A significant step towards improving homelessness response in Honolulu was taken during the recent council meeting, where Resolution 251109 CD1 was adopted. Council Member Tupala highlighted the need for an audit of the Community Outreach Response Effort (CORE), emphasizing its role in providing non-law enforcement health-centered responses for individuals facing homelessness and behavioral health crises.

Tupala acknowledged the positive impact of CORE but pointed out that expert testimonies revealed areas for improvement. He specifically referenced the Cahoots model from Oregon, which integrates medical professionals, social workers, and law enforcement to effectively manage 911 calls. This approach has successfully diverted thousands of calls from emergency services, alleviating pressure on both the police and emergency rooms while better serving vulnerable populations.

The council's decision to conduct an audit aims to align CORE's structure with proven crisis response models, addressing gaps identified by organizations like Project Vision and the ACLU. Tupala expressed hope that the audit would lead to more effective and cost-efficient solutions for homelessness, ultimately benefiting all districts in the county.

With no objections raised, the resolution was adopted, marking a pivotal moment in the city's ongoing efforts to refine its approach to homelessness and enhance community support systems.