The City Council voted to approve a grant application for affordable housing funding as state regulators raise questions about Riverside's commitment to its housing targets.
A look back at that double rainbow north of the Canyon Crest neighborhood, with the Box Springs Mountains in the background, on Feb. 16. (Theodore Garland, Jr.) Have a photo that captures the spirit of Riverside? Share it with us and help celebrate the beauty of our community!
Council Applies for $1.44 Million Pro-Housing Grant Amid State Scrutiny
The City Council voted to approve a grant application for affordable housing funding as state regulators raise questions about Riverside's commitment to its housing targets.
Mission Heritage Plaza in Downtown houses 72 affordable units for families and homeless and disabled veterans, alongside the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County and the Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California.
City Council approved a state grant application that could bolster Riverside's pro-housing standing — but the city's own numbers reveal how far it has to go.
Why it matters: Riverside has permitted fewer than 20% of its state-mandated housing target, with zero new units for very-low-income residents since 2021. This grant — if awarded — must by law fund that hardest-to-reach category.
Driving the news: Council approved the application Tuesday for up to $1.44 million through the state's Prohousing Incentive Program Round Four, which rewards cities that exceed affordable housing mandates.
If awarded, the city will direct funds to a shovel-ready project — potentially 10 to 65 new affordable units breaking ground within 12 to 18 months.
By the numbers: Riverside's state-mandated housing goal is 18,458 new homes between 2021 and 2029.
The city has permitted just 31% of its above-moderate-income target — and 0% of its very-low-income target.
The backstory: Riverside faces state scrutiny after Council rejected $20.1 million in Homekey+ funding in January for a University Avenue project that would have created 114 permanent supportive apartments. The ACLU and two legal organizations sent letters in February citing potential housing law violations; HCD sent a separate letter raising similar concerns.
What's next: HCD says it is "closely monitoring" Riverside but has not publicly confirmed an investigation. The city says it has not been formally contacted by HCD's Housing Accountability Unit as of March 25.
City Libraries Double as Social Service Hubs as Homeless Outreach Program Eyes Expansion
Library-based social work program served 329 people last year and is seeking two more years of funding.
Katie holds an "I'm Home!" sign alongside Path of Life Ministries LINK program staff members inside her new apartment. After months rebuilding her life following a violent relationship, Katie secured her first apartment with support from the LINK program, which she accessed through the La Sierra Library. (Courtesy of the Love Your Neighbor Collaborative)
Social work interns stationed at Riverside libraries connected 329 residents to more than 900 services last year — and the program needs City approval to continue.
Why it matters: The LINK program operates out of five library branches across the city. If you or someone you know has visited a library seeking housing or social services help, this funding decision determines whether that resource stays available.
Driving the news: The Love Your Neighbor Collaborative — also known as LINK — presented outcomes to the Housing and Homelessness Committee Thursday, seeking two more years of funding through the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention grant.
By the numbers: One full-time social worker and 15 interns from about a dozen universities contributed more than 1,500 in-kind professional service hours last year across five library branches.
Life skills education was the most-requested service.
The backstory: The program began as a Ward 7 internship at La Sierra University, was brought under the City in 2018 and moved into the library system in 2022. It draws interns from Cal Baptist, Loma Linda, La Sierra and other local universities.
What's next: A staff report on two years of continued funding goes before the full City Council on April 7.
Council Eases Litigation Ban for Board Appointments, But ACLU Says It's Still Unconstitutional
The 4-1 vote came over the objection of Councilmember Cervantes, who sought to delay the vote and refer the matter to closed session.
Riverside residents in class-action lawsuits can now be appointed to city boards and commissions under a revised rule passed Tuesday over constitutional objections.
Why it matters: If you've ever joined a class-action suit against the city — or considered it — the original January rule would have barred you from serving on any board or commission. Tuesday's 4-1 vote carves out an exception, but critics say the policy still violates residents' First Amendment rights.
Driving the news: The ACLU of Southern California warned the council in writing Tuesday that even the revised resolution "will violate the constitutional rights of people who sue the city."
The council passed it anyway, with the understanding the ACLU's letter will be taken up in a future closed session.
Yes, but: Councilmember Cervantes moved to delay the vote and send the matter to closed session first — her motion failed 3-2, and she cast the lone "no" vote on final passage.
What they're saying: Supporters argued the council already informally avoids appointing litigants, and Tuesday's vote simply added clarity on class actions.
"It's a messier version without this language," Councilmember Robillard said.
The backstory: Council passed the original litigation ban in January. Residents and organizations — including a Ward 1 resident currently suing over a June ballot measure — raised constitutional concerns, prompting the revision.
What's next: The ACLU's objections go to closed session at a future council meeting. No date set.
Meet this week’s featured furry friend from the Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center. Dedicated to eliminating pet homelessness, the center provides compassionate care and facilitates adoptions for animals in need of loving homes. Find your new companion and help support their mission of humane care and responsible pet ownership.
Meet Crosby, a handsome 3yr old with a striking tri-colored coat and a personality to match. He may look a bit serious in photos, but he’s actually a goofy, fun-loving dog who enjoys exploring, meeting new people, and letting loose outside the kennel. Crosby is potty trained, rides well in the car, and walks nicely on leash, making him a great sidekick for outings and adventures. He would do best as the only dog in the home, where he can soak up all the attention and continue to thrive. If you’re looking for a loyal buddy with both charm and playful energy, Crosby just might be your guy. Come meet Crosby and all the adoptable pets at the Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center in person. Stop by any day except Tuesdays, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., or learn more at petsadoption.org.
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