This week on In Focus, Schenectady City Council President Carl Williams talks about efforts to address homelessness and the housing crisis.
Williams emphasizes the need for innovative solutions like pod villages to provide safe, stable environments for unhoused individuals, enabling better access to wraparound services. He highlights the city’s resource-rich organizations, including Bethesda House, SCAP, YWCA and theCity Mission, which offer support for mental health, substance abuse, and job services.
Williams also mentions a 34-unit development for those with mental health issues. He explains how challenges include finding suitable locations and overcoming the “not in my backyard” mentality. Williams drew inspiration from various sources, including a John Oliver segment, and aims for a collaborative, intentional approach.
You can watch the full interview above. And be sure to tune in for a look inside the biggest issues impacting upstate New York, on In Focus with JoDee Kenney — every Sunday on Spectrum News 1.