Big City Mayors Demand $1 Billion Annual Homeless Funding Ahead of Election

Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson and twelve other mayors from California's largest cities gathered at Riverside City Hall on Friday, October 30. The group met to demand continued state funding for homelessness programs. They also sought commitments from the next governor to support municipal housing efforts.

The coalition represents nearly 11 million residents across California's thirteen largest cities. The group stated that restoring Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention funding was the first step. Lock Dawson said the summit focused on converting collective strength into action. She described the goal as working directly with the governor and legislature to create statewide solutions.

Speakers at the meeting included Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson, Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken, Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi, and Irvine Mayor Larry Agran. The coalition does not meet on a fixed schedule. Its first formal meeting took place last year in San Francisco.

With the November 3 election approaching, the mayors voiced support for Proposition 1. This ballot measure proposes an $11.25 billion affordable housing bond. The bond aims to help veterans and low and moderate income households. Proponents say it will fund housing programs and speed up construction. Critics argue that increasing state debt is not the solution to housing issues.

Irvine Mayor Larry Agran called Proposition 1 essential. He cited the stabilized funding secured and the momentum to address homelessness. Agran stated that resources like those in the bond keep cities able to provide housing. He emphasized the need for affordable, transitional, and emergency housing options.

Lock Dawson said the mayors want HHAP funding to remain at least $1 billion a year. She stressed that the funding must be sustained and continuous. Riverside received $10.3 million in HHAP funding from the state in both 2025 and 2026. The mayors want the next governor to ensure this grant funding continues.

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan said the goal is an authentic partnership between cities and counties. He asked the next governor and legislature for tools that allow each level of government to play its role. Mahan specified the need for on demand mental health assessments, treatment beds, and sober living environments. He also called for tracking outcomes and refining laws and funding streams. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria noted that mayors are responsible for delivering safe neighborhoods and reliable infrastructure. He said cities need Sacramento's partnership to keep delivering these services.