Homelessness is a big, multi-faceted, regional problem that got worse over the years while the County threw money at consultants and then kind of stood back. Now, though, it is beginning to look like the County has decided to clean up its act in the unincorporated area.There is a new County tiny home village at Florin & Power Inn, a new "permanent supportive housing" facility about to open on Howe, and "Safe Stay Communities" in the pipeline. One of the "Safe Stay" facilities is about to open in North HIghlands.

The County defines a Safe Stay Community as a low-barrier, full-service homeless shelter located close to existing encampments. Stay Safe Communities provide spaces where homeless individuals and families can live safely  while getting necessary supportive services to help them eventually end their homelessness.

Last November the Supervisors decided to buy a $23 million property at 4837 Watt Ave. in North Highlands to serve as a Safe Stay Community. The concept, a mix of indoor camping and car camping along with on-site service delivery, was presented to the community in 2022. Suggestions from the public were received and it looks like the facility will be in line with the suggestions. The facility is initially going to offer shelter up to 140 tiny home cabins for 160 people inside the building. It also has space for 50 cars/RVs in the parking lot.

Now that the facility is about to open, Supervisor Desmond has scheduled another community meeting about the project. The meeting will be held on August 29th from 6-7pm at the North Highlands Recreation & Park District's Community Center at 6040 Watt Avenue. Supervisors Serna and Frost will also be there, as will the site development consultant. For more information, contact Supervisor Desmond by email to richdesmond@saccounty.gov or call (916) 874-5471.