TITLE
Recommendation to direct City Manager to work with the Fire Chief to present a report on the status of Long Beach’s H.E.A.R.T. in 30 days and to include data on calls of service, proactive contact with individuals experiencing homelessness, and the Continuum of Care Partners.
DISCUSSION
The Homeless Education and Response Team (H.E.A.R.T.) was created with leadership from the City Council in 2016. H.E.A.R.T began as one unit, composed of 2 paramedics/firefighters. Its services include to mitigate calls regarding homelessness, work in coordination with Continuum of Care, as well as educate Fire and community members about local resources and the issues surrounding homelessness. The original intent included reducing the cost and timing of the Long Beach’s Police Department and Fire Department by allowing paramedics to be first responders for those struggling with homelessness without a fire truck or police.
A new H.E.A.R.T was added to the budget for fiscal year 2019. In 2018, The Long Beach Fire Department responded to over 3,500 calls a year that likely involved a person with no medical complaint who was sleeping or resting in an open area.
FISCAL IMPACT
There was no Financial Management review due to the time given.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
JEANNINE PEARCE
COUNCILMEMBER, SECOND DISTRICT
SUZIE PRICE
COUNCILWOMAN, THIRD DISTRICT
REX RICHARDSON
COUNCILMEMBER, NINTH DISTRICT