The Grants Pass City Council convened on September 3, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding the Request for Proposals (RFP) process aimed at addressing homelessness in the community. The meeting began with a proposal to extend the application timeline for the RFP, allowing more time for potential applicants to prepare their submissions. Council members unanimously voted in favor of this extension, emphasizing the importance of fairness in the application process.

Following the council's decision, public comments were invited, leading to a diverse range of perspectives from community members. Sonia Via, a licensed clinical social worker, urged the council to involve experienced social workers in the RFP decision-making process, highlighting the need for informed choices regarding funding for agencies serving the unhoused population. She cautioned against creating barriers that could hinder qualified applicants.

Another resident, Jace Daggett, provided historical context by referencing a previous council decision that disqualified properties based on their proximity to schools. He suggested that similar objective criteria should be considered in the current discussions to avoid repeating past mistakes.

Several attendees expressed concerns about the current homeless camps and the need for effective management. Avery Steele, a local student, voiced worries about safety in the neighborhood due to increased incidents related to homelessness. Others, like Greg Cure, requested meetings with council members to present alternative solutions for addressing homelessness.

The discussion also touched on the importance of location for potential shelters, with some residents advocating for city-owned properties to be utilized for such projects to minimize negative impacts on neighborhoods and businesses. Ken Hudama, a local businessman, argued that shelters should be situated on city property to avoid affecting residential areas and commercial enterprises.

As the meeting progressed, various community members emphasized the urgency of addressing homelessness, with some expressing frustration over perceived delays in the RFP process. Bernie Woodard, representing an applicant group, criticized the council for considering changes to the RFP after the application process had begun, arguing that it could lead to further complications and legal challenges.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the complexities surrounding the homelessness issue in Grants Pass, with council members and community stakeholders actively engaging in discussions to find viable solutions. The council plans to reconvene with the extended RFP timeline and further insights from public feedback, aiming to improve the process and outcomes for the community's unhoused population.