By John Crofts
Reading time: 2.5 min – 480 Words
Commissioner Kamalu Joins Meeting by Phone as North Salt Lake Residents Voice Concerns Over Proposed Homeless Shelter
At the latest Davis County Commission meeting, Commissioner Lorene Kamalu participated remotely by phone. During the public comment session, two residents from North Salt Lake expressed concerns regarding the proposed homeless shelter in their area. Chair Bob Stevenson addressed their questions with consideration and openness.
One resident specifically pointed out that Commissioners had identified the North Salt Lake location to Switchpoint, the organization responsible for managing homeless shelters. Kamalu, who is part of a local homeless group, confirmed she had emailed all interested parties about the location following discussions with the group. She further expressed gratitude that people were becoming more educated on homeless issues, underscoring the importance of community awareness and involvement.
Chair Stevenson clarified that Kamalu had not only pointed out the North Salt Lake location but had also personally escorted representatives from Switchpoint to tour the building. He emphasized that he himself had no part in informing Switchpoint about the site.
The issue continued from last week’s meeting, where the state’s homeless task force leader had reported 100% support for the shelter location. It was noted that the task force had conducted many discussions behind closed doors, Commissioner Stevenson is the Task Force lead from the County Commission.
The meeting also progressed with a comprehensive county agenda, which included approvals of various items such as:
- Approval of the 2024-2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
- Approval of a Service Provider Contract with Blueprint Creation & Brad Anderson for professional development training.
- Approval of Amendment #3 to the Contract with Method Studio for architectural services on the Western Sports Park project.
- Approval of a Landscape Upgrade Agreement with Marathon Maintenance, Inc. for work at the Health Department campus.
- Approval of Amendments regarding public health preparedness contracts with the Utah Department of Health & Human Services, extending termination dates and reversing a prior amendment.
- Acceptance of a Memo from the Health Department regarding a Position Control Number (PCN) change.
- Revisions to the Separation and Resignation Policy under Human Resources, along with reappointments to the Career Service Council.
- Approval of a Contract with the Salt Lake Astronomical Society for telescope donations to the county library.
- Approval of a Donation Agreement for a twelve-month-old German Short-haired Pointer K9, named Kash, to the Sheriff’s Office, valued at $900.
- Approval of the Sheriff’s Office Summary List of interns for fall 2024.
The meeting concluded with the approval of the Property Tax Register for September 10, 2024, as part of the Board of Equalization’s duties. Community members continue to engage with the county’s ongoing decisions, especially regarding the homeless shelter, while various county projects and programs proceed forward.
Chair Stevenson demonstrated a wish to end the meeting and interrupted Commissioner Kamalu and the meeting ended.
