Norwalk City Council
May 5, 2026

Annual Action Plan
2026
1 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)
Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) & HOME Investment Partnerships
Program
DRAFT

ANNUAL ACTION PLAN
PROGRAM YEAR 2026-2027
(July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027)
Public Review Period
March 30, 2026 – May 1, 2026
Community Development Department
Housing & Neighborhood Development
Annual Action Plan
2nd year
Attachment No. 2

Annual Action Plan
2026
2 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)
Executive Summary
AP-05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR 91.200(c), 91.220(b)

1. Introduction
The City of Norwalk is required to prepare and submit an Annual Action Plan (Action Plan) as an application to receive federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-2027 AAP represents the second year of the City’s 2025-2030 Consolidated Plan. The purpose of this Action Plan is to provide details on how funds will be allocated to specific programming with the expected outcomes.

For 2026-2027, the City of Norwalk expects to receive $953,352 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and $263,328.03 in HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds. The Community Development Department, specifically the Housing and Neighborhood Division, is the agency responsible for preparing all HUD-required reports. This Action Plan will cover activities beginning July 1, 2026, and ending on June 30, 2027.

2. Summarize the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Objectives and outcomes identified in the Action Plan reflect the goals and strategies established in the 2025-2030 Consolidated Plan (ConPlan). The ConPlan represents high priority needs for the City of Norwalk, which were determined through detailed data collection and analysis of affordable housing, homelessness, and non-housing community development as well as community meetings and stakeholder interviews. The City has identified the following ConPlan goals listed below:
• Provide decent, affordable housing
• Support special needs programs and services
• Construct or upgrade public facilities and infrastructure • Create public awareness of fair housing
• Create job-generating businesses and job training
• Create homeless prevention programs and services
• Maintain and promote neighborhood preservation by preserving, rehabilitating, and enhancing neighborhoods
In short, the following findings illustrate how the City determined priority needs:
• Homeowners making between 30 to 80 percent area median income (AMI) were found to experience the greatest number of issues with severe housing problems. • More than 50 percent of households were considered to be cost burdened households, or households who spent more than 30 and 50 percent of their total income on housing costs.

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• 35.5 percent of individuals who are 65 years of age or older were reported to have one or more disability.

The City will continue to utilize CDBG and HOME funds to provide services for Norwalk residents that reflect the priorities of the ConPlan to guide which activities serve the greater need of the area.

3. Evaluation of past performance
This is an evaluation of past performance that helped lead the grantee to choose its goals or projects.

The City of Norwalk prepares the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) that outlines how objectives listed in the previous Action Plan were met. The City successfully implemented the FY 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan. The following lists a few of the City’s great accomplishments:
• Served 19 households through the Emergency Assistance Program. • Provided 87 individuals with legal counseling and services to victims of domestic violence and eviction of tenants.
• Provided 1,069 Norwalk individuals with substance abuse, counseling and residential substance abuse services.
• Provided 14 transition age youth (18-24 years old) with transitional housing. • Provided 6 individuals with job training assistance.
• Provided 183 Norwalk residents with fair housing services. • Rehabilitated curbs and ramps to meet Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Act compliance throughout the City.
• Provided 194 Norwalk homeless or at risk of homelessness individuals with food pantry services.

The City recognizes and will continue to evaluate past performances to ensure the City and its subrecipients are implementing activities effectively and ensure gaps in services are addressed.

4. Summary of Citizen Participation Process and consultation process Summary from the citizen participation section of the Plan.

Residents and serving organizations were encouraged to participate during the Annual Action Plan review process. Opportunities to comment included the ability to email public comments, or mailing written comments.

The first public hearing in the Action Plan process was held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM. This hearing informed the Norwalk City Council of the Annual Action Plan and solicited public comments prior to the kickoff of the 30-day review period. A draft Action Plan is being made available for public review beginning March 30, 2026, and ending April 30, 2026. The Plan is also made available at the following physical and virtual locations:

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• City of Norwalk, Community Development, Room #12, 12700 Norwalk Blvd., Norwalk, CA; • City of Norwalk, Social Services Center, 11929 Alondra Blvd., Norwalk, CA; • Norwalk Regional Library, 12350 Imperial Hwy., Norwalk, CA; and • www.norwalk.org/city-hall/departments/community-development/housing-neighborhood- development.

The second public hearing will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM. This hearing will solicit public comments and request approval from the Norwalk City Council to adopt the Action Plan.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the City will provide accessibility services and assisted hearing devices for both public hearings.

5. Summary of public comments
All public comments received will be addressed and incorporated into the final Action Plan as an attached document.

6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them N/A

7. Summary
The City of Norwalk ensured all citizens are provided reasonable notice and opportunity to comment during the Annual Action Plan as set forth in its Citizen Participation Plan. The CDBG and HOME programs are designed to address housing, non-housing, and community development needs for the low- and moderate-income population. Therefore, the City ensures that all public comments received are addressed.

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PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies – 91.200(b)

1. Agency/entity responsible for preparing/administering the Consolidated Plan Describe the agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source.

Agency Role Name Department/Agency

CDBG Administrator NORWALK Community Development
HOME Administrator NORWALK Community Development
Table 1 – Responsible Agencies

Narrative (optional)
The Community Development Department is responsible for overseeing the administration of both the CDBG and HOME programs.

Administration includes preparation of HUD-required reporting, implementation of HUD-funded programs, and review compliance of all subrecipients of HUD funds. Lastly, the Norwalk Housing Authority is a division within the Community Development Department.

Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information
Bethani Cardenas, Housing Manager
Housing and Neighborhood Development Division
12700 Norwalk Blvd.

Norwalk, CA 90650
(562) 929-5951
[email protected]

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AP-10 Consultation – 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l)

1. Introduction
In preparation of the Annual Action Plan, the City consulted with public and private agencies, including local and regional based organizations, to understand the community’s needs and available resources.

The City also met with several department representatives to provide information about the Action Plan and its processes. Lastly, City staff met with the Social Service Commission to discuss proposed funding for public service agencies.

Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction’s activities to enhance coordination between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies (91.215(l))
The City of Norwalk will continue to enhance coordination between service providers and internal departments by working closely with Norwalk residents and funding public service agencies, such as Fair Housing Services. The Norwalk Housing Authority (NHA) also administers the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program, Mainstream Vouchers, and the Family Self-Sufficiency program. Every year, residents are encouraged to contribute and participate in the Housing Authority’s Annual Plan. By encouraging public participation and providing information on the availability of various programs, the City will continue to accurately assess the direct needs of the community.

Describe coordination with the Continuum of Care and efforts to address the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans, and unaccompanied youth) and persons at risk of homelessness.

The City of Norwalk is located in the County of Los Angeles and coordinates with the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) Continuum of Care (CoC). The City is served by Service Planning area 7 (SPA 7). LAHSA provides essential data, such as the Point-In-Time Count, which can be used to calculate the need for people experiencing homelessness.

The City of Norwalk is a member of the Gateway Cities Council of Governments (COG), which is leading an effort to address homelessness within our region. By action of the Board of Directors, policy direction was given to seek funding and collaboration to develop a plan to advance individuals from homelessness to a stabilized and productive life. The Gateway Cities COG partnered with the County of Los Angeles in making the homeless initiative a reality.

CDBG funding is provided to the Social Services Department for an Emergency Assistance Program, which provides assistance with utility and rental arrears and temporary motel vouchers. The program is open to low-income Norwalk residents in need of emergency assistance, but principally benefits families with children. HOME funding is provided to the Norwalk Housing Authority for TBRA – Security Deposit

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Assistance, which provides assistance to homeless and Section 8 applicants for security deposit assistance of new lease-ups to the Housing Choice Voucher Program. The City collaborates with Kingdom Causes to provide security deposit assistance to homeless individuals and families seeking permanent housing in Norwalk. This program is funded through the City’s Housing Successor Agency funds and administered by the Housing Authority.

Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction's area in determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards for and evaluate outcomes of projects and activities assisted by ESG funds, and develop funding, policies and procedures for the operation and administration of HMIS The City does not receive ESG funds and does not submit any ESG-related reports to HUD.

However, the City continues to work closely with LAHSA to obtain Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) data on housing and services to individuals and families atrisk or currently experiencing homelessness. The City will continue to support the network of homeless service providers serving Norwalk.

2. Describe Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and describe the jurisdiction’s consultations with housing, social service agencies and other entities

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Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated 1 Agency/Group/Organization Norwalk Social Services Department Agency/Group/Organization Type City Department
What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Families with children Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization was
consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Agency was invited to participate in public hearings and 30-day review of the AAP. The anticipated outcome of the consultation is improved data and planning within the selected sections above. 2 Agency/Group/Organization Norwalk Public Safety Department Agency/Group/Organization Type City Department
What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless Homelessness Needs –
Homelessness Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization was
consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Agency was invited to participate in public hearings and 30-day review of the AAP. The anticipated outcome of the consultation is improved data and planning within the selected sections above. 3 Agency/Group/Organization Norwalk Housing Authority
Agency/Group/Organization Type PHA
What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Public Housing Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization was
consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Agency was invited to participate in public hearings and 30-day review of the Plan. The anticipated outcome of the consultation is improved data and planning within the selected sections above.

Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting

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No public agencies were intentionally left out of the consultation process. Norwalk, to the best of its ability, was in contact with all known local organizations and agencies that are relevant to the CDBG and HOME activities.

Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan Name of Plan Lead
Organization
How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the goals of each plan? Housing
Element
City of
Norwalk
Based on the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) set forth by the State of California, the Housing Element is the City's chief policy document for the development of affordable and market rate housing.

Consistent with this policy document, the City will maintain and enhance the quality of existing residential neighborhoods and promote and encourage fair housing opportunities for all economic segments of the community, regardless of age, sex, ethnic background, physical condition, or family size.

Homelessness
Plan
City of
Norwalk
On December 2023, the City Council adopted a Strategic Action Plan to Address Homelessness in the City of Norwalk. The City's strategic plan includes utilization of CDBG public services for homeless and residents at risk of homelessness. The Strategic Action Plan identifies five goals. 1. Increase inventory of supportive housing. 2. Strengthen outreach efforts to provide a swift and targeted response. 3. Advance prevention programs to stop at risk residents from falling into homelessness. 4. Improve data racking capabilities and report progress against performance measurements. 5. Drive better outcomes through communication efforts, legislative action, and funding optimization.

Table 3 – Other local / regional / federal planning efforts

Narrative (optional)
.

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AP-12 Participation – 91.105, 91.200(c)

1. Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal-setting The City of Norwalk provides a detailed Citizen Participation Plan which outlines numerous opportunities for residents and interested organizations to participate in the Annual Action Plan process. In compliance with HUD regulations and the City’s Citizen Participation Plan, the City provided many opportunities for participation and public comment throughout the Action Plan process. The first public hearing was held before City Council on March 17, 2026. The draft Action Plan will be made available from March 30, 2026, to May 1, 2026. The second public hearing is scheduled for May 5, 2026.

The City also published notice of the public hearings and the start of the 30-day public review and commenting period in its official newspaper, The Norwalk Patriot and in La Opinion. The hearing is held at Norwalk City Hall Council Chambers and also allows public comments via email, call-in, and written comments.

Citizen Participation Outreach
Sort Ord
er
Mode of Outre
ach
Target of Outre
ach
Summary of
response/attenda
nce
Summary of
comments receiv
ed
Summary of comme
nts not accepted
and reasons
URL (If applicable)
1 Public Meeting
Non-
targeted/broad
community
15 Not applicable
2 Newspaper Ad
Non-
targeted/broad
community
Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable

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Sort Ord
er
Mode of Outre
ach
Target of Outre
ach
Summary of
response/attenda
nce
Summary of
comments receiv
ed
Summary of comme
nts not accepted
and reasons
URL (If applicable)
3 Newspaper Ad
Non-English
Speaking -
Specify other
language:

Spanish

Non-
targeted/broad
community
not applicable not applicable not applicable
4 Public Hearing
Non-
targeted/broad
community
20 2
Refer to
attachment
not applicable
https://www.norwalk.org/
city-hall/meeting-agendas-
393
5 Newspaper Ad
Non-
targeted/broad
community
not applicable not applicable not applicable
6 Newspaper Ad
Non-English
Speaking -
Specify other
language:

Spanish

Non-
targeted/broad
community
not applicable not applicable not applicable

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Sort Ord
er
Mode of Outre
ach
Target of Outre
ach
Summary of
response/attenda
nce
Summary of
comments receiv
ed
Summary of comme
nts not accepted
and reasons
URL (If applicable)
7 Public Hearing
Non-
targeted/broad
community
05/05/2026 Not applicable
https://www.norwalk.org/
city-hall/meeting-agendas-
393

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Expected Resources
AP-15 Expected Resources - 91.220(c)(1,2)
Introduction
The City of Norwalk receives CDBG and HOME funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Annual Action Plan report illustrates the City’s accomplishments in addressing the priorities and goals established by the 5-Year Consolidated Plan. The City will receive $953,352 in CDBG funds and $263,328.03 in HOME funds for the FY 2026-2027. Program income and carryover monies from previous years will be allocated to Affordable Housing, Economic Development and/or Capital Improvement Projects.

Anticipated Resources
Program Source
of
Funds
Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount
Available
Reminder of
ConPlan
$
Narrative Description
Annual
Allocation:
$
Program
Income: $
Prior Year
Resources:
$
Total:
$
CDBG public -
federal
Acquisition
Admin and
Planning
Economic
Development
Housing
Public
Improvements
Public Services 953,352.00 25,000.00 100,000.00 1,078,352.00 3,105,777 In Year 2, the City will receive
$953,352 in CDBG entitlement
funds. Any unencumbered
funds from prior year(s)
resources will be allocated to
capital improvement or
economic development
projects.

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Program Source
of
Funds
Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount
Available
Reminder of
ConPlan
$
Narrative Description
Annual
Allocation:
$
Program
Income: $
Prior Year
Resources:
$
Total:
$
HOME public -
federal
Acquisition
Homebuyer
assistance
Homeowner
rehab
Multifamily
rental new
construction
Multifamily
rental rehab
New
construction for
ownership
TBRA 263,328.03 25,000.00 998,732.18 1,287,060.21 $744,622.60 In Year 2, the City expects to
receive$242,049.35 in HOME
entitlement funds. Any
unencumbered funds from prior
year(s) will be allocated to
affordable housing or affordable
housing rehabilitation projects.

Table 4 - Expected Resources – Priority Table

Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied
The City will attempt to leverage grants and other funding when appropriate to meet the objective of the AAP as follows:

Entitlement Funds
City is expected to receive an estimate of $1,078,352 in CDBG funds and $1,287,060.21 in HOME funds. The City does not receive ESG or HOPWA funds and does not report on these grants.

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Housing Bond Funds
The City will allocate funds from the former Successor Redevelopment Agency – Housing Set-Aside for Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing. The HOME matching requirement may be satisfied through the City’s Housing Bond funds, private developers, or City-owned land dedicated to affordable housing.

HOME-ARP Funds
The City submitted its HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan Program (HOME-ARP) Allocation Plan to apply for additional funding aimed at reducing homelessness and improving housing stability in Norwalk. As a result, Norwalk secured $1,233,323 in HOME-ARP funds to collaborate with an experienced housing development organization on the design, construction, and operation of a permanent affordable housing project in the Norwalk Entertainment District. These funds will be dedicated to creating affordable housing units specifically for veterans experiencing homelessness and individuals earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income (AMI). The development will also offer on-site mental health and homelessness support services.

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If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan The City does not own any land that could be used to address the needs identified in the ConPlan.

Discussion
Please refer to the above narrative.

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Annual Goals and Objectives
AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives - 91.220(c)(3)&(e)
Goals Summary Information
Sort
Order
Goal Name Start
Year
End
Year
Category Geographic
Area
Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator
1 Increase Affordable
Housing
Opportunities
2025 2029 Affordable
Housing
City Wide Provide Decent
Affordable Housing
HOME: $
1,041,576.59
Rental units constructed: TBD
Household Housing Unit
Tenant Based Rental
assistance: 12 Households
Assisted

2. Preserve,
rehabilitate and
enhance
neighborhoods
2025 2029 Affordable
Housing
City Wide Maintain and promote
neighborhood
preservation
HOME:
$219,150.82
Affordable housing units
rehabilitated: 2 Units
2 Provide Vital
Support Services
2025 2029 Public Services City Wide Support Special Needs Programs and Services
CDBG:
$135,000.00
Public service activities other
than Low/Moderate Income
Housing Benefit: 290 Persons
Assisted
3 Enhance Economic
Development
Opportunities
2025 2029 Non-Housing
Community
Development
City Wide Create Job Generating
Businesses and Job
Training
CDBG:
$120,000.00
Jobs created/retained: 3 Jobs
Businesses assisted: 1
Businesses Assisted

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Sort
Order
Goal Name Start
Year
End
Year
Category Geographic
Area
Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator
4 Enhance
Community
Facilities
2025 2029 Non-Housing
Community
Development
Qualified
Census
Tracts
Construct/Upgrade
Public Facilities &
Infrastructure
CDBG:
$632,682
50,000 persons assisted from
community infrastructure
improvements other than
Low-Moderate Income
housing.
5 Planning And Grant
Administration
2025 2029 Planning City Wide Provide Decent
Affordable Housing
Support Special Needs
Programs and Services
Construct/Upgrade
Public Facilities &
Infrastructu
Create Job Generating
Businesses and Job
Training
Create Public
Awareness of Fair
Housing
Maintain and Promote
Neighborhood
Preservation
CDBG:
$190,670.00
HOME:
$26,332.80
Other: 2 Other

Table 5 – Goals Summary

Goal Descriptions

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1 Goal Name Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities
Goal
Description
Norwalk seeks to increase the affordable housing stock by supporting: the planning, design, and construction of new housing units; homeownership through new or existing home buyer and rental assistance programs; new multifamily rental unit construction; the building or converting existing buildings for homeless housing; housing construction vocational and skills training programs, CHDO agencies and project work, security deposit assistance and tenant-based rental assistance, and education and community outreach. 2 Goal Name Provide Vital Support Services
Goal
Description
Addresses the needs to support special needs program and services.

Persons assisted with public service activities other than low-moderate income housing 3 Goal Name Enhance Economic Development Opportunities
Goal
Description
Norwalk shall establish a stable, healthy, and balanced economic base, which is compatible with the community’s needs.

Norwalk shall promote businesses that provide a variety of goods and services and employment opportunities by assisting commercial property owners with business operations and expansion loan programs, façade improvement grant and loan programs, and workforce training and development programs. 4 Goal Name Enhance Community Facilities
Goal
Description
Norwalk shall support a higher quality of life through enhancing recreational spaces, supporting community and social service facilities, supporting amenities that promote community events, improve and enhance existing infrastructure such as streets, sidewalks, curbing and other public facilities, safe routes to school infrastructure, and addressing public safety concerns.
5 Goal Name Planning And Grant Administration
Goal
Description
Norwalk will continue to provide planning and administration services required to manage and operate the City’s CDBG and HOME programs. Such funds will assist in managing community development, housing, and economic development programs. Funds will also be used for other planning initiatives such as strategies to further fair housing and safe routes to school infrastructure planning.

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6 Goal Name Preserve, Rehabilitate and Enhance Neighborhoods Goal
Description
Norwalk supports enhancing existing housing stock by improving housing conditions, decreasing vacancy, and creating decent and livable homes which will ultimately increase housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income and homeless families through the following types of activities: façade improvement programs, housing acquisition and/or rehabilitation; and homebuyer and rental assistance programs.

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AP-35 Projects - 91.220(d)
Introduction
For FY 2026-2027, the City will use entitlement funds to address its priority housing and community activity needs by undertaking the following projects listed below. Previous year(s) resources and program income will be allocated towards affordable housing, economic development activities and/or capital improvement projects.
# Project Name
1 Capital Improvement Project
2 Upwards Inc - Economic Development
3 Affordable Housing Rehabilitation
4 Affordable Housing Project
5 TBRA - Security Deposit Assistance
6 Jovenes, Inc.
7 Community Legal Aid
8 Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse
9 Emergency Services - Social Services Center
10 Business Incentive Loan Program
11 Fair Housing Services
12 CDBG Program Administration
13 HOME Program Administration
Table 6 – Project Information

Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs
The City allocated CDBG and HOME funds to benefit vulnerable populations as they are at higher risk of homelessness due to limited income and other crucial issues that require supportive services. These activities address the priority needs described in ConPlan.

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AP-38 Project Summary
Project Summary Information

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1 Project Name Capital Improvement Project
Target Area Qualified Census Tracts
Goals Supported Enhance Community Facilities
Needs Addressed Construct/Upgrade Public Facilities & Infrastructure Funding CDBG: $632,682
Description Street rehabilitation and improvements to sidewalks, curbs, gutters and ADA accessible ramps.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
To be determined
Location Description CDBG eligible census tracts
Planned Activities The City will provide assistance to fund street, sidewalk, curbs, gutters and ADA accessible ramp improvements throughout the City in CDBG eligible census tracts
2 Project Name Upwards Inc - Economic Development
Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Enhance Economic Development Opportunities Needs Addressed Create Job Generating Businesses and Job Training Funding CDBG: $20,000.00
Description Provide low to moderate income women and minority microenterprise childcare providers with coaching and digital tools to optimize operations and revenue, so their business can expand access of affordable childcare services in the community.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
1 estimated LMI client will benefit
Location Description 12700 Norwalk Blvd. Norwalk, CA 90650 Planned Activities Provide grant assistance to assist LMI client for micro enterprise assistance.

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3 Project Name Affordable Housing Rehabilitation
Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Needs Addressed Provide Decent Affordable Housing
Funding HOME: $219,150.82
Description Assistance to Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) to preserve housing affordability. Undertake necessary rehabilitation for housing acquired.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
To be determined
Location Description TBD
Planned Activities Affordable housing rehabilitation of existing CHDO units in Norwalk. 4 Project Name Affordable Housing Project
Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Needs Addressed Provide Decent Affordable Housing
Funding HOME: $1,011,576.59
Description In a loan to grant format, the City intends to assist developers for the acquisition and/or construction of affordable rental units.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
To be determined
Location Description 12700 Norwalk Blvd. Norwalk, CA 90625 Planned Activities Provide loan to grant assistance for the development of affordable rental units.
5 Project Name TBRA - Security Deposit Assistance
Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities

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Needs Addressed Provide Decent Affordable Housing
Funding HOME: $30,000.00
Description NHA referrals to provide one-time grant to Section 8 voucher holders and the homeless to assist with security deposits.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
12 very low-income households
Location Description The NHA, 12700 Norwalk Blvd., Room 12, Norwalk, CA Planned Activities Provide grants for security deposits to new Section 8 voucher holders and homeless individuals
6 Project Name Jovenes, Inc.

Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Provide Vital Support Services
Needs Addressed Support Special Needs Programs and Services Funding CDBG: $20,000.00
Description Funds services and operations for homeless transitional age youth.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
15 low to moderate income individuals
Location Description Jovenes, Inc. office location: 1208 Pleasant Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90033
Planned Activities Provide temporary safe housing for homeless transition-age youth in Norwalk.
7 Project Name Community Legal Aid
Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Provide Vital Support Services
Needs Addressed Support Special Needs Programs and Services Funding CDBG: $20,000.00

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Description Provide legal counseling and assistance to low to moderate income residents.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
50 low to moderate income households
Location Description Legal aid office location: 12501 Imperial Hwy Suite 250, Norwalk 90650 Planned Activities Provide free civil legal assistance for low to moderate income Norwalk residents.
8 Project Name Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse (LA CADA) Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Provide Vital Support Services
Needs Addressed Support Special Needs Programs and Services Funding CDBG: $20,000.00
Description Drug and alcohol addiction treatment.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
200 low-to-moderate income individuals.

Location Description LA-CADA is located at 11015 Bloomfield Ave. in Santa Fe Springs.

Planned Activities residential substance abuse treatment. 9 Project Name Emergency Services - Social Services Center Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Provide Vital Support Services
Needs Addressed Support Special Needs Programs and Services Funding CDBG: $75,000.00
Description Provide rental assistance for homeless individuals and families to prevent eviction, for utility assistance, and for temporary lodging vouchers.

Target Date 6/30/2027

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Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
25 low- and moderate-income households will be assisted.

Location Description Social Services Center located at: 11929 Alondra Blvd. in Norwalk.

Planned Activities Provide homeless prevention services, such as emergency rental assistance, utility assistance, and motel vouchers for low to moderate income residents.
10 Project Name Business Incentive Loan Program
Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Enhance Economic Development Opportunities Needs Addressed Create Job Generating Businesses and Job Training Funding CDBG: $100,000.00
Description Provide financial assistance to local businesses for expansion, building improvements, new employee salaries and or equipment creating more sustainable neighborhoods.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
One business
Location Description Commercial areas City Wide
Planned Activities Provide financial assistance to local businesses for expansion, building improvements, new employee salaries and or equipment creating more sustainable neighborhoods.
11 Project Name Fair Housing Services
Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Planning and Grant Administration
Needs Addressed Create Public Awareness of Fair Housing Funding CDBG: $13,000.00
Description Funding for fair housing services
Target Date 6/30/2027

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Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
Approximately 100 residents
Location Description Fair Housing Foundation is located at: 3605 Long Beach Blvd. #302, Long Beach CA
Planned Activities Fund the Fair Housing Foundation services for City of Norwalk to provide training, outreach, and legal services to ensure that all housing is available without discrimination.
12 Project Name CDBG Program Administration
Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Planning And Grant Administration
Needs Addressed Planning and Grant Administration
Funding CDBG: $177,670.00
Description Norwalk will continue to provide planning and administration services required to manage and operate the City's CDBG program. Such funds will assist in managing community development, housing, and economic development programs. Funds will also be used for other planning initiatives such as strategies for affordable housing and infrastructure planning.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
N/A
Location Description Norwalk City Hall, 12700 Norwalk Boulevard Room 12, Norwalk, CA 90650.

Planned Activities Program administrative costs for CDBG operations. Fair Housing program is listed separately but is funded out of CDBG program administration.
13 Project Name HOME Program Administration
Target Area City Wide
Goals Supported Planning and Grant Administration
Needs Addressed Planning and Grant administration

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Funding HOME: $26,332.80
Description Norwalk will continue to provide planning and administration services required to manage and operate the City's HOME program. Such funds will assist in managing housing initiatives, rehabilitation, and new affordable housing development.

Target Date 6/30/2027
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
N/A
Location Description Norwalk City Hall, 12700 Norwalk Boulevard, Room 12, Norwalk, CA 90650.

Planned Activities Program administration.

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AP-50 Geographic Distribution - 91.220(f)
Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed The City ensures to provide services funded through entitlement funds to be made available citywide to service Norwalk residents. However, for specific CDBG programs such as capital improvement and business incentive programs, assistance will be provided to census tracts that qualify on an “area benefit” basis. As determined by HUD, an area benefit activity is one that benefits all residents of an area in which it is primarily residential, and in which 51 percent of the population is low- and moderate- income. The City utilized American Census Survey data to prepare a map that illustrates qualified census tracts and block groups that may qualify under area benefit.

Geographic Distribution
Target Area Percentage of Funds
City Wide 100
Qualified Census Tracts 0
Table 7 - Geographic Distribution

Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically The City will make CDBG and HOME funded activities available citywide. For example, social services, economic development, job training efforts, affordable housing development, and homeless prevention efforts will be taken as citywide initiatives. For infrastructure, roads, and/or sidewalk improvements, the City will ensure qualified census tracts will be assisted.

Discussion
Overall, the City of Norwalk will make CDBG and HOME programs available citywide to continue providing services to the low- and moderate-income individuals and households. This direction and overall goals support the priorities established in the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan and will greatly benefit Norwalk residents.

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Affordable Housing
AP-55 Affordable Housing - 91.220(g)
Introduction
The Annual Action Plan (AAP) is required to outline specific goals for the number of affordable housing opportunities that will be provided to homeless, non-homeless, and special needs households during the program year. It must also detail the number of affordable housing units to be delivered, categorized by program type, such as rental assistance, new construction, rehabilitation of existing units, or acquisition of properties. In this context, "affordable housing" is defined in accordance with the HOME regulations outlined in 24 CFR 92.252 for rental housing and 24 CFR 92.254 for homeownership.

One Year Goals for the Number of Households to be Supported Homeless 15
Non-Homeless 0
Special-Needs 0
Total 15
Table 8 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Requirement

One Year Goals for the Number of Households Supported Through Rental Assistance 12
The Production of New Units 0
Rehab of Existing Units 6
Acquisition of Existing Units 0
Total 18
Table 9 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Type

Discussion
As is the trend across the state of California, there is a lack of decent, affordable housing units in the City of Norwalk, resulting in a lack of affordability. There is a lack of decent, affordable units across the board in the City of Norwalk, resulting in much of the housing stock being out of the affordable range.

For low-income renters, access to decent, affordable units is even more daunting. According to 2017- 2021 ACS data, 60% of renters were cost burdened or paying more than 30% of their income on housing (census.gov). In 2025, Fair Market rents were considerably higher than HOME Rents.

The lack of affordable housing in Norwalk’s housing market will be addressed in FY 2026/2027 with several City initiatives, including: Security Deposit Assistance Program, Emergency Services Program, and job training efforts to increase household incomes. TBRA, operated by the Norwalk Housing Authority (NHA), will provide $30,000 in HOME funding to assist Housing Choice Voucher holders and the

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homeless with security deposit.

The City is actively engaging with developers for affordable housing projects. The City has collaborated with Weingart for affordable housing development on the following site:

1. Project Homekey - This property, located at 10646 Rosecrans Avenue, was converted from a motel into a 54-unit supportive housing to provide shelter and services for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

The City is actively engaging with developers for affordable housing projects. The City is collaborating with Diversity Builders for affordable housing development on the following site:

1. Residences at The Walk
This proposed project includes the construction of mixed-use development with residential, commercial, and open space uses on the location of the current City Hall Lawn and surface parking lot. Up to 350 residential units with associated amenities and up to 110,000 square feet of commercial uses is in development.

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AP-60 Public Housing - 91.220(h)
Introduction
The Norwalk Housing Authority (NHA) administers the Housing Choice Voucher Program. The NHA receives a total of 732 Housing Choice Vouchers from HUD. The NHA also allocates 2 Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) slots. The NHA does not have any public housing units. The NHA's goals are to maximize voucher utilization, maintain "high-performer" status, promote economic self-sufficiency, apply for new rental vouchers, if available, and undertake affirmative measures to provide a suitable living environment for families living in assisted housing regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability.

Actions planned during the next year to address the needs to public housing The NHA does not have public housing. However, due to the limited supply of rental housing in Norwalk, the HOME program will be providing security deposit assistance to new Section 8 voucher holders to help them be more successful in securing rental housing. Additionally, the NHA will continue to participate in regional landlord outreach activities and offer incentives to facilitate acceptance of the voucher program.

Actions to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in management and participate in homeownership
The NHA does not own or maintain public housing currently. However, the NHA encourages homeownership among its voucher program recipients through its Family Self-Sufficiency Program which provides access to case management, financial incentives, and other supportive services to achieve greater economic independence. Participants of the Section 8 program are paired with a coordinator to create a personalized plan with goals. Participants also have access to resources such as job training, career development, homeownership counseling, and financial literacy workshops through collaboration with the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board.

If the PHA is designated as troubled, describe the manner in which financial assistance will be provided or other assistance
The Norwalk Housing Authority is not designated as troubled.

Discussion
Overall, the City does not own or maintain its own public housing but works closely and in collaboration with the Norwalk Housing Authority to ensure that eligible participants can access safe and decent housing while maintaining affordability.

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AP-65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities - 91.220(i) Introduction
This section describes the City’s one-year goals and the specific action steps it will undertake in the program year to carry out the homeless strategy outlined in SP-60 Homelessness Strategy. It will also describe the jurisdiction’s one-year goals and specify the activities it will undertake to serve the housing and supportive service needs of non-homeless populations who require supportive housing.

Describe the jurisdictions one-year goals and actions for reducing and ending homelessness including Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs
During the Program Year, the City plans to coordinate outreach with LAHSA, Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Southern California Health and Rehabilitation Program (SCHARP), People Assisting the Homeless (PATH), and Jovenes. Coordination with such entities promotes communication about where homeless encampments are forming and progress the teams have made in assessing homeless individuals. The City uses the Los Angeles County Homeless Portal to refer homeless residents to the LAHSA outreach team.

The City will continue to support programs and strategies, which address the Priority Needs of Homeless Persons and Families in the following ways:
• Provide CDBG funding to support programs and services for the homeless and those in need of housing assistance through its CDBG Public Service Funding, including the Emergency Assistance Program.
• Use HOME funds to assist homeless individuals and families with security deposits. • Provide other funds to support homeless prevention and rapid rehousing services offered by The Whole Child and Kingdom Causes Bellflower.

The City of Norwalk will continue to reduce unsheltered homelessness through coordinated outreach, engagement, and housing-focused interventions led by the Homeless Operation Prevention and Engagement (HOPE) Team and the Housing Liaison.

The HOPE Team operates weekday daytime teams (Monday–Friday, 5:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.) and a night- and-weekend team (Wednesday–Sunday, 12:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.) to provide consistent coverage and timely engagement with unsheltered individuals. The team conducts proactive outreach, assesses individual needs, educates individuals on available services, responds to resident and business concerns, coordinates encampment clean-ups, and supports appropriate enforcement when necessary to maintain public safety.

Outreach efforts prioritize unsheltered persons and emphasize relationship-building to increase

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acceptance of services. Information collected during engagements is documented and shared with service providers to support individualized service plans, improve referrals, and identify service gaps.

The City’s Housing Liaison complements these efforts by coordinating housing referrals, assisting with housing navigation and applications, tracking progress toward housing placement, and collaborating with County and nonprofit partners to ensure continuity of care. Through this coordinated approach, the City aims to increase service connections, improve housing placements, and reduce the number of individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness over the next year.

Addressing the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons The City will continue to support the following emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of People Experiencing Homelessness (PEH) through The City of Norwalk’s Social Services Department (SSD) and agencies funded under Public Services:

The SSD offers public assistance programs and services designed to assist People Experiencing Homelessness (PEH), low- income Norwalk residents, and those in need of transitional services, emergency shelter, and/or food. The SSD provides motel vouchers for up to three (3) nights, depending on the circumstance, for emergency lodging for people in need of temporary shelter. Client must be working with a homeless service provider agency or have a plan in place.

Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse (LA CADA) provides residential treatment and transitional housing with services for homeless residents with substance abuse and behavioral health needs. CDBG funds will be used to increase substance abuse treatment outreach and coordination with the homeless outreach team.

Jovenes Inc. Motel Voucher Program provides temporary safe housing for Norwalk youth experiencing homelessness. The Motel Voucher Program purpose is to provide a safe and secure temporary housing location while a long-term solution is created. Youth will be connected to longer term housing options with Jovenes’ continuum of care.

Additionally, the City will support the County's Continuum of Care funding application which includes transitional shelter programs and permanent supportive housing.

Helping homeless persons (especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) make the transition to permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access for homeless individuals and families to affordable housing units, and preventing individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again
In 2021, Project Homekey funds were used to acquire a former motel. The property was renovated to

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provide permanent supportive housing, prioritizing individuals experiencing homelessness in the Norwalk area. The project was developed in partnership with non-profit housing operators and included wraparound supportive services. The Social Services Department (SSD) is the lead department in the City in coordination with the Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority (LAHSA) and Gateway Cities and implementing homeless count efforts. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding is provided to SSD for an Emergency Assistance Program (EAP), which aids with utilities and temporary housing. The program is open to any low-income Norwalk residents in need of emergency assistance, but principally benefits families with children. The City will financially support programs and services for the homeless through its CDBG Public Service Funding. The City also plans to use HOME funds to assist people experiencing homelessness and families with security deposits through a Tenant-Based Rental Assistant (TBRA) program.

Kingdom Causes Bellflower (KCB) is able to help prevent families and individuals from becoming homeless by paying rental arrears, utility assistance, and move-in cost of homeless neighbors from Norwalk. KCB also provides landlord mediation, referrals to other providers, case management, and budget counseling for households, all things that contribute to household stability.

Helping low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families and those who are: being discharged from publicly funded institutions and systems of care (such as health care facilities, mental health facilities, foster care and other youth facilities, and corrections programs and institutions); or, receiving assistance from public or private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education, or youth needs.

SSD offers public assistance programs and services designed to assist low-income Norwalk residents and those in need of emergency shelter. According to SSD, motel vouchers are issued for up to three (3) nights, depending on the circumstance, for emergency lodging for people in need of temporary shelter.

Often times, people seek this service because they need a place to sleep while they wait to be admitted into a homeless shelter, are unable to afford shelter for short period of time, need of a place to get cleaned up and rest or may have been displaced due to fire / home emergency.

Many of the constituents who seek assistance from SSD are low-income households at risk of homelessness or experiencing homelessness. They come in for food assistance, advocacy assistance for services through other agencies, and referrals to drug/alcohol rehabilitation facilities, homeless shelters, medical treatment facilities and other agencies.

The City has taken additional efforts to address homelessness by collaborating with the Gateway Cities Council of Governments, Gateway Connections Program, to offer housing and services People Experiencing Homelessness (PEH). This program, along with the Social Services and Community Development Departments and the Housing Authority, serves as a bridge between those who are in need and resources that are available. The SSD is currently working with Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority (LAHSA) on the annual Point-in-Time Homeless Count and refers families to services and other

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providers which provide homeless services for SPA 7.

Discussion
In December 2023, the City of Norwalk adopted a new Strategic Action Plan to Address Homelessness.

The City aspires to provide housing and supportive services to individuals currently experiencing homelessness and to establish clear processes for addressing it in the future. Central to this effort is the City’s commitment to treating every person with dignity and compassion.

The Strategic Plan serves as a comprehensive roadmap, outlining how the City intends to allocate and advocate for resources — drawing from the county, state, and local community — to ensure that experiences of homelessness are rare, brief, and non-recurring.

Prior to the pandemic, Norwalk had made remarkable progress. Guided by the Plan to Prevent and Combat Homelessness adopted in 2018, the City established the Homeless Operations Prevention & Engagement (HOPE) team. Working alongside city social services, Community Development teams, non- profit organizations, and community groups, the HOPE team achieved significant results: the number of people experiencing homelessness fell by nearly 50% — from 317 to 168 — between 2017 and 2020.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought a significant setback. The termination of Project RoomKey, the emergency shelter program, led to a sharp surge in the homelessness count.

More recently, the City has resumed meaningful progress. According to the 2025 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count, the number of unsheltered individuals in Norwalk dropped by 67% compared to 2024, and observed encampments fell by 45%. Since 2024, the City’s Social Services Department has connected more than 150 individuals to supportive agencies, of whom 108 have successfully transitioned into housing. The HOPE team continues to lead routine outreach across Norwalk, working closely with Social Services to connect residents in crisis with the care they need.

Below is an analysis of the Norwalk Homeless count data for the years 2023 through 2026:
• 2023: 101 individuals
• 2024: 198 individuals
• 2025: 69 individuals
• 2026: 120 individuals

The homeless count nearly doubled from 101 in 2023 to 198 in 2024, indicating a significant increase.

The count then sharply dropped to 69 in 2025, which is the lowest value in this four-year period. In 2026, the number increased again to 120 but did not return to the 2024 peak.

The City of Norwalk’s new Strategic Plan is reinforced by several guiding principles: to respond with urgency; maintain open channels of communication; foster cross-sector collaboration; adopt and promote best practices; and data driven decision-making. These principles will direct the 5 specific goals identified in the Plan:

1. Increase inventory of supportive housing.

2. Strengthen outreach efforts to provide a swift and targeted response.

3. Advance prevention programs to stop at –risk residents from falling into homelessness.

4. Improve data racking capabilities and report progress against performance measurements.

5. Drive better outcomes through communication efforts, legislative action, and funding optimization.

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Each person experiencing homelessness will be assessed to identify their level of need to provide effective resources to assist them with appropriate treatment services, and housing including transitional shelter, residential treatment for the most vulnerable, to permanent supportive housing.

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AP-75 Action Plan Barriers to Affordable Housing - 91.220(j) Introduction
With the absence of the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency, Low and Moderate Housing Set-Aside Funds and reduced CDBG and HOME Program funds, the City actively seeks replacement funding sources to recover lost funding in efforts to continue facilitating affordable housing. It is unlikely that the City will be able to recover 100% of funding that was lost. Despite this, the City will make attempts to seek replacement funding assistance for affordable housing and continue to implement initiatives outlined in the City's Housing Element.

Actions it planned to remove or ameliorate the negative effects of public policies that serve as barriers to affordable housing such as land use controls, tax policies affecting land, zoning ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limitations, and policies affecting the return on residential investment
Favorable land use zoning codes for affordable housing include:

Reduced parking requirements for senior housing through the approval of a Planned Unit Development or Specific Plan Area.

The general commercial zone allows mixed use development permitting apartments in upper floors.

Special land use districts include senior housing at high density (up to 70 dwelling unit/acre)

Planned Unit Development and Specific Plans permit higher density for condominium units, which may bring housing ownership at an affordable cost.

Specific Plan Area 2 directly requires a fixed number of affordable rental units.

Provision of a Density Bonus Ordinance, Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance, and Reasonable Accommodation Ordinance.

Transitional and supportive housing and single room occupancy units allowed, by right or with a conditional use permit, within residential zones throughout the City.

City adopted separate regulations for Reasonable Accommodation Procedures (Section 17.02.202) that establish procedures for disabled persons or their representatives to request a reasonable accommodation from the City’s zoning laws, codes and land use regulations, policies, practices and procedures to provide disabled persons with an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling. The City will promote these new amendments to private and nonprofit housing developers to assist in removing barriers to affordable housing, especially housing for special needs populations.

The City adopted a new Housing Element for the planning period 2021-2029, the update incorporated additional policies for the creation of housing units at various levels with supportive programs for

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Affordable Housing and programs to further fair housing.

Discussion
See above.

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AP-85 Other Actions - 91.220(k)
Introduction
The priority needs established in the ConPlan form the basis for establishing objectives and outcomes for the FY 2026-27 Annual Action Plan.

Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs The City of Norwalk proposes projects and activities to meet the priorities described in the ConPlan. It describes eligible programs, projects, and activities to be undertaken with anticipated funds and their relationship to identified needs for housing, homelessness, and community and economic development.

Overall, Norwalk has the following specific actions it plans to undertake to address the obstacles to meeting underserved needs over the 2026 program year:
• Fund projects that enhance economic opportunities such as job training and commercial improvements;
• Continued support of area nonprofit agencies, particularly those programs that provide services to homeless, at-risk youth, and residents facing housing insecurity; • Continued support of programs that improve the living environment of low- and moderate- income families residing in substandard housing and overcrowded living conditions; • Fund capital projects that enhance public facilities and or street improvements; • Continued support of Programs that expand the stock of affordable housing within the City; and • Continued support of Programs that promote fair housing, especially targeting extremely low- and low-income households.

Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing The City’s HOME and CHDO set-aside funds will be used to support future efforts for the acquisition of existing housing to provide affordable housing.

Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards
Throughout Norwalk, 92% of all owner-occupied housing units and 75% of all renter-occupied units were built prior to 1980. That means 16,729 owner units and 7,031 renter units are at risk for lead-based paint hazards. Furthermore, children are most at risk for experiencing Lead-Based Paint related illnesses. Housing built before 1978 is considered at risk for lead-based paint hazards.

Therefore, special attention should be paid to homes built prior to 1978 where children are present.

Two percent of owner-occupied (315 units) homes and 4% of renter occupied homes (385), built prior to 1980, have children living in the home. Lead poisoning education and abatement efforts in Norwalk are provided through the cooperative efforts of the County Public Health Department. The abatement of lead-based hazards is a vital component of the City of Norwalk's Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program.

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All housing rehabilitation projects are assessed for lead based paint and lead based paint abatements are performed by licensed contractors
Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families • Work with community colleges and high schools to establish or further carpentry, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical skills training. The construction industry is projected to increase. • Create mentoring programs with local skilled trades companies. • Improve education and provide skills training for education, healthcare, manufacturing and construction jobs.
• Create partnerships with California’s Employment Development Department, Workforce Development Board, Workforce Development Aging & Community Services, California Building Industry Association, Southern California Building Association, Cerritos Community College, Cypress College, Rio Hondo Community College, and workforce readiness programs available in local vocational and technical schools and programs. Such programs exist in the Junior Achievement of Southern California and the L.A. Opportunity Youth Collaborative. • Continue coordination with the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Investment Board, Department of Public Social Services, Employment Development Department, Adult Schools, YouthBuild, and Department of Rehabilitation through the America's Job Center of California System Management Team.
• Increase training opportunities that target “Second Chance”, persons with disabilities, at-risk homeless individuals, and job retraining program.

Actions planned to develop institutional structure
The City’s Community Development Department will administer CDBG and HOME funds and most of the activities identified in the AAP, with the exception of public service programs. The City works closely with other housing-related organizations and service providers in the County to ensure that the housing needs of City residents are addressed given available resources.

The Department works in conjunction with the NHA to ensure quality housing for all low-income City residents. The working relationships between these organizations are strong and facilitative. Due to the City's relatively small size, communication is typically direct and immediate. As a result, gaps in program or service delivery are not the result of poor institutional structure or lack of intergovernmental cooperation, but rather due to shortcomings in available resources.

Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies
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with other City departments and the community to develop programs and activities that improve low- and moderate- income neighborhoods throughout Norwalk. The administration of program activities includes housing, public facility and infrastructure improvements, public and social service activities and economic development activities. The City collaborates with public agencies, for-profit agencies, and non-profit organizations in order to provide the aforementioned services.

The NHA is a member agency for America's Job Center of California and actively participates in a System Management Team (SMT). The goal of the SMT is to improve service coordination to better serve clients of the NHA, Workforce Development Board, Department of Rehabilitation, Department of Public Social Services, Employment Development Department, YouthBuild, and the adult schools. The SMT is engaging in staff cross-training across agencies and establishing a client referral and tracking system.

The services focus primarily on unemployed and underemployed low-income residents of Southeast Los Angeles County.

Chapter 8: Fair Housing Action Plan of the 2025 – 2030 Analysis of Impediments report details the importance of regional collaboration. Many issues, such as homelessness, affordable housing, jobs- housing balance, and access to services are issues that require the collaboration between cities, the County, and nonprofit agencies throughout the region. In recent years, the County and the City of Los Angeles have undertaken multiple initiatives that address housing-related issues including: first-time homebuyers programs, supportive and transitional housing, rental rehabilitation, and new construction of affordable housing. The City continues to rely on local and County social services to administer and provide valuable programs. The City collaborates annually with the Fair Housing Foundation (FHF) to conduct and react to any complaints surrounding housing discrimination and fair housing education and promotion.

Continuing these planning efforts and implementation would bridge the gap of disparities among communities. A majority of the Action Steps noted in AI report require collaboration. The Public Engagement planning process for the AI and 5-Year ConPlan was based upon positive community-wide and agency support and participation. The City has created a solid foundation to continue work with its area partners to create a path that initiates and completes the Plan’s action steps.

Discussion
See above.

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Program Specific Requirements
AP-90 Program Specific Requirements - 91.220(l)(1,2,4)
Introduction
The City will receive approximately $1,078,352 in CDBG funds for program year 2026.

Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG)
Reference 24 CFR 91.220(l)(1)
Projects planned with all CDBG funds expected to be available during the year are identified in the Projects Table. The following identifies program income that is available for use that is included in projects to be carried out.

1. The total amount of program income that will have been received before the start of the next program year and that has not yet been reprogrammed 25,000

2. The amount of proceeds from section 108 loan guarantees that will be used during the year to address the priority needs and specific objectives identified in the grantee's strategic plan. 0

3. The amount of surplus funds from urban renewal settlements 0

4. The amount of any grant funds returned to the line of credit for which the planned use has not been included in a prior statement or plan 0

5. The amount of income from float-funded activities 0 Total Program Income: 25,000

Other CDBG Requirements

1. The amount of urgent need activities 0

2. The estimated percentage of CDBG funds that will be used for activities that benefit persons of low and moderate income.Overall Benefit - A consecutive period of one, two or three years may be used to determine that a minimum overall benefit of 70% of CDBG funds is used to benefit persons of low and moderate income. Specify the years covered that include this Annual Action Plan. 100.00%

HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME)
Reference 24 CFR 91.220(l)(2)

1. A description of other forms of investment being used beyond those identified in Section 92.205 is

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as follows:

The City of Norwalk is leveraging other forms of investments outside of those identified in section

92.205. The City uses program income from the repayment of deferred and amortized rehabilitation loans. Norwalk uses repayment for the First Time Homebuyer Program for loans obligated in 2001. The First Time Homebuyer program approved in PY2020 utilizes the resale and recapture of funds.

2. A description of the guidelines that will be used for resale or recapture of HOME funds when used for homebuyer activities as required in 92.254, is as follows:

The guidelines for the First Time Homebuyer program are contained in the City of Norwalk HOME Homebuyer Manual. The sales price may not exceed the median price for the area as approved by HUD. A portion of the HOME assistance will carry-over into a silent second or third Trust Deed loan for the homebuyer.

There is a 15-year resale restriction. After which, the homeowner will receive a 100% loan forgiveness. Prior to the completion of the 15-year period if the home is sold, transferred, refinanced or no longer owner-occupied, the City will recapture the remaining loan balance where there are sufficient funds from the net proceeds of the sale. The homeowner's down payment, principal payments, and capital improvements will be recovered by the homeowner first before the City recovers the remaining balance of the deferred loan. If the net proceeds are not sufficient to recapture the full HOME investment plus enable the homeowner to recover the amount of the homeowner's investment, the City will reduce the amount of HOME investment. Examples of the recapture provision are provided in the HOME Program Homebuyer Manual, 2020-2021.

3. A description of the guidelines for resale or recapture that ensures the affordability of units acquired with HOME funds? See 24 CFR 92.254(a)(4) are as follows:

The property will have a 15-year resale restriction requiring that the home be resold to another low- income buyer (Below 80% AMI). Homeowners can expect to receive a fair return on investment upon resale during the affordability period. Fair return on investment is based on the percentage change in the area median income over the period of home ownership. Included in the calculation of fair return on investment is the homeowner’s original investment (down payment, closing costs, and principal payments) and increase in market value attributable to major upgrades. Major upgrades include the addition of square footage, full remodel of kitchen and/or bathroom(s) and/or installation of solar panels. The value of the upgrade will be determined by the building permit valuation.

The City’s loan and covenant will be assumed by any future buyers and the loan will remain in place indefinitely. During the 15-year resale restriction, recapture of the homebuyer assistance will be triggered if the homeowner no longer occupies the home, or the home is sold or transferred without

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approval of the City. After the resale restriction has expired, the homebuyer assistance will be recaptured upon sale, transfer, or refinance.

The City intends to utilize their HOME Homebuyer Manual as an alternate method to presumption of affordability. This manual was included as an attachment in Norwalk’s 2020-2021 Annual Action Plan.

4. Plans for using HOME funds to refinance existing debt secured by multifamily housing that is rehabilitated with HOME funds along with a description of the refinancing guidelines required that will be used under 24 CFR 92.206(b), are as follows:

N/A

5. If applicable to a planned HOME TBRA activity, a description of the preference for persons with special needs or disabilities. (See 24 CFR 92.209(c)(2)(i) and CFR 91.220(l)(2)(vii)).

6. If applicable to a planned HOME TBRA activity, a description of how the preference for a specific category of individuals with disabilities (e.g. persons with HIV/AIDS or chronic mental illness) will narrow the gap in benefits and the preference is needed to narrow the gap in benefits and services received by such persons. (See 24 CFR 92.209(c)(2)(ii) and 91.220(l)(2)(vii)).

7. If applicable, a description of any preference or limitation for rental housing projects. (See 24 CFR

92.253(d)(3) and CFR 91.220(l)(2)(vii)). Note: Preferences cannot be administered in a manner that limits the opportunities of persons on any basis prohibited by the laws listed under 24 CFR 5.105(a).

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AP-05 Executive Summary - Attachment

5. Summary of public comments

March 17, 2026 - Public Hearing Comments:

Mayor Perez: I do have one speaker card for this item miss Shelb ie Knox, Community Legal Aid. Shelbie are you here? Please step forward to the podium.

Shelbie Knox: Good evening. Thank you, Madam mayor, Madam vice mayor, City Council members, I just wanted to come tonight to thank you on behalf of the board and staff and clients of Community Legal Aid for your support of our work and for your consideration of our proposal for next year. I don't have much to add to your lovely presentation that you gave. Although I do want to clarify that we do not handle tax law but besides that everything that was on the list is something that we provide free civil legal services and I al so would like to thank you for your continued support from your social services center, which partners with us to offer clinic over there twice on Wednesday each month. Thank you very much.

Mayor Perez: Thank you. Theresa, I know we only have one e -mail that was put into public record that was received any other cards for this item? City Clerk Theresa: No.

Mayor Perez: We’ll go ahead and close the public hearing I'll bring it back to council. Any questions comments? No. Bethani, I know you're just looking for comments and input. I mean this is going to be a continued work in progress I want to thank you for really answering the questions and some of the specifics that we were looking for from the previous report. Again, I think this year when we originally looked at it it's great to see the numbers and how many families were helped and then answering the questions that we did have so I appreciate you getting that additional information. Any other comments? Alright and we will see you on the next one thank you.

Housing Manager, Bethani: Thank you.

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March 17, 2026 – Public Hearing Comment received electronically

Good evening, Honorable Mayor and Council Members. My name is Mélanie Faure, Community Impact Manager at Upwards. On behalf of the Boost team, thank you for your continued commitment to Norwalk's in-home child care providers, and the families they serve. We are grateful to the Community Development team for recommending continued funding for Boost.

Boost strengthens low-to-moderate-income family child care providers by helping them run sustainable, growing businesses. Through personalized coaching and hands-on operational support, we help providers increase enrollment, stabilize revenue, create local Teaching Assistant jobs, and expand access to affordable, high-quality care for Norwalk families.

Here's how it works: each provider works one-on-one with an experienced Care Specialist to build a customized Business Action Plan. We help them improve marketing, manage finances, navigate licensing and insurance requirements, optimize enrollment, and recruit and hire staff. Providers also receive free access to our Child Care Management System: a tailored platform that streamlines enrollment, billing, marketing, communication (translation) and curriculum planning. Boost graduates retain at no cost beyond the program year.

Thanks to your investment, we are already ahead of schedule: we have delivered one-on-one business support to one in-home provider and supported the creation of one new Teaching Assistant position. Staff's recommendation of $20,000 would allow us to support up to three additional providers, create at least one new Teaching Assistant job, and help hundreds of Norwalk families connect with affordable, quality care.

Why Boost is needed: Norwalk faces a 5,226-slot child care capacity gap. Boost directly addresses this by helping providers, who currently earn an average of just $17.79 per hour, increase revenue, hire staff, improve quality, and grow sustainably.

Every family in Norwalk will have access to a Care Specialist who can help them find care tailored to their unique needs.

When a family child care home closes, the consequences extend far beyond the families it served. Parents scramble to find affordable alternatives, and many can't. The result: reduced work hours, workforce exits, and a burden that falls disproportionately on mothers and single parents. For Norwalk's economy, each closure means the loss of a small business, fewer jobs, and lower workforce participation. Over time, these losses

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compound, slowing the economic growth of our community. Meanwhile, children lose access to quality early childhood education.

Boost is a proven solution. Across more than 30 communities, the program has supported over 500 licensed providers, created 180 new child care jobs, raised average gross revenues by 20–30%, and increased available child care slots by 30–50% depending on local context. Upwards’ goal is not simply to increase access to affordable care, but also improve the quality of care. (I can speak to this from my own personal experience, having found my boys’ amazing daycare teachers in LA through the Upwards’ platform long before I joined the team.)
I will send the Council a full impact report in the coming days, and welcome the opportunity to meet and discuss further.

Thank you for your time and your continued investment in Norwalk's small businesses and families.

Mélanie Faure, [email protected]
Community Impact Manager