Homelessness and Mental Health Strategic Plan

Shared experiences as Executive Director of Cove House, expressing excitement about participating in collaborative solutions while acknowledging the complexity of mental health issues.

Urged the city to utilize existing vacant city-owned properties like Moss Rose instead of hiring outside consultants and building new facilities.

Expressed concern that the strategic plan proposes a new nonprofit rather than supporting existing local providers who already address mental health and substance abuse.

Questioned the effectiveness of San Antonio's homeless model cited by consultants, noting high mortality rates and persistent unsheltered totals, and urged support for existing local NGOs.

Voiced concerns over consultant Dr. Marbut's point-based shelter policies, stating they do not fit Killeen's values.

Commended council members who checked on unhoused residents during bad weather and emphasized the need for accessible transportation.

Supported lowering the temperature threshold for warming shelters, noting individuals sleeping outside her community center in the cold.

Demanded strict ethics standards and sworn affidavits regarding conflicts of interest before any ARPA funds are distributed.

Expressed frustration over missing background documents for agenda items like the homelessness plan and ARPA grants, and questioned details regarding the Central Texas Water Supply Corporation agreement.

Asked the council to support opening warming stations when temperatures drop to 37 degrees due to windchill factors.