During the Council Retreat on November 3, 2017, desire was expressed for staff to evaluate the possibility of expanding the Community Assistance Division’s services to include the operation of a Resource Center. In this Center, city staff and selected non-profits would provide direct services to residents, closing the gap on various identified community needs. The purpose of this study session is to provide the City Council with an update on progress made towards the exploration and implementation of a Resource Center.

The following has been accomplished, addressed and/or resolved since the Council Retreat:

• Interviews and surveys of similar programs with other cities and towns

• Vetting of potential locations and square footage required

• Salvage and storage of office equipment and furniture from the BioInspire project

• Preliminary budget development

• Identification of potential service model types

• Initial vetting of risk management/insurance concerns with the City Attorney’s Office
• Initial vetting of security concerns with the Police Department

Staff is continuing to work on regulatory requirements with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to determine the eligible use of the City’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to help fund a portion of this endeavor.  

• City Council Retreat was held on November 3, 2017 wherein interest was conveyed to explore the siting and implementation of a Human Services Resource Center.

Provide direction to staff on the potential siting and implementation of a Resource Center.

This study session represents no fiscal impact to the city; however, financial requirements for the development and on-going operation of a Resource Center will be addressed through the budget process.