Novato Creates Committee To Shape Future Response On Unhoused Population

NOVATO, CA — The Novato City Council voted late July to create a two-member homelessness committee aimed at improving coordination with service providers, Marin County and the community while developing recommendations for the city's response to homelessness.

City officials said July 28 the ad hoc committee will gather input from stakeholders, strengthen community engagement and identify potential policy changes for the full council to consider.

"Homelessness is a complex issue, both in Novato and in Marin County," said William Rose, Assistant City Manager. "The ad hoc committee will be able to address those items in an efficient and effective manner, all in the spirit of collaboration and finding solutions."

Rose said any recommendations developed by the committee would return to the City Council for consideration.

Councilmember Pat Eklund supported the effort, pointing to the city's history of addressing homelessness.

"We actually had a homeless committee a long time ago, and that actually resulted in the formation of Homeward Bound," Eklund said. "I think that we can take Novato to the next level with an ad hoc committee."

Councilmember Tim O'Connor said the committee could improve transparency and strengthen relationships among the many organizations involved in addressing homelessness.

"I think this is a great way to strengthen relationships, knock down bureaucratic boundaries, and just help build trust and develop working relationships across the community," O'Connor said.

Several public speakers supported the committee but urged the city to ensure discussions remain transparent and include opportunities for public participation.

The council appointed O'Connor and Councilmember Sandeep Karkal to serve on the committee, which will report its recommendations back to the full City Council for consideration.