Antioch, California Development News

Antioch City Council Reviews HomeKey Plus Housing Project Amidst Financial and Operational Concerns

The Antioch City Council held a study session to discuss the HomeKey Plus award for the CSH Mahogany Housing Project. The project, which received a conditional award of $34.9 million from the state, aims to acquire and rehabilitate the former Comfort Inn into 48 permanent supportive housing studios and one on-site manager's unit. Key considerations included fiscal obligations, project status, public safety, referral processes, and property status. The council also reviewed the city's proposed financial contributions, including a one-time $750,000 capital contribution and an estimated $1.2 million annually for the initial 5-year operating period. Concerns were raised by some council members and the public regarding the long-term financial commitment, the potential impact on existing homeless services, and the property owner's financial situation, including outstanding taxes and water service debts. The study session was in preparation for a July 28th council meeting where a resolution to rescind the authorization for the project will be considered. Various stakeholders, including representatives from Contra Costa County, the City of Richmond, California Supportive Housing, and the property owners, presented information and answered questions. Public comment highlighted both strong support for the project as a critical solution for the unhoused population and significant concerns about the financial sustainability and the city's capacity to manage such a commitment. The council ultimately voted to move forward with the item to the July 28th meeting, with further review by the city attorney planned for related documents.