MAYOR'S TASKFORCE ON HOMELESSNESS MEETING

The Mayor's Taskforce on Homelessness meeting held on August 27, 2026, focused extensively on strategies to address homelessness in Lexington, particularly regarding the development and procurement of emergency shelter services and a centralized intake center. The taskforce discussed issuing separate Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for an emergency shelter and a centralized intake center, with consideration given to mobile case management as an interim solution. Members debated the location of the intake center, ultimately deciding to remove a prior restriction against locating it on the Versailles Road campus, allowing for more flexibility in site selection. The group also emphasized the importance of accountability measures for service providers and clients, though acknowledged challenges in enforcement and implementation. The taskforce approved recommendations to move forward with the emergency shelter RFP, the intake center planning, and additional initiatives such as diversion and seasonal shelter programs. Minor revisions were made to clarify funding sources for pilot projects, noting some would be privately financed. The meeting concluded with plans to establish an advisory group to oversee ongoing implementation and accountability related to homelessness services.