Guerra says Nguyen is hiding behind the dais as Elk Grove is scrutnized by state over denial of affordable housing project

The Elk Grove City Council's denial of the Oak Rose supportive housing project is becoming
a campaign issue in several races. | 

Today Sacramento City Councilmember Eric Guerra criticized Elk Grove City Councilmember Stephanie Nguyen after it was revealed Elk Grove is under investigation by the California Department of Housing and Community Development. Guerra is facing Nguyen in the California Assembly District 10 race. 



It was learned today, based on the Elk Grove City Council's July 27 denial of a supportive housing project, the city is being investigated for violating several state housing laws. As an Elk Grove City Councilmember, Nguyen and four other council members denied the application of Excelerate Housing for the 67-unit Oak Rose supportive housing project. 

"In the midst of a housing crisis in Sacramento County, Stephanie Nguyen voted to deny an essential affordable housing project, leading to a notice from the Department of Housing and Community Development that the City of Elk Grove broke state law in doing so," Guerra said. "We must look for opportunities to build more affordable housing - not hide behind excuses as to why it cannot be done."

Based on the finding of the DHC investigation and if the city fails to comply with orders, the city potentially faces fines, losing state grant money, and having planning administered by a court-ordered agent.  
 
"Not only does her vote jeopardize Elk Grove's access to millions of dollars of state funding for essential infrastructure and public safety projects, but the non-profit developers of the project have also sued the city, putting Elk Grove residents on the hook for thousands of dollars in legal fees," Guerra said.
 
Citing his work on affordable housing in Sacramento, Guerra added, "I didn't hide behind the dais as Stephanie Nguyen has done."

During the primary, Nguyen attacked Guerra highlighting a homeless encampment in his Sacramento city council district. Nguyen did not respond to an email request seeking comment on Guerra's assertions.

In addition to denying the Oak Rose supportive housing project, Elk Grove adopted a restrictive anti-camping ordinance this summer. Although that ordinance has not been challenged, it could be overturned based on the Martin v Boise decision that has limited what governments can do regarding homeless encampments when there are insufficient shelter facilities.   

Although Elk Grove claims the lowest homelessness rate in the region, in recent months, the population in the community appears to be growing. 


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2 comments

Randy Bekker said...

Just like a politician to try an seize the moment with no correct fact only talking points. For someone trying to get votes from Elk Grove residents he probably needs to talk with the residents of Old Town and understand the OTSPA. I bet he would be so apt to make a comment if this project was being built in Old Sacramento.

Atticus Finch said...

Nguyen hasn't hidden behind the dais. Her votes are a matter of public record. And the record is clear. She, along with her fellow council cohorts are pro developers and pro higher taxes. Nguyen, again like her colleagues, does not believe in affordable housing for working class Americans. They talk a big game regarding helping the community, but when it comes right down to it, the community they are referring to does not include the majority of residents. It is the community of donors, developers, and special interest money. There is no room for differing opinions or opposing viewpoints.

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