$498,830 Housing AIDS Program Funding On Committee Agenda

The City Council’s Finance Committee will review a proposal Monday to amend the city’s housing budget and authorize nearly $500,000 in federal funding for AIDS housing assistance.

The Housing Department is requesting City Council approval to recognize and appropriate $100,000 in federal Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS funds in the city’s operating budget for fiscal year 2026.

In an Agenda Report, the department said it’s seeking authorization for the City Manager to enter a $398,830 contract with the City of Los Angeles to continue providing rental assistance to people with HIV/AIDS.

The Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program was established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in 1991. The federal program provides housing assistance and support services to low-income people living with HIV/AIDS.

Under the proposal, the $100,000 would be added to the city’s Other Housing Fund for tenant-based rental assistance. The larger contract with Los Angeles would allow Pasadena to continue participating in the regional HOPWA program.

Housing Department staff determined the budget amendment is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act review, citing the “common sense” provision that CEQA only applies to projects that may affect the environment.

The Finance Committee will consider the recommendations during their special meeting Monday at City Hall’s Council Chamber, which begins at 3 p.m. If approved by the committee, the proposal would advance to the full City Council for final approval.

The City Manager would also receive authority to execute related documents, agreements and amendments if the proposal is approved.