Daly City officials are taking significant steps to modernize development fees, a move that could reshape the city's growth landscape. During the City Council meeting on November 25, 2024, council members discussed the urgent need to update impact fees for new developments, which have remained unchanged since 2002.

Council members expressed a strong consensus that the current fee structure is outdated and does not reflect the rising costs associated with infrastructure and community services. Mayor and council members highlighted the importance of ensuring that Daly City remains competitive and attractive for new housing and commercial projects. "We are long overdue," stated one council member, emphasizing the necessity of adjusting fees to align with current economic realities.

A key point of discussion was the proposal to grandfather in any development projects that have already submitted building permit applications, allowing them to continue under the existing fee structure. This decision aims to protect ongoing projects from being adversely affected by the new fee increases, ensuring that developers who have already committed resources can proceed without additional financial burdens.

The council also acknowledged the broader implications of these changes, noting that updated fees are essential for maintaining city services, including police, fire, and wastewater management. "It's about fairness and ensuring that we are not holding back development," remarked another council member, reinforcing the idea that the city must balance growth with the need for adequate infrastructure.

In addition to the fee adjustments, the council is also preparing to address new regulations regarding backflow devices for water supply, which will require further municipal code changes. This regulation could impose additional costs on residents, particularly seniors, prompting discussions about the financial implications for the community.

As Daly City moves forward with these changes, the council is committed to fostering an environment that supports development while ensuring that the city's infrastructure can adequately support new growth. The anticipated updates to the fee structure are seen as a crucial step in revitalizing the city's development landscape and addressing the needs of its growing population.