Maine Governor Janet Mills has signed a $430 million supplemental budget into law. The budget includes $302 million in one-time expenses for winter storm relief, general fund appropriations, and investments in affordable housing, education, and healthcare. The budget also creates a minimum wage increase for certain school staff starting in July 2025. Additionally, Governor Mills signed bills authorizing bonds for research and development projects and trail improvements.
The U.S. Supreme Court is considering a case that could make it easier for cities to clear homeless encampments, even if shelter beds are not available. The case has major implications for California, which has the highest homeless population in the nation. Homeless advocates argue that a ruling in favor of the city would lead to increased criminalization of homelessness and inhumane sweeps. Cities contend that they need more flexibility to address the crisis, as few have the resources to provide shelter for all their unhoused residents.
The federal government hasallocated millions to Shannon Park, a former military site in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, for housing development. The move, which includes plans for 3,000 dwelling units, commercial space, and public parkland, has raised questions among provincial and municipal officials regarding community engagement, placement, and the provision of housing for people experiencing homelessness.
During oral arguments in a homelessness case, Justice Brown Jackson asked if cities would be permitted to kill homeless people. The case focuses on whether homeless people have a right to sleep outside, as they often have no other space or shelter available. The Supreme Court’s decision could impact major cities with high numbers of homelessness, such as San Francisco and Los Angeles.
The Supreme Court is considering the legality of punishing people for sleeping outside when shelter space is unavailable. The case stems from a challenge to a law in Grants Pass, Oregon, which fines people $295 for camping in public. The issue of homelessness in the United States has grown significantly in recent years, with over 650,000 people estimated to be unsheltered. Advocates argue that criminalizing homelessness only worsens the problem, while cities contend that they need tools to manage encampments.
A mum-of-two has said she has been left traumatized by her dealings with her local council. Shamicka Denis, 29, is forced to share a bed with her toddler and nine-year-old daughter in a single room that serves as their bedroom, living room, and playroom. She says the disruption and claustrophobia in her “self-contained unit” have become a part of daily life.
A public hearing is underway in Calgary regarding a proposed blanket rezoning bylaw that would allow for more housing types in residential areas. The bylaw, which is part of the city’s housing strategy, aims to simplify the development process and increase housing supply.
However, hundreds of residents have gathered at City Hall to oppose the bylaw, arguing that it would negatively impact the character of their neighborhoods and lead to overdevelopment. City officials maintain that the bylaw is needed to address the city’s housing affordability crisis, as home prices have increased significantly in recent years. The public hearing is expected to last several days, with over 741 people registered to speak.
A miniature home is available for rent, providing prospective buyers with an affordable opportunity to test out tiny living before making a commitment to purchase. The property, built by Incredible Tiny Homes, features a modern design and includes amenities such as a heating and cooling system, fridge, microwave, and bathroom. Interested individuals can contact the resident via email for further details.
