BISMARCK, N.D. – Governor Kelly Armstrong has created a new group through an executive order aimed at coordinating relationships among North Dakota agencies and homelessness service providers to prevent and end homelessness in the state.
“While North Dakota already has a strong network of support services and programs for those experiencing homelessness, we still have individuals falling through the cracks,” Armstrong said. “The Interagency Council on Homelessness will provide a forum for state agencies and service providers to gather information and community input, identify areas for improvement, and recommend strategies to wipe out homelessness and prevent its underlying causes.”
The council will be chaired by the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency Executive Director Brandon Dettlaff. Commissioner of Recovery and Reentry Jonathan Holth has been named vice chair.
The other 10 members include:
- North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission Executive Director Brad Hawk
- North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Director Colby Braun
- North Dakota Department of Commerce Commissioner Chris Schilken
- North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services Interim Commissioner Pat Traynor
- Chandler Esslinger, chair of the North Dakota Coalition for Homeless People
- Shawnel Willer, NDHFA Continuum of Care coordinator
- Bryce Meyer, The Waters Sober Living Homes and executive pastor of operations at Evangel church in Bismarck
- Curtis Regan, associate broker and real estate developer at Dakota Commercial in Grand Forks
- Bismarck City Administrator Jason Tomanek
- Louise Dardis, longtime West Fargo Public Schools educator and principal, board member of YWCA Cass Clay.
The group will report on its progress every year including recommendations for the legislature.
Armstrong has proclaimed November 16-22 as Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week in North Dakota.
