The Dallas Citizen Homeless Commission convened on June 27, 2025, to discuss the implementation of the Dallas Street Response, a citywide strategy aimed at addressing homelessness more effectively. The meeting featured Andrew Rollo, who outlined the operational framework and goals of this initiative, emphasizing its real-time application rather than theoretical concepts.

The presentation was structured into 16 parts, beginning with the purpose and objectives of the Dallas Street Response. Rollo highlighted the importance of building trust with residents and those experiencing homelessness, aiming for a proactive approach to encampment resolution and sustained maintenance of public spaces. The initiative is built on four pillars: proactive encampment resolution, sustained closure maintenance, integrated behavioral health support, and strong partnerships.

Rollo explained the division of responsibilities among three key entities: the Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS), Piper Emergency Management and Crisis Response, and the Continuum Recovery Agency. OHS focuses on policy and long-term housing strategies, while Rollo's department manages operational responses, including field deployment and encampment resolution. The Continuum Recovery Agency leads outreach and placement efforts for unsheltered individuals.

A significant aspect of the Dallas Street Response is the transition of staff to centralize operations, approved by the council in early June. This realignment aims to enhance clarity of mission and accountability in service delivery. Rollo also discussed the creation of a citywide dashboard for real-time visibility and accountability, which will be accessible to the public and the council.

The meeting addressed the structured process for handling 3-1-1 requests related to encampments, which begins with field assessments and can escalate to closure notices if necessary. Rollo emphasized that enforcement is a last resort, with a focus on compliance and compassion. The team is committed to monitoring sites post-cleanup to prevent re-encampment.

Rollo noted a significant increase in 3-1-1 requests related to homelessness, rising from approximately 8,000 in 2021 to over 11,000 in 2024, indicating a growing demand for services. The Dallas Street Response aims to stabilize high-need areas through short-term intensive responses, prioritizing outreach and services before enforcement.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving public spaces and health outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness. The Dallas Street Response is positioned as a comprehensive, coordinated effort to address the challenges of homelessness in Dallas, with ongoing monitoring and adjustments to ensure effectiveness.