____________________________________________________________________________________
FOR CITY CLERK ONLY
Council Meeting: _______________________
Disposition: ___________________________
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Department: Community and Economic Development
Prepared by: Greg Minor, Assistant Director
Alexis Captanian, Housing Manager
City Manager Approval: ______________
TOPIC: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG)
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION RECOMMENDING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROJECT FUNDING FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027
TO THE MARIN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a resolution recommending Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) project funding for Fiscal Year 2026-27 to the Marin County Board of Supervisors.
BACKGROUND:
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is a federally funded program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) designed to enhance local quality of life by supporting essential community-based projects. CDBG funding prioritizes the creation and preservation of affordable housing, improvements to community infrastructure and facilities, and the provision of critical public services benefiting residents in need. HUD requires that at least 70 percent of funds benefit low and moderate-income households.
In 2023, the City of San Rafael entered into a cooperative agreement with the County of Marin to coordinate the allocation and management of CDBG funds more effectively. Through this partnership, Marin County is organized into three distinct planning areas: Countywide, the City of San Rafael, and the City of Novato. Funding recommendations across these planning areas are guided by a countywide Priority Setting Committee (PSC), composed of elected City and Town Council representatives, a County Supervisor, and local community members representing federally protected classes—including individuals of diverse races, religions, national origins, genders (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disabilities, and familial statuses—in accordance with fair housing regulations. San Rafael City Councilmember Rachel Kertz currently serves on the PSC. Attachment 1 contains the roster of PSC members for 2026-2027.
Under this cooperative arrangement, the City of San Rafael is responsible for reviewing and recommending allocations for CDBG-funded projects specifically benefiting the San Rafael community. The process consists of the San Rafael City Council forwarding its recommendations to the PSC, which then incorporates San Rafael’s recommendations along with proposals from the other two planning areas into comprehensive recommendations for consideration by the Marin County Board of Supervisors (BOS).
Agenda Item No: 4.b
Meeting Date: May 4, 2026
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 2
The Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing in June to review and adopt the final funding recommendations. Following approval, the County will submit the funding plan to HUD.
Federal Regulatory Updates
• Section 3 Threshold Increase: Effective March 16, 2026, HUD has increased the Section 3 project threshold for Housing and Community Development Financial Assistance from $200,000 to $300,000. This impacts procurement and hiring requirements for upcoming capital projects, reducing administrative burden for some capital projects. • Public Hearing Requirements: Per 24 CFR § 91.105, two public hearings must be held annually to obtain resident views on housing and community development needs. The first is satisfied by the May 4th City Council meeting. The second may be overseen by the County during the May 19th PSC meeting, the June Board of Supervisors meeting, or the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Reports (CAPER) process. This collaborative structure ensures local input while aligning with the PSC allocation process.
CDBG timeliness requirement
To ensure federal funds are utilized efficiently, HUD mandates that a grantee’s unexpended CDBG balance must not exceed 1.5 times the annual grant. 1 This "timeliness test" is conducted
annually on May 2, exactly 60 days before the end of the program year.
The County did not meet this threshold last year and is projected to miss it again in 2026. This is due to a combination of funding projects that were not prepared for immediate implementation and a $1.2 million program income windfall in 2025 from the sale of two previously funded projects.
Consequences of Noncompliance
Failure to meet timeliness standards triggers mandatory corrective actions from HUD:
• Informal Consultation & Workout Plans: HUD initiates a review to evaluate the causes of untimeliness. The County must then submit a "workout plan" detailing specific steps to accelerate expenditures and address the backlog. • Formal Findings & Monitoring: HUD may issue a formal finding of noncompliance, leading to increased oversight and monitoring by the HUD Field Office. • Grant Reductions: For second-year or repeated failures, HUD has the authority to reduce the next grant allocation by 100% of the amount that exceeded the 1.5 ratio.
Because failure to meet the timeliness requirement puts all current and future funding at risk, County staff are prioritizing Project Readiness for the FY 2026-2027 cycle. County staff limited funding recommendations to projects that have demonstrated the ability to move forward immediately, based on the following criteria:
• Entitlements & Matching Funds: Planning entitlements are in place and other funding sources are fully secured.
• Administrative Capacity: The organization has a proven track record of successfully administering federal funds, meeting procurement requirements, and complying with labor standards.
• Environmental Review Compliance: Past responsiveness in completing Federal environmental reviews (NEPA).
If the County continues to fund projects that cannot meet these standards, it faces the high probability of losing CDBG funds. Consequently, all applications have been evaluated against these readiness criteria, and projects that do not meet them are not being recommended at this 1 CDBG regulations at 24 CFR 570.902
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 3
time.
ANALYSIS:
Program Overview
The CDBG program funds projects in three areas: public services, capital improvements and housing, each of which is applied in the three Planning Areas. Federal regulation requires that the majority of funds be spent on housing and community infrastructure/capital projects.
Evaluation Guidelines
County staff evaluated all applications based on HUD national objectives, PSC priorities, and standard project criteria. Projects must primarily benefit low and moderate-income households or address community development needs such as blight prevention.
Given prior-year challenges with meeting HUD timeliness requirements, County staff placed increased emphasis on project readiness and the ability to expend awarded funds within the grant year.
Projects with clear implementation timelines, established site control, secured financing, and minimal predevelopment barriers were prioritized, while those with uncertain timelines or outstanding prerequisites were scored lower.
Public services funding is administered on a two-year cycle. As FY 2026–2027 represents the second year of that cycle, public services projects were not re-evaluated this year and continue based on prior-year funding decisions and performance. These programs were originally selected based on PSC priorities, including children, youth, and family support services and housing support services.
CDBG Funding – City of San Rafael Planning Area
The County of Marin has received formal notification from HUD regarding the final allocation for the 2026–2027 CDBG program in the amount of $1,610,959. After administrative costs, $1,288,767 is available for program activities.
Based on the allocation formula established in the cooperative agreement, the San Rafael Planning Area will receive $508,032, representing 39.42 percent of total planning area funds.
Of this amount, up to $95,256 may be allocated to public services. The remaining $209,563 is available for housing and capital or community infrastructure activities. In addition, San Rafael is scheduled to receive $203,212 as its proportional share of countywide housing funds.
Housing Projects
A total of seven (7) housing applications were submitted across all funding sources, of which four projects requested CDBG funding, totaling approximately $2,675,006. Of the $1,288,767 available for CDBG project funding, roughly $515,507 is allocated to housing activities. Table One below outlines the recommended funding amounts for the FY 2026-2027 CDBG housing projects.
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 4
Table One: Recommended FY 2026-2027 CDBG Housing Project Allocations Project
Sponsor Project Name
Project
Address Novato San Rafael
County
Other
Total
Recommended
CDBG
Allocation
Eden
Housing Oak Hill Eden
193 E S
Unincorporated
Marin County,
CA 9439 $102,072.03 $183,212.81 $170,222.04 $455,506.88 Habitat
for
Humanity
Habitat Marin
County
Rehabilitation
Program
300
Montgomery
Street $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $60,000
TOTAL $122,072.03 $203,212.81 $190,222.04 $515,506.88
CDBG requests this cycle included a mix of home rehabilitation programs, infrastructure improvements to preserve existing housing, and new affordable housing development. These projects support housing stability and expand access to affordable housing for low and moderate-income residents.
Given that total CDBG requests significantly exceed available funding, the application process was highly competitive. County staff’s funding recommendations prioritize projects that demonstrate readiness, strong organizational and development capacity, and the ability to deliver measurable housing outcomes. County staff also calibrated awards to maximize impact across the Novato, San Rafael, and County Other planning areas, ensure timely expenditure of funds, and align with federal requirements and local priorities. Countywide housing investments were prioritized where they provide broad benefit across multiple planning areas.
Accordingly, County staff recommend the following Housing projects for CDBG funding:
• Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco – Home Rehabilitation Program, which provides critical home repairs and accessibility improvements for low-income homeowners throughout Marin County.
• Eden Housing, Inc. – Oak Hill Apartments, a new affordable rental housing development serving low-income households.
Detailed funding recommendations are provided in Attachment 3 – FY 2026–27 CDBG/HOME/PLHA Funding Recommendations.
Capital Projects
A total of ten (10) capital improvement applications were submitted, requesting approximately $1,519,036 in CDBG funding. Of the $1,288,767.20 available for CDBG project funding, $209,563.21 is allocated to capital and community infrastructure activities within the San Rafael Planning Area. Table Two outlines the recommended funding amounts for the FY 2026-2027 CDBG housing projects.
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 5
Table Two: Recommended FY 2026-2027 CDBG Capital Project Allocations Project
Sponsor Project Name
Project
Address Novato San Rafael
County
Other
Total
Recommended
CDBG
Allocation
Homeward
Bound of
Marin
New
Beginnings
Center
Infrastructure
Repairs and
Improvements2026
1399 North
Hamilton
Parkway,
Novato
$38,211 $66,786 $26,740 $131,737
City of San
Rafael
Pickleweed
Preschool
Community
Infrastructure
Project
40 Canal
Street,
San Rafael
- $142,777.21 - $142,777.21
TOTAL $38,211 $209,563.21 $26,740 $274,514.21
These applications include facility repairs, accessibility improvements, childcare and community facility upgrades, and planning for the modernization of public facilities. Recommended projects focus on maintaining and improving community-serving facilities that provide essential services such as healthcare, early childhood education, shelter, and community-based programs for lowand moderate-income residents.
Due to limited funding, the process was highly competitive. Recommendations prioritize projects that address critical facility needs, support continued service delivery, and meet readiness criteria. Funding levels were determined based on project readiness, feasibility, and the ability to deliver timely and measurable outcomes, while ensuring an equitable distribution of resources across planning areas and prioritizing investments that deliver the greatest localized and countywide impact.
The following projects are recommended for CDBG funding in the San Rafael Planning Area:
• Homeward Bound of Marin – New Beginnings Center Infrastructure Repairs and Improvements (2026). Critical repairs and improvements at an 80-bed emergency shelter serving adults experiencing homelessness in Marin. • City Of San Rafael – Pickleweed Preschool Community Infrastructure Project. Improvements to the outdoor learning environment at Pickleweed Preschool located in the Canal neighborhood, which serves approximately 68 children each year through a free, state-funded early childhood education program designed for low-income families.
Detailed funding recommendations are provided in Attachment 3 – FY 2026–27 CDBG/HOME/PLHA Funding Recommendations.
Public Services
The County has designated $95,256 in CDBG public services funding for the San Rafael Planning Area for the 2026–2027 program year, based on the maximum allowable 15 percent of the total CDBG entitlement. While the City Council may choose to allocate a lower amount SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 6
annually, it cannot exceed this federally mandated cap.
FY 2026–2027 represents the second year of the current cycle, meaning most public service programs were selected during the FY 2025–2026 process and continue based on performance and compliance. This structure supports program stability and continuity of services. Table Three lists the public service programs recommended to receive a second year of funding.
Table Three: Recommended FY 2026-2027 CDBG Public Service Program Allocations Project
Sponsor
Project
Name
Project
Address Novato San Rafael
County
Other
Total
Recommended
CDBG
Allocation
Fair Housing
Advocates of
Northern
California
Fair Housing
Counseling
and
Education
851 Irwin
Street, San
Rafael $15,835.91 $17,804.34 $17,579.74 $51,219.99
Legal Aid of
Marin
Keeping
Marginalized
Marin
Tenants
Housed
1401 Los
Gamos Drive,
San Rafael 12,883.53 $29,388.44 $29,402.32 $71,674.29
Marin Center
for
Independent
Living
Residential
Access
Modification
Program
710 4th
Street, San
Rafael - $10,680.72 $5,273.07 $15,953.79
Make It
Home
One Cozy
Bed
5800
Northgate
Drive, San
Rafael - $16,021.07 - $16,021.07
City of San
Rafael
Pickleweed
Preschool
40 Canal
Street, San
Rafael - $21,361.44 - $21,361.44
TOTAL $28,719.44 $95,256.01 $52,255.13 $176,230.58
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no direct cost or revenue impact associated with the recommended action. The City is allocating federal HUD funds to specific projects, which allows the City to redirect General Fund and capital resources to other priorities.
OPTIONS:
1. Approve the recommended CDBG funding allocations as outlined in this report.
2. Modify the CDBG funding allocations by adjusting individual project awards.
3. Defer to the Countywide Priority Setting Committee to finalize funding recommendations for the San Rafael Planning Area.
4. Provide alternative direction to staff regarding project selection or funding priorities.
ACTION REQUIRED:
Adopt a resolution recommending CDBG funding for Fiscal Year 2026-27 to the Marin County SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 7
Board of Supervisors.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. 2026-2027 Priority Setting Committee Roster
2. Resolution
3. Exhibit A to Resolution: 2026-2027 CDBG Project Allocations
4. 2026-2027 Application Summary
PSC Members
Committee Members Name
CM - Countywide Nancy Johnson
CM - Lower Ross Tracie Palmer
CM - Novato Crystal Lewis
CM - San Rafael Craig Yates
CM - Southern Marin Ida Green
CM - Upper Ross Philip "PJ" Feffer
CM - West Marin Hal Russek
Elected Members
EM - BOS Supervisor Eric Lucan
EM - Belvedere Peter Mark
EM - Corte Madera Rosa Thomas
EM - Fairfax Barbara Coler
EM - Larkspur Sarah Margulies
EM - Mill Valley Stephen Burke
EM - Novato Tim O'Oconnor
EM - San Anselmo Chantel Walker
EM - San Rafael Rachel Kertz
EM - Sausalito Melissa Blaustein
EM- Tiburon Holli Their
2026-27 PSC Roster
RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION OF THE SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL RECOMMENDING
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROJECT FUNDING FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 TO THE MARIN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of San Rafael as follows:
WHEREAS in June 1999, the City Council revised the Cooperation Agreement with the County of Marin for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds whereby the City remained in the County system; and
WHEREAS in December 1999, the City devised a project selection process for CDBG projects; and
WHEREAS on May 4, 2026, in accordance with the adopted project selection process the City Council reviewed the submitted applications; NOW, THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED that the City Council recommends to the Marin County Board of Supervisors that the $508,032.03 in CDBG funds available for allocation by the City of San Rafael be distributed to the projects and in the amounts shown on Exhibit A to this resolution, subject to adjustments necessary to accommodate any changes in the final allocation given to the County of Marin by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
I, LINDSAY LARA, City Clerk of the City of San Rafael, hereby certify that the foregoing resolution was duly and regularly introduced and adopted at a regular meeting of the Council of said City held on the 4th day of May 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers:
NOES: Councilmembers:
ABSENT: Councilmembers:
Lindsay Lara, City Clerk
PROJECT SPONSOR PROJECT NAME Project Address Planning Area APPLICANT'S CDBG REQUEST Novato San Rafael County Other CDBG Allocations
HOUSING
Eden Housing, Inc. Oak Hill Eden
193 E S Unincorporated Marin County, CA 94939 County Wide $ 1,500,000.00 $ 102,072.03 $ 183,212.81 $ 170,222.04 $ 455,506.88 Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco
Habitat Marin County Rehabilitation Program 300 Montgomery Street County Wide $ 296,123.30 $ 20,000.00 $ 20,000.00 $ 20,000.00 $ 60,000.00 $ 1,796,123.30 $ 203,212.81 122,072.03 $ 190,222.04 $ 515,506.88 $ CAPITAL APPLICANT'S CDBG REQUEST Novato San Rafael County Other CDBG Allocations Homeward Bound of Marin
New Beginnings Center Infrastructure Repairs and Improvements - 2026 1399 North Hamilton Parkway, Novato County Wide $ 249,710.00 $ 38,211.00 $ 66,786.00 $ 26,740.00 $ 131,737.00 City of San Rafael
Pickleweed Preschool Community Infrastructure Project
40 Canal Street. San Rafael San Rafael $ 207,000.00 $ - $ 142,777.21 $ - $ 142,777.21 $ 456,710.00 $ 38,211.00 $ 209,563.21 $ 26,740.00 $ 274,514.21 PUBLIC SERVICES Year one Allocation Novato San Rafael County Other Year 2 Allocation Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California
Fair Housing Counseling and Education
851 Irwin Street, STE 218. San Rafael, CA 94901 County Wide $ 48,500.00 $ 15,835.91 $ $ 17,579.74 $ 51,219.99 17,804.34 Legal Aid of Marin
Keeping Marginalized Marin Tenants Housed
1401 Los Gamos Drive, Suite 101. San Rafael, CA 94903 County Wide $ 66,877.38 $ 12,883.53 $ $ 29,402.32 $ 71,674.29 29,388.44 Marin Center For Independent Living
Residential Access Modification Program
710 4th Street. San Rafael, CA 94901 County Wide $ 14,547.81 $ - $ 10,680.72 $ 5,273.07 $ 15,953.79 Make It Home One Cozy Bed
5800 Northgate Drive, Unit
731-010. San Rafael, CA County Wide $ 14,547.81 $ -
$ 16,021.07
$ - $ 16,021.07
City of San Rafael Pickleweed Preschool
40 Canal Street. San Rafael, CA 94901 San Rafael $ 19,396.98 $ 21,361.44 $ 21,361.44 $ 163,869.98 $ 28,719.44 $ 95,256.01 $ 52,255.13 $ 176,230.58 Countywide
San Rafael
LEGEND
Funding Determination Methodology:Funding recommendations were based on eligibility, alignment with HUD national objectives and County priorities, project readiness, and capacity to expend funds in a timely manner. Priority was given to projects serving low- and moderate-income households, leveraging other resources, and demonstrating clear outcomes.Due to limited funding, awards were adjusted to balance impact across planning areas while maintaining compliance with timeliness and performance requirements , resulting in some partial awards.
Attachment 2 - Exhibit A - 2026-27 CDBG Project Allocations I
I
I
I
I
2026-27 NOFA
Application Summary
Housing and Capital
Community Development Agency
Housing and Federal Grants Division
3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 308
San Rafael, CA 94903
FY 2026–27 Housing Funding Requests
The County received seven housing-related applications requesting funding through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), and the State Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA), with matching County Housing Trust funds.
Applications reflect a range of housing strategies, including home rehabilitation, preservation of existing affordable housing, infrastructure improvements necessary to maintain affordability, and new affordable housing development.
Collectively, these projects aim to preserve existing housing, expand the affordable housing supply, and support vulnerable populations, including low-income homeowners, seniors experiencing homelessness, and youth transitioning out of foster care.
Total funding requests include approximately:
• $2,675,006 in CDBG (compared to $515,507 available)
• $1,400,000 in HOME (compared to $634,995 available for projects) • $3,600,000 in PLHA (compared to approximately $476,762 available, plus required local match)
Across all three funding sources, requests substantially exceed available resources, underscoring the highly competitive nature of the funding process and the significant unmet need for affordable housing investment in Marin County.
Housing Applications
Bolinas Community Land Trust
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
Bolinas Community Land Trust (BCLT) proposes to replace and upgrade the aging septic system serving the affordable housing property located at 140 Maple Road in Bolinas. The current septic system has reached the end of its useful life and requires replacement to meet environmental health standards and support continued residential use of the property.
Requested funds would support engineering, system design, permitting, and construction of a new septic system that complies with Marin County environmental health requirements. The project also includes associated site improvements needed to complete the installation and ensure long-term system functionality.
The project preserves an existing affordable housing unit in West Marin, an area with extremely limited housing supply and few affordable housing opportunities.
Infrastructure upgrades such as septic replacement are critical for maintaining the habitability of rural housing properties that rely on individual wastewater systems.
By addressing a major infrastructure need, the project ensures the long-term viability of the property and prevents the potential loss of affordable housing in Bolinas.
Preserving existing units in rural coastal communities helps maintain housing stability for low-income residents and supports the diversity and sustainability of the local community
140 Maple Septic Upgrade (Bolinas)
140 Maple, Bolinas (3 units)
County Other
CDBG $200,525.00
66.17 EAH HOUSING
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
EAH Housing proposes the development of Bayfront Terrace, a new affordable rental housing community in Mill Valley. The development will include multiple residential units designed to serve low-income households in Marin County.
Funding requests would help support predevelopment costs, construction financing, and other development-related expenses needed to complete the project. The development is anticipated to include a mix of unit sizes to accommodate families and individuals and will be designed to meet modern building standards and energy efficiency requirements
Bayfront Terrace will add permanently affordable rental housing units in a high-cost housing market where housing opportunities for low-income households are extremely limited. By increasing the local supply of affordable rental housing, the project helps address one of the most significant housing challenges facing Marin County and is located in a high resource area.
Bayfront Terrace
1 Hamilton Drive, Mill Valley (45 units)
County Other
• HOME $700,000
• PLHA $900,000
90.17 EDEN HOUSING
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
Eden Housing proposes the development of Oak Hill Apartments, a new affordable rental housing development that will include a mix of studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units. The development is intended to serve low-income households, including families and individuals with a range of housing needs.
The requested funding would support development costs associated with the project, including site preparation, construction, and related development expenses.
Oak Hill Apartments will expand the supply of affordable housing in Marin County by providing new rental housing opportunities for low-income households. The development’s mix of unit sizes helps accommodate a range of household types, including families who often face the greatest challenges in securing affordable housing in Marin’s competitive housing market.
Increasing the availability of affordable rental housing helps reduce housing instability and allows residents to remain in the community where they work, attend school, and access local services.
Oak Hill Apartments
193 E SFD BlVD, County (115 units)
County Other
• CDBG $1,500,000.00
• PLHA $900,000.00
94.00 Habitat for Humanity
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco proposes to expand its Home Rehabilitation Program, which provides critical home repairs and accessibility improvements for low-income homeowners throughout Marin County. The program focuses on addressing health and safety issues, deferred maintenance, and accessibility needs that can threaten the long-term habitability of homes.
Funds would support repairs such as roof replacements, structural repairs, electrical and plumbing improvements, accessibility modifications, and other improvements needed to ensure that homes remain safe and livable.
The program helps low-income homeowners, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and long-time residents, remain safely in their homes. By addressing critical repairs and accessibility barriers, the program reduces the risk of displacement and supports aging in place.
Home rehabilitation programs also preserve existing housing stock and help maintain neighborhood stability. In a high-cost housing market like Marin County, preserving existing affordable homeownership opportunities is an important component of maintaining long-term housing affordability.
Home Rehabilitation Program
Various locations throughout Marin County
(Approximately 10 households annually)
County Wide
CDBG $296,123.30
86.67 Homeward Bound of Marin
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
Homeward Bound of Marin proposes to develop new affordable housing units specifically designed to serve formerly homeless seniors. The project will provide permanent supportive housing with access to supportive services that help residents maintain housing stability and improve overall well-being.
Funding requests would support development and construction costs associated with creating the housing units and related project infrastructure.
The project addresses the growing need for affordable housing for extremely low-income seniors experiencing homelessness. Seniors represent one of the fastest-growing populations experiencing housing insecurity in Marin County.
By providing stable housing combined with supportive services, the project helps seniors maintain long-term housing stability while reducing reliance on emergency shelters and other crisis services.
Affordable Housing for Homeless Seniors
77 Locust Avenue, San Rafael (28 units)
San Rafael
• CDBG $600,000
• HOME $700,000
• PLHA $900,000
89.75 Marin Foster Care Association
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
The Marin Foster Care Association proposes to rehabilitate the residential property located at 59 Ignacio Lane in Novato to provide transitional housing for youth aging out of the foster care system. The project will involve renovations and upgrades necessary to bring the property into compliance with building and safety standards and prepare it for residential occupancy.
Improvements may include interior repairs, accessibility upgrades, and general rehabilitation work needed to create a safe and supportive living environment.
Youth transitioning out of the foster care system face a significantly increased risk of housing instability and homelessness. Providing stable transitional housing helps these young adults build independence and access education, employment, and supportive services.
The project will create a safe housing environment that supports young adults as they transition to independent living and reduces the risk of homelessness among this vulnerable population.
59 Ignacio Ln Rehabilitation
59 Ignacio Lane, Novato (10 units)
Novato
CDBG $78,357.63
67.25 Pacific West Communities
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
Pacific West Communities proposes the development of Shoreline Apartments, a new affordable rental housing development in Marin County. The project will provide 32 affordable rental units for low-income households and is being financed through a combination of public and private funding sources.
PLHA funding is requested as gap financing within the overall project capital stack and would help support construction costs and other development-related expenses necessary to complete the project.
Shoreline Apartments will increase the supply of affordable rental housing in Marin County and provide new housing opportunities for lower-income residents who face significant barriers in the local housing market.
By expanding the availability of affordable rental housing, the project supports housing stability, reduces overcrowding and displacement pressures, and helps ensure that Marin County remains accessible to residents across a range of income levels.
Shoreline Apartments (Mill Valley)
156 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley (32 units)
County Other
PLHA $900,000
72.67 Capital Improvement and
Community Infrastructure
FY 2026–27 Capital Improvement Funding Requests
The County received ten Capital Improvement applications requesting funding through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. These applications represent a range of facility and infrastructure projects, including building repairs, accessibility improvements, childcare and community facility upgrades, and planning for modernization of public facilities.
Collectively, the projects aim to maintain and enhance
community-serving facilities that support essential services such as healthcare, early childhood education, recreation, supportive housing, and programs for individuals with disabilities. The applications request a total of $1,519,036 in CDBG funding; however, only approximately $446,016.55 is available for capital improvement activities this year, demonstrating that demand for capital funding significantly exceeds available resources.
As a result, not all eligible and worthwhile projects can be funded.
The recommended allocations prioritize projects based on readiness, impact, and alignment with CDBG national objectives, ensuring that limited funds are directed to the highest-need and highest-impact activities.
Cedars of Marin
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
Cedars of Marin plans to replace the roofs at two Cedars-owned group homes in Novato: the "Michele Circle" House at 101 Michele Circle and the "Ferris Drive" House at 1106 Ferris Drive. Both existing roofs are over 30 years old and have far exceeded the standard residential lifespan. The scope of work includes site protection and preparation, removing existing shingles, inspection and repair, and installing new roofing underlayment, flashing, composite shingles, high-profile ridge shingles, ventilation, and gutter guards. These improvements are necessary to maintain safe and functional facilities for the residents.
This project directly benefits 12 adults with developmental disabilities who are considered extremely low-income. Investments in these capital improvements will help preserve essential community infrastructure and ensure that Cedars can continue delivering residential services to these vulnerable populations. These renovations strengthen community resources and improve access to programs that promote stability, health, and opportunity for these Novato residents.
Cedars of Marin Roof Replacement
101 Michele Circle Novato, CA
Novato
CDBG $110,200.00
75.50 Community Action Marin
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
Community Action Marin proposes to renovate two classrooms and an outdoor playground at the Hamilton Children’s Center in Novato. The project will replace flooring, cabinetry, countertops, appliances, lighting fixtures, ceiling tiles, and handwashing stations, and will include repainting and other interior improvements to modernize the classrooms. Outdoor improvements will include replacing poured-in-place playground safety surfacing, installing new age-appropriate play structures, and adding a secure storage area for playground equipment.
The renovations will improve the safety, accessibility, and functionality of the facility while supporting the continued delivery of early childhood education services. The Hamilton Children’s Center currently serves approximately 120 low-income families and children ages 0–5 through Community Action Marin’s early childhood education program.
The project supports affordable early childhood education for low-income families in Marin County, helping parents maintain employment while ensuring children receive high-quality educational and developmental support. Renovating the classrooms and playground will create a safer and more appropriate learning environment for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children.
Hamilton Children’s Center Renovation Project
7665 Redwood Blvd. Novato
Novato
CDBG $262,126.00
82.25 Fairfax–San Anselmo
Children’s Center
Project Name:
Project Address:
Planning Area:
Funding Request:
Application Score:
Project Summary
Community Benefit
Fairfax-San Anselmo Children’s Center proposes capital improvements to its childcare and early education facility serving families in the Ross Valley area. The project includes upgrades to interior classroom spaces and facility infrastructure to improve safety, functionality, and overall learning environments for children enrolled in the program.
The improvements will address aging building components and support the continued operation of early childhood education programs serving infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children. Renovations will enhance the quality of the physical learning environment and ensure the facility remains safe, accessible, and suitable for early childhood programming.
The project supports affordable childcare and early education services for low- and moderate-income families in Marin County. Access to reliable childcare allows parents and caregivers to maintain employment, pursue education, and improve economic stability while ensuring children receive early developmental support.
By improving the facility, the project helps maintain a safe and high-quality environment where children can learn and develop during critical early years.
Investments in early childhood education facilities strengthen family stability and contribute to long-term educational and economic outcomes for children from low-income households.
Building Brighter Futures
199 Porteous Avenue Fairfax
County Other (Fairfax)
CDBG $250,000
79.33 Marin City Community
Services District
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The Marin City Community Services District (MCCSD) proposes funding to complete a facilities conditions assessment and Phase 1 modernization planning for the Marguerita C. Johnson Senior Center and Manzanita Recreation Center. The project will fund architectural and engineering services to evaluate building systems and prepare permit-ready construction documents for future renovations.
The assessment will review structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and accessibility systems and develop cost estimates and phased improvement plans. Key priorities include ADA-compliant restrooms, commercial kitchen upgrades, and other life-safety improvements. Completion of the planning work will allow MCCSD to advance construction using a $3 million State Parks grant.
The Senior Center and Manzanita Recreation Center serve as primary community facilities for Marin City residents, providing youth programs, senior meals, recreation, and community events. The facilities collectively serve an estimated 500–1,000 residents annually, many of whom are low-income.
The project is expected to benefit approximately 800 residents, including low-, very low-, and extremely low-income households.
By completing the planning and design needed for facility modernization, the project will support safer, more accessible community spaces that strengthen services and programs for Marin City residents.
Marin City CSD Facilities
630–640 Drake Avenue, Marin City
County Other (Marin City)
CDBG $70,000
76.25 Ritter Center
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Ritter Center is requesting CDBG funding to purchase and install essential medical equipment for its new integrated care facility at 800 A Street in San Rafael. While construction of the new facility is already funded, critical medical equipment needed to operate exam rooms and deliver primary care services remains unfunded.
The project will fund diagnostic and screening tools, point-of-care laboratory equipment, cardiac and respiratory testing devices, imaging and examination tools, and specialized women’s health equipment needed to operate the clinic. Completing this equipment installation will allow the medical clinic to open fully operational and provide integrated primary care services to vulnerable residents.
Ritter Center operates Marin County’s only Federally Qualified Health Center designated as a Health Care for the Homeless site, providing integrated medical, behavioral health, and care coordination services for extremely low-income residents and individuals experiencing homelessness.
The upgraded clinic is expected to serve approximately 2,575 low-income individuals annually, many of whom face significant barriers to accessing traditional healthcare.
Ensuring the clinic opens fully equipped will strengthen Marin County’s healthcare safety net, improve access to preventive and primary care services, and help reduce reliance on emergency medical systems.
Ritter Center Medical Clinic Upgrade
800 A Street, San Rafael
County Wide
CDBG $150,000
0 Homeward Bound of Marin
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Community Benefit
Homeward Bound of Marin is requesting CDBG funding to complete critical repairs and improvements at the New Beginnings Center (NBC), an 80-bed emergency shelter serving adults experiencing homelessness in Marin. After more than two decades of continuous use, the facility requires significant maintenance to remain safe and functional.
The requested funds will support interior and exterior painting of the facility and the remodeling of six deteriorating restroom and shower facilities. Improvements include surface preparation and repainting of building components, plumbing upgrades, waterproofing, tile installation, fixture replacement, and code compliance work. These repairs will extend the life of the facility and maintain safe, sanitary conditions for residents and staff.
The New Beginnings Center is Marin County’s largest emergency shelter for unhoused adults and serves approximately 190 extremely low-income individuals annually.
Maintaining the facility ensures that individuals experiencing homelessness have continued access to safe shelter and supportive services while working toward stable housing. The improvements will help preserve a critical community resource that addresses homelessness and supports vulnerable residents in Marin County.
New Beginnings Center Infrastructure Repairs
and Improvements - 2026
1399 North Hamilton Parkway, Novato
County Wide
CDBG $249,710.00
92.75 Galilee Harbor Community
Association
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Galilee Harbor Community Association is requesting CDBG funding to repair and reinforce deteriorating dock pilings that support the floating housing community at Galilee Harbor in Sausalito. The marina infrastructure provides the structural support for the dock system where liveaboard vessels serving as housing are moored.
A recent marine survey identified pilings that require reinforcement to prevent structural failure. The proposed work would involve installing protective metal sleeves around the existing pilings using specialized maritime equipment and contractors.
These repairs will stabilize the dock infrastructure and preserve the structural integrity of the floating housing community.
Galilee Harbor provides affordable housing for 38 low-income households, including families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Maintaining the dock infrastructure is essential to preserving this unique low-income housing community. Without the repairs, structural failure of the pilings could jeopardize the safety of the dock system and the housing it supports.
In addition to housing residents, the site also provides public waterfront access and supports maritime cultural activities that attract thousands of visitors each year.
Critical Infrastructure Repair – Galilee Harbor
300 Napa Street, Sausalito
County Other (Sausalito)
CDBG $120,000
57.50 Marin Shakespeare Company
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Marin Shakespeare Company is requesting CDBG funding to complete ADA and safety improvements at the Forest Meadows Amphitheater located on the Dominican University campus in San Rafael. The project includes installing a concrete slab and railings in the wheelchair seating area and replacing deteriorating structural supports beneath the amphitheater's existing redwood bench seating.
These improvements will address aging infrastructure and accessibility limitations at the outdoor venue, helping ensure the amphitheater remains safe and usable for performances, educational programs, and community events.
The Forest Meadows Amphitheater hosts performances, student matinees, summer camps, and other cultural events that serve youth, families, and community members throughout Marin County. The organization estimates that approximately 9,000 lowand moderate-income individuals benefit annually through educational programming, scholarships, and reduced-cost access to performances.
The proposed improvements will enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities and improve overall safety for visitors. Maintaining the amphitheater will help preserve a long-standing community cultural venue that provides arts education and community programming for Marin County residents.
Forest Meadows Amphitheater ADA
Improvements
890 Belle Avenue, San Rafael
San Rafael
CDBG $40,000
49.00 North Marin Community
Services
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North Marin Community Services (NMCS) is requesting CDBG funding to replace worn and deteriorating flooring at its main community services facility located at 680 Wilson Avenue in Novato. The project will replace aging carpet, tile, and linoleum in the lobby, hallways, classrooms, bathrooms, mental health counseling rooms, and meeting spaces with modern, durable materials designed to improve safety and hygiene.
These upgrades will address deferred maintenance in the nearly 50-year-old facility and improve accessibility and functionality in spaces used for childcare, mental health services, and community programs.
The NMCS facility serves as a central hub for a range of community programs including childcare, mental health counseling, case management, and community outreach services. The project primarily benefits low- and moderate-income households, including many immigrant families and children participating in subsidized childcare programs.
Replacing the aging flooring will improve safety, cleanliness, and accessibility within program spaces used by families, children, and service providers. Maintaining the facility ensures NMCS can continue delivering essential services that support stability, well-being, and economic opportunity for vulnerable residents in North Marin.
NMCS Flooring
680 Wilson Avenue, Novato, CA
Novato
CDBG $60,000
76.67 City of San Rafael
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The City of San Rafael is requesting CDBG funding to support improvements to the outdoor learning environment at Pickleweed Preschool located in the Canal neighborhood. The preschool serves approximately 68 children each year through a free, state-funded early childhood education program designed for low-income families.
The City has committed significant funding through its Capital Improvement Program to replace aging preschool facilities. CDBG funds would support additional outdoor improvements including playground equipment, shade structures, paving, landscaping, and other site enhancements that support outdoor learning and play.
Pickleweed Preschool serves families in the Canal neighborhood, one of the most densely populated and lower-income areas of Marin County. The program provides free preschool services that help prepare children for kindergarten while supporting working families who may otherwise lack access to early education programs.
Investments in the outdoor learning space will improve safety, accessibility, and recreational opportunities for the children enrolled in the program. These improvements will support early childhood development and help maintain a welcoming and functional preschool facility for low- and extremely low-income families in the community.
Pickleweed Preschool Community
Infrastructure
40 Canal Street, San Rafael
San Rafael
CDBG $207,000.00
76.67