Frustrations emerge at pace of building unified approach to homelessness in Pierce County

Marty Campbell, a member of the Pierce County Council, expressed his frustration over the slow implementation of the Unified Regional Approach (URA) during a recent Select Committee on Homelessness meeting. Earlier this year, Pierce County allocated $1 million to hire the consulting firm Uncommon Bridges to guide the URA's development. Campbell criticized the lengthy timeline outlined by the consultants, which he believes jeopardizes timely action against the homelessness crisis, stating that several hundred individuals have died on the streets during the delay. The URA aims to create a coordinated response by uniting local governments and organizations to tackle the complex issue of homelessness. Currently, the consultants are in the 'scoping phase,' engaging with local governments to assess the unique challenges and strategies related to homelessness in different communities.

The lack of coordination among various agencies has been identified as a significant obstacle in effectively addressing the issue, a point emphasized by Council member Jani Hitchen. As discussions continue, there is growing concern among officials about the potential for further delays and the impact on vulnerable populations. The urgency of the situation calls for immediate and decisive action to prevent further loss of life among the homeless in Pierce County.