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There needs to be strong language in the ordinance that prohibits a future diversion of these <br />funds to general public safety programs and any department or activity that is not directly <br />related to increasing and improving the supply of affordable housing. Since its inception the <br />HOO has been clear in its language and purpose in that it states, "Monies deposited into the <br />inclusionary housing fund must be used to increase and improve the supply of housing <br />affordable to moderate, law, very low, and extremely low income housings in the city... " <br />(Sec. 41-1909. (a)(])). <br />Affordable Housing Fund Policies and Procedures - Eligible Uses and Activities (Pane 75B 92) <br />- The proposed amendment removes Cooperative Housing Programs as an eligible <br />use <br />Cooperative housing programs have been used to create and preserve affordable housing <br />throughout the country, reducing displacement among low and moderate income residents <br />by retaining affordability even in the midst of rapidly gentrifying neighborhoods. Coupled <br />with legislation allowing for the first right of refusal and opportunity to purchase, residents <br />can retain their housing and experience supportive first time home ownership. Public <br />Advocates, Housing California and the Coalition for Nonprofit Housing and Economic <br />development are just a few of the many advocates for place -based strategies that stabilize <br />tenants and communities through strategies like Cooperative Housing Programs. There <br />should be no reason to remove a use that can increase the supply of affordable housing in <br />Santa Ana and that aligns with the HOO. <br />We urge you to vote against the proposed amendments to the Housing Opportunity <br />Ordinance. The proposed amendments are inconsistent with the intent of the ordinance and do <br />not advance its goals. <br />Sincerely, <br />Santa Ana Building Healthy Communities <br />