The Berkeley City Council is facing potential budget cuts to its Small Sites Program, which was designed to preserve affordable multi-family housing and prevent tenant displacement. Originally funded with $5 million, half may be redirected to address a budget deficit. Advocates, including Rev. Sophia DeWitt and leaders from housing organizations, oppose this plan, citing the ongoing housing crisis. The city is also considering a hiring freeze to manage a $20 million deficit impacting local services and staffing.
"As we all know, we're in a housing crisis in Berkeley and the region. This is not the time to pull back on these funds," said Rev. Sophia DeWitt.
"These funds were meant to go toward increasing housing in the city and preventing displacement," according to staff from Measure U1.
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