Local leaders urged to address homelessness crisis impacting working poor

During the Billings City Council Work Session on July 7, 2025, a pressing issue took center stage: the growing concern over homelessness in the community. A former council member addressed the council, emphasizing the urgent need for local and state leaders to collaborate on effective solutions for the unhomed population, particularly as the visibility of this issue increases during both summer and winter months.

The speaker highlighted the challenges faced by many individuals who are employed yet still unable to secure stable housing. They pointed out that the common narrative suggesting that obtaining a job is a straightforward solution to homelessness does not reflect the reality for many working poor who find themselves living in their cars. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of comprehensive solutions from both municipal and state levels.

The former council member urged the council to revisit previous discussions and proposals aimed at addressing homelessness, including those put forth by local organizations like the Salvation Army. They noted that despite the presence of significant development projects in the area, there are still vulnerable individuals, such as a 70-year-old woman living under a tree, who are overlooked in the planning and development processes.

The call to action was clear: the council must engage with past committees and stakeholders to explore viable solutions for the unhomed. The speaker expressed their willingness to assist in these efforts, reinforcing the idea that addressing homelessness requires a collective approach and renewed commitment from local leaders.

As the meeting concluded, the emphasis on the need for immediate action and collaboration left a lasting impression. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how effectively they can tackle the homelessness crisis in Billings and ensure that all community members have access to safe and stable housing.