SR 06:116 - Laserfiche WebLink

Ms. Cullen noted that ECHO is always in favor of retesting properties and there is an ongoing need for testers. She stated that tester training will be held in Livermore on March 29,2006, and asked the Commission to spread the word. She also stated that ECHO is holding a poster and essay contest for kids expressing their feelings about fair housing as a related event. The deadline for that contest is April 7, 2006. B. Update on the Status of the Housing Element and Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) Target Numbers Scott Erickson stated that the Commission requested some updated information on the Housing Element and also on the RHNA affordable housing target numbers. Mr. Erickson spoke with Janice Stem in the City's Planning Department who provided both a verbal report and also a copy of a recent letter from HCD discussing the modified schedule for the ABAG housing targets. Those materials are attached to the staff report. Chairperson Harris asked if Planning had heard back from HCD. Mr. Erickson replied that they have not yet had a response. Ms. Stem indicated that she has had conversations with the analyst who has been assigned to Pleasanton, and she expects a letter from HCD within the next few months. Vice Chairperson Hodgett shared that HCD is never speedy on these things and has been plagued by major staff turnovers and losses. Commissioner Whisnand asked if the extension of the time affects all cities. Mr. Erickson replied that it affects all jurisdictions in the nine-county ABAG area. Vice Chairperson Hodgett commented that the effect of the delay is that it keeps existing Housing Elements in place and basically extends them for two more years for every jurisdiction in the ABAG region. Commissioner Stark asked how long has the City been out of compliance with its Housing Element. Steven Bocian replied that it has been less than a year. Commissioner Jones commented about the City's plans to gain recertification of its Housing Element, particularly as it relates to the requirement to rezone land for affordable housing. He asked if the City Council has an interest in rezoning the parcels in the Housing Element in order to regain certification. Scott Erickson replied that the communication that has been going on between the City and HCD has revolved primarily around the schedule for the current General Plan Update. Steven Bocian stated that the City is looking at land use issues as part of the General Plan Update process. The City has informed HCD of the recent developments in this area which have included affordable units, such as the Gardens ofIronwood, the Bernal property, and assisted living project that is currently under construction. Page - 4 -