An Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice
Equal access to housing is fundamental to each person in meeting essential needs and pursuing personal, educational, employment, or other goals. In recognition of equal housing access as a fundamental right, the federal government and the State of California have both established fair housing choice as a right protected by law. Through the federally funded Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) programs, among other state and local programs, jurisdictions in San Diego County work to provide a decent living environment for all. Pursuant to CDBG regulations [24 CFR Subtitle A §91.225(a)(1)], to receive CDBG funds, each jurisdiction must certify that it “actively furthers fair housing choice” through the following:
- Completion of an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI);
- Actions to eliminate identified impediments; and
- Maintenance of fair housing records.
This report, the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (commonly known as the “AI”), presents a demographic profile of San Diego County, assesses the extent of housing needs among specific income groups, and evaluates the availability of a range of housing choices for residents. This report also analyzes the conditions in the private market and public sector that may limit the range of housing choices or impede a person’s access to housing. As the name of the report suggests the document reviews “impediments” to fair housing. While this report also assesses the nature and extent of housing discrimination, the focus is on identifying impediments that may prevent equal housing access and developing solutions to mitigate or remove such impediments.