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The City of Inglewood and the Inglewood Housing Authority are set to vote on an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA) with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles to develop 18 affordable homes across three city-owned properties. If approved, this agreement would lay the groundwork for a Disposition Development Agreement (DDA), setting the terms for constructing much-needed affordable housing in Inglewood.
Key Details of the Agreement
The ENA outlines the negotiation process for developing low-income housing on the following city-owned sites:
- 8244 Crenshaw Drive & 8205 Crenshaw Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90305
- 958 Orchard Drive, Inglewood, CA 90301
- 708 W Beach Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90302
Under the proposal, Habitat for Humanity would construct 18 new homes, which will be offered to low-income households earning no more than 80% of the area median income (AMI). This is a critical component of the arrangement considering that according to the most recent Housing Element, over 60% of Inglewood households are renters, with more than 50% of residents spend over 30% of their income on housing, indicating a high cost burden.
Background & Selection Process
The Inglewood Housing Authority launched a request for proposals in November 2023, seeking developers interested in bringing affordable housing projects to the city. After reviewing applicants, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles was selected in April 2024 as the preferred developer to negotiate the final agreement.
Financial Considerations
The City and Housing Authority plan to leverage HUD HOME Program funds to finance the project, with estimated allocations of:
- $555,000 for the Crenshaw properties
- $470,000 for Orchard Drive
- $117,000 for Beach Avenue
Additionally, Habitat for Humanity must provide a $45,000 deposit upon signing the agreement, of which $15,000 is non-refundable, and $30,000 refundable if negotiations fall through.
Next Steps in the Process
If approved, Habitat for Humanity will be required to submit key planning documents within 90 days, including:
- Environmental impact assessments
- Financial feasibility studies
- Detailed site plans
The City and Housing Authority will then review these materials and negotiate in good faith toward a final development agreement.
The exclusive negotiation period is set for 120 days, with an option for two 60-day extensions if both parties agree.
Potential Roadblocks
While the ENA marks a major step toward expanding Inglewood’s affordable housing inventory, it is not a final agreement. The project could face delays or termination if:
- Either party fails to comply with the agreement’s terms
- Negotiations stall without significant progress
If negotiations succeed, the project will move into final approval and implementation, bringing new housing opportunities to low-income families in Inglewood.
What’s Next?
The City Council is expected to vote on the Exclusive Negotiation Agreement at its upcoming meeting. Stay tuned for updates on the decision and next steps in the development process.
