LEXINGTON, Ky. — The mayor's task force on homelessness will hold a virtual listening session open to the public next week, according to WUKY 91.3 FM.

The session is designed to gather input from community members, service providers, and residents affected by homelessness in Lexington. Virtual listening sessions have become an increasingly common tool for local governments to collect public feedback on contentious issues while accommodating broader participation from residents unable to attend in-person meetings.

The task force's outreach effort comes as cities across Kentucky and the nation grapple with rising homelessness rates and limited affordable housing. Lexington, like other mid-sized cities, has worked to address the issue through various initiatives and partnerships with nonprofits and social service agencies.

The virtual format allows residents from across Fayette County to participate in the discussion without geographic barriers. Details about how to join the listening session and specific topics to be addressed are expected to be released in the coming days.

Community input sessions such as this are often the first step in developing or revising municipal policies related to homelessness prevention, emergency shelter services, and long-term housing solutions. The feedback gathered is typically reviewed by the task force to inform recommendations to city leadership.