Two members of the Silicon Valley legislative delegation briefed the Sunnyvale City Council on state activity and funding wins for the 2025-26 cycle.

Assemblymember Patrick Aarons (referred to in the meeting as Assembly Member Aarons/Arons) and State Senator Ayesha Wahab reported increased state investments in food banks, homelessness prevention and housing programs that affect Sunnyvale-area services. Assemblymember Aarons highlighted $52 million in additional food-bank funding and preserved low-income housing tax credits, while Senator Wahab described a package that included a $300 million down-payment assistance commitment and $500 million in low-income housing tax credits rolled into the 2025 budget.

Why it matters: Both legislators said the budget priorities respond to local constituent requests and stressed that federal funding cuts may force the state to "play defense" on key social programs next year. They emphasized local-value investments including targeted grants for food services, a county reentry resource center, and funding to help cities compete for housing and infrastructure grants.

What was said: Senator Wahab summarized SB 681, a major legislative package she shepherded into the budget, saying the bill bundles renter protections and new funding streams for renters and tenants. Assemblymember Aarons said the legislature also included a one-time $60 million student-support block grant and funds for organizations serving crime survivors.

Council reaction and follow-up: Council members asked about practical next steps on local concerns such as food deserts and surplus-school land for affordable-housing development. Both lawmakers said they would continue to work with Sunnyvale officials and mentioned forthcoming bills to address gaps; Assemblymember Aarons said he planned a community "Policy and Pancakes" event in January to discuss policy ideas with constituents.

The presentation drew follow-up questions about how state actions intersect with local priorities; both offices offered staff contacts for follow-up and said their district offices would continue to help residents navigate state programs.

Ending: Staff and council thanked the delegation for the update and invited additional staff follow-up on specific local requests. The presentation concluded with a scheduled recess before council returned to public business.