West Palm Beach, officials host roundtable on resolving homelessness problems

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James assembled a panel of state, county, and municipal officials Wednesday to address the critical issue of homelessness in the city.

“Today’s discussion marks a significant step forward in our collective commitment to finding sustainable solutions to homelessness in West Palm Beach and throughout the entire State of Florida,” James said in a release. “By working together and leveraging our resources, we can make meaningful progress in improving the lives of those experiencing homelessness.”

To address the problem, officials focused on various ways to confront the homeless crisis, including innovative housing options, enhanced support services, community engagement initiatives, and policy advocacy efforts.

James solidified his commitment by providing “proactive measures aimed at alleviating homelessness and ensuring the well-being of all residents.”

The panel was convened by Jeff DeMario, CEO of Vita Nova; James Green, Palm Beach County Community Services Director; Dr. Tomara Mays, CEO of Homeless Coalition; Shannon Nazworth, Chair of the Florida Homelessness Council; Allie Severino, West Palm Beach Homeless Outreach Specialist; and Diana Stanely, CEO of The Lord’s Place.

While local municipalities, including West Palm Beach, search for solutions to address homelessness, state leaders have confronted the issue head-on.

SB 1530, filed by Sen. Jonathan Martin, R-Fort Myers, would authorize counties or municipalities with a permit to allow public sleeping or camping at certain sites.

It was passed by the Fiscal Policy Committee 12-5. It awaits Senate approval.