TO: Napa County Housing Commission
FROM: Jennifer Palmer, Executive Director of Housing Authority
REPORT BY: Alex Carrasco, Project Manager
SUBJECT: 2024 Napa County Farmworker Housing Needs & Impacts Assessment Report
RECOMMENDATION
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Receive a presentation regarding Farmworker Housing Needs & Impacts Assessment.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Napa County Board of Supervisors commissioned the Farmworker Housing Needs and Impacts Assessment in July 2023 to shed light on the housing challenges faced by farmworkers in Napa County and the impact those challenges are having on the Napa Valley wine industry. This comprehensive report aims to inform the community about these needs and impacts from two perspectives: First, to provide background and context on the unique barriers to accessing safe, affordable housing and services experienced by farmworkers working or living in Napa County. Second, to illuminate the related economic impacts farmworker housing insecurity, scarcity, and service limitations have on industry employers, business owners, and service providers. By examining the needs of both farmworkers and industry stakeholders, the report presents a clear picture of how housing challenges are affecting the entire agriculture industry in Napa County.
Today’s report provides an overview of the Assessment project, process, and findings.
PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Staff Report
2. Public Comment
3. Discussion
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The proposed action is not a project as defined by 14 California Code of Regulations 15378 (State CEQA Guidelines) and therefore CEQA is not applicable.
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
The purpose of the Assessment is to collect the necessary data to inform future discussion and planning about farmworker housing and community-based support service’s needs. Phase 1 of the Assessment included surveys of over 500 farmworkers. Phase 2 involved Key Informant Interviews with 20 employers and social service providers supporting farmworkers in Napa County, a second round of surveys, and four additional Key Informant Interviews with farmworkers. Phase 3 includes Analysis and Report Writing. The Assessment has a Steering Committee Advisory made up of key Industry employers, service providers and housing experts.
The Executive Director of Housing Authority will report an overview of the Assessment project, process, and findings.