Counties Support Governor Gavin Newsom’s Cautious Approach and Protection of Key Investments
Need for Additional Clarity and Accountability on Homelessness Remains
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sacramento, CA – Counties support Governor Gavin Newsom’s strategy to preserve core state investments in homelessness and safety net programs – as well as providing new funding for flood protection – despite revenue shortfalls and uncertainties.
The Governor maintains his January Budget proposal to provide $3.7 billion for the homelessness crisis in our state. Counties are grateful for these crucial investments and continue to lead the call for increased accountability on homelessness, which includes clear responsibilities and ongoing funding.
“Counties have answered the Governor’s call for accountability on homelessness with our comprehensive AT HOME plan,” said Riverside County Supervisor and CSAC President Chuck Washington. “We urge the Governor and Legislature to adopt our AT HOME proposal as soon as possible.”
“True progress on homelessness can only be achieved with clear responsibilities aligned to sustainable funding,” said CSAC Chief Executive Officer Graham Knaus. “Now it is more important than ever to have crystal-clear roles and responsibilities for all levels of government when it comes to homelessness,” said Knaus.
“Progress begins AT HOME, and our plan offers the blueprint to strengthen accountability and transparency, which our communities demand and our unhoused residents deserve,” said Washington.
Knaus added, “We are leading the AT HOME Coalition for Accountability to unite all levels of government, business, faith-based organizations and many more in support of true transparency and effectiveness in homelessness policy.”
Learn more about the growing AT HOME Coalition for Accountability here.
Elsewhere, Counties support the Governor’s proposed additional investments in CARE Court funding, $290 million in flood response and protection for the Central Valley, and support for rapid response services in areas impacted by the southern border crisis. All of these priorities are subject to significant cost uncertainty, but the Governor’s initial commitment and attention is appreciated by all 58 counties.
The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) is the voice of California’s 58 counties.
