Housing Authority debates future of former Brookwood homeless shelter at Sonoma Avenue

The City of Santa Rosa Housing Authority convened on April 28, 2025, to discuss key issues surrounding local housing assets and funding strategies, with a focus on the future of the property at 983 Sonoma Avenue. Originally established as the Brookwood homeless shelter, this facility has transitioned over the years, most recently serving as a rental space for the Santa Rosa Community Health Center until 2023.

During the meeting, commissioners debated the merits of selling the property versus retaining it as a rental asset. The housing authority currently holds a five-year lease on the building, which generates sufficient rental income to cover its operational costs. Some commissioners expressed concern about the potential benefits of selling the property to increase revenue, while others emphasized the importance of maintaining ownership to ensure long-term asset availability for community needs.

The discussion highlighted the broader implications of housing authority funding, particularly regarding the reliance on various revenue streams. Commissioners noted that the general fund primarily receives income from real property transfer taxes, which fluctuate based on property sales. This variability raises concerns about future funding stability, especially as the housing authority anticipates a decrease in revenue from home sales.

In addition to property discussions, the meeting addressed the use of uncommitted carryover funds, which have accumulated from loan repayments and impact fees. These funds are earmarked for specific purposes, including compliance monitoring for over 6,200 housing units. The authority's reserve policy dictates that these funds can only be used for designated activities, ensuring that financial resources are allocated effectively.

Looking ahead, the housing authority is preparing for a proposed budget of approximately $56.5 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, which may be adjusted based on final allocations from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges and strategic decisions facing the housing authority as it seeks to balance immediate financial needs with long-term community goals.

As Santa Rosa continues to navigate its housing landscape, the outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s approach to housing stability and support for its residents.