? e. Overall, the encampments within City Limits that have received the most attention are the ones on BLK and Broadway, however, there are many other smaller encampments within the city. There is no process or timelines for notification of unsheltered individuals in the current ordinance. Under the current draft, the City Administration could release a map at 4pm, 9 days after this ordinance passes, and people could begin being criminalized for homelessness the next day. Many folks have lived at these places for nearly a year. It will take time to notify them of the new options, once released, and take time for volunteers and agencies to mobilize and execute a relocation plan. Suggested revision: Add a period of time for dissemination and relocation after new shelter options become available. For example, "In the event a new available shelter option becomes publicly available, the ordinance will not go into effect until 10 business days after public announcement of the new shelter option, including how to access it, to allow for dissemination and relocation efforts." 3. The current draft does not take into consideration the channels those experiencing homelessness must go through to access housing listed as "available shelter." Mainly, most funding that supports these places (transitional housing, shelters, a yet-to-exist permitted outdoor encampment), require individuals to enter into these settings through "Coordinated Entry." Our Coordinated Entry provider is Housing Solutions Center, which is only open M-F and not even a full 8 hours per day. Individuals are required to have certain documents that have to be collected from multiple locations (ID, proof of income or lack of, letter of homelessness, etc) to apply for services, and then be referred to shelters. This is how the Quality Inn works. They also need income or rental assistance when it comes to any option other than emergency shelter or encampments (such as transitional housing). What happens at 10PM on a Friday night? Suggested revision(s): a. Remove "transitional housing" from the definition of "Available overnight shelter. b. Include in the definition of available shelter that an available shelter bed needs to be "immediately available," or some other verbiage to indicate that if the individual were to be taken directly to the shelter, they would be accepted, regardless of day or time. If an officer encounters an unsheltered individual at 10pm at Friday night, even if a shelter bed is unoccupied, it may not actually mean it is immediately available if the individual were to show up. 4. The current draft does not address how city employees (e.g. BPD) are to address interactions with persons who are ineligible for shelter services outside the few exceptions listed in the last paragraph of 9.32.010. Firstly, who determines what is a "disability?" Miriam Webster defines a disability as, "a physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental condition that impairs, interferes with, or limits a person's ability to engage in certain tasks or actions or participate in typical daily activities and interactions." Can it be self-reported? Can the shelter deem someone ineligible due to a disability? Are behaviors related to substance use or mental health a "disability?" Secondly, there are other reasons outside those listed that frequently lead to someone being ineligible (such as past or current behaviors, incontinence, court-ordered no-contact orders, sex offender requirements, competency, etc.). The ordinance should not determine if someone is eligible for shelter, the shelter should have that authority. Suggested revision: Amend the last paragraph to state, "If an individual or family cannot use an available shelter because of the individual or family's sex...disability, length of stay restrictions or are otherwise deemed ineligible for services per shelter staff to a City Employee, the accommodation is not considered available." Overall, there are still many unanswered questions that there is not sufficient time to address before tonight. I am requesting answers to the questions I have outlined above as well as: 1. What happens to those living unsheltered on areas that will be illegal at all times (such as the grass strips on MLK) 10 days after passage of this ordinance if no encampment with a permit exists? 2. Will any City properties mentioned in the list or map outlines in 9.32.060 also be required to meet minimum standards outlined in 9.32.040 (adequate trash receptables and sanitary facilities)? Thank you for all the time and efforts that have been poured into this concern to date. I know there is no easy solution, but there are ways to do this with the least impact and the most humanely. Mainly, in order to criminalize those currently camping in areas outlined in 9.32.020(b) When overnight shelter is not available, camping is only prohibited on these City Properties, without fear of litigation, there needs to be: 1) A relocation site or sites that at least have the minimum requirements outlined in the 9.32.040(b). Adequate time and City Administration involvement in a coordinated dissemination plan 2) Adequate time and City Administration involvement in a coordination relocation plan 3) A relocation site or sites that at least have the minimum requirements outlined in the 9.32.040(b). In addition to being inhumane, failure to, at minimum, addresses the above, would not align with previous court decisions outlined in the first page of this ordinance, as well as numerous others not included in the ordinance (e.g. Warren v. Chico). For these reasons, I request City Council postpone the vote on the current draft Ordinance No. 5482. Respectfully, Kelsey Stedman, RN, MSN 360.908.6751 From: Sherlock Bill <sherlockbill@yahoo.com> Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 9:12 AM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: David Nelson <david.nelson@kitsapsun.com> Subject: HOMELESS ENCAMPMENTS SOLUTIONS Dear Council members: Thank you for working to solve the problem of the homeless who are taking over some our streets. If they were neat and tidy it would be helpful but they are not. I talked with some members of the homeless encampment street behind the Salvation Army. They are very frank about the drug dealing, overdose deaths, and prostitution going on. The City has gone the Biblical "extra mile" for a long time and it is time for action. Here is a letter I shared with Mayor Wheeler earlier with some additional suggestions. A central housing facility would be the most cost efficient and helpful to law enforcement. We unfortunately did not pass the public safety bond which would have added more officers so we have to help them the best we can by not making their job more difficult. What do we do about the unsolved problem of the homeless in Bremerton? It's like triage, we need to help those closest to us. For a long time I have been a proponent of a gated year round community housing center. It should be located on a bus line. It would contain clean modern barracks with restrooms and showers, mess hall, laundry center, first aid station, mini-storage garages, and vehicle parking. This as opposed to converted hotels which can become lawless slums. It would be a strictly enforced alcohol and drug free zone with proactive 24/7 armed security personnel with lethal force authority if needed. There would be zero tolerance for any type of threatening behavior. Some type of community service and job training activity would be required for residency at this taxpayer supported facility. If a person is physically able to push a broom they should be able to do some type of work. Some feel it would be bringing back the "poor farm" but if it gets people off the sidewalk, out of the woods, and out of dilapidated RV's and into a clean secure shelter , why not. It would be more cost efficient than subsidizing rent in motels, apartments, and houses. Let's create a model for other communities across the country. If we can send 150 billion dollars and counting to Ukraine , a non-NATO country we have no obligation to, we can take care of our own people who WANT to get back on their feet. Those who don't will continue in their own self-inflicted downward spiral and may need to be incarcerated for their protection and society's protection. Best wishes and much success for cleaning up Bremerton. William L. Rieger 3321 Almira Drive NE PO Box 2423 Bremerton, Wa 98310-0317 Phone 360-377-8443 Cell 360-471-7250 Email: sherlockbill@yahoo.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/william.rieger.9659 From: Anton Preisinger <anton@nwhospitality.org> Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 8:16 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: No anti-camping ordinance Dear Mayor Wheeler, The last time that I got to say “hi” and shake your hand was at the Open House for the Eagles Wings Coordinated Care Clubhouse on August 5th, almost exactly one month ago. I was genuinely happy to see you there because Eagle’s Wings and our other service organizations in the region need all of the support and accolades we can provide them. With that celebration in mind, and your evident support for our unhoused neighbors, it is impossible for me to imagine that you would breathe a single word of support for the proposed “anti-camping” ordinance being discussed at today’s meeting. Anything short of denouncing this ordinance outright will be a betrayal of everything the social services groups in the region are fighting for. Hypocrisy and cowardice are viewed by many as synonymous with politics and politicians, please take this opportunity to set at least one counter-example. You cannot walk both sides of this issue. If this ordinance had been constructed in good faith, then we would know the locations of the sites being proposed for people to move to. The city would have recognized that vital need (as we have been begging them to do for years now) and started by providing the essential services and safe spaces rather than tacking those in at the end in a very weak attempt to satisfy constitutional requirements. You and I both know that proposing a site like that is only the first step in a long and harrowing quest that is as likely as not to end in failure - at least in any jurisdiction with such a weak commitment to its unhoused residents that there has been no emergency declaration to facilitate real solutions. This ordinance is being pushed for only one reason - to give the city the tools it needs to perform sweeps and disappear the people it has failed in a last-ditch effort to appease housed constituents. Sweeps have been proven over and over to be ineffective and harmful. We need to house people from where they set up their communities or actually give them better places to be in the meantime. Forcing people to move with no effective support structure - the nonsense in the proposed ordinance is a joke - will result in people losing touch with vital resources and setting up new encampments elsewhere, all while we make them feel ever more like castoffs rather than severely traumatized members of our community that we want to see find safety and success. The very fact that we keep having these discussions and “debates” is evidence enough that there is little hope for rational and humane responses to the problems of poverty and homelessness; cowards keep demanding of those in service that we not only solve all the problems without adequate resources and while navigating conjured obstacles, but also endlessly affirm why and how we do so. Please do whatever you can to take action in support of the people who need it most, our unhoused neighbors and those working to provide them with support and services. Quash this obscene waste of everybody’s time. Let us gather the people and groups who have been leading the positive efforts toward actual solutions on Dr. Martin Luther King Way and build a real plan. This would likely include some established open-air shelter locations around the city and county as proposed - but those need to be active and successful before there is any discussion like the proposed ordinance. Take action in this order, service and compassion first, rather than flipping everything on its head, and you will find that the problem solves itself because housed people don’t camp on your city streets. Sincerely, Anton Preisinger Founding Executive Director Northwest Hospitality 888-222-5240 www.nwhospitality.org Homeless could lose proximity to resources, safety as Bremerton plan heads for a vote BREMERTON -- A team of volunteers serving Bremerton’s homeless community cut a ceremonial toilet paper ribbon to open two portable toilets on MLK Way Thursday. After conversation with the city administration and elected officials for months on how to legally install such a facility, the team rented land on the block, bought the toilets and set them out -- just days before the Bremerton City Council is scheduled to vote on an unauthorized camping ordinance that would see the encampment cleared and separated. The council’s proposed ordinance, now on the agenda for a vote Wednesday, would outlaw camping in parks, and on streets in any park and on streets, sidewalks and the space between streets and sidewalks. But rather than clearing the homeless campers and leaving them with nowhere to go while the city lacks overnight shelter space, a list of undeveloped city-owned parcels will be attached to the ordinance, mapping out areas where the law against camping will not be enforced. But with the long holiday weekend ahead and no list attached to the proposed ordinance yet, advocates and people living in the MLK Way encampment, as well as another on nearby Broadway Avenue that has grown in recent weeks, are left wondering where they will go, how far their new encampments will be from centralized resources and how safe the sites will be. “When you have a crisis, you have to solve it by solving the actual issues, which can't be done by hiding people,” Kimmy Siebens, a nurse and volunteer who's worked with the homeless community for years and played a lead role in the toilet installation, said late in the week. “If we disperse this to the rest of the community, it's just going to be chaotic for everybody.” Siebens and her team are demanding the city give homeless campers 20 to 30 days to relocate to undeveloped parcels after their locations are identified, a timeframe not included in the ordinance as written so far. “We just found out and we have exactly one week to get ourselves out and they still haven't told us where we're going,” said Kevin Naughton, 42, who camps on Broadway, behind the Starbucks at Sixth Street and Warren Avenue. “The city has not talked to us. We're the ones that are on the street right now.” Homeless campers like Naughton and his tentmate Stacey, who wished not to share her last name, are worried about the safety and compatibility among neighbors at the new encampments once their current ones are dispersed. “A lot of these people I've become quite friendly with and quite close to, we all try to get each other's backs,” said Stacey, who said she only grew close with her neighbors after months of camping. “We don't want the people that are all hyped out on drugs and all crazy and acting all ridiculous. We want people that are respectable and quiet.” Moving to a new parcel would undo the environment campers have created, Stacey and Naughton said. It could cause problems between homeless folk if someone chooses to camp near them in a new location whom they don’t get along with. “We're creating a community of respect and taking care of their neighborhood,” Siebens said. “It actually is helpful to have smaller groups that work more cohesively together, but then when you are relying on community member volunteers who have full-time jobs like me as a nurse full-time in Seattle, then how hard is that going to be for me to go to like 10 different places when I'm the one providing the resources?” Siebens’ team consists of volunteer nurses, doctors, prior addicts and gang members, mental health and substance use disorder professionals who work to fill in the gaps they see from the city in servicing homeless folk, connecting them with resources and providing in-field medical care, navigation to detox, treatment, and housing opportunities. “There is not going to be a designated area where the city is helping people (to relocate for camping),” Siebens said. “However, we the citizens are volunteering time and giving our own money and we need this support from the local government.” “We want to clear all of this up too,” Siebens said, “but we want to do it in a humanitarian way.” For others in the neighborhood, however, the collective encampments are becoming unsustainable and an enforceable ordinance is needed right away. Paul Meigs owns Discount Tire and Wheel at the end of MLK Way, a the street's intersection with Park Avenue, where he can see straight down the tents gathered on either side of the road. “I've cleaned up human feces about 12 times in the last six months,” said Meigs, who's installed cameras all around the shop. “I don't leave anything outside at night anymore.” Meigs wants to see camping outlawed in the city limits altogether. Others who've helped those going through hard times in Bremerton also agreed that the time has come to address the encampments that have grown rapidly this summer. “I think it's a good thing to move an encampment away from schools and community centers,” said Capt. Dana Walters of the Salvation Army, an organization that currently provides numerous daytime services to homeless residents, just across the alley from the MLK Way encampment and a block from the Marvin Williams Recreation Center. Amanda has been in and out of treatment for her substance addictions after several major traumatic events happened in her life. Amanda, 39, wished not to share her last name for safety concerns. She’s been staying in the MLK Way encampment when she’s out of treatment, sharing a tent. Amanda has been having trouble sleeping, like many inside the encampment, due to fighting heard early almost every morning. Accessing drugs and falling into addiction is easy to do there, she said. Amanda agrees with the proposed plan to relocate to an undeveloped area, as long as there is direct communication from the city about the details of the ordinance and the availability of necessities, like a toilet, drinking water and a barbeque she and her homeless neighbors can cook on at all times. “Some of these places are going to be so far out there, there's not going to be stores and things that we might need to use,” Stacey said. “If you don't have a vehicle, if you don't have the means to get around, how are you going to do that if you're out in the middle of a forest somewhere because they don't want to look at you?” Accessing services at the Salvation Army like showers and laundry can already mean waiting in line for hours, said Naughton, even with the building a block away. Without money, Naughton has to use bus tokens provided by the Kitsap Resource Center and the Salvation Army, but they’re often not enough to bus between jobs and appointments, let alone between potentially farther removed camping spots and resources within the city center. Accessing the Salvation Army’s provisions like breakfast and lunch, shower, laundry, clothing, bus tokens and on-site healthcare could become a difficulty for homeless campers as well, Naughton worries. Preparing to serve new homeless encampment locations, Siebens and her volunteer team are requesting $10,000 from the city for toilet maintenance and hand-washing stations, costs that include renting land to place toilets, weekly toilet emptying costs, “sharps” containers costs and fencing costs. They are also asking for funds and a designated city employee to coordinate dumpster and trash pick up and waste removal from RVs. “I think anytime you have people living in tents without direct access to sanitation, whether that is by their choice or someone else's, that it presents problems,” Walters said. “There's just a myriad of reasons that people are there, but whatever the reason is, they’re still a human being in a tent without access to basic needs.” Siebens plans to also pursue legal action to force the city to include language in the proposed ordinance defining incontinent persons as disabled, and thus considered exempt from infractions for unauthorized camping. And if a list of campable undeveloped locations is not attached to the proposed ordinance soon, considering that Wednesday's vote will come just two days after Labor Day weekend, Siebens intends to pursue legal action as well. If the ordinance is enacted, Siebens said, she’ll have to move the newly christened portable toilets to the next, most useful location. Bremerton planning to establish areas for authorized homeless encampments on city property With shelter beds limited and homeless encampments growing in neighborhoods like MLK Way in Bremerton, city leaders appear to have agreed on a plan to address the issue of public camping. An ordinance proposed for a vote by the City Council on Sept. 6 would outlaw outdoor camping in any park and on streets, sidewalks and the space between streets and sidewalks. However, the rule would also set aside undeveloped, city-owned parcels where the rule would not be enforced, essentially setting up sanctioned encampments in specific, controlled areas while Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler continues work on establishing a new temporary shelter in Bremerton that could serve as a resource for the homeless community. The locations of those unenforced zones have not been specified, after a City Council meeting Wednesday where the draft rules were agreed on. The city has had an ordinance in place since 2004 that outlaws camping in any park or public space at the penalty of a $105 fine, but it’s not currently enforced. That's due to a 2019 decision from the federal Ninth Circuit Court, known as Martin v. Boise, establishing a precedent that clearing encampments is illegal when there are no available overnight shelter beds available in a jurisdiction. Bremerton does not have shelter beds available, after the Salvation Army closed its overnight shelter on May 1 and the Kitsap Rescue Mission leaving Sixth Street several years ago. In addition, beds at facilities like Pendleton Place or through other housing programs are not available as temporary shelter. Wednesday's meeting was the fifth recent session for councilmembers to discuss the camping ordinance, including hearing from residents repeatedly this summer to urge action about the growing situation on MLK Way or to ask the city to establish a shelter or sanctioned area to camp. Councilmember Eric Younger argued for a single, designated area, saying, "It's going to be easier for a provider of services to go to one city-designated camping area to take care of these people and that's all for law enforcement in case there's a problem." Councilmember Quinn Dennehy also favored a sanctioned area, emphasizing the ability to install a restroom or drinking water, something the mayor had allocated funds for in the past but has yet to materialized on MLK Way. "The mayor is already networked into all the other political aspects of the county to figure out how we can pool all our resources," Dennehy said. But other members contested the city’s responsibility to designate one camping zone, favoring an approach that wouldn't necessarily concentrate all camping in a single area. "You don't want to have one giant tent city, because that can be problematic," councilmember Jennifer Chamberlin said. "There's going to be situations where people who are unhoused … have court cases pending against each other, so they can't be in the same facility. We need to have diverse options." After the council agreed to stick with unenforced zones for camping among undeveloped parcels in the written rules, the discussion turned to creating a list of available locations and then publicizing it if the ordinance is approved. "I think for fairness and community and all things like that, we would need to make those places known to people," City Attorney Kylie Finnell said. "We can't simply say you can't camp here, here and here — good luck finding where you can. There would need to be some way to identify those properties and make that information available to the public, and again, those are different than a city-designated camping area." The council decided a “living” document, or map of the city’s undeveloped parcels, should be developed and handed out to campers in unauthorized zones. Council President Jeff Coughlin said he expects the list before the Sept. 6 vote. Under the proposal, violations of the camping ban would be penalized with a $25 fine. Three or more infractions within a two-year period could result in a misdemeanor charge for an individual. “If the administration is able to set up, essentially, a regulated camping spot that provides services, then that would count as available shelter,” Coughlin said. “So it'll be on the administration to hopefully create more shelter space that we desperately need. They'll have several options at their disposal including, shelters in town, working with Salvation Army, working with the county, but one extra option is a regulated encampment.” Wheeler stands behind the draft ordinance and will support the council in passing it, but he’s already pursuing other solutions as well. “The ordinance does not solve the homeless problem in our city and it doesn't solve the camping problem,” Wheeler said. “It regulates it into different areas around the city on publicly owned properties instead of having it concentrated in just one area … that problem will just reemerge in different parts of the city.” Wheeler’s plan is to rely on the camping provisions of the ordinance only until the winter, he said. His administration is pushing the Salvation Army to open its overnight winter shelter on Nov. 1. After that, he hopes to have a new overnight shelter set up for those experiencing homelessness when they exit the winter shelter in the spring. Wheeler has identified an area within Bremerton close to a bus line — the location of which he could not share —where he envisions a 120- bed shelter with rooms for case management operations. Wheeler and his administration are looking into ways to expedite permitting and building installation and are working with partners to secure funding and provide wrap-around services for homeless guests. Wheeler even hopes some type of tiny-home village can be built at the site for a transitional housing option in the future. If the ordinance passes, law enforcement will be authorized to break up encampments like that on MLK Way, where more than a dozen tents have lined the block through the summer. Residents who are asked to leave will be visited by case managers and law enforcement, who will be required to notify them of the ordinance and distribute a map of undeveloped areas available for camping, Wheeler said. After that, officers will have to cite repeat infractions for unauthorized campers. “If someone is not going to move if they are requested to move, they need to go to jail,” said Wheeler, who disagreed with the proposed ordinance’s policy on repeat offenses. “This is one tiny, tiny piece of a huge puzzle,” Coughlin said. “This ordinance alone doesn't tackle providing affordable housing, providing shelter space, all the stuff that I know the city as a whole has been working hard on. This is just one small piece and we're going to continue to keep working hard to get folks the resources they need.” From: Peggi Erickson <peggi.erickson@comcast.net> Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 12:39 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Please Postpone vote on Homeless Camping - Don't rush it Dear Bremerton City Council, Thank you for all the work you are doing to provide services and rights for our unhoused neighbors. I sit on the newly convened Kitsap ERACE Housing Team and we have had quite a few discussions about the work you are doing. However, I urge you not to rush into a vote tonight on designating places where camping will be allowed. We do need spaces where unhoused people can stay safely, free from harassment and the danger of sweeps wherein they lose whatever few things they may own. These spaces need to be evaluated for access to services (many do not have cars), sanitation facilities, safety and community acceptance. Representatives of the unhoused community should also be included in your considerations. Decisions should not be being made that will impact them without input from them. Now that the port-a-potty has been installed on MLK Way, complaints about feces there should go away. According to the recent article in the Kitsap Sun the folks staying there have formed a community that feels safe and has easy access to services. I think you should allow that community to stay put. https://www.kitsapsun.com/restricted/?return=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kitsapsun.com%2Fstory%2 Fnews%2F2023%2F09%2F03%2Funauthorized-camping-ordinance-worries-bremertons-homeless- community%2F70743920007%2F For all the above reasons, I urge to postpone the vote and study the options more deeply. Again, thanks for all you are doing in this arena. Peggi Erickson “There’s something that tells you what’s right. You know you have to do it to survive as a human being. You have no choice. “ --Unita Blackwell, Civil Rights Heroine From: sound.grants@comcast.net <sound.grants@comcast.net> Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 1:59 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Letter regarding individuals without homes Hello, I am out of state at this �me but would like to share the atached leter with you in reference to the housing dilemma facing the unhoused community members on MLK Way and in other city loca�ons. Kind regards, Beverly Kincaid Beverly A. Kincaid 525 Lebo Blvd. #E-3 Bremerton, WA 98310 September 6, 2023 Mayor Greg Wheeler Members of the Bremerton City Council 345 6th Street Bremerton, WA 98337 Dear Mayor Wheeler and Council Members: We often speak broadly of the ‘housing continuum’; however, this continuum only works when there is housing available and affordable for low-income, no-income households. Even when such housing is available, actions must frequently be taken to stabilize the housing and its residents, in order to avoid repeating the cycle of homelessness. Flexible housing opportunities are necessary, in terms of cost and type of accommodations, level of need, safety factors, and individual health factors. I have followed the conundrum on Martin Luther King Way, and it saddens me to observe that my city, which I call home, cannot reach an amicable agreement with those groups who care deeply about the current and future well-being of the vulnerable population that appears to be growing larger each day in our community. Several years ago, as regional grants manager for Catholic Community Services, another individual and I were able to negotiate with a number of local churches opportunities for temporary sleeping accommodations for unhoused men who were living on the streets, in the forest, and in the alley ways. This was the small start that ultimately resulted in the development of the successful Benedict House program for men in West Bremerton. This is just one example of community support that could help alleviate some of the hardship facing the ever- growing population of unhoused people. Before you enact an ordinance that may, in fact, be illegal, I urge you to convene a group of individuals who are unhoused, some of their community supporters, and the dedicated local service providers to discuss available temporary solutions that could be implemented before winter sets in. I am happy to help in any way possible, as long as those who are involved are willing to work toward a goal of finding the best possible solution for shelter of some type for the ensuing winter months, while working toward a longer term goal of developing a model housing program that focuses on improving the lives of vulnerable unhoused individuals and households. Kind regards, Beverly Kincaid P.S: I am out of town until September 12, 2021 From: Chris�ne Grenier <Chris�ne.Grenier@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Thursday, September 7, 2023 3:39 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: FW: September 6 - Item 6B Public Comment (Jerome Alford) Atn: Council Members (FYI) **For informa�onal purposes only. Do not reply to this email** The atached message received from Jerome Alford included comments for Item 6B "Ordinance to amend BMC Chapter 9.32 en�tled “Unauthorized Camping”. -----Original Message----- From: Mitel Voice Mail <shoretel@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 4:06 PM To: Lori Smith <Lori.Smith@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Mitel voice message from +13606983322 for mailbox 5280 You have received a voice mail message from +13606983322 for mailbox 5280. Message length is 00:00:48. Message size is 375 KB. From: Anna Mockler <Anna.Mockler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 9:23 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Helen Havens <fellow_sojourner@yahoo.com> Cc: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: Public Comments - Proposed Camping Ordinance (Helen Havens) Dear Helen, I agree that a designated camping site should have facilities including toilets, showers, laundry, regular garbage pick-up, and storage. We learned at our last meeting that the City has security guards (unarmed) trained in conflict resolution, de-escalation, and sympathetic mobilization, so it was suggested they provide some supervision. Since we got two new pieces of information very late before tonight's meeting, we delayed tonight's vote until we could examine it and discuss it next week. There were so many people who wanted to give public comment tonight that we now have even more information to process. Really appreciate your thoughtful email. Hope you are well, and thanks again for those masks you gave me in April 2020! Anna Anna Mockler Bremerton City Councilor, District Six Chair, Public Works and Audit Committees From: Helen Havens <fellow_sojourner@yahoo.com> Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 4:56 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: proposed camping ordinance To: Bremerton City Council Re: proposed camping ordinance Hello, I am a city resident within Anna Mockler's council section. I am writing to urge the council to delay action on this ordinance until planning has been completed to protect the vulnerable persons who have been camping within the city limits by arranging a list of campable city properties that will be prepared ahead with residential amentities that include sanitary arrangements like toilets and washing facilities, some security, and regular removal of refuse. Provision should also be made for existing living arrangements, chosen neighbors within the tent city and other areas, to be respected. Sincerely, Helen E Havens 1115 Rainier Ave Bremerton, WA 98312 Published for August 23 Council Study Session A5 – Public Comments From: Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 7:09 PM To: Glen Henrickson lewischapel.1909@gmail.com Cc: Gunnar Fridriksson Gunnar.Fridriksson@ci.bremerton.wa.us; City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Steven Forbragd Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Rodney Rauback Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Aaron Elton Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Mike Davis Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Tom Wolfe Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Hillary Hamilton Hillary.Hamilton@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Thomas Knuckey Thomas.Knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Ned Lever Ned.Lever@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Dave Carter Dave.Carter@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Brett Jette Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Mychael Raya Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Jennifer Hayes Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: RE: KItsap Way culvert campers Good evening Chris, I just wanted to take a moment to let you know that I am tracking your email correspondence with Public Works and to provide some insight into your last question about homelessness. The city is now down to one shelter (which is full) since the Salvation Army closed. I am working with regional partners including Kitsap County to stand up another homeless shelter. We are working through multiple options and hope to have more information to share soon. This will remain a high priority until completed. City Council is also working on updating the city’s camping ordinance as the current one has been determined to be illegal by court rulings (9th Circuit). They are currently considering options for regulating time, place, and manner for camping and have been included in my reply. This is a high priority for them also. The actions you do see taken by police and public works are those permitted by law. I realize this response does not make things immediately better, so I understand your frustration. You have my commitment to stay on this. In the meantime, I am including officials from the City of Bremerton Police, Public Works, and Legal Departments for their information. Take care. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Glen Henrickson <lewischapel.1909@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 6:23 PM To: Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Gunnar Fridriksson <Gunnar.Fridriksson@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: KItsap Way culvert campers CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Customer Response Associate, Today I had the opportunity to walk around the area of Forest Lawn Cemetery that rests next to the Kitsap Way culvert. There was no activity; however, I took notice of the massive amount of trash that has accumulated. The photo I took of this is attached. Definitely an interesting time in our area of the city and I do not envy the position the City of Bremerton finds itself in. I've worked 23 years in our family business, 22 years of which, as its president. It is unfortunate to see a city that has worked so hard to rejuvenate, to draw people to live and/or visit, be dragged down. I did not agree with the forced installation of this culvert, and feel it is sad our city had to raise money to pay for a project to service a seasonal run-off stream. But now we are here. When Gunnar first reached out to me about the culvert work, and I had a chance to see the size and scope of work, I immediately knew there would be an issue with homeless dwellers. Time to choose.....homeless or environment? It is my hope that the trash will be removed to the dump immediately. Real or fake cameras need to be installed and signage posted that the Bremerton Police will be actively monitoring the area. I know Gunnar mentioned posting signage, but I did not see this on my side of Kitsap Way. Please note, that I will always welcome our Bremerton Police to park at Forest Lawn Cemetery or Lewis Funeral Chapel to assist them with enforcement. The current situation at the Kitsap culvert now begs the question, what can the city do to move homeless out of the city? I went banking at the Kitsap Bank on 6th and Warren this week and there is now a row of tents on the side street running behind the bank and in a residential area. Not a good look! As always, thank you for your prompt attention to my concerns. Sincerely, Glen C. "Chris" Henrickson President Lewis Funeral Chapel & Forest Lawn Cemetery The Stone Chapel Poulsbo Mortuary & Cherry Grove Memorial Park On Wed, Aug 2, 2023 at 7:30 AM Gunnar Fridriksson <Gunnar.Fridriksson@ci.bremerton.wa.us> wrote: Morning Chris- We have had your neighbor across the street contact us about some campers that are using the culvert. Just to let you know, we are signing the area for no trespassing and having our police department enforce. Camping here is a safety concern as well as an environmental one. We will also be signing the east side of Kitsap Way from the culvert up to the Baymont for 8-hour parking. If you are seeing issues on your side of the culvert with campers or vehicles in City ROW – would you please let us know. You can email our customer response staff at bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us. They will contact BPD and/or Impark depending on what you are seeing. Thanks, g. Gunnar Fridriksson Managing Engineer 345 6th Street, Suite 100 Bremerton WA 98337-1891  360-473-5758  gunnar.fridriksson@ci.bremerton.wa.us   www.bremertonwa.gov From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Greg Wheeler <rwat1964@gmail.com> City Council; Steven Forbragd; Rodney Rauback; Aaron Elton; Mike Davis; Tom Wolfe; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response; Hillary Hamilton; Thomas Knuckey; Ned Lever; Dave Carter; Kylie Finnell; Brett Jette; Mychael Raya; Jennifer Hayes RE: Homeless camp on MLK and next to Burger King Thursday, August 10, 2023 11:24:03 PM Good evening Ricky, Thank you for your email and for taking the time to share your comments, questions, and concerns with me. Please continue to call 911 when individuals trespass and vandalize your property. Regarding the camping you are seeing, the city is now down to one shelter (which is full) since the Salvation Army closed. I am working with regional partners including Kitsap County to stand up another homeless shelter. We are working through multiple options and hope to have more information to share soon. This will remain a high priority until completed. City Council is also working on updating the city’s camping ordinance as the current one has been determined to be illegal by court rulings (9th Circuit). They are currently considering options for regulating time, place, and manner for camping and have been included in my reply. This is a high priority for them also. I realize this response does not make things immediately better, so I understand your frustration. You have my commitment to stay on this. In the meantime, I am including officials from the City of Bremerton Police, Public Works, and Legal Departments for their information. One note I would like to share regarding your concern over winter months and homelessness, the Salvation Army will reopen their cold weather shelter November 1st. Take care Ricky, I hope you are able to have a peaceful evening. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From:<rwat1964@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, August 10, 2023 9:49 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Homeless camp on MLK and next to Burger King CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mayor Wheeler I live on 5th street, not far from Wheaton Way. I have had several transients come onto my property and use the water faucets to take a bath/shower. They leave garbage in my yard, ignore the fact that I have children in my home, use foul language, even use the bathroom in my yard. This is getting very bad and the police will not do anything about it. I have security camera’s in my yard, a fence in the my front yard and I plan on putting one up in my backyard as soon as I have the resources to. Recently, I put locks on my outside water speakets. This only upset them, I guess, because they still urinate on the wall of my home. My outside camera’s have even picked them up trying to open doors on cars parked on the street. This has gotten worse the past few months and, with fall/winter approaching, it can’t get much better. I have even put up no trespassing signs but that doesn’t deter them at all. MLK smells bad and is very unsafe. When the kids and I take our dog out for a walk, we avoid that area but still see a lot of people with boxes in front of buildings. Something needs to be done to protect everyone. I know this is a very sensitive subject, but the people that bought houses near this are the one’s that have to take extra precautions to protect their family and property. The homeless tents just outside of the Burger King on Wheaton Way is nothing but an accident to happen. Please, can you look into this and see what else can be done? Downtown Bremerton has a lot of beauty to it that is being brought back down. Thanks Ricky Watkins 1014 5th Street, Bremerton, WA 98337 360-286-9438 Sent from Mail for Windows From: Anita Quinn <blingslinger@comcast.net> Sent: Saturday, August 12, 2023 7:04 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Encampment CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good evening Mayor Wheeler, This encampment has been there for a couple of weeks (at least ). It is located on the east side of the Warren Ave bridge between the bridge and the Parks department. Please let me know what the plan is for this issue. Thank you, Anita Quinn Sent from my iPhone From: Anthony Soapguy <anthonythesoapguy@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, August 14, 2023 2:28 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: Homeless CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. I am writing you this message because seriously enough is enough. There are now 12 tents and I portable outhouse on Broadway between 6th Street and 8th Street. I know you probably have lots of people messaging you and I thought I would have a little grace and see if some fruit came forth. I do know one thing I was taught in every area of life "TALK IS CHEAP" you need to take action, no more excuses, no more we are working on it. If this problem is not handled soon I will be going to the newspaper and posting on Facebook and talking to bloggers and anyone else who will listen . I was hoping to raise my family here but all I want to do now is move..Do not contact me with another excuse. I want action not words. On Wed, Jul 19, 2023, 2:29 PM Anthony Soapguy <anthonythesoapguy@gmail.com> wrote: I have been doing some research and it is perfectly legal for you to ask a homeless person to vacate a location. There are multiple options. The fact that they are in the vicinity of not one but two businesses. There are squating laws also which the city can enforce. There is also a health risk and sanitation requirements One of those requirements is running water and electricity and there is at times feces on the sidewalks. I will not even let my nine year old sister play outside and that is simply not fair to me or her. From: Anthony <homelessdisaster98337@gmail.com> Sent: Saturday, August 12, 2023 10:58 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: We the citizens of Bremerton Washington have had enough it is time to take action as our mayor and clean up . From:A Clark To:City Council Subject:Request for plan to address homeless crissis Date:Monday, August 14, 2023 4:00:58 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello, I would like to see a copy of any plans the city has to address the growing homeless and drug problems in downtown Bremerton. Will you please direct me to where I can locate that on the city website or send me a copy? Thank you, Amanda Clark 425-941-1936 From: Robert Shaffer <robertjshaffer@yahoo.com> Sent: Monday, August 14, 2023 4:38 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Rodney Rauback <Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Steven Forbragd <Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Aaron Elton <Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mike Davis <Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Jennifer Hayes <Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Brett Jette <Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mychael Raya <Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; want2x4@gmail.com; A Clark <cotedazure1986@gmail.com> Subject: MLK homeless man just took a dump on my neighbor's porch CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mr. Mayor, Council, Chief Wolfe, staff- First of all, thank you for the work you put into the city, I know you have difficult choices to make now. I appreciate it. I’m writing for myself and several of my neighbors. We urge you pass legislation that allows you to clear the homeless encampment on MLK. We could write you every day, but today was a new low. I found a man in my neighbor’s McKenzie Ave. yard, looking for something to steal. I told him to leave, he did, but when I left my house 30 minutes later, he was in another neighbor’s yard. I called 911, and while on the phone with him, the man rounded the corner, sat on my neighbor’s porch on 9th and took a shit. I apologize for my language, but we’ve had it. Something like this happens every day in our neighborhood. We beg you, pass an ordinance that allows you to immediately clear the camp. You’ve put so much into making downtown livable. You’ve done a great job, and now all your- and previous council’s- work is in jeopardy. Bathrooms for these campers is NOT the answer- it just allows the camp, and the problem, to grow. Homeless “advocates” have been out there for months now, and the problem only gets worse. It seems the more they advocate, the more people live on the street. This is NOT a metric of success. The only answer is clearing of the camp. I talked to the man who defecated on the porch to see if he needed medical attention. He said no, he was just high. I asked him where he got his “blues” (cheap fentanyl pills)- he told me his camp on MLK. This must stop. Here are some pictures of this man and what he left on my neighbor’s porch. Bremerton does not need to be the county’s dumping ground- it’s a choice we’ve made. Regards, Robert Shaffer 820 McKenzie Ave. From: A Clark cotedazure1986@gmail.com Sent: Monday, August 14, 2023 4:58 PM To: Robert Shaffer robertjshaffer@yahoo.com Cc: Aaron Elton Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Brett Jette Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us; City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Jennifer Hayes Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Mike Davis Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Mychael Raya Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Rodney Rauback Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Steven Forbragd Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Tom Wolfe Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us; want2x4@gmail.com Subject: Re: MLK homeless man just took a dump on my neighbor's porch Hello Mr. Mayor and all, I would like to add to Robert’s sentiments. I am a single mother who owns a home on McKenzie. This street is where my two year old runs and plays. There are at least three other toddlers just on our street who play here. I’ve had things stolen from my porch, had to call the police multiple times due to trespassing, and I regularly find drug foil in my garden. We do not walk along or cross Park. Our neighborhood feels less and less safe by the day. We need quick action and a humane plan to remove the camp on MLK. Sincerely, Amanda Clark 809 McKenzie Ave CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Housing/Homeless - There should be ZERO laws making homelessness or mental illness a crime. I am VERY much in favor of the wording that was brought up by council member Younger in regards to a designated place to camp in Bremerton. The discussion about this between the council and mayor Wheeler was great. I suggest we adopt these words and rename the ordinance the “Camping Ordinance”. After all the ordinance will tell people where they CAN camp if they need to yes? Please don’t give up on tiny homes! A roof, a locking door and an address. A place to store things. Tukwilla is doing it and so are others. I attached a picture of a tiny home complex next to I-5 by Centralia. Financial support for ongoing services that “work NOW”- I bring this topic up with apprehension and trepidation due to the propensity of some to prosecute or harass rather than support efforts that support our homeless persons. I would like to see a resolution to provide the funds that were allocated previously for the bathrooms, to the persons providing those exact services in places now. I have personally inspected several while passing and what a wonderful thing. A place to use the bathroom and hand sanitizer. A closed/zipped door. A simple process to handle the waste. These folks are also providing on the spot nursing, wound care, counseling, friendship, direction to appropriate help and many other services. I think it would be a wonderful thing if Bremerton could be a part of supporting their efforts. I would gladly support paying for supplies and would encourage the city to consider hiring some people like these to work directly with our law enforcement and fire department personnel. Dark Fiber and WIFI service for the entire city – DO THIS. What a great way to level the field for all of Bremerton’s citizens including our students and homeless!! I for one would be HAPPY to pay for internet on a monthly basis. Those that cannot afford it should have free access from this city. Thank you all for the hard work you are doing. I’m pretty impressed with our city government. Neal Foley From:Daniel Maxwell To:City Council Subject:Camp city’s popping up all over town Date:Thursday, August 17, 2023 7:02:54 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. To whom it may concern: I am a taxpaying home owner in West Bremerton and I am extremely concerned of the tent cities that are popping up in our city. I left Seattle several years ago to get away from this epidemic and major problem. I cannot believe it’s happening here. Is there anything being done to control the drug usage and and private properties. Do the police do anything? For example, I am speaking of the tent, city at Broadway Avenue between 6th and 8th Street. This is despicable, and I can’t believe this is happening here. I want to know is there going to be a city Council meeting or public speaking event for homeowners to share their concerns. This is not a homeless problem. This is a drug use and mental disorder problem. I am so sick and tired of seeing these tents pop up all over town. I would like to know who I can write to, or speak to directly, and if there is going to be an open forum to approach the council. Thank you From: City Council Sent: Tuesday, August 22, 2023 9:34 AM To: Carma Foley <carmafoley@hotmail.com> Cc: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: FW: Public Comments (Follow-Up) - Unhoused Questions (Carma L. Foley) Hi Ms. Foley, Thank you so much for writing in and for the great ideas, and for your patience in my reply. I'm honored to be in a community that is coming together to help with such a difficult issue. The Council in the 2023 budget allocated $10,000 for "professional services - public restrooms" with the intent for the city to contract with a portable toilet provider. This proposal was brought forward to Council by a citizen-led group. Once Council approves a budget, the money is available to spend Jan. 1 of that year, and the Mayor and their administration are responsible for execution and implementation. The Administration and Legal determined that it is not viable for the city to place a portable toilet on city property or in the right -of-way, even with self-monitoring. On your second suggestion, I do believe this is viable and it has been mentioned previously in Council as a possibility --- either to help existing providers expand bathroom access or for a third party to place a portable toilet on their property. I've met with members of the group that originally brought forth the proposal, and they agreed to reach out to organizations like Salvation Army and PCHS to see what is feasible from their end. I defer to the Mayor to respond on if the Administration has pursued any such partnerships to spend this money. Thanks again for speaking up, This e-mail and further communication may be subject to public disclosure, if requested under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). From: Carma Foley carmafoley@hotmail.com Sent: Friday, August 18, 2023 5:04 PM To: Denise Frey Denise.Frey@ci.bremerton.wa.us Cc: Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us; City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: Re: Public Comments (Follow-Up) - Unhoused Questions (Carma L. Foley) CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Thank you for your response. If we continue bring new ideas to the table and make sure that the unhoused are part of this process, I am hopeful. I also feel that the mental /medical health professionals, police, firefighters/EMT's, business leaders voices should be at the forefront of the discussion. Criminal activity should not be tolerated. This sends the wrong message to everyone in our community. We need a just system that is focused on what is good for the whole community. Allowing criminals to not be held accountable hurts not only their victims but also the perpetrators. Teachable moments and often times their sober awakening can lead to accepting the help they desperately need. Thank you again for your service. I know this is a complex and difficult situation. Carma Foley From: Denise Frey <Denise.Frey@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Friday, August 18, 2023 2:25:50 PM To: Carma Foley <carmafoley@hotmail.com> Cc: Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: Public Comments (Follow-Up) - Unhoused Questions (Carma L. Foley) Hi Carma, Just a note to let you know how much I appreciated reading your email that included such great suggestions. I share your perspectives and believe we could make those resources available very quickly to have immediate impact. I'm cc'ing Jeff Coughlin, President of the City Council, and Mayor Wheeler, each of whom could be helpful in support of that endeavor. Denise Denise Frey Council Member, District 2 Bremerton City Council (360) 473-5280 denise.frey@ci.bremerton.wa.us www.BremertonWA.gov From: Carma Foley carmafoley@hotmail.com Sent: Thursday, August 17, 2023 6:52 PM To: City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us Cc: City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: Re: Public Comments - Unhoused Questions (Carma L. Foley) CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good evening City Council Members, I await your response to the above forementioned email. Carma From:Stephen Bezruchka To:City Council; mayor@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject:Call to Action regarding Homeless in Bremerton Date:Wednesday, August 23, 2023 2:22:32 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Bremerton City Council and Mayor Greg Wheeler, I am writing to express my deep concern about the growing number of unhoused individuals in your city and the proposed laws that aim to criminalize their circumstances. Instead of focusing on punitive measures, I strongly urge you to prioritize increasing services, support, and affordable housing options for this vulnerable population. Homelessness is a complex issue that often stems from a variety of factors such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental health challenges, and addiction. By creating laws that criminalize the unhoused, we not only exacerbate their struggles but also perpetuate a cycle of poverty and marginalization. It is crucial to adopt a compassionate and holistic approach that addresses the root causes of homelessness and offers viable solutions. One essential intervention that must be prioritized is the provision of affordable housing. The lack of affordable housing options in our city is a significant contributor to the growing homelessness crisis. By investing in affordable housing initiatives, we can provide stable and secure housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, giving them an opportunity to rebuild their lives and regain their independence. In addition to affordable housing, it is imperative to create safe spaces where individuals can reside while living in survival mode or struggling with addiction or mental health issues. These spaces should not only offer shelter but also be surrounded by a comprehensive range of services that cater to their specific needs. This could include access to healthcare, mental health counseling, addiction treatment, vocational training, and educational opportunities. By investing in these services and affordable housing options, we can help unhoused individuals regain their sense of dignity, rebuild their lives, and ultimately reach their highest potential. It is important to remember that homelessness is not a permanent state; it is a condition that can be overcome with the right support and resources. As a caring and progressive city, we must ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has equal access to safe and affordable housing. I understand that implementing such initiatives may require additional funding and resources. However, I firmly believe that the long-term benefits outweigh the costs. Not only will increasing services and affordable housing options for the unhoused alleviate the strain on emergency services, law enforcement, and the criminal justice system, but it will also contribute to a safer, healthier, and more inclusive community for all residents. I kindly request that you reconsider the proposed laws that criminalize the unhoused and instead redirect our collective efforts towards expanding services, support, and affordable housing options. Let us work together to create an inclusive city where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can thrive and contribute positively to society. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I hope you will give thoughtful consideration to my concerns and take the necessary steps to prioritize increasing services and affordable housing for the unhoused. Sincerely, Stephen Bezruchka MD, MPH Departments of Health Systems and Population Health & of Global Health School of Public Health Box 357660 University of Washington Seattle, Washington 98195-7660 From: Greg Wheeler Sent: Tuesday, August 22, 2023 2:48 PM To: Cheryl Gillespie Cc: Steven Forbragd; Rodney Rauback; Aaron Elton; Mike Davis; Tom Wolfe; Joseph Sexton; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response; Hillary Hamilton; Thomas Knuckey; Ned Lever; Dave Carter; Kylie Finnell; Brett Jette; Mychael Raya; City Council; Jennifer Hayes Subject: RE: Homelessness Dear Cheryl, Thank you for your email and for taking the time to share your comments, questions, and concerns with me. Included in my reply are officials from the City of Bremerton Police Department for their information and follow up regarding potential criminal activity. Hopefully, you and your neighbors are calling 911 when you suspect or witness a crime being committed. Regarding the camping you are witnessing, you may not be aware, but the city is now down to one shelter (which is full) since the Salvation Army closed. I am working with regional partners including Kitsap County to stand up another homeless shelter. We are working through multiple options and hope to have more information to share soon. This will remain a high priority until completed. City Council is also working on updating the city’s camping ordinance as the current one has been determined to be illegal by court rulings (9th Circuit). They are currently considering options for regulating time, place, and manner for camping and have been included in my reply. This is a high priority for them also. I realize this response does not make things immediately better, so I understand your frustration. You have my commitment to stay on this. In the meantime, besides officials from the City of Bremerton Police Department, I am including officials from the Public Works, and Legal Departments in my reply for their information. One last resource I would like to share, regarding what you and your neighbors can do, is contact information for the City of Bremerton (COB) Police Department Community Resource Officer, Joe Sexton, who manages the COB Block Watch (BW) program. BW’s are a great way for neighborhood groups to organize, share resources, and speak with one voice, regarding concerns about safety. This communication channel is a direct link to the city and may be something you are interested in forming. Take care Cheryl, I hope you enjoy the rest of your week. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor, City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Cheryl Gillespie Sent: Tuesday, August 22, 2023 2:28 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Homelessness CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Dear Greg, I hope summer has been good to you and you’ve had special times with friends and family. Many of our friends and neighbors are up in arms over the expanding homeless camp by and surrounding 6th Street Starbucks. They went there and left due to the impact of driving through the tents on either side of the driveway. It was my favorite Starbucks, but I am rethinking that. They removed tables, etc. due to issues with bathrooms ,etc. I was receiving medical care on 5th Street and was startled by the sound of a person making loud choking noises outside the window. My practitioner said she had to call 911 the week prior as a homeless person was right under the window yelling and screaming. How is the homeless issue being addressed? I have been told that vehicles can be moved but that people can stay on public property. How sad to be a homeowner with tents outside your front door. What is being done and how may we help? Best, John and Cheryl Gillespie From: Abby Bennett <ybbabennett@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, August 17, 2023 2:21 PM To: Barbara Forbes <Barbara.Forbes@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: Encampment Thank you so much for looking into this and responding so quickly as well as sending public works department to follow up. We have been picking up trash in the area and forests around the boys and girls club/ library/ school for years as needed being we live a stones throw from there. more so for a teaching aspect for the kids of contributing to the solution but I typically steer clear of doing that near anyone for safety reasons but we and other frequently use the school play ground when available. Immensely appreciate your help. And that is a interesting topic of discussion, the main concern I have for it being that it’s near kids/ schools/ high traffic parks/ play zones. We actually chose to try a new Montessori school this year based on encampments and wandering individuals getting closer and closer to our previous school. I don’t believe these individuals have dogs but in the past there have been dogs running off leash, some not so friendly. it’s a common parking zone we have learned over the years so that is something to consider I’m sure they enjoy the community amenities. Relocating a zone to somewhere where kids are not frequently visiting and playing would be greatly appreciated if there is any input left on the conversation. Thank for your time, Appreciate you. Abby bennett Get Outlook for iOS From: Barbara Forbes <Barbara.Forbes@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Thursday, August 17, 2023 8:30:14 AM To: Ybbabennett@gmail.com <Ybbabennett@gmail.com> Cc: Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: FW: Encampment Good morning, Thank you for reporting an encampment on East 33rd Street. Due to restrictive legislation, persons using vehicles or tents as housing are allowed to remain in public spaces or parked on public rights-of-way. An officer can ask the camper to move, but the officer can't force the removal. If campers encroach onto private properties, they can be served with a trespass notice. Essentially, they will be arrested if they return. Since the area of the school and library are public property, we are unable to force the campers to vacate. However, officers will continue to monitor this area. As for the garbage, I will ask the Public Works Department to respond. The City Council and Mayor discussed options last night during their meeting to address encampments in the city. One option was to locate a lot to allow overnight camping but disperse during daylight hours. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me. Thank you, Barbara Forbes Bremerton Police (360) 473-5227 From: Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Thursday, August 17, 2023 7:43 AM To: Barbara Forbes <Barbara.Forbes@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: FW: Encampment Hello Barbara: This was submitted through our Bremerton1App. Comments: Hello, I submitted a previous complaint about a growing homeless encampment that’s been present for multiple months - nearly all summer but wanted to attach a photo- photo is a bit blurry but you get a sense of the area. As of the last two weeks the garbage has became more prevalent and wide spread. Contact info: Ybbabennett@gmail.com Thanks, Liliana Foster Office Assistant Senior Direct (360) 473-2326 Customer Response (360) 473-5920 Email: Liliana.Foster@ci.bremerton.wa.us From:Buck, Patrick G CIV USN NAVSHIPYDIMF PGS WA (USA) To:City Council Subject:Encampment 6th & Broadway Date:Tuesday, August 22, 2023 9:53:48 AM Concerning the encampment at 6th and Broadway, what is being done to resolve this issue? I have a co-worker who lives on Broadway, has 3 children and has an encampment of 17 tents directly across the street from her house. She has observed drug use, public nudity, public defecation/urination, has had items stolen from her yard as well as people so high on drugs that they strip off their clothes and run in front of oncoming traffic. She has repeatedly called the police who tell her that their hands are tied and they cannot do anything about it. I have gone to the Starbucks there and personally observed the growing tent city as well as open air drug use. Why is the city council allowing this to happen and why are you not empowering our police department, that our tax dollars pay for, to resolve the situation? I have lived in Bremerton for over 20 years and over the last couple of years it has steadily been going downhill after what was a promising improvement over the previous 18 or so years. I’ve seen tents blowing in the street on 11th, the recent incident of someone breaking windows all down Callow, people high on drugs standing and screaming in the middle of 11th and Callow, topless women walking down Kitsap Way and now the growing encampment on Broadway as well as on Park/MLK way. Taxpayers deserve better, our city deserves better. Patrick Buck 1910 N. Wycoff Ave Bremerton WA. Patrick.Buck@comcast.net From: Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us Sent: Tuesday, August 22, 2023 12:34 PM To: Hadley Tillson hadleytillson8248@gmail.com Cc: City Council; Jill Stanton; Andi Reed; Joseph Sexton; Steven Forbragd; Rodney Rauback; Aaron Elton; Mike Davis; Jennifer Hayes Subject: RE: Unsafe neighborhood Hi Hadley, Thank you for your email and for taking the time to share your comments, questions, and concerns with me. I am including the Bremerton City Council and officials from the Bremerton Housing Authority (BHA) in my reply for their information and follow up regarding your request to be connected with them directly. Also included in my reply are officials from the City of Bremerton Police Department for their information and follow up regarding potential criminal activity. Hopefully, you and your neighbors are calling 911 when you suspect or witness a crime being committed. Regarding the camping you are witnessing, you may not be aware, but the city is now down to one shelter (which is full) since the Salvation Army closed. I am working with regional partners including Kitsap County to stand up another homeless shelter. We are working through multiple options and hope to have more information to share soon. This will remain a high priority until completed. City Council is also working on updating the city’s camping ordinance as the current one has been determined to be illegal by court rulings (9th Circuit). They are currently considering options for regulating time, place, and manner for camping and have been included in my reply. This is a high priority for them also. I realize this response does not make things immediately better, so I understand your frustration. You have my commitment to stay on this. In the meantime, I am including officials from the City of Bremerton (COB) Police, Public Works, and Legal Departments for their information. One last resource I would like to share regarding what you and your neighbors can do is contact information for the City of Bremerton Community Resource Officer, Joe Sexton, who manages the COB Block Watch (BW) program. BW’s are a great way for neighborhood groups to organize, share resources, and speak with one voice. This communication channel is a direct link to the city and may be something you are interested in forming. Take care, I hope you a great week. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor, City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Hadley Tillson Sent: Tuesday, August 22, 2023 10:37 AM To: Greg Wheeler Subject: Unsafe neighborhood CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Hey Greg, This is Hadley Tillson. I am a previous Salvation Army employee and now work at Kitsap Rescue Mission. I live on the corner of Driftwood St and Bay Vista BLVD over by Winco. I am reaching out in hopes you can forward this to our city councilman as the beginning of documentation and effort towards cleaning up the neighborhoods in our community. Over just the last few months the crime and disturbance has gotten really bad along with RVs and tents and constant all night activity that wakes us up more than not during the week in the middle of the night. I understand it's a problem everywhere, however this area wasn't so bad before and now I cannot even let my kids play outside. Everybody deserves a solution but I am a home owner and follow HOA yet the whole Bay Vista road is covered in chaos. I would like to know how I can make a difference in my neighborhood and also if you could contact Bremerton Housing Authorities which is in charge of the low income apartments, where all this is going on, and the HOA. There has to be something we can do! I'll be looking forward to your response. I hope all is well and Godbless. Lets make a difference! Hadley Tillson From:Neal Foley To:City Council Subject:08/23/23 Study Session Date:Tuesday, August 22, 2023 3:28:16 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. At the last study session wording was used by council member Eric Younger regarding adesignated place (or places) to camp in Bremerton. This has my total support. I wouldencourage the council to move forward as rapidly as possible with this. Neighbors around the homeless are becoming increasingly frustrated and some are turningtheir anger toward those on our streets and people administering help. I had an angry man tellme he could cure the whole thing himself with just a baseball bat. Our citizens on both sides ofthis issue need your help! At this study session please make it a priority to move this to a vote at the next councilmeeting! Thank you, Neal From: Mike Altman mike@waaccidentlaw.com Sent: Wednesday, August 16, 2023 12:26 PM To: Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us Cc: City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Steven Forbragd Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Rodney Rauback Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Aaron Elton Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Mike Davis Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Tom Wolfe Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Hillary Hamilton Hillary.Hamilton@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Thomas Knuckey Thomas.Knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Ned Lever Ned.Lever@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Dave Carter Dave.Carter@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Brett Jette Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Mychael Raya Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Jennifer Hayes Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Kelsie Donleycott Kelsie.Donleycott@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: RE: 1000 6th Street The situation on Broadway has only gotten worse since my initial email. See the attached photo taken today, August 16, 2023. This email shall serve as formal notice to the City of Bremerton of a dangerous condition on Broadway Avenue. The City of Bremerton was made aware of this issue last week and the City of Bremerton has made no effort to fix this problem. Any injury or death that occurs to individuals residing in the tents, customers of local businesses, employees, residents or any other individual that may be harmed by this dangerous condition shall have a civil claim for damages against the City of Bremerton. As you can see in the photo, the tents on Broadway are an inch away from the street or hanging into the street. There are many laws/codes that are being violated, but the City of Bremerton is looking solely at a judicial opinion regarding anti-camping statutes. This is not camping, this is dangerous to everyone involved. If a large vehicle drives down this narrow roadway there is a good chance of a tent being struck and any inhabitants suffering severe injury or death. There is a “No Parking This Side” sign posted by the City of Bremerton presumably because of the narrow nature of this roadway. Now, you have tents parked on this same side of the street. Many of these individuals are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which makes them even more vulnerable to harm. Their front door is not even an inch away from a busy street. This morning, one of the individuals was sleeping on the street. Does the City of Bremerton allow houses to be built where the front door opens inches away from the roadway? A grass buffer between the curb and sidewalk is typically built for safety reasons. Now, we have people living on those strips of grass and the City of Bremerton is allowing them to risk their life living in this space. In addition to the dangerous condition of the location of the tents, there is also a major concern about sanitation. There are no public restrooms and many of the individuals in the tents are defecating and urinating on public streets or in our parking lot. Given the failure of the City of Bremerton to fix this problem an increase in disease is also highly likely. Typhoid, dysentery, cholera and many other diseases can be spread when basic sanitation is not available. Again, this email is a formal notice of an actual dangerous condition. To date, the City of Bremerton has failed to take any corrective action and the dangerous condition continues to exist. Michael Altman Altman Law Offices 1000 6th Street, Suite 110 Bremerton, WA 98337 (360) 377-7100 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) 4301 S. Pine Street, Ste. 30-06 Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 761-1000 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) www.waaccidentlaw.com From: Mike Altman Sent: Tuesday, August 8, 2023 11:10 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Steven Forbragd <Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Rodney Rauback <Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Aaron Elton <Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mike Davis <Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Hillary Hamilton <Hillary.Hamilton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Thomas Knuckey <Thomas.Knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Ned Lever <Ned.Lever@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Dave Carter <Dave.Carter@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Brett Jette <Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mychael Raya <Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Jennifer Hayes <Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kelsie Donleycott <Kelsie.Donleycott@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: RE: 1000 6th Street Thank you, I hope we can get this issue resolved as soon as possible. I just had a client come to the office today and ask about the tents and if it was safe to park her car in our parking lot. I also witnessed a number of local homeowners get into a heated conversation with one of the tent dwellers. I can only imagine how angry the people who reside on this street must be at this point. As someone who has owned a business in Bremerton for nearly 20 years, this is not an ideal economic environment and I hope new policies can be put in place soon to clean up these streets. Michael Altman Altman Law Offices 1000 6th Street, Suite 110 Bremerton, WA 98337 (360) 377-7100 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) 4301 S. Pine Street, Ste. 30-06 Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 761-1000 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) www.waaccidentlaw.com From: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 11:10 AM To: Mike Altman <mike@waaccidentlaw.com> Cc: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Steven Forbragd <Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Rodney Rauback <Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Aaron Elton <Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mike Davis <Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Hillary Hamilton <Hillary.Hamilton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Thomas Knuckey <Thomas.Knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Ned Lever <Ned.Lever@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Dave Carter <Dave.Carter@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Brett Jette <Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mychael Raya <Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Jennifer Hayes <Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kelsie Donleycott <Kelsie.Donleycott@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: RE: 1000 6th Street Good morning Mike, Thank you for following up on our conversation this morning with an email and for taking the time to share your comments, questions, and concerns with me. The city is now down to one shelter (which is full) since the Salvation Army closed. I am working with regional partners including Kitsap County to stand up another homeless shelter. We are working through multiple options and hope to have more information to share soon. This will remain a high priority until completed. City Council is also working on updating the city’s camping ordinance as the current one has been determined to be illegal by court rulings (9th Circuit). They are currently considering options for regulating time, place, and manner for camping and have been included in my reply. This is a high priority for them also. I realize this response does not make things immediately better, so I understand your frustration. You have my commitment to stay on this. In the meantime, I am including officials from the City of Bremerton Police, Public Works, and Legal Departments for their information and follow up. Take care. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Mike Altman <mike@waaccidentlaw.com> Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 10:26 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: 1000 6th Street Mr. Wheeler, I appreciate our walk and talk this morning. The tents on Broadway next to our parking lot need to be removed. I cannot put my employees and clients at risk by having a homeless encampment blocking the sidewalk. As I mentioned to you, we have had many of the people living in these tents defecate in our dumpsters, in our parking lot or on our sidewalk leading into the building. Many of them smoke and inject drugs in our parking lot as well. It is not uncommon to get into the office and see needles and larges amount of trash littered throughout our parking lot and sidewalks. The stench is horrible and this has only gotten worse as the tents have tripled or more on Broadway. As I mentioned, over the weekend, the tent are now directly in front of our parking lot covering the sidewalks. Finally, I represent victims of automobile accidents and my local clients often walk to our office. Some of them who have suffered leg injuries require the use of a scooter or wheelchair while they recover from their injuries. With these tents, there is no way for them to even navigate down the sidewalks. It is not safe. I ask that whatever resources you have can be used to clean this area up immediately. If you have questions please feel free to contact me. Thanks, Michael Altman Altman Law Offices 1000 6th Street, Suite 110 Bremerton, WA 98337 (360) 377-7100 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) 4301 S. Pine Street, Ste. 30-06 Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 761-1000 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) www.waaccidentlaw.com Published for August 9 Council Study Session A7 – Public Comments From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Greg Wheeler Jeff Coughlin; Alison Loris Denise Frey; Quinn Dennehy; Michael Goodnow; Eric Younger; Anna Mockler; Jennifer Chamberlin; City Council; Kylie Finnell; Thomas Knuckey; Jennifer Hayes FW: Response to Question - Kitsap Sun Op-Ed on status of Portable Toilets Thursday, July 27, 2023 5:13:42 PM Council, I want to provide background on what the Administration has done regarding Council’s budget allocation for portable toilets on MLK Way. The Administration began assessing the feasibility of this budget allocation immediately after the first of this year. This review primarily involved Facilities, Engineering, and the City Attorney’s Office. Issues identified from PW included limited space on MLK (any facility would have to be in the parking area of the street, there is no room on the sidewalk/planter strip), and safety concerns about placement in and along the street (need for ADA accessibility, clear zone/barrier installation for protection from vehicles). The City Attorney’s Office’s identified concerns about liability related to placing the portable toilet in the street as well as premises liability related to placing a public portable toilet in a high crime area without security. Based on the input from staff, I decided to defer making the expenditure until a better alternative could be identified. The City Attorney and I shared our concerns and my decision to defer the expenditure with President Coughlin in a meeting at my office in mid-March. Shortly after that meeting I understand the City Attorney forwarded an email summarizing the liability concerns to President Coughlin and had a brief conversation explaining the liability concerns to Jo Walters, who you know of course had advocated for the budget allocation. Recently emails and public comments about the placement of a portable toilet on MLK have resumed stating the City’s liability concerns are insufficient and I asked staff to review the issue again. Additional legal issues were identified and my determination to defer this expenditure is unchanged. I urge you to review BMC 20.46.090 to see the City’s standards for permitting temporary outdoor encampments. Council passed this ordinance in 2019 and the considerations outlined in our code address the legal and safety issues identified by our staff. I cannot ignore these issues and make this expenditure for the unauthorized encampment on MLK. There is also a practical consideration that weighs against taking this action until after the Council has amended the unauthorized camping code. The Council’s discussion last night included possible restrictions on camping near community centers. If such a restriction is included in a final ordinance, camping on MLK could be prohibited due to its proximity to the Marvin Williams Center. We all agree the situation on MLK is not good for any of our community members. I look forward to working with the Council on bringing Bremerton a better solution in the near future. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Wednesday, July 26, 2023 6:44 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: FW: Response to Question - Kitsap Sun Op-Ed on status of Portable Toilets Attn: Council Members **For informational purposes only. Do not reply to this email** From: Jeff Coughlin Sent: Wednesday, July 26, 2023 3:30 PM To: Alison Loris asloris@gmail.com Cc: City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: Re: question, especially for Jeff Coughlin and Quinn Dennehy Hi Alison, Thanks for reaching out on this. The Council in the 2023 budget allocated $10,000 for "professional services - public restrooms" with the intent for the city to contract with a portable toilet provider to be placed and serviced near the MLK Way area. This proposal was brought forward to Council by a citizen-led group. Once Council approves a budget, the money is available to spend Jan. 1 of that year, and the Mayor and their administration are responsible for execution and implementation. I would reach out to the Mayor for the status on this and any roadblocks and avenues regarding implementation, as well as if any alternative uses for this money related to its intent have been explored or are under consideration. Cheers, Jeff Jeff Coughlin, Phd Councilmember, Dist. 3 2023 Council President From: Alison Loris <asloris@gmail.com> Date: July 25, 2023 at 9:34:29 PM PDT To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: question, especially for Jeff Coughlin and Quinn Dennehy CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hi, folks. I am writing an op-ed for the Kitsap Sun about the lack of basic hygiene facilities for the de facto tent village on Martin Luther King Way. The primary thrust of my article will be why Bremerton needs an Urban Rest Stop (as in Seattle and other cities) where unhoused people can use restrooms and showers and get laundry done. I have heard from multiple vague sources that the City has the money for portable toilets, but I have not heard anything clear about why toilets cannot be placed there where they are needed, or what needs to happen to make it possible. I'd really appreciate current information on that. Thank you! Alison Alison Slow Loris Writer & Adventuress Bremerton, WA ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "All we ever have is here, now." ~ Ursula K. Le Guin ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ From:GLENN CAHOON To:City Council Subject:Homeless camp on MLK Way Date:Friday, July 28, 2023 1:32:02 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Please align your votes to deal with the permanent elimination of this festering and dangerous eyesore, we the people have had enough. Thank You, Glenn Cahoon From: Joanna Hayes <joanna.s.hayes@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, August 1, 2023 6:29 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Anti-camping Legislation Dear Bremerton City Council and Mayor Wheeler, I am a social work student and local resident. I am also a member of Kitsap ERACE's Housing Systems Team. I have been following the discussion about potential anti-camping legislation since the July 5th public comment opportunity. I have also been attending the study sessions. I was prepared to be angry about what was happening and, instead, I have been heartened by some of the discussion. I still stand strongly against any type of anti-camping legislation. I have been pleased to see that the discussion has focused more on the humanitarian aspect than on the punitive aspect. I was pleased to see time limits eliminated as a possibility. I am especially pleased to hear the discussion about potential emergency shelter options and a safe area for camping with security and appropriate sanitation facilities. While I have been pleased about the discussion of emergency shelter options, I want to remind you that shelters don't cure homelessness. We need a robust approach to helping our unhoused neighbors find permanent homes, not just transitional housing. We need more affordable units and we need more low- barrier units. We need to expand the case management that is currently available to be able to aid more people. It seems that, currently, everyone has a waitlist for services. There are people who have the desire to help and many people waiting for that help, but we need more funding and more infrastructure. While we need a solution to safely house our unsheltered neighbors as soon as possible we cannot stop there. We must create more opportunities to have a home and support to keep our neighbors housed once they have begun to live in that home. There is abundant research on how to do this. I hope we can turn talk into action together. Respectfully, Joie Hayes From:Neal Foley To:City Council Subject:Input on Homeless and bridge. Date:Monday, July 31, 2023 6:50:30 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Bremerton City Council and Mayor Wheeler, Recently I began regularly attending City Council meetings here in Bremerton. I want to say that I have been very impressed with the compassion, insight, and ideas that many of you have expressed IRT the homeless issue and others. I would like to encourage you not to hurry and to please not give up on this very hard issue particularly as you frame city ordinances around our homeless populations. You are the ones who can plant the seeds for something positive and long lasting. Homelessness is a not a new norm, it has always been pervasive in our society and will be an ongoing issue. I would like to see the citizens, city, county, state etc., work together and establish the best programs we can for those that need our help the most. Imagine living in a tent on the streets, no really, take a minute and try to even imagine yourself there. This is not Camping. This is not fun. It's a constant struggle for these folks to just to exist. This is the last place you would want to find yourself. The very last place. But hey, we are going to make you pick up all your stuff everyday and pack it out? Citing a homeless person for having camping paraphernalia - are you kidding me!?! Are we going to start a war on camping? Have the courage to "Just say no to Camping!"? Now imagine being given a small roof over your head and a place to LOCK YOUR OWN DOOR. A secure environment. Help with addiction, mental and physical health, and other personal issues. A place to do laundry, an address, a place to shower, and A PLACE TO GO TO THE BATHROOM. A place to go to the bathroom...... Stability, personal security, and actual help have been shown to be the bedrock of all successful programs. Several council members mentioned the possibility of actual structures/communities for our homeless citizens. I STRONGLY support this approach. I wanted to share these articles with you to show that these approaches can work and are working. Please take a few moments to read these articles. They provide a significant amount of information concerning cooperation of different entities, services provided, operation and management, etc.. Could the Bremerton Council invite members of the City Councils involved and see if someone can come and talk or Zoom with us ? https://myemail.constantcontact.com/New-Riverton-Park-Village-opens--Tulalip-Tribes-- TERO-grads-build-tiny-house--Sand-Point-Cottages-on-Seattle-Channel-.html? soid=1103692006784&aid=SWjksfVCR3Q https://komonews.com/news/local/tent-campers-at-tukwila-church-fill-two-new-tiny-house- villages-homeless-addicts-housing-lihi-kcrha-unhoused I think much of this road is already paved and blueprints are waiting for ordinances, community support involved, as well as for structural units. I am thinking of someone like Kitsap Lumber (I have not spoken to them), that builds docks, picnic tables, obtains lumber packages for businesses and homeowners, and much more, working to kit units. We have a trade school (I have not spoken to them) right on National Avenue that might really love to get involved in this to teach young people several different trades. What a great opportunity for those in our community. This would surely benefit local businesses and our communities. Some of our current homeless may even be able to become part of the solution. I strongly urge the City Council to repeal, in its entirety, the current no camping ordinance. It is not enforced and paints homelessness with unwarranted criminality. I oppose criminalizing homelessness and/or mental illnesses! Protect sensitive areas in a separate code. It is apparent that no one is against this. Is it only camping we are concerned about in these sensitive areas? NO! For instance I would like Bremerton to say we will no longer allow the spraying weed killer in these areas as well. I want to sincerely thank Mayor Wheeler for being proactive in his efforts to obtain shelterspace and wish him the best in doing so. But this is only a beginning for homeless people.Shelters keep people alive long enough so they can be helped. Real progress starts with securehousing for all of our citizens that need it. What a great second tier it would be to move folksfrom shelters into tiny home villages as a next step and from there on to more permanenthousing. I agree that the site on Oyster Bay Ave looks very attractive as far as a location for action. Thesite would need work to be flattened to provide areas big enough for people to stay. Lastly, I really like the 10ft with lookouts bridge option. it blends the best with the otherprojects. Thank you, Neal From:kim siebens To:City Council; Greg Wheeler Subject:supportive solutions for the unhoused Date:Sunday, July 30, 2023 12:56:08 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Bremerton City Council, Mayor, I wanted to share some ways community can come together to help support their unhoused population while waiting for longer term solutions like affordable housing or a shelter. Currently I am one of many community members coming together to offer support and navigation, in a coordinated effort, to our unhoused neighbors. By keeping more of a presence at the most affected areas, for example- MLK Way, we hope to promote an improvement in conditions for housed and unhoused neighbors alike. Lately, I have been removing human waste from MLK tent residents with my portable septic tank that I take to the water treatment plant where this waste is properly disposed of. I have been removing 36 gallons a week and could do much more with more man power. I have also been taking large items to the garbage dump as needed and purchased large garbage containers, bags, brooms and dustpans that residents are using frequently to keep the area much cleaner. There are ways we can provide supportive services to people that will not only help them but the greater community at large during this time of crisis. We understand that many others in professional positions have hands that are always tied or policies preventing a simple solution or intervention. I am hoping that by increasing community engagement - we can help minimize damage done by not acting fast enough to prevent these issue from spiraling even further out of control. The drug dealers depend on the community not caring about these people in order to gain control of the street which provides them with a perfect place to hide in plain site and access to many customers and cheap labor. This doesn't happen as prevalently in areas where there is a large community presence with supportive services and many eyes on the street. https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/three-ways-communities-can-promote-inclusive-public- space-and-better-support-people-forced-live-outside Kimmy Siebens RN Economic Inequity and Health Task Force Member, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, www.wpsr.org President, Their Voice http://www.their-voice.org Founder, Bremerton Homeless Community Coalition https://www.facebook.com/groups/ bremertonhomeless From:kim siebens To:Greg Wheeler; City Council; pio@kitsappublichealth.org; Gib.morrow@kitsappublichealth.org Subject:Kitsap Public Health District involvement?? Date:Friday, August 4, 2023 11:32:29 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Regarding all of the public health language I see in your draft ordinance (anticamping) - have you reached out to the Kitsap Public Health District at all for theirsuggestions? I am sending this email to their Public Information Officer and thePublic Health Officer as well to make sure they are aware of what you are proposing. This is a link to the issue I am bringing to your attention (starting on page 51 of163) https://lfpublic.bremertonwa.gov/weblinkpublic/0/doc/640282/Page1.aspx? fbclid=IwAR0hrxk-kd8-qaPZKRa93xiUCoaJfsGU9FCNAdF1r7wkDtIzsUgk2LhseNY The public health concerns, cited repeatedly throughout these ordinanceamendments, are connected to stigmatizing language, essentially legitimizing punitiveaction toward our most vulnerable. You are using public health language in veryinappropriate ways here. If they have not been consulted, it seems imperative thatthey are, to ensure they agree with the statements in the draft ordinance amendmentsthat are being linked to “public health.” They may also be able to offer suggestions, appropriate language, and potentialsolutions to address the “public health” issues” as I am not sure the current verbiage isin line with their recently revised Mission which states that “Kitsap Public HealthDistrict prevents disease and protects and promotes the health of all people in KitsapCounty”. "All people" includes those experiencing homelessness. This ordinance does not helpprevent disease, protect, or promote health for those experiencing homelessness. They really should be involved here. Are they?? Kimmy Siebens RN Economic Inequity and Health Task Force Member, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, www.wpsr.org President, Their Voice http://www.their-voice.org Founder, Bremerton Homeless Community Coalition https://www.facebook.com/groups/bremertonhomeless From:Mike Altman To:Greg Wheeler Cc:City Council; Steven Forbragd; Rodney Rauback; Aaron Elton; Mike Davis; Tom Wolfe; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response; Hillary Hamilton; Thomas Knuckey; Ned Lever; Dave Carter; Kylie Finnell; Brett Jette; Mychael Raya; Jennifer Hayes; Kelsie Donleycott Subject:RE: 1000 6th Street Date:Tuesday, August 8, 2023 11:10:21 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Thank you, I hope we can get this issue resolved as soon as possible. I just had a client come to the office today and ask about the tents and if it was safe to park her car in our parking lot. I also witnessed a number of local homeowners get into a heated conversation with one of the tent dwellers. I can only imagine how angry the people who reside on this street must be at this point. As someone who has owned a business in Bremerton for nearly 20 years, this is not an ideal economic environment and I hope new policies can be put in place soon to clean up these streets. Michael Altman Altman Law Offices 1000 6th Street, Suite 110 Bremerton, WA 98337 (360) 377-7100 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) 4301 S. Pine Street, Ste. 30-06 Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 761-1000 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) www.waaccidentlaw.com From: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 11:10 AM To: Mike Altman <mike@waaccidentlaw.com> Cc: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Steven Forbragd <Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Rodney Rauback <Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Aaron Elton <Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mike Davis <Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Hillary Hamilton <Hillary.Hamilton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Thomas Knuckey <Thomas.Knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Ned Lever <Ned.Lever@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Dave Carter <Dave.Carter@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Brett Jette <Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mychael Raya <Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Jennifer Hayes <Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kelsie Donleycott <Kelsie.Donleycott@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: RE: 1000 6th Street Good morning Mike, Thank you for following up on our conversation this morning with an email and for taking the time to share your comments, questions, and concerns with me. The city is now down to one shelter (which is full) since the Salvation Army closed. I am working with regional partners including Kitsap County to stand up another homeless shelter. We are working through multiple options and hope to have more information to share soon. This will remain a high priority until completed. City Council is also working on updating the city’s camping ordinance as the current one has been determined to be illegal by court rulings (9th Circuit). They are currently considering options for regulating time, place, and manner for camping and have been included in my reply. This is a high priority for them also. I realize this response does not make things immediately better, so I understand your frustration. You have my commitment to stay on this. In the meantime, I am including officials from the City of Bremerton Police, Public Works, and Legal Departments for their information and follow up. Take care. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Mike Altman <mike@waaccidentlaw.com> Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 10:26 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: 1000 6th Street CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mr. Wheeler, I appreciate our walk and talk this morning. The tents on Broadway next to our parking lot need to be removed. I cannot put my employees and clients at risk by having a homeless encampment blocking the sidewalk. As I mentioned to you, we have had many of the people living in these tents defecate in our dumpsters, in our parking lot or on our sidewalk leading into the building. Many of them smoke and inject drugs in our parking lot as well. It is not uncommon to get into the office and see needles and larges amount of trash littered throughout our parking lot and sidewalks. The stench is horrible and this has only gotten worse as the tents have tripled or more on Broadway. As I mentioned, over the weekend, the tent are now directly in front of our parking lot covering the sidewalks. Finally, I represent victims of automobile accidents and my local clients often walk to our office. Some of them who have suffered leg injuries require the use of a scooter or wheelchair while they recover from their injuries. With these tents, there is no way for them to even navigate down the sidewalks. It is not safe. I ask that whatever resources you have can be used to clean this area up immediately. If you have questions please feel free to contact me. Thanks, Michael Altman Altman Law Offices 1000 6th Street, Suite 110 Bremerton, WA 98337 (360) 377-7100 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) 4301 S. Pine Street, Ste. 30-06 Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 761-1000 (Phone) (360) 377-7200 (Fax) www.waaccidentlaw.com From: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 8:19 PM To: Jamie Payne <jamiepayne007@aol.com> Cc: City Council; Steven Forbragd; Rodney Rauback; Aaron Elton; Mike Davis; Tom Wolfe; Public Works & Utilities Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Hillary Hamilton; Thomas Knuckey; Ned Lever; Dave Carter; Kylie Finnell; Brett Jette; Mychael Raya; Jennifer Hayes; Kelsie Donleycott Subject: RE: Homeless camping in front of my house. Good evening Jamie, Thank you for your email and for taking the time to share your comments, questions, and concerns with me. The city is now down to one shelter (which is full) since the Salvation Army closed. I am working with regional partners including Kitsap County to stand up another homeless shelter. We are working through multiple options and hope to have more information to share soon. This will remain a high priority until completed. City Council is also working on updating the city’s camping ordinance as the current one has been determined to be illegal by court rulings (9th Circuit). They are currently considering options for regulating time, place, and manner for camping and have been included in my reply. This is a high priority for them also. I realize this response does not make things immediately better, so I understand your frustration. You have my commitment to stay on this. In the meantime, I am including officials from the City of Bremerton Police, Public Works, and Legal Departments for their information and follow up. Take care. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Jamie Payne <jamiepayne007@aol.com> Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 7:49 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Homeless camping in front of my house. CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Homeless people are camping in front of my house at 620 Broadway and they won’t leave. They police need to get them out now. Send them to the park , or anywhere. They have been there for 2 months now. The police tell them to leave but they just come back. It started with 2 tents. Now there are five tents. They poop and pee where ever they want. They are on drugs. They are harassing my tenants. They are camping on the little strip of what used to be grass that I have maintained for 19 years. They have ruined the strip of grass that the city requires me to maintain. This is a residential neighborhood. How can I charge my tenants to live there when your police can’t stop them from tread passing on the property and drinking water. From the hose ? What are you going to do about this? How about you hire a construction crew to place large rocks on the grass strip so that no one can put a tent there. Or better yet instruct the police to treat our neighborhood at least as good as you treat the park and don’t let them put all this garbage in front of our houses. Jamie Payne (360) 434-1090 From:Carma Foley To:City Council Subject:Unhoused question Date:Tuesday, August 8, 2023 2:57:39 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Greetings City Councilmembers, Thank you first of all for your continued service to our community. I have recently been to a board meeting and just had a few questions. 1. If there is $ for a bathroom how about having the unhoused persons self monitoring its usage and realize that they are responsible for it being clean and useable. I would think meeting with them to discuss this is an important first step. If they are agreeable, maybe a portable unit could be tried first. The parks have pit style toilets that are used by various members in our community and seem to be well built and sturdy. It may be worthwhile to ask the county what it would take to provide something like this closeby. 2. If the Salvation Army is providing such great services such as meals, showers, bathrooms, laundry. Wifi, etc., why not support this organization for longer hours with funding and staff, instead of spreading limited funding and resources around to various organizations. I would appreciate your thoughts on these questions. These may have already been considered but it doesn’t hurt to bring ideas to the table for this complicated and important issue. Carma L. Foley Retired Human Service worker 360-509-7225 Sent from Mail for Windows From: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 8:20 AM To: Brian Balfe <brian.balfe1@gmail.com> Cc: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Steven Forbragd <Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Rodney Rauback <Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Aaron Elton <Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mike Davis <Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Public Works & U�li�es Customer Response <bremerton1@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Hillary Hamilton <Hillary.Hamilton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Thomas Knuckey <Thomas.Knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Ned Lever <Ned.Lever@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Dave Carter <Dave.Carter@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Bret Jete <Bret.Jete@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mychael Raya <Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Jennifer Hayes <Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: RE: Concerned Good morning Brian, Thank you for your email and for taking the �me to share your comments, ques�ons, and concerns with me. The city is now down to one shelter (which is full) since the Salva�on Army closed. I am working with regional partners including Kitsap County to stand up another homeless shelter. We are working through mul�ple op�ons and hope to have more informa�on to share soon. This will remain a high priority un�l completed. City Council is also working on upda�ng the city’s camping ordinance as the current one has been determined to be illegal by court rulings (9th Circuit). They are currently considering op�ons for regula�ng �me, place, and manner for camping and have been included in my reply. This is a high priority for them also. I realize this response does not make things immediately beter, so I understand your frustra�on. You have my commitment to stay on this. In the mean�me, I am including officials from the City of Bremerton Police, Public Works, and Legal Departments for their informa�on. Take care. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 -----Original Message----- From: Brian Balfe <brian.balfe1@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, August 8, 2023 8:06 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Concerned CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organiza�on. Do not click links or open atachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello I would say first that I’m happy to live in Bremerton. It’s a great place for my wife and I to raise my two children. We like the community. However I have no�ced more and more of the homeless community establishing more permanent housing in the public areas of our community. This is very concerning to my family and I as to how the government plans to deal with this issue. I understand that there isn’t an easy solu�on to this problem. However an en�re city block now occupied in downtown with other area popping up. Just down the road there is a Motorhome that has been parked within walking distance from a children’s park. I’m not saying that that person would do anything. Just on how easy it would be to bring a child into it. I would like to know what the city’s play is to handle the situa�on. Brian Balfe Published for July 26 Study Session A3 – Public Comments From:charles mayer To:City Council Cc:Kim Subject:Harms done by criminalizing homelessness Date:Thursday, July 13, 2023 8:49:34 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Bremerton City Council Members, As a physician and co-chair of the Economic Inequity Task Force and Health for the Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, we take a hard look at what improves the health and well-being of our communities. Though we understand the concerns of community members when homeless people live unsheltered in parks, near schools and near other public spaces, it has become clear that ordinances against encampments and criminalizing homelessness leads to much more harm than good. The major causes of homelessness are unaffordable and limited housing availability, low wages and large increases in rent with no rental protections in place. Though mental health and drug use disorders can sometimes contribute, more often becoming homeless leads to mental health illness and drug use even to crisis levels. Based on what we know leads to better outcomes, we at WPSR strongly support the community health approach to government both local and state policy. We recommend focusing on creating urgent and affordable housing, renter protections and supporting livable wages. This is the best way to prevent and care for people who suffer from being homeless. Criminalizing people and or decampments leads to serious life disruptions and ill-health. Harms that often if not sometimes impossible to repair. It also leads to higher costs for all. By taking the public health approach, you can build your community’s strength and become state leaders in compassionate AND practical policy. Sincerely, Charles Mayer MD MPH Family Physician Co-chair, Economic Inequity and Health Task Force Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility (WPSR) From:Greg Wheeler To:charles mayer Cc:Kim; City Council; Kylie Finnell; Kelsie Donleycott; Jennifer Hayes Subject:RE: Harms done by criminalizing people who are homeless Date:Thursday, July 13, 2023 9:47:59 AM Dear Dr. Mayer, Thank you for your email! The city has prioritized creating urgent and affordable housing, renter protections and supporting livable wages. I am forwarding your email to the City Council for their consideration as they deliberate on a camping ordinance. I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts with me. Take care. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: charles mayer <charlesmayer411@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2023 8:52 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Kim <kimmysiebens@yahoo.com> Subject: Harms done by criminalizing people who are homeless CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Mayor Wheeler, Thank you for all your service for Bremerton! As a physician and co-chair of the Economic Inequity Task Force and Health for the Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, we take a hard look at what improves the health and well-being of our communities. Though we understand the concerns of community members when homeless people live unsheltered in parks, near schools and near other public spaces, it has become clear that ordinances against encampments and criminalizing homelessness leads to much more harm than good. The major causes of homelessness are unaffordable and limited housing availability, low wages and large increases in rent with no rental protections in place. Though mental health and drug use disorders can sometimes contribute, more often becoming homeless leads to mental health illness and drug use even to crisis levels. Based on what we know leads to better outcomes, we at WPSR strongly support the community health approach to government both local and state policy. We recommend focusing on creating urgent and affordable housing, renter protections and supporting livable wages. This is the best way to prevent and care for people who suffer from being homeless. Criminalizing people and or decampments leads to serious life disruptions and ill-health. Harms that often if not sometimes impossible to repair. It also leads to higher costs for all. By taking the public health approach, you can build your community’s strength and become state leaders in compassionate AND practical policy. Sincerely, Charles Mayer MD MPH Family Physician Co-chair, Economic Inequity and Health Task Force Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility (WPSR) I acknowledge the land I occupy today as the traditional home of the Duwamish tribal nation who are still living here today. From:Neal Foley To:City Council Cc:Greg Wheeler Subject:ML King Way/Camping Date:Tuesday, July 11, 2023 11:09:45 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Bremerton City Council, Feedback from the people on ML King Way is that it is very hard to leave their tent area foranytime at all as their things disappear. Hard to work, obtain services, go to the bathroom, orbasically do anything to improve their current condition when they cannot leave. Crimefollows and prays on the weak and impoverished. These people are citizens of Bremerton andvictims of continual crime. Why is there no security here? Prosecute the criminals and providea safe place for those who find themselves here! I still see feces on the ground in a few spots and still no place for those on ML King Way touse a bathroom? I am surprised there is not more human waste. Try an experiment yourselfand see how long you can hold it. Tents can be killers. Both rain/cold and high temperatures can kill. Some people do not haveor do not have the ability to set up a satisfactory dry tent. A gentleman died 6/18/2023 on MLKing Way primarily of Hypothermia. He was not breathing and had no heartbeat when found.After CPR they obtained a heartbeat but he never regained consciousness but officially “lived”until 2:30PM on 6/19/2023. It had been raining for 2 days, his tent was set up over another tentthat was already collapsed and wet. The entry on the top tent had several rips and there was norain cover. Summertime right? His body was 77 degrees when they picked him up off of MLKing Way. His tents and belongings were wet clear through and VERY heavy. A bag of hiswet clothes were returned at the hospital after his death. Just another drug related death? Notso fast. There was absolutely no evidence of drug use in any of his personal things, zero. Wordon the street from several that knew him close was he was not using. Mentally Ill yes. He hadno where else to live after the shelter closed. His family did not know his whereabouts afterthe shelter closed until after his death. Bremerton needs a shelter ASAP. This is how we keep these folks alive to be able to helpthem the best ways we can. They need a secure safe place. Let’s get The Salvation Armyshelter open or something equivalent ASAP! Related - A federal judge just found Washington state in contempt and ordered it to pay more than $100million in fines for failing to provide timely psychiatric services to mentally ill people who areforced to wait in jails for weeks or months. In the recent Washington State DSHS ordered topay 100 million. In the article ……. Christopher Carney, representing Disability Rights Washington, said prosecuting vulnerable people accomplishes little. Instead, the funds should be spent on supportive housing with staffing and medication. “We just keep throwing away resources and causing harm trying the wrong solutions,” Carney said in a release. “If what we want is to save lives and improve public safety, we know arrest and competency services are not the way to get there. Our clients need homes and help, not more punishment.” One last thing on a personal note. I notice an air of contempt that permeates many individualsviews concerning these people who have found themselves on ML King Way. It is easy tolook from afar and throw stones based on misconceived personal biases. I would recommendthat anyone involved in making decisions concerning this population go and meet them. Takea walk with the prayer walk group or other organizations who are actively helping thesepeople. Learn their names, hear their stories and understand their conditions and needs. THENmake informed decisions. Thank you, Neal Foley From:Neal Foley To:City Council Subject:No camping ordinance Date:Tuesday, July 18, 2023 8:00:13 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear City Council, I am still a resident of the City of Bremerton in District 5. I am still adamantly opposed to criminalizing homelessness and/or mental illnesses. I continue to strongly urge the City Council to repeal, in its entirety, the current no campingordinance. It is non enforceable, useless as is, and taints homelessness with unwarrantedcriminality. Please signal a new beginning in our city with an entirely new code dealing with homelessnessand mental illness in a positive educated way. Consider protecting sensitive areas in a "Sensitive Area Code". We absolutely need to protectour sensitive areas. I would ask our City Council and Mayor to be proactive and support our local experts inhomelessness 100%. Move forward with THEIR knowledge as our guide. We can becomeleaders in this regard rather than sit on our hands. I would also like a clear explanation at the next public meeting as to EXACTLY why a porta-potty has been funded by council and not provided. A clear concise explanation as to wherethe inaction resides? There is a porta-potty in Manette that sits partially on the sidewalk andwithin inches of the handicap ramp??? If a porta-potty cannot be provided what other optionsare available NOW? Fire Station? These are Bremerton residents. I continue to urge our local law enforcement to use existing laws to curb criminality thatfollows homelessness on ML King Way. It not only affects our local residents, it affects ourhomeless even more. Thank you, Neal Foley From:G2 Housing To:City Council; Greg Wheeler; Kylie Finnell Cc:molly.rose.brooks42@gmail.com; peggi.erickson@comcast.net Subject:Camping and Toilets Date:Thursday, July 20, 2023 8:37:52 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello Councilmembers and Mr. Mayor, Thanks for your ongoing work in support of our community's most vulnerable neighbors. We were especially glad to hear that the Mayor has prioritized establishing an emergency shelter in Bremerton. In the meantime, We know you are working on the camping issue. Members of G2 Housing and Kitsap Equity, Race, And Community Engagement Coalition spoke at the last Council meeting. I am sending this message so that you will have a document version of our words. G2 Housing stands with Kitsap ERACE Coalition on these points: -- We stand against any anti-camping legislation due to the negative impact on our unhoused neighbors. -- We support providing an area for camping to our unhoused neighbors, with access to clean water and sanitation, to include restroom facilities and showers. -- We are in favor of the City increasing funding for housing and shelter services for our unhoused neighbors. -- We are in favor of immediately funding an increase in the number of shelter beds in Bremerton. -- We are opposed to any fines and fees that might be levied against unhoused people for being in public spaces. -- We are opposed to “sweeps” of homeless camps that lead to the total loss of our neighbor’s belongings. G2 Housing adds: Any ordinance that is passed will not be not enforced until the city's new designated space has been secured, and folks have been given a reasonable amount of time to make the transition. They will be provided with transportation to enable them to move their belongings. ------------------------------------ And separately, regarding the $10, 000 allocation for porta-potties: We would like to know why the $10,000 allocation for porta potties has not been used to install portable toilets. Many have asked at council meetings with no formal response. We have been told informally that liability concerns are stopping the installation. The city's liability concerns are just not a good enough reason to deny these folks the most basic sanitation needs, Like has been done at many other locations, it is time to install toilets on or near MLK Way Thank you, Jo Walter on behalf of G2 Housing From:amanda reynolds To:City Council Subject:Unauthorized Camping Amendment opinion Date:Monday, July 10, 2023 9:43:18 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello, My name is Amanda and I live in Downtown Bremerton. I’m just adding my thoughts on the proposal to amend BMC Chapter 9.32 entitled “Unauthorized Camping.” I’m proud of the work Bremerton is doing to help the homeless population; from mental health support to housing opportunities. I don’t believe that the people in tents on MLK comprise the majority of homeless who want the support Bremerton has to offer. This is based on my conversations with law enforcement and the Salvation Army. For 30 years I have watched Downtown Bremerton claw it’s way back from being a place you wouldn’t be caught in after dark to becoming a creative and fun place to spend time in. I volunteer downtown a few days every week and i’ve noticed over the past year the tone has become more sinister; with the smell of human waste, used needles and people in crisis on full display. There are so many citizens from all walks of life that are actively working to make Bremerton succeed, are they not as important as those who are indifferent or don’t care if they destroy it? Bremerton already supports its homeless population, the people who live in tents on MLK and refuse assistance should not be encouraged to remain there. I oppose a portable restroom being installed there as it will only encourage the situation to be permanent. The Salvation Army already offers hygiene and restroom facilities for use. My family will be moving in the next year if the situation stays the same. We have seen the writing on the wall with Seattle and Portland. There has literally been nothing positive about allowing tent cities to exist. Thank you for letting me add my opinion. Sincerely, Amanda From:kim siebens To:City Council; Greg Wheeler; Lance Walters; Cnjadrian@comcast.net; Tom Wolfe; Rodney Rauback; Robin O"Grady; Dawn Michele Wilson; Chuck Svac; Anton Preisinger; DEA.Public.Affairs@dea.gov; community.outreach@dea.gov; ODLL@dea.gov; ODLP@dea.gov; Legal; Kari Mann; Anthony Ives; monicab@kmhs.org Subject:SAD NEWS TO ANNOUNCE: URGENT CONCERNS REGARDING MLK STREET AND THE UNHOUSED POPULATION Date:Monday, July 17, 2023 10:47:34 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Community Leaders, I am writing to bring to your attention a concerning issue that has been affecting our community, specifically the homeless population in our area, particularly on MLK Street. It saddens me to share this news, but it is crucial that we address it to work towards finding a solution and making things better for those who are unhoused. In recent times, there has been a significant increase in criminal activities targeting the homeless, with MLK Street being a focal point. We have become aware of an alarming prevalence of drug sales and distribution taking place on the street, perpetrated by individuals who do not need to reside in tents or live on the streets. Unfortunately, the presence of homeless individuals in tents provides an ideal hiding place for criminals. As the community extends its support by offering free water, meals, and other necessary items meant for the unhoused, it inadvertently creates an environment that attracts high-profit drug dealers instead. They can hide in plain site. Despite our concerns, the police chief has informed us that they can only take action within the confines of the existing laws. This has left me puzzled as to why acts such as disorderly conduct, trespassing, and high-level drug distribution are not illegal on MLK Street. The police chief mentioned that once drug possession becomes illegal again in Washington State, they will be able to take more decisive action. However, I am uncertain when this change will occur, and if there are no longer laws against selling substantial amounts of fentanyl or possessing weapons without proper authorization. Given the presence of significant drug dealers and distributors, it is imperative to acknowledge that MLK Street is no longer a safe place for individuals to reside. Many people are seeking a safer environment where rules and order can be established. Today, I will be meeting with others to brainstorm potential temporary locations for those who wish to live in a secure environment. However, it has come to our attention that criminals, particularly those involved in managing prostitution and drug sales, tend to follow public camps, taking advantage of the vulnerable and seeking control over cheap labor through addiction and intimidation. Police Chief Tom Wolfe stated that "many of the issues are not criminal in nature and therefore fall to the community to decide how best to move forward." However, we are witnessing criminal acts that go unreported due to the fear of retaliation from the non- homeless criminals who are preying on the vulnerable. It is disheartening to recall the incident on July 12, where a homeless man was found dead and burned inside his tent at Evergreen Park. Moreover, within a span of two days, three women were physically assaulted on MLK Street, with only one aggressor being apprehended by the police. The fear of retaliation prevented the reporting of the third incident. Just last week, I personally witnessed 2 women physically assaulted and I called 911. Nobody else would call for help and remained hiding in their tents. I personally witnessed a man attempting to provoke his dog into attacking an elderly homeless man, likely with the intention to cause harm or even death. I intervened to ensure the safety of the elderly man and the dog, but in doing so, I became the target of verbal abuse and intimidation by a criminal who sought to scare me. He even instigated others to attack me. These incidents are emblematic of the dangerous environment prevailing on MLK Street, where many long-term unhoused individuals live in constant fear, undeserving of such treatment. It is important to note that MLK Street's location is ideal for the unhoused population due to its proximity to the limited services our community provides for the most impoverished and vulnerable individuals. Moving them further away without a safe place to go will only move them away from the few services that sustain them. Unfortunately, the influx of drugs, dealers, and criminal activities has transformed it into a place devoid of law and order. Furthermore, it is disheartening that the city has chosen this time to consider an ordinance that would effectively criminalize homelessness. (Amending the currently unconstitutional "anti camping ordinance", creating loop holes around the 2018 9th circuit court ruling) There are real criminals hiding among the unhoused, participating in high level crimes, that should be criminalized. I am not talking about just a small/personal sized amount of drugs, but thousands of blue fentanyl pills are being funneled through that area for major distribution. This is a major operation in plain site. Why is the city council focusing on making it even harder for the unhoused and most vulnerable people in our community? An anti camping ordinance will help reduce the issue on MLK but at what cost? It will also push the true unhoused to the margins of our community and lead to even more suffering. Those large drug sellers will just go home or go to some other poor neighborhood and keep selling. It won't even get close to solving this re-occurring problem. Why not focus on the crimes being committed, using laws that are already in place, and then take action to make our community a healthier and safer place? The Chief said the community has to figure out how to move forward. NOW is a great time to act! More articles about this: https://www.npr.org/.../24/1074577305/homeless-crime-experts https://homelessness.ucsf.edu/.../violence-against-people... I will attach a copy of basic homeless encampment rules as an example of what could be implemented when managing a law abiding and safe encampment. We can provide a safe place for people to be while waiting for affordable housing or treatment, etc. When there is no place for so many to go we have to start thinking outside the box and helping our unhoused neighbors in more meaningful and safe ways. Thank you, Kimmy Siebens RN Economic Inequity and Health Task Force Member, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, www.wpsr.org President, Their Voice http://www.their-voice.org Founder, Bremerton Homeless Community Coalition https://www.facebook.com/groups/bremertonhomeless From:Judy Arbogast To:City Council Subject:Stop attacking the homeless - provide solutions NOW Date:Wednesday, July 19, 2023 2:07:06 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear City Council Members: The homeless in our area should not be targets of actions in the city. Instead the city should be trying to find positive solutions to affordable housing availability. -- I stand against any anti-camping legislation due to the negative impact on our unhoused neighbors. -- I support providing an area for camping to our unhoused neighbors, with access to clean water and sanitation, to include restroom facilities and showers. -- I am in favor of the City increasing funding for housing and shelter services for our unhoused neighbors. -- I am in favor of immediately funding an increase in the number of shelter beds in Bremerton. -- I am opposed to any fines and fees that might be levied against unhoused people for being in public spaces. -- I am opposed to “sweeps” of homeless camps that lead to the total loss of our neighbor’s belongings. The homeless people are NOT the cause of the lack of affordable housing. They are victims! Do not 'punish' them further with your policies. They need HELP, not fines [which they cannot afford], not being moved from place to place [while also taking their few possessions], not legislation against camping [further creating problems for them]. Your policies should reflect caring and concern for all the people of Bremerton. Sincerely, Judy Arbogast judy.arbogast@gmail.com 253 225 1977 From: To: Subject: Date: Ed & Maureen Heuss City Council Eric Younger Council District 7 Monday, July 17, 2023 1:48:36 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mr. Younger, I am writing to you to address a vagrancy problem of drug users and thieves living and frequenting an area that borders our property on Kitsap Way. This problem has come about since the underground large culvert was installed for the future fish passage going under Kitsap Way and into Forest Lawn Cemetery. We are frequently witnessing drug users going in and out of the culvert at various times. We are also experiencing a lot of recent thefts occurring at our property at 5420 Kitsap Way and also at our tenant's business at 5418 Kitsap Way ( Strait Floors ). We plan to attend the upcoming City Council meeting this Wed. evening July 19th, and hopefully will have an opportunity to voice our concerns. We strongly feel that installing a fence around this area, would help immensely. We also have been finding drug needles and human waste on our properties. Another issue that we have regarding this area, is the abandon vehicles that are filled with people's belongings and parked in the City ROW for months on end. Some without even wheels or tires. Why is this allowed and the vehicles are not towed to an impound yard. They appear to be storage facilities for some people. They started appearing after Pendleton Place was built. This issue has been ignored by the city for too long. We had truly hoped that Pendleton Place would somehow be a good neighbor. Though that has yet to be seen. The shopping carts from Winco somehow end up on our property every week and the transient traffic have certainly increased since . We cannot continue to enable these wrong doers at the expense of the hard-working businesses, their customers and their employees. Or the taxpayers that pay to be represented by their elected officials. At this point I believe we can curtail the issues that I have mentioned with the suggestions of towing the cars in the ROW and installing fencing around the areas that I have mentioned, leading to the culvert. As far as the shopping carts, we and our tenants have returned several to the Winco store. Though we shouldn't have to. I believe this issue is also related to the bus stop that is in this same area. Our neighbor Forest Lawn Cemetery and Lewis Funeral Chapel are aware of these issues and agree that something needs to be done. I look forward to meeting you at the council meeting Wed. evening. Thank you, Maureen Heuss heusscompany@msn.com From: Tom Wolfe Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us Sent: Friday, July 14, 2023 10:57 AM To: City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Allen Sweet allen.sweet@sbcglobal.net Cc: Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: RE: Public Comment - Homeless People (Allen Sweet) Mr. Sweet, We rely on property owners to let us know they have persons trespassing on their property. If that is happening we will come out and trespass them off the property for you and if they refuse and you are willing to press charges we will arrest and remove them. We do not have the resources for 24 hr surveillance so I would recommend a security system and or hiring private security for commercial properties. As to “stronger police action” we can operate within the law only and do so regularly, but we do not represent private interests so we need your cooperation to accomplish serving the over 45 thousand citizens and their public safety needs each day. From: Allen Sweet <allen.sweet@sbcglobal.net> Sent: Wednesday, July 12, 2023 4:50 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Homeless people I am a property owner is East Bremerton- specifically at 2625 Wheaton Way. Our commercial property is vacant due to losing the hospital. It has now become a place that the homeless people find attractive. It would help if there was more police presence in the area. Even more important would be stronger police action. We have even had homeless people tell us they do not fear police action as the police never do anything. What can you do about this? Allen Sweet Owner 858-735-6168 From: Robert Shaffer robertjshaffer@yahoo.com Sent: Monday, July 10, 2023 2:20 PM To: Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us; City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us Cc: Rodney Rauback Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Steven Forbragd Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Aaron Elton Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Mike Davis Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Jennifer Hayes Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Brett Jette Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Mychael Raya Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: MLK homeless tents blocking the sidewalk- please have them removed CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mayor Wheeler, members of the Council- Homeless tent campers are blocking sidewalks downtown on MLK. This is illegal and a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please have them removed. Recently, Portland, Oregon agreed to move tents after handicapped Portlanders sued because they had no ability to use the city’s sidewalks. I don’t want the city of Bremerton to be sued, but if that’s what it takes for the city to comply with the law (and remove this illegal tent camp), so be it. Here’s the story: Portland, Oregon, to clear sidewalk tents to settle suit with people with disabilities apnews.com I’m deeply frustrated the city can solve these problems. It’s your jobs. Regards, Robert Shaffer (and many neighbors) 820 Mckenzie Ave On Jun 8, 2023, at 4:00 PM, Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> wrote: Good afternoon Robert, Thank you for your email. I just wanted to take a moment to acknowledge that it has been received and read. Take care, I hope you have a great rest of your day! Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Robert Shaffer <robertjshaffer@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, June 8, 2023 7:44 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Rodney Rauback <Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Steven Forbragd <Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Aaron Elton <Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mike Davis <Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Jennifer Hayes <Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Brett Jette <Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mychael Raya <Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Porland, OR just banned daytime camping CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. We can do it in Bremerton, too. Portland City Council ban s daytime camping • Updated: Jun. 07, 2023, 7:18 p.m.| • Published: Jun. 07, 2023, 5:37 p.m. By Nicole Hayden | The Oregonian/OregonLive The Portland City Council voted 3 to 1 on Wednesday to ban people from camping on public land during daytime hours within the city and to prohibit camping at all times near schools and other specific locations. The ordinance, put forth by Mayor Ted Wheeler, comes as the city is seeking to comply by July 1 with a state law that requires local governments to write “objectively re asonable” rules to allow people to sit, lie, sleep and keep warm and dry on public property in places like Portland that don’t have enough shelter beds to serve all unhoused individuals. Under the ordinance, people considered involuntarily homeless will on ly be allowed to camp from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. in certain areas and will be required to dismantle their campsites during the day. They will be restricted from pitching tents at any time near schools, day care centers, pedestrian plazas, shelter and constructi on sites, high-speed roads, parks, greenways and numerous other locations. People who violate the rules more than two times — or more than twice build fires, obstruct private property or leave trash around campsites — could face fines of up to $100 or up to 30 days in jail, according to the ordinance. The new rules will go into effect in 30 days, but the city doesn’t plan to begin enforcement until mid -July. Mayor Ted Wheeler said the city will spend the next few months focused on reaching out to unhoused individuals to educate them about the new rules. “These reasonable restrictions, coupled with our work on increasing shelter availability along with access to services, are a step in the right direction toward a revitalized Portland,” Wheeler said prior to v oting in favor of the ordinance. The City Council’s approval of the new rules comes a week after more than 100 people testified during a five - hour hearing on the ordinance, with most speakers urging the city to not move forward with what many described as inhumane regulations. On Jun 7, 2023, at 10:21 AM, Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> wrote: Good morning Robert, Thank you for your email. I appreciate you taking the time to follow up on your prior communication with me regarding your ability to enjoy your house, property, and neighborhood due to disruptive behavior on MLK Way and Park Ave. Included in my reply are officials from the City of Bremerton Police and Legal Departments for their review and follow up. Please know that city staff and I take your concerns very seriously and we will do everything we can, within the law with the resources available, to maintain a safe and healthy environment for you and your neighbors to live in. Take care Robert, I hope you have a nice day. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Robert Shaffer <robertjshaffer@yahoo.com> Sent: Wednesday, June 7, 2023 8:14 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: Homeless camping at MLK and Park downtown CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mayor Wheeler, what are you doing to get rid of the homeless camp (now more than 20 tents) in downtown Bremerton? It’s a public safety hazard for the surrounding neighborhoods. Please help us. Robert and Michele Shaffer, Mckenzie Ave Amanda and Aidan Clark, Mckenzie Ave Tyler and Maxine Larsen, 9th Cisco, Cogean Ave. On Apr 25, 2023, at 3:28 PM, Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> wrote: Good afternoon Robert, Thank you so much for taking the time to inform us of your concerns regarding unacceptable behavior in your neighborhood. Please know that I totally understand where you are coming from, and I appreciate the thoughtful way you let us know this is happening. The fact that you mentioned some of these individuals appear to be emboldened is not lost on me, and I am including in my response officials from the City of Bremerton (COB) Police Department for their review and follow up, and the COB Legal Department for their information. Thank you again Robert for your email, I hope you and your family (and your neighbors) get to enjoy some of this recent sunny weather. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Robert Shaffer <robertjshaffer@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, April 25, 2023 3:14 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Homeless camping at MLK and Park downtown CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mayor Wheeler, Chief Wolfe- First, let me thank you both for all you do for the city. Bremerton is a really great place to live, and it’s because of the work you and others do. My neighbors and I are concerned about the homeless camp starting to form at MLK and Park. It’s acceptable to us when it’s just people hanging out during the day, but when people start to camp, we see more homeless and mentally ill in the neighborhood, wandering into our yards and onto porches, mostly after dark (the Ring doorbells pick them up in the middle of the night). We live on McKenzie, and last night, a man ripped up my neighbor’s flowers and placed them (Inside a fence) on another neighbor’s porch, along with a steel pipe. Not violent, not the end of the world, but a bit unnerving- both have two-year-old children. Last week, I yelled at a guy in my backyard in the middle of the night- I think he was just looking for something to steal. Again, not necessarily dangerous, but certainly a quality of life issue. We also notice when this group hits a critical mass- the dynamics change from a few generally friendly people hanging around to a group that thinks this is their property, and will stare me down when Michele and I are out for a walk. The families on our street with kids avoid the area. It makes the neighborhood much less friendly. You’ve done a great job in the past taking action when it reaches the level where it becomes more that a nuisance- can we do that again? Thanks again, Robert and Michele Shaffer, 820 Mckenzie Amanda and Aidan (he’s 2) Clark, 809 Mckenzie Tyler and Maxine Larsen and Rowan (also age 2), 702 8th Ave. From: Jo Walter msjowalter@gmail.com Sent: Friday, July 14, 2023 11:01 PM To: Thomas Knuckey Thomas.Knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us Cc: Ned Lever Ned.Lever@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Dave Carter Dave.Carter@ci.bremerton.wa.us; City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: Re: Public Comment - MLK Way (Jo Walter) Thanks for this information. That's a lot of dump trucks being filled with loose trash! I believe the reason folks are buying cans and plastic bags is to have receptacles available to avoid loose trash laying about. At various times there have been dumpsters in the area which seemed a good idea if it was regularly emptied. On one occasion we filled my pickup truck with just the overflow. Would it be possible for a dumpster to return, with a regular schedule for emptying it? I know there was talk about housed people abusing dumpster privileges. Even so, if having a dumpster in the neighborhood could help with the loose trash problem, dumping trash from visitors might be a price worth paying. Sounds like a lot of resources are being used with workers picking up from the ground every day, and twice weekly heavy equipment runs. I'm hoping that maintaining a dumpster might require fewer worker hours, or at least no more than the work that is done now. Hoping your weekend was a good one. Best regards, Jo Walter 360-551-6944 From: Thomas Knuckey Thomas.Knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us Sent: Friday, July 14, 2023 12:00 PM To: msjowalter@gmail.com Cc: Ned Lever Ned.Lever@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Dave Carter Dave.Carter@ci.bremerton.wa.us; City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: RE: Public Comment - MLK Way (Jo Walter) Good afternoon Ms. Walter – I thought I’d provide a little additional information regarding how Public Works is managing trash collection/dumping on ML King Way. The volume of trash has evolved over time, and so our response has likewise evolved. Currently we drive through the street every weekday and collect any loose trash we find. Twice each week we go to the site with heavy equipment to collect and dump. This week was pretty typical of our recent efforts - today we filled a 5-cubic yard dump truck, and earlier this week we filled two F550 trucks which combined have about the same (or maybe a little greater) capacity than a 5-cubic yard dump truck. We intend to continue adapting as necessary to address this issue until a better solution is in place. Take care and I hope you have a very nice weekend. Tom Knuckey, P.E. Director of Public Works & Utilities City of Bremerton Desk (360) 473-2376/Cell (360) 710-0039 thomas.knuckey@ci.bremerton.wa.us From: Jo Walter <msjowalter@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2023 9:58 AM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: MLK Way Good morning, Thank you for your work on the anti camping ordinance. I appreciated everyone's work at the study session last night, particularly the words of Eric Younger and Jennifer Chamberlin. You are grappling with such a complex and challenging issue, and thank you for sticking with it. I didn't hear anyone following up on Eric's suggestion that we find an appropriate location for camping, making basic services available, and addressing transportation. If not sooner, I hope you will revisit that idea at the next study session. And Jennifer's request to include Chief Wolfe in these discussions is right on. I hope you can bring him to the next study session to describe what is happening to address the criminal threats to both the housed and unhoused on MLK Way. I'm sure you are following Kimmie's recent activity on MLK, documented on Facebook. She is fundraising for trash cans and plastic bags. I remember hearing at a council meeting that Public Works is collecting trash there every day, so where is the disconnect? https://m.facebook.com/groups/bremertonhomeless/permalink/1724689211318391/?ref=share&mibe xtid=DcJ9fc She is also dramatically collecting human waste, and disposing of it at a dump station. Obviously this highlights the need for installing a porta potty. And as this tent city is growing, one is not enough. I hope you will discuss this issue directly at an upcoming study session. At this point the city's liability concerns are just not a good enough reason to deny these folks the most basic sanitation needs. It is another issue that needs grappling with, and given that it has been in discussion for so long, I suggest that the toilets should be prioritized over the camping ordinance! Also, Kimmie has posted that the man who brought the compelling testimony about his young daughter being sexually propositioned, is suspect himself. I know I was moved when he spoke, but I will investigate a bit more. I can't imagine him showing up only to lie, so I will learn more about Kimmie's suspicions. Thank you, Jo Walter From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Greg Wheeler City Council; spirosbremerton@gmail.com Tom Wolfe; Kylie Finnell; Steven Forbragd; Rodney Rauback; Aaron Elton; Mike Davis; Brett Jette; Jennifer Hayes; Kelsie Donleycott RE: Public Comment - Homeless Problem (Lesleigh Blackstock, Spiro"s Pizza) Monday, July 17, 2023 4:13:36 PM Good afternoon Lesleigh, Thank you for your email. Please do not hesitate to call 911 the next time this happens and encourage your employees to do the same. We (the city) have made significant investments in eviction prevention, rental assistance, transitional and permanent supportive housing, shelters, addiction and mental health counseling and treatment, deeply affordable and low-income housing, food & supplies distribution, trash pickup, behavior health and housing navigator services, and many other programs. We are fully aware that there is a greater need for everything I just mentioned, and the work will continue to increase services. The city currently has a shelter, but there is no availability. I am currently working on a location for another shelter in Bremerton and met recently on site to discuss feasibility with the property/building owner. To learn more about all the work going on to address homelessness and/or initiatives and challenges that are directly or indirectly associated because of homelessness, please attend upcoming Wednesday City Council Meetings and Study Sessions, in person or zoom, as this topic receives a lot of attention. The Council will also be discussing a camping ordinance in upcoming meetings. You may not be aware, but the City of Bremerton (COB) does not have an enforceable camping ordinance as it stands today. The city’s ordinance is outdated and out of compliance with state law. The city’s only homeless shelter with capacity, The Salvation Army, closed on May 1st which exacerbated an already tenuous situation. As a side note, I would also like to provide you information regarding recent Washington State drug law changes and what has happened over the last few years. I feel it is important for you and others to know about this as every individual who lives, works, plays, or invests in Bremerton probably has a slightly different opinion on the impacts that drug addiction, drug laws, and drug enforcement have on this crisis. The State Legislature essentially legalized drugs (from an enforcement standpoint) approximately 2 years ago. Through recent legislation, drug use, to a certain extent, has now been recriminalized (beginning August 14th) although the punishment is less punitive than it was pre decriminalization. The legislature has indicated that with recriminalization of drugs there should be emphasis on deferrals or behavior courts as sentencing alternatives. How this will work remains to be seen. With all this being said, we (myself and officials from the COB Police Department (PD)) will do the best we can, within the law and resources available, to keep your neighborhood, business, employees, patrons and property safe. Included in my reply are officials from the COB PD and Legal Departments for their awareness. An important side note, the City Council will continue taking testimony during public comment at their July 19th meeting beginning at 5:30pm. It will be important for you to weigh in with your testimony as your experiences and observations should be heard. Take care Lesleigh, I hope you enjoy the rest of your day. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: customer was charged 4 times for the same order spirosbremerton@gmail.com Sent: Saturday, July 15, 2023 12:14 PM To: City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: Homeless Problem Dear Councilwonan/man, I am the manager at the Bremerton Spiros on Kitsap Way. We have been apart of this city since 2014, and we love our location and all of our customers. However, I would like to express my concern and frustration towards the homelessness situation that we have been experiencing. I came into the restaurant this morning and we had, and this is not the first time, a group of people camped out in our outdoor patio. I felt comfortable enough to walk out there and let them know that they cannot stay here and they were fine with packing up and leaving. But I do have younger employees that may not feel comfortable in this situation being able to do that. This time, they were not confrontational, but in a situation were someone may be under the influence of drugs or not mentally stable, I feel that it is not safe for my employees to have to deal with this. I don’t know if you are working on trying to figure how to deal with all of this, but I feel like it is getting out of hand. For the safety of myself and all of my employees, I would like to know what will be done about all of this. Lesleigh Blackstock From:City Council To:City Council Subject:FW: Response to Citizen Concerns - Rota Vista Park (Jacob Bullon) Date:Wednesday, July 19, 2023 12:16:55 PM Attachments:Outlook-hd0kmhys.png Attn: Council Members **For informational purposes only. Do not reply to this email** From: Jeff Coughlin Jeff.Coughlin@ci.bremerton.wa.us Sent: Wednesday, July 19, 2023 12:04 AM To: jacob bullon kingbocaj@yahoo.com Cc: City Council City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Greg Wheeler Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Jeff Elevado Jeff.Elevado@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Tom Wolfe Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us; Kylie Finnell Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us Subject: Re: Citizen Concerns - Rota Vista Park (Jacob Bullon) Hi Jacob, Thanks for writing in about Rota Vista Park, and my apologies for my delay in responding to you. I also want to thank you for your exceptional level of volunteerism and dedication to maintaining the neighborhood and local parks. I agree that Roto Vista Park has the potential to be a shining gem of a waterfront park in the city, similar to the many other excellently maintained Parks in our city. I've highlighted this in past Council reports. I think you have several excellent questions regarding Parks maintenance that I am requesting Mayor Wheeler and Parks Director Elevado answer as part of this years' budget cycle, as Council has on it's 2023 Goals and Priorities to secure additional funding for Parks. How much would it cost (or is it possible to adjust current staffing) to perform more routine vegetation control in Roto Vista park, including maintenance of the trail, for visibility and safety? How much would it cost (or is it possible to adjust current staffing) to perform daily checks of Roto Vista park? How much would it cost to replace and maintain the stairs in Roto Vista park? How much would it cost to restore and maintain the horseshoe pits in Evergreen park? I'm also CC-ing Police Chief Wolfe and City Attorney Kylie Finnell for awareness of the response you received in regards to the enforcement of camping in city parks. While Council is presently in the middle of updating the city-wide camping ordinance, my current understanding is that camping in parks is already prohibited and enforceable by other ordinances. I will note that Gold Mountain golf course is a net source of revenue for the city, the profit from which goes into the Parks budget, but I understand the appearance and frustration. In the long run, I am hopeful that as part of the Warren Bridge Multimodal Project that the city will be able to secure funding to establish a multimodal connector through Roto Vista and in the process complete numerous improvements in the park. However, in the short run I again agree that this park is in dire need of more regular upkeep and city presence. The more we could maintain it, the more it would be used by the neighborhood and others, with more volunteers working with the city to help maintain landscaping and safety. Cheers, Jeff -- This e-mail and further communication may be subject to public disclosure, if requested under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). From: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Wednesday, July 12, 2023 12:24 AM To: Jeff Coughlin <Jeff.Coughlin@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: RE: Citizen Concerns - Rota Vista Park (Jacob Bullon) From: jacob bullon <kingbocaj@yahoo.com> Sent: Monday, July 10, 2023 4:15 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Jeff Coughlin CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello - I wanted to send this email to share not only my disappointment but also of some of my neighbors. For years Rota Vista has been a known problem area and yet even with Citizens willing to chip in to help we haven’t seen any respectful level of help back from the City. Instead just excuses- really the main thing that park would need is for park workers to actually stop by daily for a 15 minute Audit. I’ve suggested this in the past and again just Recently when I was told that Due to Safety it’s required that two park workers go together and this is hard to arrange. Public safety in the parks should be number one. This response is a blow off. There are workers in Evergreen every day and a 15 minute stop by Vista to notify and work together with BPD is not a lot to ask. It would also make it easier to maintain. It’s current shape is disgusting and I suggest ea of you stop by unannounced and imagine that your taking your family to visit and check out what should be a decent pocket park. I would like to see a list of days visted and time spent at the parks- but I’m sure they don’t keep these records otherwise we would be able to show the lack of response and that there is no transparency. How often is Bachman park - whitey Domstead visited in comparison. Maybe gold mountain shouldn’t be owned by the City if any of our parks look like this. Also to have to ask every year to have the trail area cut down - this needs to be just part of up keep. It’s was originally cut back as I was told by being Requested by BPD for visibility and safety and ea year we shouldn’t have to ask to have this done since it has actually become more unsafe dud to neglect. Also the island in upper vista should be removed ( picture attached ) or dropped to ground level. And other bushes and trees opened for line of sight. All in all disappointed by the Parks performance. From unable- unwilling to maintain lights - to hand rails and stairs rotting away. Horse shoe pits that are more of a safety issue from neglect. On and on. From: Mary Lou Long <maryloulong2515@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, July 20, 2023 12:03 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Mary Lou Long <maryloulong2515@gmail.com> Date: Thu, Jul 13, 2023, 11:18 AM Subject: To: <maryloulong2515@gmai.com> The ninth circuit Court is not the last word in law. Is this case going to the Supreme Court? If so, we can wait till it is settled. Why the big rush to change our rules for camping on city property? In the mean time to resolve the dangerous activity of those living in city limits on public land causing nuisances and health issues we need to use these tools to remove dangerous people from our neighborhoods. Drug usage will not be tolerated on city property. Go to jail directly. Anyone creating health hazards of human waste on public thoroughfares will be sent to jail. Anyone selling drugs on the streets will be sent to jail. Any children in a tented community where there are drugs being used will be removed from their parents control and placed in foster homes.If people don't want to find themselves going to jail or loosing the children will be finding ways to get off the streets and drugs.All social services and charitable groups need to unit their efforts to help those who really want to get help to get out of their situation. We property owners pay property taxes the campers pay nothing. From: jane Rebelowski <janerebelowski@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, July 25, 2023 8:07 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: repeal “unauthorized camping” ordinance. Distribute to ALL Councilors The proposed Unauthorized Camping ordinance is lacking in compassion. As we all know there is no exis�ng shelter space to house those currently living on the streets of Bremerton. Pretending to care by shuffling them off to Port Orchard is not a solu�on. The City of Bremerton’s Audit Commitee has iden�fied over 30 surplus proper�es. Please consider allowing houseless residents to live in an authorized camp on surplus property un�l real shelter space or permanent affordable housing is available. Please implore staff to use the $10,000 Council authorized for portable toilets. Jane Rebelowski 1445 17th St 98337 Sent from my iPhone From:Kitsap ERACE Coalition To:Greg Wheeler; City Council; Kitsap ERACE Coalition Cc:Nelson, David Subject:We stand against any anti-camping legislation. We stand with our unhoused neighbors. Date:Wednesday, July 26, 2023 4:24:04 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Bremerton City Council and Mayor, . Kitsap ERACE (Equity, Race, And Community Engagement) Coalition acknowledges the work that the Bremerton City Council members are doing on behalf of our unhoused neighbors to provide spaces for camping and parking that are free from harassment and constant disruption. . In advance of your next study session, we would like to reiterate the points made by members of the Kitsap ERACE Coalition Housing Systems Team at the last Bremerton City Council meeting. . The Housing Systems Team has clarified our stand on the anti-camping ordinance under consideration by the council. Our stand is as follows: • We stand against any anti-camping legislation due to the negative impact on our unhoused neighbors. • We support providing an area for camping to our unhoused neighbors, with access to clean water and sanitation, to include restroom facilities and showers. • We are in favor of the City of Bremerton increasing funding for housing and shelter services for our unhoused neighbors. • We are in favor of an immediate increase in the number of shelter beds in Bremerton. • We are opposed to any fines and fees that might be levied against unhoused people for being in public spaces. • We are opposed to “sweeps” of homeless camps that lead to the total loss of our neighbors’ belongings. . We are encouraged to hear that the City of Bremerton is working with the Salvation Army to ensure they can open a severe weather shelter to keep unhoused community members safe and warm during inclement weather. . The City of Seattle is providing sanitation facilities to Seattle community members living on the streets, and we encourage the City of Bremerton to be the first city in Kitsap County to provide such sanitation facilities for unhoused community members. . As housing costs have skyrocketed and wages stagnated the population of unhoused community members in Kitsap has grown and may continue to grow. All community members have the right to be treated with dignity, to be securely sheltered, and to have their belongings protected from confiscation. All community members have the right to sanitation facilities, housing services, and other needed services. We encourage the City of Bremerton to ensure that all its community members’ rights to housing and services are fulfilled and protected. . Respectfully, Kitsap ERACE Coalition KitsapERACEcoalition@gmail.com @KitsapERACEcoalition cc: Kitsap Sun Editor, David Nelson -- Kitsap Equity, Race, And Community Engagement Coalition is part of a local legacy of people-powered change, of years of Black, Indigenous, People Of Color (BIPOC), and allies engaging neighbors in the hard work, the heart work, the collective work of building beloved community. Kitsap ERACE Coalition is a coming together of groups and individuals boosting interconnected race equity work. Rooted in relationships, collaboration, and commitment to racial justice, Kitsap ERACE Coalition tenaciously organizes for thriving community and for profound, accountable, and liberatory institutional change. Let us know if you'd like to check out an upcoming Kitsap ERACE Coalition meeting by emailing KitsapERACEcoalition@gmail.com. Follow Kitsap ERACE Coalition on Facebook and on Instagram to stay tuned to actions, collaborations, and more in which the Coalition is involved. #KitsapERACEcoalition #KitsapEquityRaceAndCommunityEngagementCoalition Published for July 12, 2023 Study Session B5 – Public Comments From:Eric Kneebone To:City Council Cc:Greg Wheeler Subject:Camping ordinance Date:Thursday, July 6, 2023 5:00:17 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Esteemed City Council Members: After hearing the city attorneys presentation last night and the public comments, many of which focused on the clear danger associated with the MLK way homeless encampment, as a resident of MLK Way I support the following in regards the camping ordinance issue: 1.Amending the current ordinance to meet constitutionality. 2. Restrict camping to 10pm to 6 am in the downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods - perhaps the entire proposed creative district. Tents must be taken down daily and people must be mobile. 3. Sleeping/living in a vehicle is permissible provided the vehicle is in an operable condition, and is properly licensed, insured,and registered. Vehicles must move every 14 days maximum to a new location 2 miles or more away from the previous location. 4. Tents, vehicles and property may not obstruct any street, sidewalk, right of way, fire lane or fire hydrant at any time. 5. Designate an authorized camping area for long term needs outside of the downtown area and provide restrooms. 6. No open fires at any campsite. 7. Suspend enforcement of ordinance in extreme cold weather with no shelters available. I heard a lot of impassioned pleas from the folks with nonprofit outreach groups that seemed to oppose any action. They ask for repeal without any alternative. I feel they are thinking of their personal convenience for their personal missions This does not seem to be a course of action that will result in positive results. The MLK way encampment must go and not be allowed to return. It simply has concentrated the crime and prostitution in a convenient location for patronage. Clear it and set up ecoblocks along the parking to prevent tents and rvs from.being driven onto the sidewalks. Do not allow a recolonization of the area by street people. I heard many comments by residents asking for relief from this blight on our community. Businesses that are closing because of the behavior of the street people. Folks being threatened. Parking being unavailable due to the encampment vehicles and vandalism. This is untenable. I have heard gunshots from this camp. I've heard explosions well outside of the usual 4th of July chaos. I have witnessed street people attempting to gain access to houses and vehicles. What happens when the unthinkable occurs? Sometimes you can't cure a disease, but you can treat the symptoms. Please amend the ordinance so MLK way and the surrounding neighborhood and the city of Bremerton can be made safe. Eric Kneebone From: amanda reynolds <strongamanda@hotmail.com> Sent: Monday, July 10, 2023 9:43 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Unauthorized Camping Amendment opinion Hello, My name is Amanda and I live in Downtown Bremerton. I’m just adding my thoughts on the proposal to amend BMC Chapter 9.32 entitled “Unauthorized Camping.” I’m proud of the work Bremerton is doing to help the homeless population; from mental health support to housing opportunities. I don’t believe that the people in tents on MLK comprise the majority of homeless who want the support Bremerton has to offer. This is based on my conversations with law enforcement and the Salvation Army. For 30 years I have watched Downtown Bremerton claw it’s way back from being a place you wouldn’t be caught in after dark to becoming a creative and fun place to spend time in. I volunteer downtown a few days every week and i’ve noticed over the past year the tone has become more sinister; with the smell of human waste, used needles and people in crisis on full display. There are so many citizens from all walks of life that are actively working to make Bremerton succeed, are they not as important as those who are indifferent or don’t care if they destroy it? Bremerton already supports its homeless population, the people who live in tents on MLK and refuse assistance should not be encouraged to remain there. I oppose a portable restroom being installed there as it will only encourage the situation to be permanent. The Salvation Army already offers hygiene and restroom facilities for use. My family will be moving in the next year if the situation stays the same. We have seen the writing on the wall with Seattle and Portland. There has literally been nothing positive about allowing tent cities to exist. Thank you for letting me add my opinion. Sincerely, Amanda From:Mike Fairchild To:City Council Subject:Housing and the lack of help Date:Monday, July 10, 2023 1:41:29 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello, My name is Charles Fairchild and I am a resident of Kitsap county and have been for over 30 years. I am not a drug addict I am not an alcoholic and I am not being heard by the city council. I am currently homeless because I became disabled and I have been on lists for over 6 years now waiting for housing. I was in the hospital fighting for my life when they sent an email to me wanting me to fill out papers so I could get affordable housing. I was not able to leave the hospital to get the papers turned in as I was not healthy enough to leave the hospital. Bremerton housing then gave away the apartment I had been waiting for for over 5 years at that time. I was told I would be the next person housed which also was changed for some reason to now I am the second in line to be housed. I fortunately do not reside on Martin Luther King Road like many of my fellow homeless friends are forced to do. I am blessed enough to have a better hiding place and so I don't go through alot of the harassment they go through. You and city hall are supposed to be listening to the voices of the people and carrying out the needs of the people. I don't feel like people are hearing all the voices that are screaming for help. Please do not choke out my voice by limiting the public from commenting on the topics of housing and how wrong it is to criminalize being homeless. Putting us in jail and causing more issues for already traumatized people is far more expensive than creating housing. It is more humane to help the people. I also have no criminal record and don't feel I should have one because I became disabled and then could not afford my home any more. Thank you for your time. Charles Fairchild From:Neal Foley To:City Council Cc:Greg Wheeler Subject:ML King Way/Camping Date:Tuesday, July 11, 2023 11:09:45 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Bremerton City Council, Feedback from the people on ML King Way is that it is very hard to leave their tent area foranytime at all as their things disappear. Hard to work, obtain services, go to the bathroom, orbasically do anything to improve their current condition when they cannot leave. Crimefollows and prays on the weak and impoverished. These people are citizens of Bremerton andvictims of continual crime. Why is there no security here? Prosecute the criminals and providea safe place for those who find themselves here! I still see feces on the ground in a few spots and still no place for those on ML King Way touse a bathroom? I am surprised there is not more human waste. Try an experiment yourselfand see how long you can hold it. Tents can be killers. Both rain/cold and high temperatures can kill. Some people do not haveor do not have the ability to set up a satisfactory dry tent. A gentleman died 6/18/2023 on MLKing Way primarily of Hypothermia. He was not breathing and had no heartbeat when found.After CPR they obtained a heartbeat but he never regained consciousness but officially “lived”until 2:30PM on 6/19/2023. It had been raining for 2 days, his tent was set up over another tentthat was already collapsed and wet. The entry on the top tent had several rips and there was norain cover. Summertime right? His body was 77 degrees when they picked him up off of MLKing Way. His tents and belongings were wet clear through and VERY heavy. A bag of hiswet clothes were returned at the hospital after his death. Just another drug related death? Notso fast. There was absolutely no evidence of drug use in any of his personal things, zero. Wordon the street from several that knew him close was he was not using. Mentally Ill yes. He hadno where else to live after the shelter closed. His family did not know his whereabouts afterthe shelter closed until after his death. Bremerton needs a shelter ASAP. This is how we keep these folks alive to be able to helpthem the best ways we can. They need a secure safe place. Let’s get The Salvation Armyshelter open or something equivalent ASAP! Related - A federal judge just found Washington state in contempt and ordered it to pay more than $100million in fines for failing to provide timely psychiatric services to mentally ill people who areforced to wait in jails for weeks or months. In the recent Washington State DSHS ordered topay 100 million. In the article ……. Christopher Carney, representing Disability Rights Washington, said prosecuting vulnerable people accomplishes little. Instead, the funds should be spent on supportive housing with staffing and medication. “We just keep throwing away resources and causing harm trying the wrong solutions,” Carney said in a release. “If what we want is to save lives and improve public safety, we know arrest and competency services are not the way to get there. Our clients need homes and help, not more punishment.” One last thing on a personal note. I notice an air of contempt that permeates many individualsviews concerning these people who have found themselves on ML King Way. It is easy tolook from afar and throw stones based on misconceived personal biases. I would recommendthat anyone involved in making decisions concerning this population go and meet them. Takea walk with the prayer walk group or other organizations who are actively helping thesepeople. Learn their names, hear their stories and understand their conditions and needs. THENmake informed decisions. Thank you, Neal Foley From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Robert Shaffer Greg Wheeler; City Council Rodney Rauback; Steven Forbragd; Aaron Elton; Mike Davis; Jennifer Hayes; Kylie Finnell; Brett Jette; Mychael Raya MLK homeless tents blocking the sidewalk- please have them removed Monday, July 10, 2023 2:20:11 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mayor Wheeler, members of the Council- Homeless tent campers are blocking sidewalks downtown on MLK. This is illegal and a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please have them removed. Recently, Portland, Oregon agreed to move tents after handicapped Portlanders sued because they had no ability to use the city’s sidewalks. I don’t want the city of Bremerton to be sued, but if that’s what it takes for the city to comply with the law (and remove this illegal tent camp), so be it. Here’s the story: Portland, Oregon, to clear sidewalk tents to settle suit with people with disabilities apnews.com I’m deeply frustrated the city can solve these problems. It’s your jobs. Regards, Robert Shaffer (and many neighbors) 820 Mckenzie Ave On Jun 8, 2023, at 4:00 PM, Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> wrote: Good afternoon Robert, Thank you for your email. I just wanted to take a moment to acknowledge that it has been received and read. Take care, I hope you have a great rest of your day! Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 From: Robert Shaffer <robertjshaffer@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, June 8, 2023 7:44 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Rodney Rauback <Rodney.Rauback@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Steven Forbragd <Steven.Forbragd@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Aaron Elton <Aaron.Elton@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mike Davis <Mike.Davis@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Jennifer Hayes <Jennifer.Hayes@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Kylie Finnell <Kylie.Finnell@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Brett Jette <Brett.Jette@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Mychael Raya <Mychael.Raya@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Porland, OR just banned daytime camping CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. We can do it in Bremerton, too. Portland City Council bans daytime camping Updated: Jun. 07, 2023, 7:18 p.m.| Published: Jun. 07, 2023, 5:37 p.m. 134 shares By Nicole Hayden | The Oregonian/OregonLive The Portland City Council voted 3 to 1 on Wednesday to ban people from camping on public land during daytime hours within the city and to prohibit camping at all times near schools and other specific locations. The ordinance, put forth by Mayor Ted Wheeler, comes as the city is seeking to comply by July 1 with a state law that requires local governments to write “objectively reasonable” rules to allow people to sit, lie, sleep and keep warm and dry on public property in places like Portland that don’t have enough shelter beds to serve all unhoused individuals. Under the ordinance, people considered involuntarily homeless will only be allowed to camp from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. in certain areas and will be required to dismantle their campsites during the day. They will be restricted from pitching tents at any time near schools, day care centers, pedestrian plazas, shelter and construction sites, high-speed roads, parks, greenways and numerous other locations. People who violate the rules more than two times — or more than twice build fires, obstruct private property or leave trash around campsites— could face fines of up to $100 or up to 30 days in jail, according to the ordinance. The new rules will go into effect in 30 days, but the city doesn’t plan to begin enforcement until mid- July. Mayor Ted Wheeler said the city will spend the next few months focused on reaching out to unhoused individuals to educate them about the new rules. “These reasonable restrictions, coupled with our work on increasing shelter availability along with access to services, are a step in the right direction toward a revitalized Portland,” Wheeler said prior to voting in favor of the ordinance. The City Council’s approval of the new rules comes a week after more than 100 people testified during a five-hour hearing on the ordinance, with most speakers urging the city to not move forward with what many described as inhumane regulations. On Jun 7, 2023, at 10:21 AM, Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> wrote: Good morning Robert, Thank you for your email. I appreciate you taking the time to follow up on your prior communication with me regarding your ability to enjoy your house, property, and neighborhood due to disruptive behavior on MLK Way and Park Ave. Included in my reply are officials from the City of Bremerton Police and Legal Departments for their review and follow up. Please know that city staff and I take your concerns very seriously and we will do everything we can, within the law with the resources available, to maintain a safe and healthy environment for you and your neighbors to live in. Take care Robert, I hope you have a nice day. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 -----Original Message----- From: Robert Shaffer <robertjshaffer@yahoo.com> Sent: Wednesday, June 7, 2023 8:14 AM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Re: Homeless camping at MLK and Park downtown CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mayor Wheeler, what are you doing to get rid of the homeless camp (now more than 20 tents) in downtown Bremerton? It’s a public safety hazard for the surrounding neighborhoods. Please help us. Robert and Michele Shaffer, Mckenzie Ave Amanda and Aidan Clark, Mckenzie Ave Tyler and Maxine Larsen, 9th Cisco, Cogean Ave. On Apr 25, 2023, at 3:28 PM, Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> wrote: Good afternoon Robert, Thank you so much for taking the time to inform us of your concerns regarding unacceptable behavior in your neighborhood. Please know that I totally understand where you are coming from, and I appreciate the thoughtful way you let us know this is happening. The fact that you mentioned some of these individuals appear to be emboldened is not lost on me, and I am including in my response officials from the City of Bremerton (COB) Police Department for their review and follow up, and the COB Legal Department for their information. Thank you again Robert for your email, I hope you and your family (and your neighbors) get to enjoy some of this recent sunny weather. Sincerely, Greg Wheeler Mayor City of Bremerton (360) 473-5266 -----Original Message----- From: Robert Shaffer <robertjshaffer@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, April 25, 2023 3:14 PM To: Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: Tom Wolfe <Tom.Wolfe@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Homeless camping at MLK and Park downtown CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Mayor Wheeler, Chief Wolfe- First, let me thank you both for all you do for the city. Bremerton is a really great place to live, and it’s because of the work you and others do. My neighbors and I are concerned about the homeless camp starting to form at MLK and Park. It’s acceptable to us when it’s just people hanging out during the day, but when people start to camp, we see more homeless and mentally ill in the neighborhood, wandering into our yards and onto porches, mostly after dark (the Ring doorbells pick them up in the middle of the night). We live on McKenzie, and last night, a man ripped up my neighbor’s flowers and placed them (Inside a fence) on another neighbor’s porch, along with a steel pipe. Not violent, not the end of the world, but a bit unnerving- both have two-year-old children. Last week, I yelled at a guy in my backyard in the middle of the night- I think he was just looking for something to steal. Again, not necessarily dangerous, but certainly a quality of life issue. We also notice when this group hits a critical mass- the dynamics change from a few generally friendly people hanging around to a group that thinks this is their property, and will stare me down when Michele and I are out for a walk. The families on our street with kids avoid the area. It makes the neighborhood much less friendly. You’ve done a great job in the past taking action when it reaches the level where it becomes more that a nuisance-can we do that again? Thanks again, Robert and Michele Shaffer, 820 Mckenzie Amanda and Aidan (he’s 2) Clark, 809 Mckenzie Tyler and Maxine Larsen and Rowan (also age 2), 702 8th Ave. From:City Council To:City Council Cc:Greg Wheeler; Kylie Finnell Subject:FW: July 12 - Item B5 Public Comment (Justin Gurley) Date:Wednesday, July 12, 2023 3:17:44 PM Attachments:IKE6WDK1U.wav Attn: Council Members (FYI) **For informational purposes only. Do not reply to this email** The attached message received today from Tristan Gurley (District 3 Resident) included comments for Item B5 "Ordinance to amend BMC Chapter 9.32 entitled “Unauthorized Camping”. -----Original Message----- From: Mitel Voice Mail <shoretel@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Sent: Wednesday, July 12, 2023 2:37 PM To: Lori Smith <Lori.Smith@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Mitel voice message from +13606495943 for mailbox 5280 You have received a voice mail message from +13606495943 for mailbox 5280. Message length is 00:03:39. Message size is 1713 KB. Published for July 5, 2023 Council Meeting 6B – Public Comments From:Bonnie Thane To:City Council Subject:Anti-Camping Bans... Date:Thursday, June 29, 2023 12:50:17 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Bremerton City Council, A 2018 decision from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals (Martin v. Boise) found it unconstitutional for cities to enforce anti-camping ordinances if they do not have shelter beds for all unhoused individuals. We know that there are currently not enough shelter beds in Bremerton to meet the needs of all unhoused and housing insecure individuals and families. This lifelong Bremerton resident is against anti camping bans that would affect our most vulnerable. Please brainstorm solutions that are proven to actually help end homelessness in a humane way, such as affordable housing, public restrooms, a homeless shelter, etc. Respectfully, Bonnie Thane From:Caroline Evergreen To:City Council Subject:Anti-Camping Ordinance Date:Monday, July 3, 2023 2:28:40 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Bremerton City Council, As a citizen who moved to Bremerton last year, I have been keeping an eye on local community events and issues in my new hometown. I saw the most recent article in the Kitsap Sun about the anti-camping ordinance and I felt it was my responsibility as a conscientious citizen to let you know where I (and many of your constituents) stand. Obviously, homelessness is not a new problem in our community or many others across the country. The struggles the homeless citizens in our community face are numerous and while it is not possible for the city council alone to change or end homelessness- I do believe the work you do can and does have a profound impact on the lives of our homeless and housed residents here in Bremerton. While I am not a business owner, I am an educator with several degrees and many years of experience in community outreach so I recognize the difficult position that the council is currently in with trying to balance community and economic safety for business owners, alongside compassion and empathy for the unhoused citizens of Bremerton. I do not believe that those two goals have to be mutually exclusive. I wanted to reach out and state that I support a full repeal of the existing anti-camping ordinance - however, I would support investment into measures like public restrooms, a designated camping zone, and further community outreach to address the struggles of our homeless population. While I completely understand the desire to help our community look and feel safe, I think anti-camping ordinances are often just bandaid solutions that fix the "look" of a problem, rather than creating long lasting change. Many major cities including our neighbors in Tacoma and Seattle have seen how little anti-camping ordinances do to help our homeless citizens - in fact, these ordinances routinely make it much MUCH harder for social workers and community aid organizers to find homeless citizens and help them get off of the streets and into housing and receive medical care and other much needed services. When an anti-camping ordinance is enacted, it is often followed by an increased amount of death and crime in the area (from homeless citizens being forcibly removed and ending up in worse areas or with fewer resources, among other things). I would like to implore you to connect with existing community groups and aid networks like the Bremerton Homeless Community Coalition, the WA Physicians for Social Responsibility, and engage the community itself to look for immediate solutions to this problem that do not involve criminalizing a terrible and unfortunate time in people's lives. I respectfully thank you for your consideration, Caroline Askew From:Chris Berg To:City Council Subject:Proposed Camping Ban on MLK Way Date:Monday, July 3, 2023 6:30:58 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. To whom it may concern, I was recently informed by a neighbor that there is a camping ban (either for the whole city, or MLK Way, I am unclear on that point) to be discussed at your upcoming meeting on July 5th. I will not be able to attend said meeting, but would like to offer my thoughts as a long time resident. First off, I have no issue with homeless folks in general, as there are a large number who genuinely fell on hard times and just need a hand. HOWEVER, a quick walk down my street (I live at the South Court Apartments at 834 MLK Way) will show you that these are NOT those type of individuals. They are openly smoking methamphetamine and other drugs, conducting drug transactions and engaging in prostitution openly and in broad daylight. This occurs in front of homes where children play. I have even come home to find one of them highly intoxicated in the stairwell my building after urinating and defecating in said stairwell. This is in addition to the constant screaming, yelling, and fighting at all hours of the night. There was once last summer when I almost tripped over a gentleman lounging on the front stoop, and when I informed him rather politely "I'm sorry man, but you can't hang out here" he became agitated and attempted to aggressively follow me to my girlfriends car until I showed him that I had a knife and was willing to defend myself if he elected to push the issue any further. There are many eldery folks and single women in my building and the surrounding neighborhod, and if these "campers" will become violent and aggressive with an armed 250lb man, I shudder to think at what might happen to my neighbor who is in his 80's, or the 90lb college girl in the next building if they catch one of these people in the middle of an episode or in need of drug money. I pay a good amount of money for rent (probably more than I should in this part of town TBH, but that's a different issue), not to mention taxes, as do my neighbors, and I feel that we all deserve to be able to take the trash out or go check the mail without wondering if we're going to get into a violent altercation w/ a drug addict. Lastly, I know there will most likely be several community groups that are against this measure, and while I absolutely believe that their hearts are in the right place and they want to help, I would urge them to walk the block a few times over the course of a normal day, NOT while working with tgeir organization and handing out food and such, but "undercover" as it were, and then ask themselves if they would want this campground next to THEIR house...or their mother's house? If the answer is "no", then why should my neighbors and I have to put up with it; and if the answer is "yes", then feel free to move them in. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Christopher A. Berg From:Havalah Noble To:City Council Subject:No Camping Ordinance Date:Thursday, June 29, 2023 12:26:13 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. To whom it may concern, Please do not introduce penalties for the unhoused community for simply trying to live by creating laws that prohibit camping. Instead, create a shelter and support ways affordable housing, especially with pets can be attained. Thank you, Havalah Noble From:Jacob Nau To:City Council Cc:kim siebens Subject:Regarding Camping Ban Date:Sunday, July 2, 2023 2:54:13 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello esteemed Bremerton City Council folk My name's Jake Nau. I am a homeless Outreach worker with Comprehensive Life Resources in Tacoma Washington. I'm writing to share with you what an embarrassing hindrance Tacoma's recently passed camping ban has been to my work and the general existence of people experiencing homelessness in Tacoma. The job of homeless outreach is basically three fold, 1) we keep folks experiencing homelessness from dying, we find them and make sure they have enough food, water, clothing and medical supplies to stay alive another day 2) we get to know people experiencing homelessness, we learn their names and stories, build rapport and relationships built on trust 3) we accompany them toward hope, reconnect them to solutions; we use that trusting relationship we've built to help them accomplish their goals, which usually include employment, MH and SUD services and housing. # 3 rarely happens without # 2. #2 has become ridiculously hard, far more difficult since our city started sweeping folks all over the city, which has led to #1, homeless folks dying. It's actually that simple. I could give example after example after example but I won't because I'm really tired because my city has made my job way more difficult and the life's of their homeless citizens way more dangerous. Please choose differently. Jake Nau From:Jennifer Adams To:City Council Subject:Homelessness Date:Thursday, June 29, 2023 4:52:05 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Please decriminalize homelessness. Stop making it harder on these individuals and come up with some helpful solutions. My daughter and I were homeless back in 2017/2018. It's very difficult and humiliating. Where do you expect people to go? Times are hard around here. I have a good job now and can still barely afford to live. Rent prices are literally insane for the average person. Solutions! Not more problems! Please help. Jennifer Adams From:Jolinda Eckard To:City Council Subject:camping ban Date:Thursday, June 29, 2023 12:48:07 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. On top of everything else like high housing costs, making illegal drugs ok now you want to put a ban on camps for those who can not afford the ridiculous amount of rent this county charges. We have working families who can not afford housing and I am one of them who is in that category due to counties greed!!! Mayor wheeler I met you about 3 years ago and you told me at that you were working on “affordable housing” and the high cost of rent. And that was a lie. All I have seen since that time is more housing going up all over making our once beautiful city look a mini Seattle!!! I hope none of you on this council and Mayor wheeler ever have to face homelessness because of this city and counties greed. How about focusing on some real issues and not trying to make us Seattle!! Shame on you mayor wheeler!!!! Sent from my iPhone From:Guyt, Juliana To:City Council Subject:Anti-camping Date:Friday, June 30, 2023 9:05:57 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello, I was recently made aware that there is an effort to ban camping in Bremerton in an attempt to hide or displace homeless folks. What is the proposed solution if this action is taken? Where are these individuals supposed to go if they cannot camp? I hope to hear back about the solutions being pursued. Best, Juliana From:Kelsey Stedman To:City Council Subject:Opposition to new anti-camping ordinance Date:Monday, July 3, 2023 9:06:28 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Bremerton City Council, I am writing to oppose amendments to the current ordinance to make it align with the Martin ruling but continue to penalize people who have no other options. Only allowing camping at night would lead to loss of belongings and lack of safety. As a nurse who has worked with many of the folks downtown, I know they look out for each other, sleep during the day or in shifts for safety, and many of them have chronic physical health issues that limit their ability to walk more than a short distance. There are no shelter beds available and some even qualify for long term care facilities due to their disabilities but nowhere will accept them due to their homelessness and/or histories. As the weather warms, and we head into wildfire season, forcing people to move and pack around all their personal belongings is unhealthy and unsafe for these community members. Any changes to the ordinance would be more punitive than the current options because the current ordinance cannot be enforced. I am supportive of finding options for port-o-potties, access to sharps containers and clean syringes, and naloxone. Until there are additional shelter options, it is inhumane to deny people a place to sleep and rest in the safest place they can find. Best, Kelsey Stedman, RN, MSN From:Lindsey Gearllach To:City Council Subject:Homeless ordinance Date:Monday, July 3, 2023 10:11:54 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Bremerton City Council, I am a lifelong Kitsap County resident. I will keep this short and sweet. Why are we criminalizing people that already facing inequity? Find ways to help the homeless community and stop treating them like subhuman beings. Just remember, each one of us is a paycheck away from becoming just like them. And how would you want to be treated if that was the case? Lindsey Gearllach Poulsbo, WA From:Matt Frost To:City Council Subject:Homeless Date:Sunday, July 2, 2023 9:48:33 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello, My name is Matt Frost and I am a resident on DR ML KING WAY. I have live here for over two years now and it has gotten worst. Last October I took a job as a night shelter worker at the Salvation Army. In that time I was able to build a lot of relationships with all of our clients. We had clients that where drug addicts, mentally unstable and people that just fell on bad times. As the closing 2 months came Salvation Army was finding housing for everyone that wanted it. And most of them got housing. What we have here on my street are drug addicts that didn’t want housing. They don’t care about anyone but them self’s. They throw trash in front of the complex And all over the street! You can’t even walk on the side walk because they have taken over that. We have sex offenders living in those tents when we have children living on our street. Like I said the homeless that are on ML KING way was given the chance to find housing through The Salvation Army and they chose the streets. Where does the community have a voice? People are moving out from where I live and not moving in, because of those tents on the street. I love Bremerton and it is a great town and community. But it’s not fair to tax payers and people that pay a lot of money to live here. I am tired of watching people doing there drugs in the open. Watching them sell there drugs in the open. Watching BPD driving bye like it’s no big deal. This is a big deal! I am 100 %for the camping band! People overdose not once not twice and still don’t get it. There is only so many times you can go and help them. I know people are writing the city to stop from removing them from the street. The ones that are being a voice for this only come down here for like 30 mins at a time. Try asking people that live 24-7 on this street. There has to be a solution to this madness. The BPD aren’t design to deal with intervention strategy dealing with people in crisis. We need to have other systems in place to deal with the homeless. What is the solution? It’s not going to get better. Let’s make Bremerton great again! Thank for your time Resident of Bremerton Matt Frost From:Mike Fairchild To:City Council Subject:Anti camping laws Date:Thursday, June 29, 2023 2:56:29 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. I once again find myself very surprised by the actions or proposed actions of our city council. I am a homeless person in Kitsap county. I do not do drugs or drink alcohol I don't have a criminal record and until I became disabled I was a housed tax paying resident in Kitsap county. Now that I am disabled I can't afford to rent anywhere and I have been on a wait list for over five years. My name got called as I was in the hospital hooked up to life support and when I was in good enough condition to respond and do the required paperwork for my affordable rent place it was to late and I was told I would be the very next person to get housed. This was over three months ago and somehow I am now the second name on the list. I lost a spot and my place no fault of my own. The housing situation is horrible and I guess lucky for me I am not camping where you can find me and throw out all my things then not offer me any real solutions. Criminalizing homelessness with no solutions available is not the way to help people. Where are the shelters and where are the places those in my situation can live? If I become a criminal because I became disabled and now can't afford my rent what do I do while waiting for Bremerton housings wait list to re open or have a place where I can rent? This making camping illegal is not fixing the problem and the cost of paying for someone's stay in jail to taxpayers is not cheap at all. Besides the fact that the homeless person who gets all their belongings thrown away by the state when they get arrested. It is the worst possible way to treat a person who is already feeling like less than a human from all the other crap our community puts us homeless people through. How about you try and do what you would want someone to do to you if you found yourself in their situation. Thank you Mike Fairchild From: To: Subject: Date: molly.rose.brooks42@gmail.com City Council no anti camping ordinances Friday, June 30, 2023 4:44:29 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Please do not enact anti camping ordinances. Our unhoused neighbors have no where to go. They need services and to get services service providers need to be able to find them. It is inhumane to kick them out of where they are living. When camps are cleared out people lose all their belongings and they have precious few belongings. This can result in people losing their only tent and therefor the roof over their head. Getting arrested for camping can give unhoused people a record which can be detrimental for them later on when they apply for a job or in other situations where they need a background check. We have plenty of public spaces we can make available for people to camp. Sincerely, Molly Brooks From:Robin Henderson To:City Council Subject:Camping ordinance Date:Friday, June 30, 2023 2:55:54 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. I will confess that I’m not fully up to speed on this issue. But I would like to let our mayor and city council know that I support the efforts of Kimmy Siebens and oppose , an anti camping ordinance. Robin Henderson. Sent from my iPhone From:Robin Hills To:City Council; Greg Wheeler Subject:Anti-Camping Ordinance Date:Friday, June 30, 2023 10:27:43 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Bremerton City Council and Mayor Wheeler, I am a medical student and a resident of Lake Forest Park in King County, Washington. I am writing with my concern regarding the anti-camping ordinance in Bremerton. Although I understand the challenges that must come with having unhoused people in Bremerton, creating and upholding anti-camping laws only forces unhoused people into the surrounding areas that also do not have enough infrastructure to support them. This tactic also penalizes these individuals creating yet another barrier to getting back on their feet. I urge you to consider alternatives to aid this vulnerable population rather than forcing them out of the area. I would also ask that you consider the strong military presence in Bremerton and think of the unhoused veterans, who no longer serve us, but who still need our continued support. As a future physician I dream of a Washington where no person goes without a stable place to live, access to basic needs, or to preventative healthcare measures. I hope that you are able to act with compassion on this matter and work to come up with an equitable solution to support stable housing for individuals without enacting an anti-camping ordinance in the interim. Best, Robin Robin Hills Von Davies Master of Medical Science, 2020 Master of Reproductive Clinical Sciences, 2022 MD, 2026 (expected) 206.920.6144 l robinvondavies@gmail.com l robinfhills@gmail.com From:Tina Mari Fox To:City Council Subject:Consideration Date:Saturday, July 1, 2023 4:59:56 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. As you consider a ban on camping as a solution to turning your back on our homeless population, I remind you every.single.human. is a single poor decision or a single life changing event away from being homeless. How we treat or care for our society's most vulnerable is a reflection of our inner heart. Let's find another solution...homelessness is NOT a crime, it is a tragedy. Wouldn't it be less expensive to focus on mental health and addiction services, education and job training...and by expensive, I don't just mean monetary cost. I would like to believe that I live in a community that looks for solutions, rather than trying to exterminate/eliminate/shut out those whose only crime may be not having a place to shelter that we deem acceptable. Tina Fox 2058 E 16th St Bremerton, WA Sent from Samsung Galaxy smartphone. Get Outlook for Android From: To: Subject: Date: Patricia Morris City Council Anti-camping Letters Friday, June 30, 2023 4:31:39 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Please do not enact anti-camping ordinances. They are are inhumane, ineffective and counter- productive. Instead establish research based policies that provide services and appropriate housing solutions. This will benefit our unhoused neighbors as well as the whole community of Bremerton. Patricia Morris _______________________________________________________________________________ From: Patricia Morris <pmorris1015@yahoo.com> Sent: Friday, June 30, 2023 4:53 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Homelessness As a community member I strongly am opposed to anti-camping ordinances. They are inhumane, I effective, and counter-productive. Research demonstrates that these draconian approaches exacerbate the problem by discouraging this vulnerable population from seeking services. Anti-camping policies are detrimental to the whole community. Patricia Morris ________________________________________________________________________________ From: Patricia Morris <pmorris1015@yahoo.com> Sent: Friday, June 30, 2023 5:55 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Anti-camping ord I am in strong opposition to anti-camping ordinances. They are inhumane, ineffective, and counter- productive. Research supports the fact that such policies exacerbate the homelessnes by further marginalizing this vulnerable population making services less accessible. Let's find real solutions such as affordable housing, better health-care and substance abuse treatment. Anti-camping ordinances are destructive to our entire community. Patricia Morris From: To: Subject: Date: Patricia Morris City Council Anti-camping Letters Friday, June 30, 2023 4:31:39 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Please do not enact anti-camping ordinances. They are are inhumane, ineffective and counter-productive. Instead establish research based policies that provide services and appropriate housing solutions. This will benefit our unhoused neighbors as well as the whole community of Bremerton. Patricia Morris _______________________________________________________________________________ From: Patricia Morris <pmorris1015@yahoo.com> Sent: Friday, June 30, 2023 4:53 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Homelessness As a community member I strongly am opposed to anti-camping ordinances. They are inhumane, I effective, and counter-productive. Research demonstrates that these draconian approaches exacerbate the problem by discouraging this vulnerable population from seeking services. Anti-camping policies are detrimental to the whole community. Patricia Morris ________________________________________________________________________________ From: Patricia Morris <pmorris1015@yahoo.com> Sent: Friday, June 30, 2023 5:55 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Anti-camping ord I am in strong opposition to anti-camping ordinances. They are inhumane, ineffective, and counter- productive. Research supports the fact that such policies exacerbate the homelessnes by further marginalizing this vulnerable population making services less accessible. Let's find real solutions such as affordable housing, better health-care and substance abuse treatment. Anti-camping ordinances are destructive to our entire community. Patricia Morris ________________________________________________________________________________ From: Patricia Morris <pmorris1015@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, July 3, 2023 9:21 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Anti-camping ordinances and sanitation facilities I am strongly opposed to anti-camping ordinances. They are inhumane and counterproductive. It further marginalizes this vulnerable population and prevents them from seeking services. Real solutions such as mental health services and affordable housing need to be established. As a temporary solution, bathroom facilities need to be provided for the currently unhoused members of our community. Thank you. Patricia Morris From: Eric Kneebone <edkneebone@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, July 5, 2023 7:30 AM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Encampments CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. To members of the city council: As a resident of MLK Way, I wish to state my support for a no camping ordnance. The street people on MLK way have made walking down the street a hazardous undertaking at all hours of the day or night. The sidewalks are impossible to walk due to the debris, collection of wheelchairs and bicycles, and occasionally people laying across the route. I've never seen so many rats on the street as I have since the shantytown was reestablished this latest time. Every time people choosing street living have been helped or removed, no action has been taken to address the unsafe conditions of camping on MLK way - namely encouraging people to camp where facilities are available to support them. Placing of eco blocks, Requiring vehicles to be licensed and registered to park on the street, and not allowing tents or makeshift shelters to be constructed are means to prevent this once the street people have been helped. I do not wish to see sleeping on the streets criminalized. Erecting shanties and establishing tent residences should be. Please pass an ordnance to address the tents and trash and rats and mess. Eric Kneebone From: georgiagatzke@comcast.net <georgiagatzke@comcast.net> Sent: Tuesday, July 4, 2023 4:17 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Upcoming Meeting About Encampments as shown in Kitsap Sun on Monday 7/3/23. CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. I just heard about this meeting to be held on 7/5/23 but I will be out of town. I wanted my thoughts on record. I acknowledge that I am no expert on the homeless situation in Kitsap County and City of Bremerton. However, I believe every one of us needs to voice concerns and what we would like to see happen. I definitely want homeless people to have a safe place to go. I want it to be supervised and monitored so that wherever it is does not become “just another problem place.” I do not want people to be allowed to camp/park/etc on public or private property. I want anyone who wants to take advantage of any housing or safe-monitored camping space that the city/county/state provides to have to undergo an evaluation for mental health, drugs, (notice I did not say anything bad about their possible drug addiction – the provider should simply have ALL the info), job skills, and also people who take advantage of such places should not be allowed to move to Washington from other states just to take advantage of those provisions. So some kind of proof of having already lived in the state for some period of time needs to be in effect. I am not saying this to be punitive. It is simply not possible for Washington to be everything to every homeless person in the nation. We must draw the line to be able to deal with the number we CAN deal with. I also would want to see firm limits on the amount of time a person can live in such a space before they would be required to meet certain standards – such as having achieved a job, regular attendance at counseling with documented progress, etc. This would be what I call cooperation on both sides and create a situation where the previously homeless person would have to be part of the solution. I do not wish to be heartless nor unhelpful. However, I also think that this business of having people camping wherever they want and making messes and creating dangerous situations CANNOT CONTINUE OR BE ALLOWED. I also apologize that I do not have a solution to put forward. I realize that complaining without proposing concrete solutions is not morally acceptable. Please have my thoughts recorded as part of the meeting. Thank you, Georgia Gatzke From: Lilly Deerwater <lilly@wpsr.org> Sent: Wednesday, July 5, 2023 10:44 AM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Greg Wheeler <Greg.Wheeler@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility Urges You Not to Criminalize Camping CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Bremerton City Council & Mayor Wheeler, We at Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility urge you to decide against criminalizing camping in Bremerton. Anti-camping ordinances worsen homelessness. By criminalizing people who are unhoused, you make it more difficult for people experiencing homelessness to secure housing. By adding the barrier of a criminal record, you ensure people will remain homeless for longer, adding to the problems of your city and those who live in it. Please decide against perpetuating homelessness in your city simply for the sake of appearances. By focusing on solutions such as housing and services instead, you have the opportunity to address homelessness, rather than prolong this crisis and cause damage to the health and wellbeing of people who are already struggling. Thank you, Lilly Deerwater, Economic Inequity & Health Program Manager On Behalf of Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility -- Lilly Deerwater (she/her/hers) Economic Inequity & Health Program Manager Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility Email: lilly@wpsr.org | Phone: 206.547.2630 Visit us: wpsr.org | Join us: Become a member Donate: Support our work | Learn more: Sign up for emails From: Neal Foley <nealfoley1021@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, July 4, 2023 7:01 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Cc: nealfoley1021@gmail.com Subject: Please no Anti Camping Ordinances CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. My name is Neal, I am a resident of the City of Bremerton in District 5. I am adamantly opposed to criminalizing homelessness and/or mental illness. I strongly urge the City Council to repeal, in its entirety, the current no camping ordinance. It is non enforceable and useless. Please signal a new beginning with an entirely new code dealing with homelessness and mental illness in this community in a positive educated way. Let’s deal with this problem instead of sweeping it off our streets with no action because it is ugly and hard. This is not a temporary problem it is here to stay. We have VERY highly educated experts like those in the Bremerton Homeless Community Coalition right in our midst. Let’s stand behind these people and let them guide us with facts and knowledge rather than making decisions based on biases and hearsay. I would ask our City Council and Mayor to be proactive and support the experts in this field 100%. Move forward with THEIR knowledge as our guide. From: Susan Brooks-Young <sjbrooksyoung@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, July 5, 2023 11:17 AM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us>; Susan Brooks-Young <sjbrooksyoung@gmail.com> Subject: Addressing the need for shelter in Bremerton CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good morning, I am aware that the subject of a new city ordinance related to where and when people may (or may not) sleep is on the agenda for this evening's city council meeting. I find it very disconcerting that the mayor would apparently suggest circumventing Martin vs. Boise and that council would consider doing this (Bremerton won't clear encampments, so council opens discussion on changes to current law, Kitsap Sun, July 3, 2023). As a resident of downtown Bremerton, I am well aware of the concerns raised when unhoused people are forced to resort to living outdoors. However, I am also aware that every society will always have a segment of its population who, for whatever reason, needs assistance accessing the most basic needs - food, clothing, and shelter. Part of the social contract is establishing systems to ensure that these people's basic needs are met. We can either acknowledge that reality and actually take steps to do something about it or we can continue to blame the unhoused for their life circumstances and punish them by refusing to ensure they have access to basics. For example, one frequently cited issue with the encampment on MLK Way is that human waste is everywhere. The city funded installation of a portable toilet months ago. Where is it? And where are these people supposed to relieve themselves when there are no public restrooms and they are locked out of the Marvin Williams Center? I would hazard a guess that it is less expensive overall to ensure that everyone has access to food, clothing, and shelter than it is to mitigate all the negative outcomes of refusing to do so including crime, spread of disease, the cost of shuffling people from one location to another, etc. As such, I encourage city council and the mayor to quit spending time and resources trying to figure out how to punish the unhoused and start spending that time and those resources to figuring out systemic ways to identify and implement humane solutions. These are human beings and deserve much better treatment than they are currently receiving. Thank you, Susan Young Bremerton -- SJ Brooks-Young Consulting Telephone: 951-202-2042 Web site: www.sjbrooks-young.org Twitter: @sjbrooksyoung Facebook Business Page: www.facebook.com/SjBrooksYoungConsulting “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou Bremerton won't clear encampments, so council opens discussion on changes to current law “It’s getting worse,” said Reuben Wilkins, a barbershop owner and cook for the Marvin Williams Recreation Center. “Garbage, poop, piss. They get butt naked behind the building.” Wilkins does not blame the people who live in the large encampment on the MLK Way sidewalk, just feet away from the Marvin Williams Recreation Center, a gleaming facility that opened in 2018. Instead, most of his anger is directed toward Bremerton’s city government. “The city is definitely inactive on this … They’re not talking to us,” said Wilkins. “These kids should be able to grow up and have some protection,” added Tovi Wilkins, who runs a summer program for children at the center. Staff usually keep most of the doors locked. They had to turn off the fountain in front of the building because people were washing themselves in it. Reuben Wilkins has found needles nearby. Parents still bring their children for summer camp, but the one question that they want to know is “What is the city doing?” said Wilkins. She reemphasized the question: “What is the city doing?” When the Salvation Army closed its overnight shelter on May 1, the city was left without any emergency shelter beds. According to the city's reading of a Ninth Circuit Court ruling from 2019 known as Martin v. Boise, a lack of shelter availability makes it illegal to clear encampments. Over the past two months, the encampment on MLK Way, just a block behind the Salvation Army and near where the former Kitsap Rescue Mission was located, has grown. On Friday, approximately a dozen tents could be seen on the sidewalk between Park Avenue and Warren Avenue, along with shopping carts and assorted personal items. “[T]o clear an encampment is not legal,” said Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler. Although Bremerton has a municipal code for “unauthorized camping,” which bans camping “in any park or other public place,” the ordinance can no longer be enforced now that there are no available shelter beds. When asked whether the Bremerton Police Department cites residents for unauthorized camping, Wheeler replied, “As a rule, no.” When the Kitsap Rescue Mission or the Salvation Army's temporary shelter were open, officers could direct people who are homeless there. “Now we don’t have a place for them to go anymore,” said Wheeler. Right now, Wheeler identifies two projects for Bremerton’s government which could address the MLK Way encampment. First, Bremerton must create a new shelter. Wheeler said the city has picked a location and partners, but he must get funding from the state before he can share a timeline for opening. Second, Wheeler urged the Bremerton City Council to create a new ordinance which would not violate Martin. The new ordinance could ban camping on MLK Way or restrict camping to nighttime hours, so that the street would have to be clear during the day. Last Wednesday, the City Council discussed the possibility of changing the current ordinance. On July 5, the council will hold a public hearing on the issue during its regular meeting, scheduled for 5:30 p.m. at the Norm Dicks Government Center. Initially, council members were hesitant to even discuss the issue, because they were afraid that the public could perceive them as being too punitive without offering any housing solutions. “Before we get any more aggressive … we better know what we’re doing as far as providing adequate support,” said Councilmember Denise Frey. Frey also raised concerns about the optics of spending time changing an ordinance while a portable toilet that the council allocated $10,000 for has still not been installed on MLK Way. "This is for the administration,” Frey said. “Fix it!” City attorneys have reassured the council that any change to current ordinance would be less punitive, as the current code is a blanket prohibition on camping. Councilmember Eric Younger began to understand why Wheeler and the lawyers were pushing for the change. “I have a sinking feeling that we don’t enforce it at all,” said Younger. Even if the language of the new ordinance is less punitive, in practice it will be more punitive than an ordinance which is rarely enforced. Kimmy Siebens, founder of the Bremerton Homeless Community Coalition and a nurse on the task force with Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, argued against any new law which would allow the city to criminalize and move people who are homeless. “They’re focusing on hiding people, pushing them to the margins of society,” said Siebens, “... every single person on MLK Way has no place to go.” Siebens pointed to other cities that have passed new ordinances where people who are homeless hide from police and no longer trust social workers, which makes it more difficult to connect them with any resources that could help. Siebens argued that any kind of criminal penalty is short-sighted and distracts from the need to address more complex issues that lead people to become unhoused. “The mayor wants to get rid of this unsightly thing,” she said. According to Siebens, new ordinances have been created without real knowledge of what it means to be homeless. For example, Longview and Portland ban daytime camping, but Siebens said that many people who are homeless sleep during the day because they need to be alert at night to protect themselves from the increased risk of assault. “They do keep each other safe,” said Siebens, “This camp is no different than a neighborhood.” Siebens does understand the concerns of parents and staff from the Marvin Williams Center. “If we’re going to put a Band-Aid on it, let’s give them a toilet,” she said in an interview. Many in the community agree and are frustrated that money has already been set aside, but nothing has been done. According to Wheeler, the city had not determined a safe way to install the port-a-potty without blocking the street or the public right-of-way. “This talk about the port-a-potty is serious, but almost comical,” said Younger. 7/5/2023 To whom it may concern: This letter is in response to the proposed ordinance regulating the time place and manner of tents being used on public property to protect individuals experiencing involuntary homelessness. My name is Joslyn and I am with the Bremerton Prayer Walk. During the past 3.5 years, we have consistently been fellowshipping with many of the individuals this ordinance will have a devastating effect. There are numerous issues with the course of action, but the most important is that we are going to lose many individuals, the majority are involuntarily homeless or fleeing violent and dangerous situations. Furthermore, this type of ordinance is incredibly erroneous in many of the assumptions utilized in identifying this type of ordinance. First, many individuals who survive on the streets do not sleep during the evening hours as they stay awake for protection and sleep in intervals to protect themselves. By requiring they sleep during the most dangerous time so they can pack up by early dawn, they are suggesting they put themselves even more at risk. Additionally, they assume individuals residing on the street have the means to pack up and move their belongings. This is absolutely absurd. Many individuals who face these current conditions have physical and mental restrictions preventing compliance. Our most vulnerable will become even more vulnerable There are incredulous constitutional concerns, substantial mental health and addiction concerns, and it may be the most blatant attempt to hide one of the most pressing concerns facing this city…the growing homelessness crisis. This is not a unique problem, however, the solution being presented before this committee is taking this city down an incredibly dangerous path. First, the time place and manner restrictions proposed will fail any type of judicial scrutiny. First, the courts have indicated that homelessness is protected as political speech under the 1st amendment. This means that any ordinance restricting the time place or manner restriction to be be strictly scrutinized and in order to be upheld it requires the government to show the following: 1. content neutral (that the government does not outlaw content specific viewpoints) a. (are we requiring mothers with sunshades protecting children to move, are we requiring organziations that place sun covers as booths etc. to be moved?) … the answer is clearly NO…this is only for homeless individuals. 2 7/5/2023 2. (2) narrowly tailored to serve a governmental interest (i.e., cannot be overly broad to regulate more than what is necessary to achieve government interest like, for example, public safety), a. I completely understand there are substantial concerns for businesses and the public, but placing additional burdens on our most fragile and vulnerable population is not the answer. 3. (3) ample alternative means to express ideas. a. THERE ARE NO ALTERNATIVES!!! The right to remain in public space is both a universal right that all Americans value dearly and a bulwark against deprivations that have starkly affected homeless people throughout history and, to a particularly dire extent, today. We treat refugees with more compassion than we do our own citizens. We are well aware there is strong precedence indicating that criminalizing homelessness violates the 8th amendment of the united states constitution. In Jones v. City of Los Angeles , the leading case decided in favor of this view, the Ninth Circuit stated that “we understood Robinson to stand for the proposition that the Eighth Amendment prohibits the state from punishing an involuntary act or condition if it is the unavoidable consequence of one’s status or being.” The unavoidable consequence of this particular ordinance is that people are going to die if we cannot find them to help find the appropriate services to help them. We will be unable to bring food to them, much needed living supplies, water, first aid supplies, etc. We know there is safety in numbers and those live on the streets and if people are constantly getting dispersed, more people will become isolated and even more vulnerable resulting in an increase in violent assaults, rapes and death. I hope and pray this committee and this city can take a different approach to solving this problem and look for solutions instead of trying to find loopholes in existing laws to make life more difficult. To treat all with dignity is what this city should be striving for, instead isolating and hurting the vulnerable. Joslyn Snow From: sggriffith@fastmail.com <sggriffith@fastmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, July 5, 2023 4:28 PM To: City Council <City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us> Subject: An�-camping CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organiza�on. Do not click links or open atachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. To the Council: I believe part of your mission is to care for the health and well being of the people of Bremerton. Were we to experience a natural disaster, I know you would all be out there doing your best to save us from the fire, flood, or wind. A�erwards, you would help us construct temporary housing and preparing food and gathering blankets to care for us un�l we could start living normal lives again. The homeless disaster has gone on too long, and our humanitarian impulses have diminished. Imagine how the homeless must feel -- for some of them, it's been a very long �me indeed. To help them, we need to move through the morass of funding, social policy, urban planning, and all the other wearing prac�ces of modern life. Solving homelessness is really hard! But that's a big part of your job at the moment. A lot of solu�ons have been proposed, and some of them are prety good. Find the money -- people are making money from real estate; they have to share it. It wouldn't hurt that bad. Tiny homes are cheap. We can detox and clean up the old Harrison Hospital -- my goodness, what a view! Don't give up on kindness and good works. And fix the darn public toilet! Suzanne Griffith, District 1 sggriffith@fastmail.com From:kim siebens To:City Council Subject:Public Comment on Anti-Camping Ordinance July 5 2023 Date:Wednesday, July 5, 2023 6:10:07 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Bremerton City Council Members, My name is Kimmy Siebens. I am A 17 year resident of Bremerton, a Registered Nurse, a non profit founder, a community organizer, and a task force member representing Washington State Physicians for Social Responsibility. Today, I am speaking to shed light on a decision that is not only morally bankrupt but also displays a complete lack of compassion by many of our city council. We are facing a proposal that would amend an already unconstitutional anti-camping ordinance, effectively criminalizing the most vulnerable citizens of our town. I am appalled, disgusted, and deeply saddened by the council's decision to consider turning their backs, even more, on those who need our help the most. Let me be unequivocally clear: this revised ordinance will not be a solution; it will be a heartless attack on those who already face immense challenges in their lives. Instead of offering support, the council would be punishing individuals who have fallen on hard times, pushing them further into the dark. Do we truly believe that criminalizing poverty and medical issues is the answer? Homelessness is not a choice; it is a complex issue rooted in a multitude of societal problems such as lack of affordable housing, unemployment, mental health, and addiction. Our city council should be addressing these root causes rather than exacerbating the suffering of those who already endure unimaginable hardships. By creating an amendment to this ordinance, the council would be sending a message that it is acceptable to turn a blind eye to the suffering of our fellow citizens. This would show a complete disregard for human dignity and basic human rights. We cannot claim to be a compassionate community if we allow this to pass, unchallenged. Let us not forget that homelessness affects people from all walks of life - These are not faceless statistics; they are our neighbors, friends, and community members. Criminalizing homelessness does not magically make it disappear. It shifts the problem from sight, sweeping it under the rug and perpetuating a cycle of poverty and despair. Instead of investing in punitive measures, the council should be investing in affordable housing, mental health services, or, to start, a simple porta potty so people can use the restroom in a law abiding way. These are the true solutions that will uplift our community and save us more financially in the long run. I am urging this council to reconsider this cruel and misguided idea. Your duty is to represent all citizens, not just those who are privileged and fortunate or can make the city council meetings. In closing, I implore each and every one of you to join me in opposing this ordinance and any amendments. Demand that this be repealed like it should have in 2018 when it was deemed to be unconstitutional. We have to stop all of these distractions and focus on the real issues at hand. Kimmy Siebens RN Economic Inequity and Health Task Force Member, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, www.wpsr.org President, Their Voice http://www.their-voice.org Founder, Bremerton Homeless Community Coalition https://www.facebook.com/groups/bremertonhomeless Published for September 6 Council Meeting Item 3 – Mayor’s Report MAYOR’S REPORT September 6, 2023 Photo courtesy of Port of Bremerton City of Bremerton Poem Box •Leave a Poem, Take a Poem –Poem Box concept developed by City of Bremerton Poet Laureate Tia Hudson •Installed next to her poem “Gullible” on utility service cabinet on 5th Street •Poem box built and installed by City’s Public Works team! Washington Ave & 11th Project Construction Update Temporary parking provided for (Lower) Washington Ave residents while existing parking restricted To prepare, Washington Ave traffic was shifted to the West to keep traffic moving safely away from work on (Lower) Washington Ave Washington Ave & 11th Project Construction Update - Lower Washington Ave •August –Work included removal of existing pavement, medians, and sidewalk; starting of install of drainage improvements •September/October –Work will include finalizing of improvements on Lower Washington Ave (drainage systems, new sidewalk and curbing, new paving, etc.) •Expected to be completed in October 2023 Washington Ave & 11th Project Construction Update – Looking Ahead •Updates for anticipated work on (Upper) Washington Ave and 11th Street coming soon •No impacts anticipated to the Manette Bridge or Washington Ave/Manette traffic signal in 2023 Kitsap Lake Management Phosphorus Control with EutroSORB-G: •Most recent application completed 6/6/2023 •Removes phosphorus from lake water to control blue-green toxic algae. Aquatic Harvesting: •Completed August 2023 •Improves recreational use, and safety for users, •Reduces nutrients in the lake that feed algae blooms. Kitsap Lake Park: •City staff and lakefront property owner volunteers removed yellow flag iris rhizomes on the shore of Kitsap Lake in July 2023 Gorst Creek Fish Passage •City staff constructed fish weirs in August 2023 •The weirs allow returning salmon to access the upper watershed for spawning Quote from Recent Applicant for City Position “One of the attributes about the Bremerton team that led me to apply for this position was hearing testimonials from colleagues regarding how inclusively, cohesively, and professionally the team operates. While doing some research on Bremerton and the Bremerton team, I reviewed several of the work products that the team produces. The work products (…) that I reviewed were an excellent indicator of the quality of work and professionalism to which my colleagues referred.” Focus will be to cleanup trash along the shoreline and roadways, close to Sinclair Inlet and Port Washington Narrows! Published for September 6 Council Meeting Item 5 – Public Recognition Warren Avenue Bridge 3 minutes A recent Kitsap Sun article detailed Mayor Wheeler’s concern that the Council’s recent decision to choose pathways of 12 and 8 feet on the Warren Avenue Bridge may delay and possibly endanger funding for the entire Warren Avenue Bridge Multimodal Improvement Project. I want to offer a different opinion as a member of the Warren Avenue Bridge design committee. The Council’s role is to review all viable options, hear staff and community recommendations and make the final decision. That is what the council did. Without that leadership stemming back to March of 2021, we would have only been given the option to accept or reject an 8-foot sidewalk on both sides of the bridge, because the public works staff/administration told Council that no Underbridge inspection truck (UBIT) existed that could inspect a bridge with a path wider than 8 feet. The bike community informed Council that such trucks did exist, and that safer alternatives that better conform to state and federal standards for the width of shared use paths should be considered. Council therefore expanded the scope of the design study so that wider, safer paths would be analyzed for feasibility. The exact language that council approved on April 7th, 2021 is below. On April 7, 2021, the Bremerton City Council voted unanimously to approve an Engineering Participating Agreement with WSDOT, GCB 3453, which in the Scope of Work included “Widen one or both sides of the bridge to obtain a desirable shared use path width of 12', excluding shoulders, in accordance with WSDOT DM Chapter 1515.” Verbal instructions from Council included direction to study the proposal submitted to Council by the West Sound Cycling Club which included 12’ and 14’ shared use path width options. The Council is not the problem. The Public Works Director in a recorded committee meeting portrayed the WSCC proposal as "crazy". With his bias against a 12' path, he continued to use the UBIT as the reason for not seriously considering wider paths on the bridge. 18 months into the design process, staff presented the Design Committee 9 options, but again concluded that only their original 8-foot option on both sides of the bridge could be inspected by existing UBITs. That was incorrect. They were wrong. The existing WSDOT UBIT fleet can inspect a bridge with wider 10-foot paths. The UBIT saga continued as the key reason for not analyzing wider paths. WSDOT was blamed as the source of the problem. In response to a letter that I wrote in December of 2022 the city received a letter from WSDOT stating that Bremerton could choose wider paths if that were desired, and WSDOT would mitigate any inspection issues. Stakeholder committees for any construction project, if staffed well, can bring people together to find solutions that meet the needs of the community. This did not happen with the Warren Avenue Bridge Design Committee. From my perspective, for 20 months the city staff/administration focused on only one 8-foot path option, and that’s where the greatest delay in the design process occurred. There was a predetermined bias from the beginning that did not include a safe way for all ages and abilities to use our bridge. I certainly do not blame the council for slowing down the process. They’ve continued to show leadership. Dianne Iverson Resident of Bremerton Member of the Warren Avenue Bridge Design Committee Published for September 6 Council Meeting Item 7 – Council Reports COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 Michael Goodnow