Norwalk residents react to city extending ban on homeless shelters [Video]

NORWALK, Calif. – California‘s Department of Housing and Community Development has officially put the City of Norwalk on notice stemming from a moratorium that was voted on and approved in August.

The moratorium focuses on new housing, emergency shelters for the homeless, single-room occupancy, and transitional housing.

On Tuesday, the City Council voted unanimously to extend that ordinance into August of next year after hearing from residents on both sides of the issue.

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“The governor’s actions reflect a failed approach to address homelessness. Billions of dollars have been spent yet the crisis has only deepened,” said Brian Lopez, who described himself as a lifelong Norwalk resident. “Norwalk should not be forced to bear the brunt of the region’s homeless population.”

“I strongly oppose this item because I don’t think it makes Norwalk safer. It also doesn’t help address our housing and homelessness crisis,” …