Item:
Title
Discussion of UMD Challenges and Opportunities (30min)
Body
Date of BOCC Meeting: April 1, 2019
Request for Board Action:
Agenda Text
The Board is requested to receive various updates from Urban Ministries of Durham (UMD) and ask any questions they wish.
The impetus for this agenda item was the submittal of UMD’s 2nd quarter report, which indicated an increase in the average length of stay. In addition to wanting further discussion of that issue (which is largely reflective of numerous other systemic issues), other Commissioners were interested in how able UMD is to accommodate homeless individuals being released from the County’s detention facility. Others were also interested in discussing whether and how UMD can become more of a low-barrier shelter, as low-barrier housing is a key concept in the “housing first” model and also an important HUD funding criterion. Finally, UMD staff would like to introduce a one-time funding request for upgrades to UMD café space.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: A strong housing and human services support system ties closely to Goal 1 (Community and Family Enrichment) and Goal 2 (Health and Well-Being For All) of the Durham County Strategic Plan.
Resource Persons: Sheldon Mitchell, Executive Director (UMD)
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the Board receive various updates from Urban Ministries of Durham (UMD) and ask any questions they wish.
Signature
County Manager: ____________________________