ORD-2020-008 Approval of Budget Amendment #7-A for the Transfer of Funds from the Orange County Local Rent Supplement Program to the Risk Mitigation and Housing Displacement Fund

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2 Furthermore, Orange County is now seeing an increase in the number of residents experiencing housing instability due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and there is a need for increased funding for housing assistance as part of the emergency response. As such, Orange County Housing and Community Development (OCHCD) proposes to effectively dissolve the OC-LRSP and transfer the balance of funds in that program to the Risk Mitigation and Housing Displacement Fund (Attachment 2). This will provide the flexibility needed to meet the housing needs of low-income renters, as the Risk Mitigation and Housing Displacement Fund can provide various types of assistance including security deposits, utility connections, first month's rent, and emergency housing costs. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There will be no financial impact to the County if the BOCC approves the amendment. These funds have already been appropriated, and this budget amendment provides for the transfer of $100,000 from the Local Voucher Program, currently budgeted in the General Fund, to the Risk Mitigation and Housing Displacement Program within the Housing and Community Development Fund to allow these funds to be disbursed to help low-income households in need. SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goals are applicable to this item: • GOAL: FOSTER A COMMUNITY CULTURE THAT REJECTS OPPRESSION AND INEQUITY The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race or color; religious or philosophical beliefs; sex, gender or sexual orientation; national origin or ethnic background; age; military service; disability; and familial, residential or economic status. • GOAL: ENSURE ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY The creation and preservation of infrastructure, policies, programs and funding necessary for residents to provide shelter, food, clothing and medical care for themselves and their dependents. The creation and preservation of affordable housing options helps to meet a basic need and advances economic self-sufficiency. • GOAL: CREATE A SAFE COMMUNITY The reduction of risks from vehicle/traffic accidents, childhood and senior injuries, gang activity, substance abuse and domestic violence. Affordable housing options allow individuals to reduce risks associated with being un-housed. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: There are no Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal impacts applicable to this item. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve Budget Amendment #7-A for the transfer of funds from the Orange County Local Rent Supplement Program (Local Vouchers) to the Risk Mitigation and Housing Displacement Fund as proposed.