State lawsuit against Norwalk for unlawful ban on homeless shelters moves forward

On Wednesday, Los Angeles County Superior Court denied the City of Norwalk’s request to dismiss the state’s lawsuit against the city for its unlawful ban on homeless shelters and other supportive housing. 

The lawsuit was filed by Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta on November 4, 2024, alleging that the city’s ban violates numerous state laws. The lawsuit was filed after multiple warnings and actions by the state, including revocation of the city’s housing element compliance.

After learning the court’s decision, Newsom said no community should turn its back on its needy residents.

“We will continue to hold Norwalk accountable for its failure to reverse this cruel and unlawful ban,” said Newsom in a press release. 

Bonta said they were pleased to proceed with the case and protect the public’s interest in the rule of law.

“Norwalk’s ban on new housing for unhoused individuals and lower-income households at risk of homelessness is illegal,” he said. “At a time when affordability issues are a top concern for Californians, we should be doing everything in our power to help — not hurt — those struggling to keep a roof over their heads or lacking housing altogether.”

Department of Housing & Community Development Director Gustavo Velasquez said that far from being a threat, the availability of safe shelter and supportive services brings stability and strengthens communities.

“We will continue to fight to hold Norwalk and all others accountable for planning for the housing needs of residents at all income levels,” said Velasquez. 

Norwalk responds

In a statement sent to the media, the City of Norwalk said their ban on creating new housing for the homeless is not an act of defiance but rather an effort to pause, listen and find common ground with the State.

The city agreed to continue working with the State’s Department of Housing and Community Development to attempt to address the important issue of homelessness, but keeping at the forefront the protections of Norwalk residents and the City’s efforts to preserve local control over land uses within the city’s jurisdiction. 

They added that the “irony” is that the State is pushing for action against a moratorium already on hold, protesting enforcement where none exists.

The City of Norwalk agreed to its commitment to transparency and said it is ready to work with the State of California and its agencies to develop thoughtful, sustainable policies that honor both the law and the well-being of its residents.