Following Gov. Gavin Newsom’s announcement that the state is pressing the pause button on the latest distribution of Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention funding to local governments, League of California Cities Executive Director and CEO Carolyn Coleman released the below statement:

“Homelessness is one of the most pressing crises gripping our state, and we share the Governor’s frustration that on any given night, more than 170,000 Californians are sleeping on the streets. City leaders are laser-focused on this issue and are collaborating with county, regional, and state partners to develop innovative solutions that save lives and foster thriving communities.

“Now is not the time to play politics when people’s lives are at stake. Failing to release state funding will not put roofs over the heads of Californians or deliver desperately needed supportive services. Refusing the delivery of these funds is the opposite of progress — if anything, it will lengthen the time it takes for unhoused residents to access the services and housing they deserve.

“Addressing the state’s homelessness crisis, including prevention, is a shared responsibility that requires a complex approach and must include all levels of government, nonprofits, and community organizations. If the state is looking for a real solution to this crisis, we need a statewide plan and sustainable state funding that supports long-term planning. Equally important, we need to stop the finger-pointing and get to work on building a real partnership that will benefit all Californians.

“Cal Cities welcomes the opportunity to attend the Governor’s convening later this month to bring the experience of cities to the table to discuss realistic, collaborative, and effective strategies that remove barriers, support all unhoused residents, and meet the shared goals of local and state governments.”

Established in 1898, the League of California Cities is a nonprofit statewide association that advocates for cities with the state and federal governments and provides education and training services to elected and appointed city officials. Cal Cities’ mission is to expand and protect local control for cities through education and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for all Californians.