Governor Newsom Appoints Vishesh Anand, Dhakshike Wickrema to California Housing Agency

Anand, who previously served as a policy advisor in the Governor's Office of Planning and Research, will now advise on housing policy and strategy. Wickrema, a former deputy director at the California Department of Housing and Community Development, will oversee homelessness programs and coordinate with local governments.

The appointments come as the CHHA begins operations, consolidating housing and homelessness functions from several state departments. The agency was established by executive order in January to streamline efforts and address California's housing crisis.

Anand holds a master's degree in public policy from Harvard University and has worked on affordable housing initiatives in the Bay Area. Wickrema, a Sri Lankan American, brings over a decade of experience in public service, including roles in the Los Angeles County Homeless Initiative.

Both will report to CHHA Secretary Tomiquia Moss, who praised their expertise in a statement. The agency is tasked with implementing the governor's $20 billion housing and homelessness package approved by voters in 2024.