STAFF REPORT
Lancaster Housing Authority
HA CC
{{item.num
ber}}
9/9/2025
TN
Date: September 9, 2025
To: Chairman Parris and Authority Members
From: Patti Garibay, Director - Community Development
Nicole Jones, Senior Analyst – Community Development
Subject: Rental Agreement of Property to Street Company at Vacant LHA Property (3134- 017-901) on Elm Avenue, South of Milling Street
Recommendation:
Authorize the Executive Director, or his designee, with the concurrence of the Housing Attorney, to negotiate, finalize and execute the Rental Agreement between the Lancaster Housing Authority and Lancaster Homeless Group, DBA Street Company for the lease of Housing owned property located on Elm Avenue, South of Milling Street (3134-017-901) in the amount of $1/year for a period of three (3) with two optional one-year extensions.
G.C. Section 84308: No
Fiscal Impact:
$1 per year for the duration of the three-year contract, plus two one-year extensions.
Background:
The property in question has a history of being a community garden, serving as a vital resource for local residents. Recently, Street Company, which has been actively engaged with the unhoused population by providing job opportunities in their coffee manufacturing business, has received a grant to expand its community initiatives.
This grant is part of a larger funding effort by the LA Food Equity Fund, which is managed by Community Partners with backing from LA County’s Chief Sustainability Office. In total, $9.8 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds has been allocated to 46 nonprofits dedicated to transforming Los Angeles County's food system over the next two years. These grants, varying 2 1
8 1
from $100,000 to over $400,000, are specifically designed to enhance food access, resilience, and equity, focusing on communities disproportionately impacted by food insecurity, particularly Latino and Black households.
Among the recognized grantees, Street Company stands out for its innovative greenhouse hydroponic farming techniques aimed at developing urban agriculture in Lancaster. This initiative not only promises to improve food availability but also creates job opportunities and fosters community engagement, aligning with the city’s goals for sustainable development and social equity. The council is encouraged to consider supporting Street Company’s efforts as it seeks to leverage this grant for the benefit of our community.
NJ/gb
Attachment:
Street Co_Lease Agreement for Community Garden 4922-1625-5590_1