New coordinator to aid Wasco homeless

The City Council approved a homeless outreach coordinator position to provide outreach services to individuals experiencing homelessness. This role will involve collaboration with Code Enforcement, Police Department staff and nonprofit organizations to link individuals with essential services and housing.

The outreach coordinator will engage with those facing homelessness to help them identify programs offering housing, mental health services, substance abuse treatment and/or rehabilitation services. The primary objective for the coordinator is to assist individuals who are currently experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This includes providing resources for rapid re-housing, rental assistance and supportive case management services to help individuals obtain and maintain stable housing.

The position will be paid for through a state grant.

"Our goal is to contract with a non-profit and hire someone internally to work with the homeless population and manage the nonprofit," said Assistant City Manager Maria Lara at Tuesday night's council meeting. "There are some great nonprofits doing work for the homeless in Wasco, and we're hoping this person can connect those dots and work with local law enforcement and the Code Enforcement guys to make a positive impact."

Of the homelessness issue in Wasco, City Manager Scott Hurlbert said, "We don't have an overwhelming problem, but they do cause disruptions, and some are resistant to accepting services."

At the meeting, there was a badge-pinning ceremony for Police Dispatcher Albert Lopez, who came from the Delano Police Department with 15 years of experience. "It's been a long time coming because I started in August. I'll officially be part of the city, and that's exciting. Since I started, it's been busier than I expected for a small town, but I believe we have a strong team," Lopez said. He also praised Chief of Police Charles Fivecoat. "He's a very honorable and admirable man."

Lopez's wife of eight years, Marivel, attended the ceremony. "I am very proud of him. He is very good at what he does. He works long hours and is always willing to pick up extra shifts to help his colleagues. He is very deserving of today."

Benny Butler was recognized for his retirement after 20 years in the Sanitation Department. "Over those 20 years, it was very exciting because I met new people from Wasco every day. What I loved most was the camaraderie with my fellow employees. I had a good time with everybody, but I'm looking forward to my retirement. I've already started and can't wait for this Spring; we'll see our children," Butler shared.