In a recent meeting held on March 12, 2025, the Marin County Board of Supervisors discussed a critical resolution aimed at addressing the ongoing homelessness crisis in the region. The primary focus was on declaring a shelter crisis and establishing emergency housing standards, a move that reflects the county's commitment to tackling homelessness through innovative solutions.

Health and Human Services Director Lisa Varho and Director of Homelessness and Coordinated Care Gary Najaris presented the proposal, highlighting the alarming statistic that approximately 1,090 individuals in Marin County are currently homeless. While over 300 of these individuals are in shelters, they still fall under the category of homelessness. The urgency of the situation prompted the county to consider re-declaring a shelter crisis, a designation that would enable the county to utilize state provisions for developing emergency shelters.

The shelter crisis declaration is significant as it allows Marin County to bypass certain regulations that typically hinder the establishment of temporary emergency shelters. This flexibility is crucial, especially given recent legislative changes, including Senate Bill 1395, which extends the provisions for shelter crisis declarations until 2036. The county aims to leverage these new tools to create more effective responses to homelessness, although it is important to note that no specific projects are currently planned.

The proposed emergency housing standards would permit a broader range of temporary accommodations, such as mobile homes, RVs, and cabins without permanent foundations. This approach aims to provide immediate relief for those without adequate housing while maintaining a long-term focus on permanent housing solutions, consistent with the county's "housing first" strategy.

Additionally, the meeting underscored the need for ongoing collaboration between Health and Human Services and the Community Development Agency to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support these emergency measures. The county's commitment to annual reporting to the state will help track progress and ensure accountability in addressing homelessness.

In conclusion, the discussions during the meeting reflect Marin County's proactive stance on homelessness, emphasizing the importance of both immediate and long-term solutions. As the county moves forward with the shelter crisis declaration and the adoption of emergency housing standards, the community will be watching closely to see how these measures translate into tangible support for those in need.