Working Group on Homelessness - 04/21/2026

The Chattanooga City Council and City Boards convened a Working Group on Homelessness on April 21, 2026, to discuss strategies and community partnerships aimed at addressing homelessness in the city. Key procurement-related discussions included the potential establishment of a 24/7 low-barrier shelter, with nonprofit organizations proposing to lead the project and seeking city support in terms of resources and land. The council considered utilizing a city-owned building near 12 Walnut as a viable shelter location, emphasizing proximity to supportive services. Additionally, the group discussed creating databases to coordinate faith-based organizations and track youth aging out of foster care to better target assistance. There was also talk of launching capital campaigns and philanthropic efforts to fund shelter construction and supportive services. The meeting highlighted the need for coordinated behavioral health services, emergency shelter bed expansion, and improved protocols for handling homeless encampment cleanups. While no formal votes or contract awards were recorded, the council expressed intent to develop strategic plans and budget considerations to support these initiatives.