The Clearlake City Council made significant strides in addressing the housing crisis and youth tobacco use during its regular meeting on November 7, 2024.

First on the agenda was the unanimous approval of the fiscal year 2022-2023 financial statements and single audit, which confirmed the city’s effective management of federal funds totaling $2.4 million. This financial transparency is crucial as the city continues to leverage federal grants to support community projects.

The council then turned its attention to a pressing issue: the establishment of a Regional Housing Trust Fund. Lisa Judd, Deputy County Administrative Officer for Housing, presented a collaborative initiative aimed at increasing housing supply in Lake County. The proposed trust fund would allow for ongoing investments in housing production and preservation, with the potential to match local funds with state and federal resources. Judd emphasized the urgency of addressing the housing crisis exacerbated by recent wildfires, stating, “It’s a priority for us to address.” The council is expected to revisit this proposal for formal adoption in December.

In a parallel effort to safeguard public health, the council discussed a new tobacco retail license aimed at curbing youth access to tobacco products. This initiative follows alarming statistics revealing that a significant percentage of local youth find it easy to obtain tobacco. The proposed ordinance would enforce stricter regulations on tobacco sales, including compliance checks and penalties for violations. The council received strong support from community members, including students and educators, who highlighted the detrimental effects of nicotine addiction on youth.

As the council moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering a healthier community and ensuring sustainable development in Clearlake. The anticipated outcomes from both the housing trust fund and tobacco retail license could significantly impact the quality of life for residents, addressing both housing needs and public health concerns.