In a recent government meeting, officials outlined the progress and next steps for the Affordable Housing Plan, which aims to create a more equitable housing ecosystem over the next decade. The plan, initiated in September 2023, is nearing completion and includes specific strategies for the first three years, focusing on tools such as land use incentive grants, a housing trust fund, and city-owned land.

By October, the implementation of year one strategies is set to begin, with staff from the Housing and Community Development (HCD) and the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) collaborating to develop detailed work plans. The upcoming July meeting will further discuss the fiscal year 2025 work plan, which will build on the strategies presented.

Key discussions also revolved around regulatory changes, including proposed amendments to zoning codes that could affect multifamily housing developments. Staff indicated that a bundle of amendments, including changes to parking requirements and the addition of duplexes, will be presented in August and September.

Concerns were raised about the timing of these amendments in relation to the ongoing discussions about a potential overlay for legacy neighborhoods. Officials emphasized the importance of community input, with plans for meetings to gather feedback from legacy neighborhood representatives.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing regulatory hurdles that impact affordable housing delivery, with a focus on ensuring that new policies do not conflict with existing goals or contribute to displacement. The dialogue will continue as staff prepares to present a comprehensive schedule of proposals and their interrelations in the coming months.