The New Orleans City Council has taken a series of actions and expressed concerns regarding homelessness and housing issues in the city, as evidenced by discussions and initiatives documented in council meetings. One key theme is the council's acknowledgement of the critical need for affordable housing and the challenges faced by residents in securing homes due to rising real estate costs and stagnant wages. Advocates have urged the council to include home ownership within the housing mix and to remove barriers for developers to create affordable home ownership opportunities. The council has expressed its commitment to addressing the needs of the unhoused population. For example, they have engaged with Clutch Consulting to develop and implement a strategic plan for decommissioning encampments and aiding those experiencing homelessness. Additionally, the council has established funds, such as a housing fund, to provide resources for addressing urgent housing needs and has worked on initiatives to prevent foreclosures and keep people in their homes. There are efforts to coordinate with state and federal partners to enhance the impact of local initiatives on homelessness and housing issues. However, there have been criticisms of the council's handling of these issues. Some members of the public have accused the council of failing to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable residents and have called for a withdrawal of measures perceived to target the homeless population without addressing the root causes of the crisis. There are also concerns about the city not investing enough in youth, which is linked to the broader issue of housing and homelessness. In summary, the New Orleans City Council is actively engaged in efforts to address homelessness through strategic planning, funding initiatives, and collaboration with various stakeholders. Nonetheless, there is public criticism regarding the adequacy and direction of these efforts, highlighting a need for continued attention and more impactful measures to resolve the housing crisis and support vulnerable populations. Definitions: - Strategic Plan: A systematic process that outlines an organization's direction, objectives, and the specific actions needed to achieve its goals. - Decommissioning Encampments: The process of dismantling homeless encampments and providing alternative housing solutions for the individuals affected. - Affordable Housing: Housing that is deemed affordable to those with a median household income as rated by the national government or a local government by a recognized housing affordability index.