Davis County officials approved a real estate purchase contract on July 28 to acquire five acres of vacant land for a permanent supportive and transitional housing project, a move intended to provide long-term stability for the homeless population. The project, which relies on a pending $4.7 million loan guarantee from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), aims to create a facility that integrates housing with essential services.
Strategic Location and Planning
The land slated for the project is located north of the Tanner building in Clearfield and west of Workforce Services, according to Davis County Community and Economic Development Director Kent Andersen. Andersen stated that the county specifically sought a location zoned for this purpose and situated near critical services such as transportation, mental health services, and workforce services. He noted that transportation is a primary necessity for the site's success.
Addressing Homelessness Needs
As Davis County News first reported, the county's approval of the purchase contract is contingent upon the successful acquisition of a Section 108 loan guarantee from HUD. The project is designed as a collaborative model that meets state requirements for Code Blue, the temporary housing program utilized between October and April when temperatures drop below 18 degrees. Unlike the temporary nature of Code Blue, this new facility is intended to serve as a permanent referral location for those experiencing homelessness.
A New Standard of Care
The proposed facility is expected to house no more than 60 units. Andersen described the initiative as the "gold star standard" for homeless housing because it provides a longer stay with on-site services that offer a higher level of care for individuals. He emphasized that the project is intended to "get upstream of homelessness" by providing more than just temporary shelter.
Development and Next Steps
The project's timeline and development remain dependent on several factors, including the finalization of the HUD loan and the selection of a private partner. Andersen explained that the county must issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to find a developer to partner with the county to build the new facility. If the loan is approved and a developer is secured, officials hope the project will reach completion within three years.
Community Support and History
The push for permanent housing follows previous community discussions regarding the placement of services. Andersen noted that during past Code Blue requirements, some community members expressed opposition to locations near residential neighborhoods. However, he stated that the community has recognized the importance of having a dedicated space and has been "incredible" throughout the process.
County Administrative Structure
The initiative is being managed through the Davis County Community and Economic Development Department, which was formed by joining forces between the Planning, Economic Development, and Tourism departments. This department is charged with helping make the community economically stable and managing grant programs funded by federal or state resources. The Planning component of the department specifically works to uphold the health, welfare, and safety of residents in the unincorporated county.
Governance and Oversight
The Davis County Commission, a three-member elected body, holds executive and legislative powers for the county's more than 378,000 residents. The commission is responsible for adopting budgets, ordinances, and making policy for the region. The board holds regular meetings, typically on Tuesdays at 10:00 AM, to discuss community initiatives and fiscal matters.
