City Council moves forward with 90-unit affordable housing project under AUD program

In the heart of Santa Barbara, city officials gathered to discuss a pivotal housing project that promises to reshape the community's landscape. The Architectural Board of Review meeting on April 14, 2025, highlighted a proposed development that is not just about bricks and mortar, but about addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in the area.

The project, which consists of 90 units, is designed with a focus on affordability, featuring 18% of its units designated as affordable housing. This includes nine very low-income units, six moderate-income units, and an additional workforce unit aimed at supporting essential community members such as teachers, nurses, and first responders. The developers emphasized that the average unit size is approximately 630 square feet, adhering to the city’s Average Unit-Size Density (AUD) program, which has been a cornerstone of Santa Barbara's housing strategy.

During the meeting, it was made clear that the project's size and scale are in compliance with the existing AUD guidelines. "If you don't like the size, bulk, and scale, frankly, you need to amend the AUD ordinance, because this project complies," a representative stated, underscoring the importance of the current regulations in shaping the development.

The discussion also touched on the protections afforded by the Housing Accountability Act, which limits the city's ability to impose subjective design standards on the project. This means that the development can proceed even if it does not align perfectly with existing zoning laws or the general plan, a point that was met with both support and concern from board members.

As the meeting progressed, the board members weighed the implications of this project not only for housing availability but also for the broader community. The developers expressed their commitment to creating a diverse living environment that caters to a wide range of residents, reinforcing the idea that housing is a fundamental part of community well-being.

With the city grappling with housing shortages, this project represents a significant step forward. As discussions continue, the outcome of this meeting could set a precedent for future developments in Santa Barbara, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing growth with community needs. The board's decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining how the city navigates its housing crisis while fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.