MANATEE -- County commissioners Thursday decided to direct county staffers to join with their Bradenton counterparts and local civic activists in an effort to more effectively deal with the homeless.

County Neighborhood Services Director Cheri Coryea suggested earlier this week that the area try to better address homelessness, perhaps with a “low-demand” shelter that could be located near a social services center in Bradenton called the Bill Galvano One Stop Center.

Such a facility would require the help of the entire community, she told The Herald in a story published Thursday.

County Commission Chairman John Chappie urged his fellow commissioners to wait for staff members to figure out the best way to get it done.

Commissioner Larry Bustle complained that details about the shelter and possible locations in Bradenton and elsewhere were “being fought out in the media.”

“It’s the city (of Bradenton) that needs to come to the table with solutions,” said Commissioner Joe McClash.

“It’s all of our problem,” groaned Bustle, adding, “We have got to be pro-active about it; if you wait, you’ve got to expect it won’t happen.”

The discussions stemmed from a forum last weekend that focused on the most effective ways of dealing with the homeless. One of its key points was the importance of a coordinated approach and clear, realistic goals.

Sara Kennedy, Herald reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7031.