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BACKGROUND HCD has released a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for approximately $119 million in grant funding available to all local governments in California under the 2019- 20 Budget Act and LEAP. The LEAP program is intended to help local jurisdictions prepare, adopt, and implement plans and process improvements that can streamline housing approvals and accelerate housing production. The LEAP guidelines indicate a large list of eligible activities inclusive of the preparation and adoption of the upcoming Housing Element. LEAP applications are due to HCD by July 1, 2020. Applications must include an executed Resolution (included as Attachment 1) from the City Council authorizing the application for, and receipt of, LEAP funds. Localities such as Pleasanton, defined as those with a population of 60,000 to 99,999 people, are eligible for up to $300,000 in grant funds. As part of the application submittal, each City must propose and document plans or processes that accelerate housing production, consistent with the established LEAP guidelines and list of eligible activities. Grants are "over-the-counter" and non-competitive, meaning that the City can expect to receive the requested funding, provided that the application meets all of the grant requirements. DISCUSSION Staff recommends applying for the maximum $300,000 in LEAP funds that the City is eligible for, and proposes these funds be expended to fund preparation of the upcoming Housing Element and its associated Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The purpose of the Housing Element is to demonstrate the City meets its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), including identification of sites that can accommodate that need, and strategies to reduce barriers to the production of housing for all segments of the population. An EIR will be required in conjunction with the Housing Element Update, to comprehensively analyze potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures, and alternatives to anticipated land use and zoning changes. As noted, the grant applications are due to HCD by July 1, 2020. Staff will be working to refine the scope of work prior to submittal of the application. Conceptually, however, key tasks involved in the Housing Element and EIR process include: • Analysis and selection of suitable sites to accommodate the new RHNA allocation. • Preparation and circulation of the updated Housing Element, including update of needs assessment, goals, policies and action programs to meet statutory requirements. • Preparation and circulation of the Draft EIR. • Review and adoption the final Housing Element and EIR. All steps of the update process will include significant public outreach and opportunities for City Council and public review and comment. Page 2 of 3