Money for the homeless: How should it be spent?

The city is asking for the community’s help in allocating a potential $11.4 million in American Rescue Plan dollars earmarked for the homeless in Austin. Starting Oct. 6, the public can review the revised allocation plan that will be open for comment through Oct. 21. There is also an opportunity to offer public comment at an Oct. 11 meeting of the Community Development Commission, either in person or by emailing the board liaison at jesse.gutierrez@austintexas.gov. According to a press release from the city, Austin’s share of the $5 billion in federal dollars may be spent on:

• Supportive services
• Acquisition and development of non-congregate shelters
• Tenant-based rental assistance
• Development of affordable rental housing
• Nonprofit operating expenses
• Nonprofit capacity building