Urban Issues & Resources Committee
Chair: Damion Wagner
Members: Claudia Oliveira (ex-officio), Jens Midthun, Sara Eastwood
email: damion.wagner@dlanc.com
Chaired by Board Director as nominated by the Executive Committee and selected by the Board. The Urban Issues and Resources Committee works with issues related to the Central City East area, also known as “Skid Row”. Issues would include, but not be limited to, housing, health, safety, and economic development.
Committee Mission Statement
The mission of the DLANC Urban Issues Committee is to address the pressing issues of homelessness, affordable housing, and safety within our urban community. Our primary goal is to collaboratively work towards ensuring that every member of our community has access to stable housing, support services, and a safe environment.
Our Guiding Principles
Equity and Inclusion: We are dedicated to promoting inclusion in our community by addressing disparities accessing affordable housing and safety services, with a focus on vulnerable populations.
Community Engagement: We actively engage with residents, businesses, and stakeholders to ensure that our initiatives align with the pressing needs of our community.
Sustainability: We advocate for the development of sustainable, affordable housing that supports the long-term well-being of our community, contributing to a safer and healthier urban environment.
Partnerships and Collaboration: We foster partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, developers, and businesses to leverage resources and expertise to benefit our community.
Areas of Focus
Homelessness: Our focus is developing strategies for shelter, support services, and a path to permanent housing for those experiencing homelessness.
Affordable Housing: We advocate for the creation and preservation of affordable housing units for all residents within our community, thereby increasing overall safety.
Community Safety: We work to create a safer urban environment by collaborating with community policing initiatives, safety awareness programs, and law enforcement to address public safety concerns within our community.
Policy Advocacy: We actively advocate at all levels of government to influence legislation and initiatives that address homelessness, affordable housing, and the safety of our community.
Community Education: Work to educate about the causes of homelessness, the importance of affordable housing, and neighborhood safety to foster empathy and understanding in our community.
The Urban Needs Committee is committed to improving the availability and affordability of housing options and enhancing safety for all residents. By focusing on these critical issues, we aim to create a more equitable, inclusive, and secure urban environment.