Ontario Construction News staff writer
A court has denied the City of Norwalk’s request to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the State of California over its ban on new homeless shelters. This decision allows the lawsuit to proceed.
The case was filed on Nov. 4, 2024, by Gov. Gavin Newsom and California Attorney General Rob Bonta. The state is challenging an ordinance passed by Norwalk that prohibits the establishment of new homeless shelters and supportive housing. The lawsuit argues that the ban violates state laws intended to address homelessness and housing needs.
Governor Newsom responded to the court’s decision, stating, “No community should turn its back on its residents in need. We will continue to hold Norwalk accountable for its failure to reverse this cruel and unlawful ban.”
The lawsuit was filed after the state revoked Norwalk’s compliance with its housing element, a key requirement under state law that mandates cities to plan for affordable housing. State officials argue that the city’s actions have worsened California’s housing crisis and violated laws designed to ensure shelter for vulnerable populations.
“We are pleased to proceed with our case and to protect the public’s interest in the rule of law. Norwalk’s ban on new housing for unhoused individuals and lower-income households at risk of homelessness is illegal. We look forward to holding the city accountable,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta.
In a statement, the City of Norwalk said it is ready to work with the State”to develop thoughtful, sustainable policies” that honor the law and the well-being of residents.
“This is not an act of defiance but rather an effort to pause, listen, and find common ground with the State,” the city stated. “The City of Norwalk will continue to work with the State’s Department of Housing and Community Development to attempt to find a common ground to address the important issue of homelessness, but keeping at the forefront the protections of our residents and the city’s efforts to preserve local control over land uses within the City of Norwalk’s jurisdiction.
“The irony, of course, lies in the fact that the State is pushing for action against a moratorium that is already on hold, protesting enforcement where none exists. The further challenge is the State fails to recognize that the city is a partner in this process who cannot be removed from the discussion on how the homeless housing issue is to be addressed in the city.”
