pages: CityCouncil/2021-02-02.pdf, 14
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CityCouncil | 2021-02-02 | 14 | the idea of converting the site should be reviewed. Mr. McDougall stated the site can be classified as adaptive reuse and will count toward RHNA. Councilmember Daysog outlined the Housing Element being previously out of compliance for many years; inquired whether key triggers encouraged HCD to accept Alameda's Housing Element in 2012. Mr. McDougall responded the progression started with Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) laws, State law, and density bonus law; Measure A conflicts with the ability to accommodate RHNA and provide multi-family zoning. Councilmember Daysog inquired whether HCD has used the State fair housing law against any city thus far. Mr. McDougall responded the use is peripheral; stated HCD has not directly utilized the State fair housing law much; however, there is potential for use; there have been changes to law and the Government Code for all public agencies, which may cause issues with Measure A. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested clarification about the affirmative fair housing laws, the role of equity in reaching RHNA numbers and the factors HCD reviews. Mr. McDougall stated HCD's duty to affirmatively further fair housing goes back to the Fair Housing Act of 1968; the program has been around for over 50 years and it is fair to say a great job has not been done; the Obama administration took a refresh and a stronger approach to implementing the long standing obligation; with the change in administration, the measures went away quickly; California's Governor and legislature took the obligation and put it into State law; outlined Government Code Section 8899.50; stated the obligation falls on all public agencies to affirmatively further fair housing in all programs and activities related to housing and community development; the matter is not just about discrimination, it is about proactively promoting more inclusive communities; there is analysis related to displacement; site evaluations must be done in a way which promotes fair housing; HCD examines local information, such as patterns, trends, policies, practices and demographics, and compares neighborhood to neighborhood; HCD compares Alameda to its surroundings to determine whether the City reflects a composition of the broader region; HCD examines specific actions being taken to overcome patterns of non-compliance; meaningful actions must be shown by the City; HCD focuses on zoning and practices which limit housing choices. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired how many problems are present with Article 26 that are detrimental to the City. Mr. McDougall responded there are requirements around a variety of housing types; stated HCD will not find Alameda in compliance if it does not have zooming for a variety Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 9 February 2, 2021 | CityCouncil/2021-02-02.pdf |