Committee forwards SoMa stabilization planning funds and $1.5M HOPWA renewal

The Budget and Finance Committee voted to forward two MOHCD items to the Board: (1) authorization to expend $99,000 from the SoMa Community Stabilization Fund to hire a consultant team to develop a five‑year strategic plan directing programming and expenditures; and (2) retroactive acceptance and expenditure of a HUD HOPWA renewal grant of approximately $1.5 million for the June 1, 2023–May 31, 2026 period to fund permanent supportive housing for people living with HIV.

Claudine Del Rosario (MOHCD) said the $99,000 will pay a consultant team to work with MOHCD and the Community Advisory Committee on a strategic plan for new development fees directed to the fund; she noted an RFQ in March and a unanimous CAC recommendation to forward the top‑scoring proposal. Helen Hale (Director of Housing Services, MOHCD) described the HOPWA grant as a competitive three‑year renewal that provides partial rental subsidies and case management; she said HUD's delay in finalizing the grant agreement made the request retroactive and cited Catholic Charities as a community partner that served 80 individuals last fiscal year.

There was no public comment. Chair Chan moved to forward both items to the full Board with a positive recommendation; Vice Chair Mandelmann and Chair Chan recorded 'aye' votes and the motions passed.

Both items will be considered by the full Board for final authorization.