Jason Wimbley, Director of the Department of Community Services and Development (CSD), briefed the subcommittee on two primary items: a $10 million Proposition 4 bond allocation for the farmworker-housing component of the Low Income Weatherization program and an augmentation request to implement Assembly Bill 1163's voluntary self-identification data collection requirements.

Prop 4: farmworker housing weatherization

CSD said Proposition 4 (2024) authorizes general obligation bonds for climate resilience and that CSD is scheduled to receive $10 million for the farmworker housing component of the low-income weatherization program. The program provides no-cost energy-efficiency upgrades and rooftop solar for low-income, multifamily and farmworker housing in 18 counties with high farmworker populations; the department said the funds will be used to extend the current cycle after procurement and contracting steps.

AB 1163 data-collection system modification

CSD described a statutory requirement to collect voluntary self-identification data (including sexual orientation and other demographic information) for subgrantee intake systems under AB 1163. The 2024 Budget Act appropriated $943,000 for initial work, but CSD said further analysis increased the estimated cost for third-party system modifications to about $2,000,000 and requested an augmentation to cover the gap.

Federal grants and LIHEAP/CSBG status

Wimbley updated the committee on federal funding status for LIHEAP and CSBG. He said federal staff reductions at the Office of Community Services had occurred but that CSD had not yet experienced interruptions to benefits delivery. He noted California had received preliminary allocations—approximately $215 million for LIHEAP and $33.8 million for CSBG under continuing resolutions—but final federal award details were forthcoming.

Ending

LAO said it had reviewed the BCPs and had no concerns at this time and that it will monitor federal changes. CSD said it would proceed with procurement and stakeholder engagement for the Prop 4 funds once approvals are final.