[Amended 11-16-2022 by Ord. No. 15851]
The purpose of the Commission to advise the Mayor and Council and to make recommendations on issues relating to those who are experiencing homelessness or near-homelessness in the City.
[Adopted 2-19-2020 by Ord. No. 15596 (Article 180C of the 1962 Codified Ordinances)]
A.
The Commission on Homelessness shall consist of 15 members appointed by the Mayor and approved by City Council. Members shall include representatives from government, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, hospitals and other stakeholders involved in advocacy and service for those who are experiencing homelessness or near-homelessness. The Mayor shall appoint the Chairperson of the Commission with the approval of Council. One member of Council shall serve as a nonvoting liaison. The Mayor shall designate staff support for the Commission.
[Amended 11-16-2022 by Ord. No. 15851]
B.
Duly appointed members shall serve a term of four years, except that initial appointments shall be so staggered that the terms of the membership shall expire each year. On the initial appointments, two members shall serve for four years, two for three years, one for two years and one member for one year.
C.
The Commission shall meet monthly or on an as-needed basis, having at least 10 meetings a year with additional meetings as determined by the Commission. All meetings shall be advertised and open to the public.
D.
The Commission shall develop and approve their by-laws, which shall be approved by Council by resolution.
The Commission shall serve as an advisory body. It shall be tasked with offering recommendations and suggestions on the following:
A.
Educating the public about homelessness and ways in which we can help people in need.
B.
Providing policy-based advocacy on behalf of those who are experiencing homelessness to appropriate agencies.
[Amended 11-16-2022 by Ord. No. 15851]
C.
Making recommendations aimed at ending and preventing homelessness.
D.
Facilitating communications, networking and referrals within the community to deal with the issues of homelessness.
E.
Providing a representation or a "voice" for those who are experiencing homelessness in the community.
[Amended 11-16-2022 by Ord. No. 15851]
F.
Seeking to ensuring the immediate needs of those experiencing homelessness are met and their civil rights are respected and protected.
The Commission shall prepare a written report of the year's activities, a one-year plan and long-term goals and scenarios. The report shall be given to the Mayor and shall be presented to Allentown City Council at an appropriate committee meeting no later than the second meeting in March.