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DRAFT 3 | City of Pleasanton 2023-2031 Housing Element Section 1 Introduction 1.A Community Context Pleasanton is a suburban community of approximately 80,000 residents located in Alameda County, in the eastern portion of the San Francisco Bay Area. Two Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) stations link the community to the region, along with Altamont Corridor Express (ACE) commuter train and regional bus service provided by Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority (LAVTA). During the past two decades, Pleasanton has experienced a diverse pattern of growth including substantial new residential, commercial, office, and industrial development. Residential growth consisting of infill or development of vacant or redevelopment of underutilized properties within the existing City limits has increased over time, as the community has become more built-out. Pleasanton has developed a reputation as a desirable place in which to live and work, with an excellent school system, fine parks and recreational facilities, a traditional downtown area, and a low crime rate. 1.B Housing Element Purpose The State of California has stated that the availability of decent and suitable housing for every California family is “a priority of the highest order” (California Government Code §54220). This objective has become increasingly urgent in recent years as communities across the State, including Pleasanton, struggle to meet the housing needs of all their residents. State Housing Element Law, established in 1969, recognizes the vital role local governments play in the supply and affordability of housing and requires all cities and counties in California establish a long-range plan to meet their fair share of regional housing needs. Cities are charged with planning for the welfare of their citizens, including ensuring that the existing and projected demands for housing are adequately met. High housing costs — and related housing instability issues — increase health care costs (for individuals and the State), decrease educational outcomes (affecting individuals, as well as the State’s productivity), and make it difficult for California businesses to attract and retain employees. – State of California 2025 Statewide Housing Assessment The Housing Element is the primary tool used by the State to ensure local governments are appropriately planning for and accommodating enough housing across all income levels. This Housing Element covers the planning period 2023-2031. The Housing Element is a mandatory part of a jurisdiction’s General Plan, but it differs from other General Plan elements in two key