North Coast Energy Services seeks support to maintain LIHEAP funding in California

A critical plea for support echoed through the Lake County Board of Supervisors meeting as local service providers highlighted the dire consequences of federal funding delays. The meeting, held on April 8, 2025, revealed significant disruptions to essential programs serving Native American families and low-income households.

The executive director of a local program serving two tribes emphasized the urgent need for support, stating, "We had to lay off staff... these timely approvals were delayed." The program, which provides cash aid, employment training, and childcare services, is crucial for promoting self-sufficiency among eligible families. The director's call for assistance underscored the program's vulnerability due to funding uncertainties that have persisted since January.

Sandra Kliesner, representing North Coast Energy Services, painted a grim picture of the impact of funding cuts on the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Kliesner reported that without continued funding, her agency would be forced to close, resulting in the layoff of 39 employees, including eight from Lake County. "We have been providing LIHEAP services since 1983... without LIHEAP funding, my agency will close its doors," she stated, highlighting the critical utility assistance and emergency services provided to vulnerable households.

The board members expressed their concern and support for these programs, acknowledging the challenges faced by local agencies. One supervisor shared their proactive outreach to elected officials, emphasizing the confusion surrounding funding applications and the potential for critical services to be denied due to bureaucratic hurdles.

As discussions continued, the board recognized the broader implications of these funding issues on workforce development and community support programs. The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to advocate for the necessary federal support to ensure these vital services remain operational, reinforcing the importance of community resilience in the face of funding uncertainties.