WHEREAS, each year, jurisdictions across the Bay Area issue proclamations declaring May as “Affordable Housing Month,” drawing attention to the ongoing housing affordability crisis in our region; and
WHEREAS, after 42 years, the East Bay Housing Organizations proudly continues to champion affordable housing in the east bay , by fostering a racially and economically just community for all, as quality affordable homes are vital to creating healthy, safe, and racially just communities; and
WHEREAS, EBHO members include many nonprofits active in the City of Richmond.
East Bay Asian Local Development Corporation (EBALDC), Community Housing Development Corporation, Eden Housing, RichmondLAND, and Richmond Neighborhood Housing Services have all constructed numerous deed- restricted affordable homes available to low-income residents of Richmond; and
WHEREAS, EBHO member organization Hope Solutions is supporting the development of Richmond's Tiny Village Spirit, a community of "tiny homes" paired with supportive services dedicating to helping 18 –24 year-old residents transition out of homelessness; and
WHEREAS, current inflation rates and increasing housing costs often result in long- time residents becoming displaced, living in overcrowded homes, or experiencing homelessness; threatening the region’s racial diversity and economic opportunity; and
WHEREAS, in California there are over 39,000 affordable homes ready to be built but lacking the financing to begin construction and a $10 billion statewide bond has been proposed to fund the construction of these affordable homes; and
WHEREAS, for two years in a row, both the President and the Governor of California have proposed budgets that dramatically cut funding for affordable housing which, if actualized would reduce federal affordable housing assistance by 44%; and
MAY 2026
AFFORDABLE HOUSING MONTH IN THE EAST BAY
WHEREAS, the role of local governments and regional bodies has never been so critical in maintaining support for producing, preserving, and protecting affordable housing opportunities for low-income communities; and
WHEREAS, the housing affordability crisis is a regional issue requiring regional solutions and cooperation between local jurisdictions through the Bay Area Housing Finance Authority; and
WHEREAS, solutions found through stable and affordable housing can help to reduce and alleviate homelessness, support seniors, families, youth, veterans, immigrants, people with disabilities, and our whole community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Mayor Eduardo Martinez, and the members of the Richmond City Council, declare May 2026 as “Affordable Housing Month,” renewing the City of Richmond’s commitment to work towards decisions that support affordable and stable housing at the local, regional, state, and federal levels in Richmond , to help ensure that all community members have safe, stable, and affordable places to call home.
______________________________ ______________________________ Mayor Eduardo Martinez Claudia Jimenez At Large District 6 Councilmember