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A Resolution to Approve an Agreement with Housing Forward for Emergency Shelter Operating Costs at 112 S. Humphrey Ave. Oak Park, IL for up to $645,587
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Introduction
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As the Village’s response evolves to meet the needs of our unhoused residents, Housing Forward seeks support for operations of the emergency shelter located at 112 S. Humphrey Ave.
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Recommended Action
Adopt the Resolution.
Prior Board Action
The Board has taken the following prior action(s):
• August 5, 2025: RES 25-251 - A Resolution to Approve an Amended Agreement with Housing Forward for Emergency Shelter Operating Costs at 112 S. Humphrey Ave. Oak Park, IL
• February 4, 2025: RES 25-398 - A Resolution to Approve an Agreement with Housing Forward for Emergency Shelter Operating Costs at 112 S. Humphrey Ave. Oak Park, IL
• December 3, 2024: ID 24-608 - A Presentation and Discussion regarding Oak Park’s Unhoused Population, Including Ongoing Work of the Village and Key Community Partners
• December 3, 2024: ORD 24-162 - Concur with the Plan Commission and Adopt an Ordinance Granting a Special Use permit to Allow a Community Service Center in NC-Neighborhood Commercial Zoning District located at 112 S. Humphrey Avenue
• December 3, 2024: ORD 24-161 - Concur with the Plan Commission and Adopt an Ordinance Amending Article 8 (“Uses”), Section 8.4 (“Principal Use Standards”) and Table 8.1 (“Use Matrix”) of the Oak Park Zoning Ordinance to Establish a Community Service Center as a Special Use in NC-Neighborhood Commercial Zoning District
Background
In February 2025, the Village Board approved funding to support the renovation and initial operational costs of the expanded emergency shelter located at 112 S. Humphrey. At that time, it was anticipated that the State of Illinois would support operational costs in future years. While the State allocated $7 million to support emergency services for unhoused residents in 2026, Housing Forward was not awarded funds to support shelter operations in 2026.
As a result, staff are requesting authorization for up to $645,587 to sustain the Village’s emergency shelter operations in 2026. If additional funding is later secured through the State or Cook County to support shelter operations, the Village’s contribution will be reduced accordingly.
Timing Considerations
To prevent any disruption in shelter operations and maintain continuity of staffing, it is recommended that the requested funding be approved in conjunction with the adoption of the Village’s FY2026 budget. This will ensure that Housing Forward can sustain services without interruption.
Budget Impact
The 2026 budget includes $645,587 in one-time funding to support operations of the emergency shelter in GL 1001.46211.101.530667.
Staffing Impact
Approval of the agreement would not create an increased staffing need.
DEI Impact
This initiative aligns with the Village Board’s goals to provide equitable support for unhoused residents by expanding shelter availability within the community. The emergency shelter at 112 S. Humphrey increases access to safe, stable, and dignified shelter for individuals and families disproportionately impacted by housing insecurity.
The program also strengthens the network of supportive services and housing options available to a diverse population, helping to address disparities in housing stability and access to care.
Community Input
There is not a Village Commission involved in this work. The Oak Park Homelessness Coalition and the Unhoused Taskforce, consisting of community stakeholders, supports operation of the emergency overnight shelter in Oak Park.
Staff Recommendation
Adopt the Resolution.
Advantages:
• Supports continued operation of the emergency shelter that provides a safe space for individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Helps to address immediate housing needs, fostering stability and connecting individuals to essential services.
Disadvantages:
• Emergency shelter addresses the immediate needs of the unhoused but does not provide a long-term solution to homelessness.
• Funding agreement is through December 2026 for operations. Long-term funding to support shelter operations remains unsecured.
Alternatives
The Board could request additional information.
Advantages:
• Allow the Board more time to understand the scope of work, costs, and potential impacts on shelter operations.
Disadvantages:
• Limits the work that can be done by Housing Forward to provide emergency shelter.
Anticipated Future Actions
If approved, staff would execute the agreement and monitor services. Staff will also engage with Housing Forward and other partners in the search for long-term funding to support the shelter.
Prepared By: Vanessa Matheny, Community Services Administrator, Neighborhood Services
Reviewed By: Jonathan Burch, Assistant Village Manager/Neighborhood Services Director
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Resolution
2. Funding Agreement