Gov. Brown Signs Bill Boosting Napa Co. Farm Worker Housing Program

NAPA COUNTY, CA — California Gov. Jerry Brown signed legislation Wednesday that provides permanent, annual funding to support Napa County's three farm worker housing centers. Under Assembly Bill 137, sponsored by Assemblywoman Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, a Democrat from Winters, the Napa County Housing Authority will receive $250,000 in matching funds each year.

The funding begins in the next budget cycle and will be put toward the county farm worker housing program, which provides seasonal affordable housing for 180 migrant workers in three centers: the River Ranch Farmworker Center in St. Helena, the Mondavi Farmworker Center in Napa and the Calistoga Farmworker Center in Calistoga. The program costs occupants $37 per day — $14 for rent and $23 for three meals and access to literacy and other training programs.

"Every year, after the harvest is over, we have about 15 center residents who become homeless," said Angel Calderon, manager of the River Ranch Farmworker Center in St. Helena. "To me, this is truly a public health issue. This money will help keep our three centers open and continue providing housing and services to this population."

About $500,000 is generated annually through a county service area — CSA — which was authorized by the state in 2001 for the purpose of raising funds for Napa County farm worker housing. The industry also taxes itself to help fund the programs.

The increased funding through AB 317 will create sustainability for the programs at a low cost to these residents, Napa County officials said — pointing out that Napa is the only California county which provides farm worker housing fully funded by occupant rent and the industry in partnership with local housing funds.

"The success of Napa County’s wine industry begins at the first touch of the grapes by farm workers, who support the agricultural industry and economy of our community," said Napa County District 5 Supervisor Belia Ramos, chair of the Napa County Board of Supervisors. "We appreciate the state recognizing Napa County’s efforts and supporting our agricultural workforce."

AB 317 marks the third funding boost the farm worker housing center program has received this year — an additional $250,000 was included in the state budget, and vineyard owners voted to raise their self-assessment to increase funding. County officials say rising costs and inflation created a funding gap that threatened the centers’ existence.

"Because of the relentless advocacy and leadership of Assemblymember Aguiar-Curry, Senator Bill Dodd, the Napa Valley Vintners, and our wine industry partners, we can continue to provide safe, sustainable and affordable seasonal housing for Napa County farmworkers," said Napa County District 4 Supervisor Alfredo Pedroza.

Photo by Eric Risberg/Associated Press