The agenda outlines a three-month pilot, proposed for the last three months of 2026, with a possibility to extend into 2027. Under the proposal, three of the 12 shipping container shelters that make up Monarch Village would be converted into extended-stay units, with typical stays ranging from 30 to 180 days.
County and partner organizations link the idea to the Familiar Faces Initiative, designed to improve care for people who most frequently use emergency, behavioral health, and crisis services. The pilot would involve representatives from the city, county, LMH Health, Lawrence Community Shelter, and the Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center. The agenda says Monarch Village has already helped decrease emergency service calls for high-need residents, and that longer stays could address additional needs.
Commissioners will also consider a shelter service agreement that would cost up to $28,500, with an additional $8,000 set aside for health services. The work session is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, at the commission chamber of the historic courthouse at 1100 Massachusetts St., with a regular commission meeting the same day at 5:30 p.m.