Gilroy officials discuss funding and collaboration to address homelessness crisis

During the April 4, 2025 meeting of the Santa Clara County Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee, a pressing concern emerged regarding the high rate of homelessness in Gilroy, which has the highest number of unhoused individuals and the lowest income per capita in the county. Committee members emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration to address these critical issues effectively.

One member highlighted the importance of ensuring that Gilroy's challenges are consistently represented in discussions, stating, "I just really wanna make sure that we're always at the table." This sentiment underscores the urgency of including local voices in decision-making processes that affect their communities.

Additionally, there was a proposal to enhance communication between the committee and elected officials. A suggestion was made to hold quarterly or annual meetings with city leaders to bridge the gap between ongoing discussions and the broader decision-making framework. This approach aims to foster better alignment and understanding among all stakeholders involved in addressing housing and community development.

The committee also addressed concerns about potential funding cuts to Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and HOME funding. Members sought clarity on the implications of such cuts, questioning whether any reductions would be proportional or require revisiting the approval process. The response indicated that the outcome would depend on the specific circumstances surrounding the funding changes.

As the committee continues to navigate these complex issues, the focus remains on ensuring that all communities, particularly those facing significant challenges like Gilroy, are adequately supported and represented in housing initiatives. The next steps will involve ongoing discussions and potential adjustments to strategies based on funding availability and community needs.