The City of Napa is pleased to announce that it has accepted a grant of $15 million under California’s Encampment Resolution Grant Program. The funding, accepted by the Napa City Council during the July 18 meeting, aims to support and enhance homelessness solutions in the Napa community.
The City of Napa, recognizing the urgency and importance of addressing housing and homelessness, acknowledged the issue as a formal priority in its fiscal year 2022-2023 agenda—recently reaffirming that for fiscal years 2023-2025.
The City of Napa applied for grant funding under the Encampment Resolution Grant Program in February 2023, which outlined a comprehensive plan to address homelessness in Napa. As part of the grant proposal, the City secured the lease of the Motel 6 property at 3380 Solano Avenue until June 30, 2026. This property will serve as a non-congregate shelter for individuals currently residing in encampments on Caltrans property, Kennedy Park (City Park) and other public right of ways. The application also outlined the inclusion of Caltrans Right of Ways, specifically all sites along Highway 29 in the City of Napa, as well as sites under the Maxwell Bridge along the Napa River.
Expected to open its doors in late August or early September, the motel will provide immediate shelter to approximately 60 individuals, representing 17% of the unsheltered count identified in Napa’s Point-in-Time (PIT) count from January 2023. The site will offer a range of essential services, including robust wrap-around case management, security provisions and support systems geared toward transitioning clients from encampments to temporary shelter and eventually into permanent housing. The grant proposal aims to serve 120 individuals throughout its term.
“Receiving this significant grant is a testament to the collective efforts of our community and the State of California in addressing homelessness,” said Napa Mayor Scott Sedgley. “We are grateful for the recognition and support, which will enable us to implement effective solutions and improve the lives of those in need. Napa is committed to fostering a compassionate environment where homelessness is not just managed, but permanently resolved.”
City staff have been diligently collaborating with Caltrans to ensure the smooth implementation of the grant program. Furthermore, they have been actively addressing the concerns raised by neighboring residents adjacent to the motel site. In order to maintain an open line of communication, the City has scheduled a follow-up meeting with the neighboring residents.
“Homelessness is an issue that requires a collaborative and community-driven approach,” said City Manager Steve Potter. “This grant funding is a major milestone in our efforts that will enable us to partner with local organizations, businesses and residents to create a safe environment for individuals currently residing in encampments as well as ensure the neighborhood concerns are met. By providing vital support services, creating innovative programs and working collaboratively with CalTrans and the community, we aim to break the cycle of homelessness and guide individuals toward self-sufficiency and permanent housing.”
City staff has already engaged with outreach providers to identify potential eligible clients for this opportunity. The list of clients has been determined based on a census conducted at the identified encampments in February and May 2023.
The effort spent in seeking this grant funding exemplifies the City of Napa's commitment to support its most vulnerable residents and create a community where everyone can thrive. Learn more about the City's priority to meaningfully address homelessness at www.cityofnapa.org/1286/Council-Priorities