The Milwaukee County Committee on Health Equity, Human Needs and Strategic Planning on an informational report sought authorization to enter a fiscal-agent contract with Community Advocates to manage $500,000 in flexible housing funds intended to help people move from encampments into permanent housing.

The funding, introduced as 2025 Adopted Budget Amendment 16 by Supervisor Rolland, was described by county staff as money to cover security deposits, short-term rental assistance, furniture and household starter kits to expedite move-ins. Administrator Matthew (presenting for the Department of Health and Human Services) said the funds will prevent the typical three- to four-week delay that occurs when staff must find those items in the community.

"These funds are critically important to the work that we do," Administrator Matthew said. "They allow our street outreach workers and housing navigators to quickly utilize security deposits, short term rental assistance, furniture items, household starter kits to expedite the move in from the street into an apartment."

Eric Collins Dyke, deputy director from housing, described operational benefits of paying a fiscal agent in advance. "Sometimes a 24 hour turnaround when someone is trying to access their apartment from their encampment," he said, noting Community Advocates has partnered with the county for years and can issue staff checks quickly to meet urgent needs.

Committee members praised the work. Supervisor Martin said he had participated in ride-alongs with outreach teams and voiced support for the funding. Supervisor Benson asked whether the $500,000 would be built into future budgets; Administrator Matthew replied that the amount came through as a budget amendment and that inclusion in future budgets will depend on county budget priorities and the administration's recommendations.

The committee treated the item as informational. Committee staff noted the item will be considered by the County Finance Committee for formal action because of the proposed contract value. No vote or formal authorization occurred at this meeting.

The committee adjourned to its next scheduled meeting; the fiscal-agent contract and the underlying budget amendment will appear before the Finance Committee for any required approvals.