As 2016 draws to a close, I want to thank you each for your engagement with CHC over the past year and your ongoing commitment to make affordable homes available to all Californians.

It’s hard to look ahead to 2017 without feeling somewhat uneasy. The investment markets are uncertain, the political situation in Washington is unsettled, and the implications for California’s policy environment are unclear.  Yet our mission is more urgent and vital than ever; the deaths of 36 people in an Oakland warehouse converted to makeshift housing underscore the unprecedented crisis facing our state and the need for CHC to lead with policy solutions.

With this tragedy fresh in our minds, I joined hundreds of leaders from a broad range of industries last week for the California Economic Summit convened by California Forward.  As co-chair of the Summit’s Housing Action Team, I left encouraged by the growing recognition that housing is the foundation for all other success in our state and by the energy around our shared goal of one million more homes for Californians.  

In just two weeks, the legislative session will kick off in earnest, and I look forward to working with you to keep affordable housing high on the priority list of lawmakers and the Administration.  CHC is proud to lead on your California agenda, including:

• Securing state affordable home investment by supporting SB 2, 3 and AB 71 
• Ensuring local governments support California’s economic success by planning and achieving affordable homes for a competitive workforce
• Breaking down barriers to affordable development 

Against the backdrop of uncertainty from Washington, we know for certain that housing has a unique and vital role in lifting families out of poverty and supporting job creation, education, and health in our state.  Together, we can create the safe and affordable homes that represent hope, both for families struggling to make ends meet and for California’s future.

Sincerely,

Ray Pearl
CHC Executive Director