The Marin County Housing Authority on Jan. 14 authorized an amendment to its April 2024 exclusive negotiating rights agreement (ENRA) with Burbank Housing to add scope and budget for community engagement and resident outreach tied to the Golden Gate Village redevelopment.

Executive Director Kimberly Carroll told commissioners the added funds will pay for communications materials tailored to Golden Gate Village residents and for a robust resident engagement program to explain the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) process and keep residents informed through redevelopment phases. Mike Andrews, Burbank Housing’s development consultant, was available remotely to answer technical questions.

Public commenters pressed two themes: first, that residents should be meaningfully consulted before Burbank hires communications contractors; second, that the RAD application and physical needs assessment lacked adequate resident advisory board review. Mary Morgan, a Point Reyes Station resident, asked that contracting for communications wait until the resident council is reestablished so the council can review materials. Aura Hathaway, who has been active on Golden Gate Village issues, and other residents said the resident advisory board did not have an opportunity to review the RAD application before it was submitted.

Kimberly Carroll and other staff said the authority had met with the resident advisory board and the Golden Gate Village resident council at multiple points and that obtaining a CHAP (commitment for a housing assistance payment) on Dec. 12 positions the authority favorably as it proceeds. Commissioner Rodoni moved the amendment and Commissioner Lukin seconded; the board approved the amendment unanimously.

Speakers also raised concerns about the physical needs assessment for Golden Gate Village and asked for a second opinion, saying high assessments can be used to justify demolition rather than renovation. Maurice Macklemore referenced HUD regulation 964.11 to underline residents’ right to organize and be recognized.

Staff said they will continue to engage residents and that the resident empowerment fund and resident participation processes will be part of the redevelopment timeline. The board recorded the amendment vote and directed staff to continue outreach work while returning with more details and timelines in future meetings.