Ventura County is gearing up for a significant shift in housing options, with plans to expand allowed housing types, including innovative tiny homes on wheels. This initiative, highlighted during the Board of Supervisors meeting on March 18, 2025, aims to address the county's ongoing housing challenges and is part of a broader strategy to enhance economic growth and community resilience.

Supervisor Long emphasized the importance of diversifying housing options, noting that the program aligns with the county's housing element and general plan. The initiative will kick off later this fall, with a focus on accommodating various housing types, including co-housing and tiny homes. These homes, designed to be mobile and without the need for a full foundation, could provide a cost-effective solution to housing shortages.

The board's visit to a tiny home manufacturer in Moore Park showcased the potential of these homes, which are built on wheels and can bypass some traditional construction requirements. This innovative approach not only aims to meet housing needs but also supports local businesses, fostering job creation and economic development.

In addition to housing discussions, the meeting highlighted the planning division's robust engagement with the community, reporting over 10,000 public service interactions in 2024. The division is also focused on improving permitting processes, with new staffing resources aimed at enhancing efficiency and responsiveness to residents' needs.

As Ventura County moves forward with these initiatives, the board is committed to exploring innovative solutions to housing and community development, ensuring that the needs of residents are met while fostering a thriving local economy. The anticipated outcomes of these efforts could reshape the housing landscape in the county, providing much-needed relief to those affected by housing shortages.