pages: CityCouncil/2021-02-02.pdf, 16
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CityCouncil | 2021-02-02 | 16 | outlined the campaign confusion around Measure Z. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she maintains voters had an unclear understanding about repealing Article 26; noted there was not as much time to provide public education; stated the process is an opportunity to help bring the public along and deepen understanding; outlined implementation of Alameda's Housing Element. Councilmember Daysog stated that he favors growth control; Alameda is an Island with limited ingress and egress; the lack of infrastructure requires him to be mindful of limitations; he was the campaign chair of the "No on Z" measure; in recent history Alameda has been able to meet Housing Element obligations, while also maintaining Measure A through the density bonus and housing overlay; the housing overlay is key in allowing the City to build at a density required by HCD; the challenge for Alameda is to demonstrate to HCD that it can fulfil the RHNA obligation numbers within the context of Measure A using the density bonus and housing overlay; the residents who voted no on Measure Z understood that the City has workarounds to Measure A; it will be very difficult for the City to handle the 5,300 RHNA units; State and local leaders will need to find the right number; expressed support for the challenge of meeting obligations; stated the housing overlay should not be placed in certain areas; the residents overwhelmingly confirmed Measure A in voting down Measure Z; outlined Measure A; stated the challenge for Council is to work within Measure A, the density bonus and the State housing overlay; additional challenges have now been posed in the affirmative fair housing; different approaches allowed Council to get the Housing Element adopted in 2013; Council is extending a lot of the policies and changes adopted in the 2012 Housing Element; the City has demonstrated its ability to meet the RHNA obligations within the context of local zoning; the ultimate goal is to meet the obligations; the obligation number is a separate issue; he does not see Council not wanting to support lower income housing; noted the City has a 25% inclusionary policy at Alameda Point and the City meets the 15% inclusionary policy elsewhere. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether HCD hears from other communities that the RHNA allocation cannot be met due to unique constraints. Mr. McDougall responded that he appreciates the acknowledgement of challenges as a starting point. Vice Mayor Vella stated that she shares concerns about timing, the Charter language and potential ethical issues created for the Planning Board and Council; that she has heard from people that voted no [on measure Z] because they do not believe multi- family should be allowed; she believes more clarity is needed for the Council and Planning Board; expressed concern about Boards and Commissions being put in the place of having to make decisions on the fly; stated more guidance is needed; expressed concern about local review boards relative to Charter violations; stated that she hopes Council can make use of the different buckets and avoid having to rely on grey area discussions; Council needs to know the options and roadmap. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 11 February 2, 2021 | CityCouncil/2021-02-02.pdf |