The Westminster City Council meeting on March 27, 2024, focused on the implications of California's density bonus law and its impact on local housing development. The discussion highlighted various housing regulations, including the Housing Accountability Act and recent state bills aimed at addressing the housing crisis.

The density bonus law allows developers to build more units than typically permitted if they include a certain percentage of affordable housing in their projects. Key categories for affordable housing include very low, low, and moderate income levels. For instance, a project that includes 10% low-income units can qualify for a density increase of up to 20%. If a project is 100% affordable, developers may receive an 80% density bonus, with potential for even higher bonuses if located near major transit stops.

Council members expressed concerns about the challenges posed by these regulations, particularly regarding community opposition to increased density. The law mandates that cities cannot deny density bonuses if developers meet the specified requirements, which can lead to tensions between local residents and new housing projects.

Additionally, the council discussed the need for an inclusionary zoning ordinance, which would allow the city to set specific requirements for the percentage of affordable units in new developments. Currently, Westminster does not have such an ordinance, which some council members believe is necessary to ensure a balanced approach to housing development.

The meeting underscored the ongoing struggle to address housing shortages in Westminster while navigating state laws that limit local control over development decisions. The council plans to further explore the potential for an inclusionary zoning policy to better manage the types of affordable housing being developed in the city.