For the Economic Development Committee Meeting of March 26, 2026
TO: Honorable Economic Development Committee Members
FROM: Christina Taylor, Community Development Director
...Title
Overview and Discussion of San Bernardino Council of Governments (SBCOG) Housing Trust Program
...Body
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend the Economic Development Committee hold discussion and advise staff on participation in the Housing Trust Program and joining the Joint Powers Authority (JPA).
BACKGROUND
The City of Rialto is one of twenty-five member agencies of the San Bernardino Council of Governments (SBCOG). On April 5, 2023, the SBCOG Board of Directors authorized staff to begin the process of establishing the San Bernardino Regional Housing Trust (SBRHT), including the establishment of a new Joint Powers Authority.
A housing trust fund is a program or independent organization that raises funding dedicated to housing construction, preservation, and rehabilitation, often concentrated on affordable housing, homeless housing services, down payment assistance, gap financing, supporting housing trusts, and related activities.
ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION
The Administrative Plan, for the Housing Trust will be developed in consultation with participating member jurisdictions. It will establish protocols for the trust fund, including determining the types of projects and programs it will fund, set goals to guide the Trust’s activities, stipulate membership requirements for participating jurisdictions, establish preferences for reinvesting allocations within the jurisdiction, outline SBCOG’s administrative responsibilities, and create a Board of Directors.
There is a cost to cities to participate in the Housing Trust. Approximately $230k in contributions from member agencies will fund administration of the Trust. Member dues will be based on a combination of factors, such as the jurisdiction’s population, jobs,
and anticipated growth and may range from $1,500 to $50,000, depending on which factors are selected, how many jurisdictions choose to participate, and other local characteristics.
The Housing Trust will seek funding from State and Federal sources, private and philanthropic contributions, grants and loans and strategic partnerships to fund projects.
SBCOG is looking to finalize agency participation in the JPA by May 2026. If the City is to join the JPA, staff would bring forward an item to City Council, to authorize participation.
GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY
Goal 6-1: Maintain and improve the quality of existing housing and neighborhoods in Rialto.
Goal 6-2: Promote and encourage housing development that adequately meets the needs of all socioeconomic segments of the community and region.
Goal 6-3: Maximize the use of available financial resources and pursue creative and resourceful methods to reduce the overall cost of housing.
ATTACHMENTS
SBCOG Housing Trust FAQ