Commons on 16th

Described the supportive housing project's private leased rooms, 24-hour services and dignity-centered approach; noted unsheltered homelessness has declined locally.

Linn County Public Health official called the project a 'game changer' for delivering consistent healthcare to people who move location to location.

A southwest-side resident excited the site is near a grocery store, pharmacy and bus route; said it 'will really move the needle.'

A woman who was previously homeless said existing programs failed her and argued the Commons' referral requirement effectively forces people to sign away rights for shelter; said 'enough is enough.'

Longtime housing advocate endorsed housing-first with services, contrasting it with the '85 beds in a room' model she first imagined.