On May 22, 2025, the City of Vista's Standing Committee on Homelessness convened to address critical issues surrounding homelessness in the community. The meeting focused on data collection, outreach strategies, and the classification of individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly those identified as chronic or high utilizers of emergency services.

A significant point of discussion was the need for consistent outreach efforts to engage individuals experiencing homelessness. John May emphasized the importance of maintaining a presence in the community, noting that outreach workers had successfully connected with individuals previously unengaged. The committee discussed a proposed 90-day outreach plan aimed at ensuring that all 240 identified individuals could be reached at least once within that timeframe.

The conversation also highlighted the need to differentiate between chronic homelessness and those experiencing homelessness for the first time. Chronic homelessness is defined as experiencing homelessness for at least one continuous year or having four episodes of homelessness within three years. The committee recognized the overlap between these groups and the necessity of understanding the unique needs of each to tailor services effectively.

Data collection emerged as a crucial theme, particularly regarding high utilizers of emergency services. The committee acknowledged the challenges of obtaining accurate data from hospitals and law enforcement due to privacy concerns. Building relationships with these entities was deemed essential for understanding the full scope of service utilization among the homeless population.

Additionally, the committee discussed the importance of mapping encampments and identifying where individuals are living. This data would help in understanding the dynamics of homelessness in Vista and inform future outreach and support strategies. The committee expressed a desire for more detailed mapping to visualize the locations of individuals experiencing homelessness, which could enhance response efforts.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the City of Vista's commitment to addressing homelessness through targeted outreach, improved data collection, and a nuanced understanding of the different experiences within the homeless population. As the committee moves forward, the focus will remain on building partnerships and refining strategies to better serve those in need within the community.