City of Atlanta Releases Final Report on Recommendations from Homelessness Task Force

Mayor's Office of Communications

City of Atlanta Releases Final Report on Recommendations from Homelessness Task Force

ATLANTA - The City of Atlanta has released the final report of the Homelessness Needs Task Force, which convened for 90 days. Formed in early 2025, the Task Force brought together more than 30 cross-sector stakeholders-including city agencies, service providers, healthcare leaders, and advocates-to evaluate and improve the City's homelessness response. Their recommendations aim to enhance coordination, expand housing access, and ensure all policies reflect the dignity and humanity of those impacted.

"We are committed to solutions that respect human dignity, promote safety, and provide a path forward for every individual in need," said LaChandra Burks, Chief Operating Officer. "This marks a major step toward building a more coordinated, compassionate, and effective response to homelessness. I thank the taskforce members for their vital input in helping shape this critical work."

As the City continues to work alongside its partners, the shared goal remains clear: to provide a humane, coordinated, and safety-driven response that protects lives and ensures infrastructure resilience. These reforms reflect a long-term investment in public health, equity, and safety. The updated protocols apply to encampments managed by the City of Atlanta and do not extend to closures on state property led by GDOT or other agencies.

Three Key Recommendations from the Task Force Report:

1. Establishment of the Mayor's Office of Homelessness

A new centralized office will lead the City's homelessness strategy-improving coordination between departments and service providers, strengthening oversight, and advancing equity across the system. A formal search is underway for an Executive Director to head the office.

2. Strengthened Safety Protocols for Encampment Closure

The City will continue to follow structured and compassionate procedures for encampment closures. These include advance notice, shelter and service offers and coordinated outreach to ensure safety and dignity throughout the process.

3. Centralized Standards for Reporting Data and Provider Network

To improve accountability and streamline services, the City will implement a centralized data platform, establish a registry for service providers, and introduce certification standards to ensure consistent quality across all care partners.

Access the full Task Force Report:

https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/mayor-s-office/the-mayor-s-cabinet/city-of-atlanta-90-day-homelessness-task-force

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