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Jail facilities and systems are not designed or staffed to provide the type of care needed by these individuals. Also, according to mental health experts, staying in the jail could cause their condition to deteriorate. Even if the Washington County Jail were an appropriate place, funding would be needed for more staff, including deputies and mental health care providers.

Additionally, the Washington County Jail is operating at reduced capacity due to staffing shortages. To make room for people returned from the Oregon State Hospital, some other people in custody who are awaiting trial may have to be released early. These “forced releases” could put community safety at risk. It is also possible that some of those released early would not show up for future court proceedings.

The Community Guidelines for Equitably Siting Shelter include several conditions to determine whether a proposed location is appropriate for shelter. A location does not have to meet all conditions to be selected – rather, staff consider the combined priority needs. Considerations include:

• Logistical needs such as size of location, condition of property, utilities
• Access to frequent and reliable transportation
• Access to services, employment and community resources
• Geographic and demographic distribution
• Impact on local communities or sensitive public services such as schools, playgrounds, or public parks.

Community feedback is not sought for specific potential locations of future shelter programs. Until a shelter location is confirmed, there is no formal community engagement. This allows for real estate and landlord negotiations to be established and for staff to determine site viability.