The Milwaukee County Committee on Health Equity, Human Needs, and Strategic Planning convened on March 7, 2025, to discuss critical budget amendments and the ongoing efforts to address homelessness in the region. The meeting, held in Room 203-R and live-streamed for public access, focused primarily on a proposed budget amendment for the Department of Health and Human Services.

The first agenda item was the adoption of budget amendment 16, which seeks authorization for a fiscal agent contract with Community Advocates. This amendment, introduced by Supervisor Rolland, allocates $500,000 in flexible funds aimed at supporting the unsheltered population in Milwaukee County. Deputy Director David Mohammed and Administrator Matthew provided insights into the necessity of these funds, emphasizing their role in facilitating rapid housing solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Eric Collins Dyke, Deputy Director of Housing, elaborated on how the funds would be utilized. He noted that they would enable street outreach workers and housing navigators to provide essential resources such as security deposits, short-term rental assistance, and household starter kits. These resources are crucial for expediting the transition of individuals from homelessness into stable housing, significantly reducing the time it takes to secure necessary items.

The committee acknowledged the importance of these funds, with several supervisors expressing their support for the ongoing efforts to combat homelessness. Supervisor Martin and Supervisor Benson highlighted the effectiveness of the housing division's outreach initiatives and the pressing need for continued funding. They raised questions about the sustainability of these funds in future budgets, suggesting that discussions should be held to ensure that such critical resources are integrated into the county's long-term financial planning.

Administrator Matthew responded by indicating that future budget considerations would depend on the overall financial landscape of the county. He noted that while the current amendment was a response to immediate needs, the administration would evaluate budget priorities as the year progresses.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of maintaining flexible funding for homelessness services, particularly as the county prepares for the upcoming spring season. The committee emphasized the need for collaboration with state representatives to secure additional support for non-mandated services, which are vital for addressing the needs of the community effectively.

Overall, the discussions underscored the committee's commitment to addressing homelessness in Milwaukee County and the critical role of flexible funding in facilitating timely and effective responses to this ongoing challenge.