Title
Resolution to Partner with The University of Michigan to Provide Emergency Shelter in Ann Arbor
Body
Whereas, Local governmental and nonprofit organizations provide additional emergency shelter during the winter season in Ann Arbor;
Whereas, If there is a resurgence of COVID 19 (similar to the experience we had at the start of the pandemic) , past strategies for providing additional congregant emergency shelter would not be preferred
Whereas, Ann Arbor anticipates an increased need for safe, noncongregant emergency shelter during the winter season of 2020-2021 if there is a resurgence of COVID-19 cases;
Whereas, Emergency shelter can be (and has been) negotiated from local businesses that traditionally only provide housing for a fee and for a profit. E.g. The Ann Arbor community (through the Washtenaw County and its partners) currently provides emergency shelter at a local hotel
Whereas, The University of Michigan and the city of Ann Arbor are partners in promoting the health and safety of our shared community;
Whereas, The University of Michigan has previously allowed City use of University-owned property in arrangements (e.g. anticipated temporary use of the University Art Museum by the Ann Arbor City Clerk’s office);
RESOLVED, The City of Ann Arbor will immediately take steps to discuss with the University of Michigan the possibility of using available housing units at their Ann Arbor campus in anticipation of a possible resurgence of the COVID-19 virus and the winter season 2020-2021, to meet the increased need for safe, emergency housing in our local community;
RESOLVED, The City Administrator is directed to seek to schedule a meeting between the City Council of Ann Arbor and the Regents of the University of Michigan to occur before November 1, 2020, to discuss Ann Arbor temporary emergency shelter needs;
RESOLVED, The City Administrator is directed to coordinate a meeting to occur before November 1, 2020, among appropriate representatives from the University of Michigan, the Washtenaw County Health Department, the Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development and any other local entities that would provide services for and coordinate the use of University housing units for emergency shelter this winter season 2020-2021.
Sponsored by: Council Members Nelson and Hayner
As Amended and Approved by Ann Arbor City Council on September 21, 2020