Alana Bui

The meeting commenced with a tribal land acknowledgment. Key discussion points included updates on federal litigation concerning HUD COC NOFO and the mixed status rule that jeopardizes stable housing. The council also celebrated significant achievements, such as the announcement of HAP round six awards, support for over 330,000 people through the HAP program, and the housing of over 90,000 individuals. Progress on the Homekey Plus program, totaling 2,260 affordable homes, was highlighted. Furthermore, updates were provided on the agency reorganization, which will establish the California Housing and Homelessness Agency, and the integration of the Civil Rights department. Executive Officer updates covered the state auditor's high-risk report and the ongoing AB799 implementation, including a scheduled demonstration. The progress in reducing unsheltered homelessness by 9% statewide was acknowledged, alongside efforts related to the Care Act for individuals with psychotic disorders.

The meeting included discussions and actions concerning safety in quarter-horse racing, specifically regarding injury reduction efforts and requirements for intra-articular injections prior to trial races at Los Alamitos Race Course. The Board voted to establish a maximum racing and working age of 10 for horses (except Standardbreds) and a maximum age of 6 for maidens. Furthermore, the Board renewed mini-satellite licenses for two locations for a five-year period, approved amendments to drug classification rules and penalties to align with international guidelines, and approved changes to CHRB licensing fees, which included a modest increase not adjusted since 1989. Finally, the Board authorized the distribution of charity proceeds by the Los Angeles Turf Club.

The California Horse Racing Board conducted a meeting to address 2026 dates allocations in Northern California. The Board denied both requests for 2026 racing dates by a 4-2 vote. The first request, from the Tehama District Fair, was rejected due to facility deficiencies, including the lack of essential components like a tote board, jockeys room, and adequate stalls, indicating it was unprepared for a race meet. The second request, from the Humboldt County Fair, was also rejected, primarily due to financial concerns regarding the potential diversion of an estimated $2 million from Southern California racing interests, which stakeholders argued could accelerate the exodus of horses from the state.

The quarterly meeting included Co-Chair remarks highlighting the one-year anniversary of the statewide action plan, praising staff efforts in implementing HDIS, and expressing concern over federal funding cuts affecting housing and health programs. The Executive Officer updated the Council on the Governor's launch of the Safe Task Force and the anticipated interruption in CoC funding. Advisory Committee updates summarized concerns regarding the Continuum of Care NOFO, emphasizing funding caps and conflicting policies. The Lived Experience Advisory Board (LEAB) raised critical issues concerning basic infrastructure, inconsistent warming shelter practices, barriers in the CoC NOFO process, and reports of CalAIM fraud, leading to extensive discussion on establishing a stronger feedback and accountability loop for LEAB input. Department updates detailed how various agencies are advancing Action Plan goals despite federal uncertainty, including impacts on Minority Serving Institutions, threats to veteran PSH funding, increases in low-income housing unit funding via private activity bonds, and the evolution of CalAIM transitional rent benefits. Standing business focused on the forthcoming Recovery Housing Guidance clarifying Housing First principles for voluntary participation and non-eviction for relapse. Additionally, updates were provided on planned AB 799 data reporting requirements and the restructuring of Cal ICH working groups.

The Intervention Evaluation Committee meeting began with introductions and establishing a quorum. The committee's purpose, which is to evaluate Registered Nurses (RNs) requesting participation in the intervention program and recommend terms for their agreements, was stated. General instructions for public participation were reviewed. Key discussion points focused on flexibility regarding requirements for participants with only a mental health diagnosis, noting that Uniform Standards related to substance use disorder (like drug testing and the three-year minimum) do not necessarily apply. The committee was advised they can use their expertise to create individualized plans based on clinical evaluations and work site monitor reports, rather than adhering strictly to uniform standards for these specific cases. Future agenda items mentioned include education on worksite monitoring options.