Oxnard Housing Authority board approves $7M budget for public housing and vouchers

Oxnard's Finance and Governance Committee has taken significant steps to support local housing initiatives during their recent meeting on May 13, 2025. The committee recommended that the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the City of Oxnard adopt a resolution to approve a substantial operating budget of $7,000,007.95 for the low rent public housing program for the fiscal year 2025-2026. This budget aims to ensure the continued operation and maintenance of public housing projects throughout the city.

In addition to the public housing budget, the committee also recommended the approval of a $3,500,009.21 budget for the Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8. To address projected deficits in both programs, the committee authorized the use of unrestricted cash, amounting to $201,002.72 for the public housing program and $149,007.15 for the voucher program.

Interim Housing Director Brenda Lopez provided clarity on budget details, including the allocation of funds to various housing projects identified by specific HUD-assigned numbers. Council members raised questions regarding the management fee calculations and discrepancies in budget figures, which Lopez addressed by explaining the complexities of funding and expense allocation as determined by HUD guidelines.

The discussions highlighted the importance of transparency and clarity in budget reports, with a request for future reports to include legends for fund numbers to aid understanding. The committee's recommendations are expected to enhance the financial stability of housing programs, ensuring that residents continue to receive essential services.

As Oxnard moves forward, the approval of these budgets will play a crucial role in maintaining affordable housing options and supporting the community's most vulnerable populations. The next steps will involve the full council's review and approval of these recommendations, paving the way for effective implementation in the upcoming fiscal year.