Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Riverside public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in development with critical priority
Homeless housing and services funding
The Housing and Human Services update detailed thousands of street outreach contacts, tons of debris removed, and new transitional housing opening this fall, prompting council discussion about partnering with churches and faith groups.
Homelessness Action Plan
The 2022 plan will be reviewed goal-by-goal over six monthly sessions before an updated plan goes to council. Members flagged regional coordination and treatment-first interim housing as priorities.
Homelessness crisis and family homelessness
The city's PSAT teams made over 7,300 contacts last year, but only 241 people accepted services — addiction and unwillingness to enter treatment are the big barriers. The city is exploring motel conversions, a master leasing program, and Care Court to get more people housed.
University Terrace / Project Home Key rejection and civil rights complaint
Months after the council rejected the 114-unit University Terrace supportive housing project and its $20.1 million state grant, dozens of residents, UCR students, and advocates demanded it be brought back as a new agenda item. The ACLU filed a civil rights complaint with the state that morning, alleging the council's vote reflected discriminatory animus. The mayor says reconsideration is off the table, but staff is negotiating with the state to reprogram the funds.
Home Key / University Terrace reconsideration push
Two dozen residents begged the four councilmembers who voted no on January 13 to reconsider rejecting $21 million in state funds to convert the Quality Inn into 114 units of permanent supportive housing. No motion for reconsideration came forward.