A recent joint meeting between Olympia City Council and Thurston County Commission generated optimism that a long-term plan to address homelessness could be in the works.

The City of Olympia has a visible homeless problem. Thurston County has a growing pool of funds – a percentage of the county’s recording fees – dedicated for its Home Consortium and programs addressing homelessness.

Advocates are pressing for low-barrier shelters and other immediate solutions. The combination of needs, identified solutions, and growing resources may be the right formula for action.