Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Homeless Services topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Arcadia council approves $289,185 contract with HERO for homeless case management
Summary
The Arcadia City Council approved a one-year public services agreement (with up to three one-year renewals) with Housing Empowerment Recovery and Outreach Community Services (HERO) for case management and housing navigation services, for an amount not to exceed $289,185; the vote was unanimous.
The Arcadia City Council on May 19, 2026 approved a public services agreement with Housing Empowerment Recovery and Outreach Community Services (HERO) for case management and housing navigation services, in an amount not to exceed $289,185. The contract term is one year with up to three one-year renewals, and the motion passed by a recorded vote of 5–0.
City staff told the council the city solicited four proposals and evaluated technical scores and costs. Staff said HERO received a score of 95 compared with Lakata's 93 and that HERO's initial rate was slightly lower; staff emphasized continuity because several HERO staff are former Lakata employees who have worked in Arcadia. According to staff, HERO's proposed annual amount is $289,185 while Lakata's proposal was $293,000, and staff recommended HERO based on the evaluation and modest cost savings.
Mike Veirman, a long-time Arcadia resident and representative of CHOA (Creative Housing Options in Arcadia), addressed the council during public comment. Veirman said he has worked with Lakata and raised questions about switching providers but added that several former Lakata employees are on HERO’s team and that he welcomed the change: "I welcome the decision and welcome the change," he told the council.
Councilmember David Fu moved to approve the contract; Councilmember Michael Kao seconded the motion. The council voted affirmatively on roll call; staff recorded the outcome as approved. Staff noted the city will monitor the first year and may solicit bids again if the arrangement does not meet expectations.
The council approved the agreement during the consent/regular agenda; staff said implementation will proceed under the terms summarized in the staff report.
