District three rep questions police outreach capabilities for homelessness support

The Denton City Council convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss pressing issues related to homelessness and resource allocation within the community. The meeting highlighted the need for operational feasibility in outreach efforts and the limitations faced by local police in addressing homelessness.

The discussion began with a recognition of the challenges in providing adequate resources for outreach. Council members noted that while there is a desire to improve services, the operational feasibility must be assessed. A representative commended the thorough examination of the current situation, acknowledging the necessity of such a review.

A significant point of discussion was the role of the police in outreach efforts. It was noted that police may not be the most suitable resource for this task, as they lack specific funding and resources to assist individuals experiencing homelessness. Historically, outreach contractors had access to federal funds that allowed them to connect people to housing, but these resources are dwindling. The police department, in contrast, does not have the financial means to provide direct assistance, such as hotel stays or transportation, which limits their effectiveness in outreach.

Council members raised questions about whether training in Crisis Intervention (CI) and Crisis Response Team (CRT) strategies would alter the police's ability to assist in outreach. However, it was clarified that training alone would not resolve the underlying issue of resource availability. The police would still need to collaborate with other providers to connect individuals with necessary services.

The meeting also addressed the geographic scope of the homelessness issue, which extends beyond what was initially anticipated. Council members discussed the importance of regional cooperation in addressing homelessness, referencing the Denton County homelessness leadership team as a potential collaborative partner.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the complexities of homelessness outreach in Denton, emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach and adequate resources to effectively support individuals in need. The council plans to continue exploring best practices and partnerships to enhance outreach efforts in the future.