During a recent government meeting, city officials and community members engaged in a heated discussion regarding homelessness and the need for a permanent shelter in Bremerton. A key point raised was the urgency of addressing the impending closure of the Salvation Army shelter on May 25th, which has prompted concerns about the city's approach to homelessness.

One commissioner emphasized the importance of not allowing homeless camps to re-emerge in the city, while also advocating for a balanced regulatory approach that does not impose unnecessary burdens. However, they expressed frustration over the lack of participation from the mayor in ongoing collaborative efforts to establish a permanent shelter, highlighting that the mayor has not attended any meetings since a policy was approved earlier this year.

The commissioner noted that while there is currently $1.2 million allocated in the budget for homelessness initiatives, there is uncertainty about future funding if the mayor remains disengaged. They stressed the need for accountability and adherence to regulations that set a deadline for resolving homelessness by May 2025, arguing that the city should not rely solely on law enforcement to manage the issue.

Community members also voiced their concerns. One resident, who has experienced homelessness, criticized the notion that police should respond to individuals living in tents, arguing that such actions are disproportionate and fail to address the root causes of homelessness. Another speaker, who works with homeless individuals, emphasized the importance of understanding and collaboration among various stakeholders, including law enforcement and outreach teams.

The meeting concluded with a motion to amend the ordinance regarding unauthorized camping, indicating that the city is actively seeking to address the complexities of homelessness while navigating the challenges of community safety and support.