08/05/26 Special Called Continuum of Care Homelessness Planning Council

The Metro Nashville Network's Special Called Continuum of Care Homelessness Planning Council meeting on August 5, 2026, focused primarily on the evaluation and approval of funding recommendations for HUD Continuum of Care (CoC) grants. The Performance Evaluation Committee (PEC) presented their review of multiple Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs), including youth homelessness system improvement and demonstration programs. They recommended funding allocations to specific agencies such as Oasis and Nashville Launchpad based on application scores. A significant discussion centered on the funding and oversight of the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and Coordinated Entry (CE) programs, which historically received CoC funding but were not applied for in the current cycle. The council debated the implications of Metro government covering approximately $300,000 for these systems instead, including concerns about transparency, oversight, and future budgeting. Despite reservations, the council voted to approve the PEC's funding recommendations to meet HUD deadlines, emphasizing the urgency to secure nearly $15 million in federal funds for homelessness services. The meeting underscored challenges posed by recent HUD policy changes and the need for continued community input and oversight in funding decisions.