Glendale officials lobby for accurate housing numbers and funding from state legislators

During a recent Special City Council meeting in Glendale, officials addressed the pressing issue of housing needs in the community, particularly the daunting requirement to provide 13,000 new housing units. Council members expressed concerns about the lack of funding and resources necessary to meet this target, emphasizing the need for a strategic lobbying effort to secure state support.

Council discussions highlighted the importance of generating appropriate zoning to accommodate the proposed housing units. However, members noted that without adequate financial backing, achieving even a fraction of this goal would be challenging. The council agreed that advocating for increased resources should be a priority on their agenda, particularly as they prepare for future lobbying efforts in Sacramento.

Mayor and council members acknowledged ongoing discussions with state officials, including Senator Perez's office, to address the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) numbers. They are seeking to make these figures more realistic and reflective of Glendale's actual capacity. The council underscored the necessity of persistent advocacy, suggesting that multiple outreach efforts would be required to gain traction on this issue.

In addition to housing, the council discussed the importance of collaboration with neighboring cities and regional organizations to strengthen their lobbying efforts. By uniting with other municipalities, Glendale aims to present a unified front to state lawmakers, increasing the likelihood of securing the necessary support and funding.

As Glendale continues to grapple with its housing challenges, the city council remains committed to pursuing solutions that will benefit residents and ensure sustainable growth in the community. The next steps involve ongoing dialogue with state representatives and a concerted push for resources to help meet the city's housing needs.