City Cast Chicago logo
March 8, 2026

'Your City Could Be Better': What Chicago Needs To Know About Utah's Controversial 'Homeless Campus' Plan

City Cast Chicago

'Your City Could Be Better': What Chicago Needs To Know About Utah's Controversial 'Homeless Campus' Plan

00:00:00
View all City Cast Chicago episodes

Homelessness is one of the major issues that cities like Chicago are trying to solve. The state of Utah is planning to build a 16-acre homeless campus on the outskirts of Salt Lake City, where unhoused people with mental illnesses or addiction issues could be sheltered and in some cases involuntarily committed. This controversial idea is the brainchild of conservative think tanks, and it’s one that’s very much being embraced by the Trump administration and the Utah legislature. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Salt Lake podcast host Ali Vallarta about how this plan is meant to work, the concerns about forced institutionalization, and why the state is pushing for this even though it goes against the recommendations of local experts and service providers.

Mentioned on the show:


Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! 

We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter

Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Hey Chicago

Stay connected to City Cast Chicago and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

Latest Episodes

See all
July 8

Is Chuy Garcia Controlling Congressional Race? Plus, a Visit to Feld

U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (4th) has been accused of thumbing the political scales in favor of his chosen successor. In November, Garc...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 7

Why Massage Parlors Are Getting Raided in the 12th Ward

Two illicit massage parlors on Archer Avenue were raided within weeks of each other — including one next door to 12th Ward Ald. Julia Ram...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 6

Who Will Replace Retiring Police Chief? Plus, Chicago's New Gayborhood?

The Chicago Police Department will be without a permanent police superintendent starting July 15, as current superintendent Larry Snellin...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 3

'Your City Could Be Better': The Ultimate USA Trivia Battle. How Much Do You Know? — Presented By City Cast Chicago

See if your Chicago knowledge serves you well! In the first-ever Your City Could Be Better trivia episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz goes...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 2

What Is a Tenant Bill of Rights? Plus, Cold Treats For the Heat

This week, Mayor Brandon Johnson pitched the Protecting Renter’s Ordinance, which the city calls a “comprehensive modernization” of Chica...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 1

Your Guide to July 2026 in Chicago

As summer really takes off, the food fests, fireworks shows, and WNBA All Star Weekend have us really excited for July. Here’s your guide...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
June 30

Extreme Heat, Indiana Fireworks, and 'The Bear' Finale

Extreme heat warnings, corn sweat, and potential thunderstorms could make this the most volatile weather week of the summer so far. Execu...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
June 29

Seriously, More Parking Meter Drama? Plus, More Mayoral Candidates

Chicago’s infamous parking meters are up for sale. In a City Council committee meeting last week, alders got more insight into the mayor’...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
June 26

How Quantum Is Already Changing the South Side. Plus, Heat Wave Approaching

Earlier this month, Advocate Health Care broke ground on a new hospital at the south end of the forthcoming 440-acre Quantum Shore Campus...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
June 25

FCC Comes For ABC Chicago, The Bear is Back, and Get Free Coffee

The Federal Communications Commission has ABC 7 Chicago and other local stations in its crosshairs as the FCC has ordered an accelerated...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art