24:33The meeting included a presentation by representatives from the Cass Clay Interagency Council on Homelessness, who outlined the current state of homelessness in the region, including Cass County, North Dakota, and Clay County, Minnesota. They emphasized that homelessness is not limited to those living on the streets but includes individuals in shelters or temporarily with others. The presentation revealed that approximately 1,050 individuals experience homelessness each night in the metro area, with nearly 600 students identified as homeless in local schools. The national homelessness rate has increased by 18%, with a local rise of about 5%.

The council was informed about the strain on local resources, such as emergency shelters, which are overwhelmed with only 330 available beds for those seeking refuge. The presenters stressed the need for supportive and rapid rehousing strategies to help individuals transition out of homelessness and highlighted the lack of affordable housing as a critical barrier. They also underscored the importance of prevention and diversion strategies, noting that every dollar spent in these areas saves communities five dollars in emergency services and other costs.

14:27The newly formed Cass Clay Interagency Council on Homelessness was introduced as a groundbreaking effort, being the first council to operate across state lines in the nation. The council aims to represent various sectors of government, maximizing community resources for a comprehensive response to homelessness. This collaborative approach is intended to establish a long-term vision for reducing homelessness sustainably.

26:16Financial resources are being mobilized to support immediate activities, including staffing and housing solutions for an estimated 55 to 65 individuals at risk of entering unsheltered homelessness. The presenters emphasized the need for increased system capacity and a focus on permanent supportive housing rather than merely expanding shelter bed availability, which is not seen as a sustainable solution.

45:35Following the homelessness discussion, the council addressed several development projects, including final and preliminary plat approvals for local subdivisions. The Red River Valley Cooperative Power Association’s 20-acre subdivision near County Road 18 was discussed, with plans for future light industrial use. The Eastview Tenth Edition replatting on Center Avenue East was also approved, involving properties associated with the former Starlight Pet Motel. Both projects received unanimous support from the planning commission and the council.

56:09The council also approved a five-year multifamily tax abatement for a planned unit development on Twelfth Street Northeast, intended to meet the community’s need for affordable and workforce housing. This development mirrors the first phase of the Rail Ten Apartments, with 72 units planned. The proposal includes additional amenities, such as an on-site playground and basketball court, which could qualify the developer for an increased tax abatement.

01:05:19Infrastructure projects were another focal point, with discussions on the 34th Street reconstruction project and a temporary construction easement with Farmers Union Oil Company. This easement is necessary to facilitate federal transportation funding documentation. Additionally, the fire hall reconstruction project progressed, with pay request number 15 approved and the certificate of occupancy obtained. The council discussed various change orders, including a privacy fence and hose hoist installation, totaling $63,006.54.

01:18:13A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the purchase of a Pierce Freightliner Pumper Truck. Change orders were discussed to enhance the truck’s specifications, including SCBA bracket holders, exterior water gauges, and a lazy Susan design for tool compartments. The council approved the first change order, emphasizing the importance of thorough inspections before delivery to ensure compliance with agreed specifications.

01:28:32The meeting concluded with routine matters, including approving donations for police department outreach programs and addressing a miscellaneous assessment for unpaid water valve repair. Council members also discussed traffic issues around a park area, the importance of maintaining accountability for tax-abated projects, and the interconnectedness of city and county operations.