Housing and Homelessness Advisory Committee Terms of Reference Review

I would like to know the role of the Manager of Housing and Homelessness, Mitchelle Granger, and what expertise he brings to the role.

The first bullet point under Mandate/Terms of Reference is unclear

Are the committee members working to ensure that THEY have an understanding of issues, or that THERE IS an understanding of issues throughout the community at large? One suggests the committee members need to be informed. The other suggests the committee members need to inform others.

The HHAC needs to include mental health and social services supports in their solutions. A safe place to stay is only the first step.

Act as a Watchdog on the City's performance.

Create a standard report card, evaluate and report annually on the City of Kingston's performance in the area of housing affordability and homelessness.

Increase the number of homeless representatives to a minimum of 3 people.

1 person who has experience living homeless may face being a “token” and may be silenced or pushed into going along by the majority of the other committee members. Having a minimum of 3 people with lived homeless experience will ensure a proper balance of information is coming from all perspectives. If the committee grows then the number of homeless representatives should also increase.