Title
Approval of a Resolution Extending the Continuing Public Health Emergency Related to Houselessness
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve a resolution finding that the public health emergency related to houselessness continues to exist in Olympia and extending the emergency measures authorized under Ordinance No. 7443 for an additional 12 months, subject to the December 10, 2027 sunset date.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve a resolution finding that the public health emergency related to houselessness continues to exist in Olympia and extending the emergency measures authorized under Ordinance No. 7443 for an additional 12 months, subject to the December 10, 2027 sunset date.
Staff Contact:
Ashley Chambers, Housing Director, Community Development, 360.870.2621
Presenter(s):
Ashley Chambers, Housing Director, Community Development
Background and Analysis:
On July 17, 2018, the Olympia City Council adopted Ordinance No. 7146, declaring a public health emergency related to houselessness. Since then, Council has periodically reviewed and extended the declaration. Most recently, Ordinance No. 7443 was adopted on November 18, 2025, continuing the emergency declaration and authorizing extraordinary measures to address ongoing conditions. The ordinance requires Council to review the emergency conditions annually and allows 12-month extensions through its December 10, 2027 sunset date.
Since 2018, the City has made significant investments in homeless response, shelter, temporary housing, sanitation, and affordable housing, including the closure of 14 encampments and housing placements for approximately 500 individuals. Despite this progress, significant challenges remain.
The Jungle is the City's last major encampment, and limited permanent housing and shelter availability continue to constrain efforts to transition individuals out of homelessness.
The Quince Street and Franz Anderson Tiny Home Villages remain essential temporary housing resources. These ongoing conditions demonstrate the continued need for the emergency measures authorized under Ordinance No. 7443.
Climate Analysis:
Individuals experiencing homelessness are particularly vulnerable to extreme weather, including heat, cold, and severe storms. Continuing the emergency declaration supports the City's ability to respond to these conditions, provide temporary shelter and services, and reduce environmental impacts associated with unmanaged encampments, including improper waste disposal and water contamination.
Equity Analysis:
Homelessness disproportionately impacts vulnerable and marginalized populations, including individuals experiencing disabilities, behavioral health challenges, and barriers to affordable housing. Continuing the emergency declaration supports the City's ability to respond to urgent needs and connect individuals with housing and supportive services.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Homelessness continues to impact residents, businesses, and neighborhoods throughout Olympia. Community interests include addressing public health and safety concerns, reducing unsheltered homelessness, and expanding access to shelter and permanent housing.
Financial Impact:
The City continues to fund homeless response, sanitation, temporary housing, and affordable housing through existing resources and regional partnerships. The resolution does not authorize additional expenditures but maintains the emergency authorities necessary to respond to ongoing conditions.
Options:
1. Move to approve a resolution finding that the public health emergency related to houselessness continues to exist in Olympia and extending the emergency measures authorized under Ordinance No. 7443 for an additional 12 months, subject to the December 10, 2027 sunset date.
2. Move to approve, with modifications, a resolution finding that the public health emergency related to houselessness continues to exist in Olympia and extending the emergency measures authorized under Ordinance No. 7443 for an additional 12 months, subject to the December 10, 2027 sunset date.
3. Do not approve the resolution, which would require the City to evaluate the impacts on ongoing emergency response activities and authorities.
Attachments:
Resolution