North Coast Energy Services urges support for LIHEAP funding amid program disruptions

The Lake County Board of Supervisors convened on April 8, 2025, to address critical issues affecting local services and funding, particularly in the areas of energy assistance, health services, and food security.

The meeting began with a plea from Sandra Kliesner, Executive Director of North Coast Energy Services, who highlighted the potential closure of her agency due to the discontinuation of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Kliesner reported that the program had served 1,814 households in Lake County in 2024, providing nearly $1.9 million in services, primarily to vulnerable populations including the elderly and disabled. She emphasized that without continued funding, 39 employees would be laid off, eight of whom reside in Lake County.

Following Kliesner's remarks, board members expressed their support for LIHEAP and acknowledged the broader implications of funding cuts on low-income families. Discussions also touched on the confusion surrounding federal assistance programs and the potential impact of recent policy changes on workforce development initiatives.

The board then addressed significant financial cuts to health and human services, with an estimated $120 million reduction in statewide behavioral health services and $846 million in public health funding. A temporary restraining order was granted to pause these cuts, but the situation remains uncertain as litigation progresses.

Housing assistance was another focal point, with updates on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) cutting emergency housing vouchers. Currently, only nine vouchers are issued in Lake County, and the program is set to end, raising concerns about homelessness in the community. The board discussed the need to transition affected individuals into other housing assistance programs.

The meeting also covered the impact of federal funding cuts on food banks, with the USDA announcing a $500 million reduction in funding for emergency food assistance. Local food bank representatives reported an increase in demand, serving approximately 7,800 individuals per month, and expressed concerns about future food availability.

In conclusion, the Board of Supervisors highlighted the interconnectedness of these issues, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy and support for essential services in Lake County. The board plans to follow up on these discussions in future meetings, as they navigate the challenges posed by funding cuts and the ongoing needs of the community.