Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva (D—Fullerton), Chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on State Administration, led an informational hearing to discuss the state’s initiative to convert excess state properties into affordable housing on August 07, 2024. The committee explored how this effort can be expanded or further supported through Proposition 1, which allocates substantial investments for supportive housing.

“We are taking an economical and crucial step towards addressing our housing and homelessness crisis by transitioning surplus property into affordable housing and providing stable homes for those in need,” said Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva. “We need a holistic approach—permanent housing, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and job training programs. We must leverage all available resources and develop a comprehensive, long-term strategy to not just move people but to help them rebuild their lives.”

This effort builds on the State’s earlier successes in repurposing existing buildings for new uses, known as the Adaptive Reuse model. This model allows existing structures to be repurposed efficiently and cost-effectively. The State of California currently has sixteen such facilities in development, three under construction, and one completed project. With additional funding, this approach maximizes the use of available resources and helps preserve the character of communities while addressing California’s urgent demand for housing.

You can watch the hearing at the link here.

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva represents the 67th Assembly District, which includes the Orange County communities of Anaheim, Buena Park, Cypress, Fullerton, and La Palma, as well as the Los Angeles County communities of Artesia, Cerritos, and Hawaiian Gardens.