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City votes to join countywide regional housing trust JPA; staff say $1.75M REAP allocation could benefit 29 Palms

Twentynine Palms City Council · April 15, 2026

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Summary

Council approved joining a San Bernardino County regional housing trust JPA (Resolution 2609). Staff said membership could cost the city roughly $30,000 in the first year but could secure a $1,750,000 REAP grant earmarked to the city for a pilot project if the city participates.

The Twentynine Palms City Council voted unanimously to join a countywide joint powers authority (JPA) intended to create a regional housing trust to increase financing options for affordable and workforce housing.

City staff described the JPA as a pooled, member-driven entity that could offer gap financing, predevelopment loans and other tools that smaller cities lack capacity to provide on their own. "One of the ultimate goals is to help develop an organization that would be able to step in and help with this gap financing," a staff presenter said. Staff estimated the city's first-year contribution could range from $10,000 to $30,000; the presenter also told the council the city is in line for a $1,750,000 REAP allocation that could be applied to a local pilot project if the city joins the JPA and moves quickly to have a project construction-ready within seven months.

Public speakers representing local businesses, construction programs and community organizations largely supported participation, while councilmembers discussed costs and administrative capacity. After public comment and council discussion, Councilmember Ramirez moved to join the JPA and the motion passed 5-0 (Resolution 2609).

Staff said joining the JPA would give the city an elected official seat on the JPA board and make the city eligible for regional advocacy and pooled funding opportunities should state or federal funds become available.