Port Angeles explores funding for homeless Dignity Bus

The Port Angeles City Council has unanimously directed City Manager Nathan West to explore funding options for a ‘Dignity Bus’ proposal submitted by OlyCAP. The initiative aims to address local homelessness by providing a decommissioned motor coach retrofitted with 20 individual sleep pods. OlyCAP Director of Housing and Community Development Viola Ware noted that the bus is intended strictly as a place for sleep rather than a full day shelter, serving as an alternative when Serenity House is unavailable.

Potential funding sources under review include regional cost-sharing with Clallam County or the use of city Affordable Housing tax funds. City officials are currently researching whether those specific tax funds can legally be allocated toward the bus project.

In regional sports news, Port Angeles High School graduate Jack Gladfelter has been named the Oregon small college Athlete of the Year by Sport Oregon. Additionally, the Bainbridge Spartans girls swim team saw multiple athletes qualify for state and district meets, while the Port Angeles girls soccer team secured sole possession of first place in the Olympic League following a 9-0 victory over North Mason.