In a significant move to combat homelessness and comply with state housing laws, the City of Norwalk has agreed to a legal settlement that will overturn its controversial ban on new homeless shelters and supportive housing projects. Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the details of the settlement today, which also includes the establishment of an affordable housing trust fund supported by a $250,000 contribution from the city, as reported by the Governor's Office.
The agreement arrives after persistent warnings from state officials that Norwalk's ban violated state housing statutes. Despite these cautions, local authorities delayed action, prompting the lawsuit filed by Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta on November 4, 2024. Now, alongside repealing the ban, Norwalk will partake in ongoing state monitoring, aimed at ensuring future compliance with housing legislation. "The Norwalk city council’s failure to reverse this ban without a lawsuit, despite knowing it is unlawful, is inexcusable. No community should turn its back on its residents in need – especially while there are people in your community sleeping on the streets. No city is exempt from doing their part to solve the homelessness crisis," Governor Newsom critiqued in a statement made by the Governor's Office.
Last year's decertification of Norwalk's housing element by the state highlighted the gravity of cities' inaction, rendering them ineligible for numerous housing and homelessness funds. Additionally, approvals for "builder’s remedy" affordable housing projects could no longer be denied by the city. Since 2019, HCD has awarded nearly $29 million to Norwalk for housing and homelessness initiatives. "We are more than willing to work with any city or county that wants to do its part to solve our housing crisis. By that same token, if any city or county wants to test our resolve, today’s settlement is your answer. All of us have a legal and moral responsibility to help — not hurt — those struggling to keep a roof over their heads or lacking housing altogether," Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized, as he told the Governor's Office.
California has slowed the growth of unsheltered homelessness to just 0.45%, compared to a nearly 7% national increase. The actions taken against Norwalk highlight the state’s commitment to addressing the crisis. Since its inception, the Housing Accountability Unit has supported the development of more than 10,000 housing units, including over 3,300 affordable homes, holding municipalities accountable for providing essential housing.
