Overview
- City Council voted 9-4 after a tense debate that highlighted concerns over Urban Alchemy’s past performance in other cities.
- The agreement covers 2026 through 2028 and replaces The Salvation Army, whose contract ends this year.
- A separate $3 million contract authorizes Urban Alchemy to handle certain 3-1-1 mental-health calls.
- Housing officials say the shelter deal is performance-based with active monitoring and possible termination for poor results.
- Urban Alchemy’s prior issues in San Francisco and Austin were raised, while the nonprofit said problems were addressed and noted 70 local hires.