St. Helena Weighs Housing Loan, Water, Airs Political Feud

NAPA VALLEY, CA — The St. Helena City Council agenda tonight blends housing policy, water infrastructure, and local political drama, as councilmembers consider a $3.3 million financing package for a 40-unit affordable housing project while also receiving water system updates and hearing emails involving a public dispute tied to recent City Hall leadership changes.

The proposed housing agreement would authorize a loan committing $3.3 million in city assistance for the planned 40-unit affordable housing development at 0 Fountain St.

The project, led by Our Town St. Helena and Burbank Housing, would receive city financing over a 57-year term at 3 percent interest. City officials say the funding package is necessary to support the project's upcoming application for state tax-credit financing.

The proposal combines a previous $1.1 million commitment for development impact and water neutrality fees with a separate $2.2 million commitment approved by the council in March. Under the proposed structure, $2.6 million would be disbursed at construction financing closing, while the remaining $700,000 would be released when permanent financing closes and project conditions are met.

Councilmembers will also hear a report on monthly updates of water produced at the Louis Stralla Water Treatment Plant and the Stonebridge Water Wells, as well as potable water delivered from the City of Napa.

Topping the public discussion, however, is correspondence between local residents Michael Haley and Kelly Wheaton that Haley released.

City of St. Helena City Council Regular Meeting
6 p.m. Tuesday
Vintage Hall Board Room, 465 Main Street, and online