Marin Town approves new inclusionary housing policy for rental units

The San Anselmo Planning Commission convened on January 6, 2025, to discuss key housing policies and developments within the town. The meeting primarily focused on the inclusionary housing policy and its implications for a new rental project.

The discussion began with inquiries about the nature of the housing units being proposed. It was confirmed that the units would be rentals and would adhere to the town's housing affordability standards. Specifically, one of the four units will be deed-restricted to serve very low or low-income residents, in compliance with the town's inclusionary housing policy. This policy mandates that a certain percentage of new housing developments be affordable to lower-income households.

The commission explored the option for the developers to pay an in-lieu fee instead of providing a deed-restricted unit. However, the developers indicated their preference to comply with the inclusionary housing requirement by designating one unit for affordable housing rather than opting for the fee.

Further clarification was provided regarding the definitions of "very low" and "low" income, which are based on the area median income (AMI) for Marin County. For context, the AMI for a family of four was noted to be approximately $184,000 in 2024. The thresholds for very low and low-income categories were discussed, with very low income set at 35% of the AMI and low income at 60%. This means that for a one-bedroom unit, a very low-income household would have an annual income of around $68,550, with rent ideally not exceeding 30% of that income.

The meeting concluded with a review of the Marin Housing Authority's resources, which provide detailed information on income levels and housing affordability. The commission emphasized the importance of these policies in addressing the town's housing needs and ensuring that new developments contribute to the community's diversity and accessibility.

Overall, the meeting underscored the town's commitment to affordable housing and the ongoing efforts to implement policies that support low and very low-income residents in San Anselmo.