In the heart of Yolo County, the Board of Supervisors convened on January 14, 2025, to discuss pressing housing issues, marking a pivotal moment for the community as it embarks on a new strategic plan for affordable housing. Ian Evans, the executive director of Yolo County Housing, presented an extensive overview of the agency's first-ever five-year strategic plan, coinciding with its 75th anniversary.

Evans highlighted the agency's mission to provide quality affordable housing and community development support, primarily funded by federal and state organizations. He detailed various programs, including the operation of three seasonal migrant centers, which serve agricultural workers and their families. These centers, historically open from April to October, are now under consideration for year-round operation, a shift prompted by recent legislation aimed at addressing the housing needs of farmworkers.

The discussion revealed a stark reality: the demand for housing far exceeds the available resources. Currently, there are over 47,100 individuals on the waitlist for housing choice vouchers and approximately 14,000 unique individuals waiting for public housing. This overwhelming need underscores the urgency of the strategic plan, which aims to increase homeownership opportunities and affordable housing units by 15% over the next five years.

The board members expressed their support for the strategic plan while also raising concerns about the infrastructure needed to sustain the migrant centers if they were to transition to year-round housing. Evans noted that significant capital investments would be required to connect these centers to municipal water and sewer systems, with estimates ranging from $9 million to $12 million for necessary upgrades.

As the meeting progressed, the supervisors emphasized the importance of collaboration with local entities, including UC Davis, to address the growing housing crisis. They acknowledged that while building new units is essential, maximizing the use of existing facilities is equally crucial.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism and determination. The strategic plan not only aims to tackle immediate housing needs but also sets the stage for long-term solutions that could reshape the landscape of affordable housing in Yolo County. As the board prepares to adopt the plan in March, the community watches closely, hopeful for a future where housing is accessible for all.