Tempe, AZ – Tempe is bringing residents and community partners around the table to explore strategies and solutions to better support our most vulnerable residents.
The collaborative effort aims to enhance the wellbeing of those in need by helping them become healthy, financially empowered and housed. Improving opportunities for residents such as older adults, veterans, families and those experiencing homelessness ultimately strengthens quality of life for the entire community.
The Community Solutions for Livability and Wellbeing Council Subcommittee will hold its first meeting on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 3 p.m. at the Tempe Public Library, in the Desert Willow Room. The public is invited to attend; the meeting will be held in person to foster thoughtful discussions that can help shape future policy decisions.
The subcommittee is led by Councilmember Doreen Garlid, with Councilmembers Nikki Amberg and Bobby Nichols.
“As demand for housing and human services continues to grow, and with existing City resources and external funding sources facing significant constraints, community members are seeking practical and compassionate solutions to support residents in need,” said Councilmember Garlid.
The subcommittee will address a wide range of objectives:
- Bring together stakeholders, including residents, businesses, faith-based organizations and service providers, to maximize collaboration
- Conduct an environmental scan of human services’ needs and programs related to supporting increased livability, well-being and quality of life for all residents of the city
- Review and analyze financial resources, economic opportunities, zoning and land use policies, housing development opportunities and strategies to address the needs of our most vulnerable
- Explore the role and potential of adding homelessness issues into the city commission structure
The findings of the environmental scan and analysis will help identify community strengths, service gaps and emerging needs. This work will inform policy recommendations for City Council consideration.
Like many communities throughout the region, Tempe faces complex challenges related to housing affordability, homelessness, workforce participation, access to services and disparities in health and economic outcomes. As Tempe continues to experience population growth, economic development and changing community needs, it is critical to evaluate existing community health and human services programs, housing strategies and community support systems to ensure they remain responsive and effective.
Learn more about the Community Solutions for Livability and Wellbeing Council Subcommittee at tempe.gov/CouncilSubcommittees.