Human Services
The Human Services Element supports the provision of services that assist in the physical, economic, social, and quality of life needs of community members (such as housing stability, food security, and mental health). The Element also supports measures to ensure that Human Services programs are available and accessible to all, especially currently and historically under resourced community members.
The Element is used by the Human Services Division (within the Parks and Community Services Department) and the Human Services Commission as a general guidance document. The Element sets overarching goals and policies for the provision and funding of Human Services in the City.
2044 Update: Human Services Element Topics
Below is a list of Human Services Element study issues, confirmed by the Planning Commission and City Council at a joint meeting in July 2023. Staff reviewed public comments and feedback from several City departments to develop this list. The draft incorporates revisions that address the issues in the following list:
- Incentivize the creation of more affordable housing (this will primarily be addressed in the Housing Element, but the Human Services Element will have supportive policy)
- Incentivize the creation of housing for seniors (this will primarily be addressed in the Housing Element, but the Human Services Element will have supportive policy)
- Recognize the evolving nature of the provision of services to address mental health issues, addiction, and homelessness across federal, State, and regional agencies and other organizations, and describe how the City could step in to fund or fill gaps,
- Include information about new agencies, programs, and facilities in the human services field since the Comprehensive Plan was last updated, such as the Regional Crisis Response Agency (RCR), and King County’s Health Through Housing Initiative (La Quinta Inn in Kirkland)
- Work towards obtaining reasonable and fair allocation of King County tax dollars (Best Starts for Kids, and the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy) to the City of Kirkland to support initiatives such as Health Through Housing, King County Regional Homelessness Authority, RCR Agency, homeless outreach, and other services the City provides (this is being addressed in the Public Services Element)
- Improve awareness of available services and resources
The draft revised Human Services Element goals and policies are available in the menu below.
4 Result(s) Found
Staff held focus groups for the Housing and Human Services Elements in June of 2023.
Draft versions of the updated Human Services Element Goals and Policies will be posted below as they are developed by City staff and discussed by Planning Commission and City Council.
Human Services Element presentations and corresponding staff memorandums.