Members of Topeka’s local governments are trying to figure out new ways to address and regulate homelessness.

In a joint meeting of the Topeka City Council and the Shawnee County Commission, elected leaders considered developing a multi-sector community coalition framework. This framework would lead to proactively addressing and ending chronic homelessness in Topeka and Shawnee County by 2030.

Barry Feaker, CEO of Compassion Strategies, and Brett Martin, United Way of Kaw Valley Community Impact Program vice president, ran the meeting and presentation.

“The campaign to end chronic homelessness is obtainable,” Feaker said. “We believe if we work together to partner with each of you and the community, we can set the standard and set the bar in our community.”

The three things Feaker and Martin asked for is for the city and county to participate in collaboration, communication and connection. That means working toward shared goals, having open dialogue, participating in public awareness campaigns and pooling resources.

The presenters also reminded the government leaders of the recommendations previously given to have a tiny home village and one-stop shop for wraparound services.