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June 29, 2025 – Tulare, California
The Tulare City Council has officially approved a partnership with Lighthouse Rescue Mission to operate the city’s first full-time homeless shelter and navigation center, a project years in the making.
During its June 17 meeting, the Council unanimously approved a non-binding term sheet outlining roles, responsibilities, and budget projections for the shelter’s first operational year. The shelter, now under construction, is expected to serve up to 180 individuals around the clock when it opens.
Shelter Will Operate 24/7 with Support Services
Unlike the city’s temporary encampment site, the new facility will be staffed continuously and offer a range of wraparound services aimed at helping individuals transition off the streets. Services will include:
Case management and housing navigation
Substance abuse and mental health referrals
Pet-friendly accommodations
Voluntary roles to build personal responsibility
“This is a big step forward for Tulare,” said Mayor Isherwood during the meeting. “We’ve worked closely with Lighthouse to ensure the shelter runs with compassion, efficiency, and accountability.”
Budget and Oversight Model
According to the term sheet, Lighthouse Rescue Mission will oversee daily operations, while the City of Tulare will retain financial oversight and compliance responsibilities. The first-year operational budget is projected at over $2 million, with funding sourced from state grants and previously allocated ARPA funds.
City Manager Marc Mondell noted that while Lighthouse is experienced in running overnight shelters, this project represents a significant scale-up.
“To make this work, we’re operating in a partnership model,” Mondell said. “We’ll be closely involved on the administrative side, while Lighthouse manages the human services piece.”
Community Feedback and Future Adjustments
While the term sheet was approved, Councilmember Jose Sigala voiced concerns about ensuring there would always be qualified staff on-site, especially during nights and weekends. Staff confirmed that adjustments would be made as needed to ensure safe and continuous supervision.
“Homelessness is a crisis that touches all parts of our city,” said Councilmember Segala. “We must make sure this investment actually works for the people who need it.”
Final operator agreements and detailed policy procedures are expected to return to the Council later this year for formal approval.
Francisco Ramirez is the founder of Kings Network News and creator of Kings Network Business, a platform that blends business networking, community support, and social media to uplift local entrepreneurs.
As a former Mayor of Hanford, California, he launched the Winter Wonderland event and brings over 20 years of business consulting experience. He is also a motivational speaker, life coach, strategist, author, podcaster, and skilled web and graphic designer.
He created The Invisible Kid: Courage to Succeed, a seminar on self-esteem and anti-bullying that has inspired youth across the region. Through media and consulting, Francisco empowers others to lead, grow, and make an impact.
