Soon, the Esco City Council will make recommendations for an important plan. It is important that we communicate with them in advance of this meeting. Please submit public comments to the City Council regarding amendments to how these HUD HOME funds are spent. $348,546.75 from a 2017 HOME grant must be expended by September 30, 2026, or the funds will be reclaimed by HUD. 

Please file a comment here supporting alternatives listed below email a copy to staff

kevin.snyder@escondido.gov; danielle.lopez@escondido.gov

We urge members to send an email to support proposed alternatives to share with both the City Council and City staff that would better ensure these funds are used where they are most needed, including:

• Using HOME funds for rental assistance or rental subsidies to help people stay housed

• Expanding rental assistance beyond seniors to include all income-qualified individuals and families

• Structuring rental assistance based on household income rather than a flat amount

• Partnering with local service providers, such as Interfaith Community Services, to help ensure funds reach people transitioning from temporary to permanent housing

Although the Council vote will occur later this month, we strongly encourage residents to begin submitting public comments now since by the time the vote takes place, key decisions have often already been shaped.

At the October 15, 2025 Council meeting, the Council discussed using these funds by modestly expanding existing programs—an approach that has not resulted in full use of the funds in the past.