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A Strategic Property Transfer
On June 26, 2025, the Fresno City Council discussed transferring a city-owned motel, purchased for $4.4 million, to Fresno Mission Communities for $2 to create 34 units of permanent supportive housing. The project, funded through the state’s Home Key 3 grant, aims to serve low-income families earning no more than 30% of the area median income. Assistant Director Phil Skye of the Planning and Development Department explained, “This is consistent with our Home Key 3 application, which this body authorized us to pursue.” The transfer fulfills a commitment made years ago to convert the motel into affordable housing.
The motel, originally with 44 rooms, has been reconfigured into 34 units, including 23 for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness and 10 for homeless youth or those at risk. Skye noted, “They want these units to be utilized, by and large, by families,” highlighting the intentional design to support family-oriented housing.
Ensuring Fair Housing Standards
Council Vice President Miguel Arias raised concerns about tenant eligibility and fair housing compliance. He questioned how residents would access the units, asking, “How would you explain that?” Skye clarified that tenants would apply through the coordinated entry system or directly with Fresno Mission Communities’ management entity, following a standard apartment application process. Eligibility is based on state-defined criteria for homelessness or risk of homelessness, with no religious conditions imposed despite the nonprofit’s religious affiliation. Skye confirmed, “There will be no conditions for participation in religious activities, and there are no religious qualifiers for attendance.”
Arias also sought clarity on protections for tenants, particularly families with children. He asked, “Could they legally be evicted from the housing?” if they chose not to send their children to a school associated with the nonprofit. Skye responded, “No, not for that reason,” affirming that such actions would violate fair housing standards. Rent rates were outlined as $409 for studios, $438 for one-bedrooms, $526 for two-bedrooms, and $607 for three-bedrooms, with tenants paying no more than 30% of their income. Annual rent increases are capped at 10% under state law, treating the property like private housing.
Community Impact and Oversight
Arias expressed concern about maintaining the project’s family-focused environment, stating, “Mixing populations only makes vulnerable folks even more vulnerable.” He sought assurance that the housing would not prioritize populations, such as those exiting the prison system, that could disrupt the intended community. Skye confirmed that no units are designated for former inmates, and tenant screening aligns with fair housing laws, excluding only specific cases like registered sex offenders due to the presence of families.
The council, including President Mike Karbassi and Councilmembers Annalisa Perea, Tyler Maxwell, Brandon Vang, Nick Richardson, and Nelson Esparza, approved the transfer unanimously, 7-0. This decision marks a significant step in addressing Fresno’s housing crisis, providing affordable homes for vulnerable families.
What are your thoughts on using city assets for affordable housing initiatives?
Francisco Ramirez is the founder of Kings Network News and creator of Kings Network Business, a platform that blends business networking, community support, and social media to uplift local entrepreneurs.
As a former Mayor of Hanford, California, he launched the Winter Wonderland event and brings over 20 years of business consulting experience. He is also a motivational speaker, life coach, strategist, author, podcaster, and skilled web and graphic designer.
He created The Invisible Kid: Courage to Succeed, a seminar on self-esteem and anti-bullying that has inspired youth across the region. Through media and consulting, Francisco empowers others to lead, grow, and make an impact.
