Santa Barbara officials critique Sacramento's SB 677 for undermining local housing efforts

The recent Legislative Committee Meeting held on April 15, 2025, in Santa Barbara highlighted critical discussions surrounding housing legislation and its implications for local communities. As the city grapples with increasing housing demands, committee members expressed concerns about state bills that could undermine local efforts to ensure affordable housing.

A significant focus of the meeting was on Senate Bill 677, introduced by Senator Wiener. This bill seeks to amend existing laws related to housing approvals, specifically SB 9 and SB 35, which could potentially strip local governments of their ability to negotiate affordability requirements with developers. Committee members voiced apprehension that such measures would detract from Santa Barbara's ability to enforce local affordability standards, particularly in high-demand areas like the Riviera and Montecito. The sentiment was clear: local control is essential for addressing the unique housing challenges faced by the community.

Rob Fredericks from the Housing Authority of Santa Barbara emphasized the importance of supporting legislation that bolsters local housing trust funds. He highlighted several bills that could positively impact low-income residents, including Assembly Bill 282, which aims to prevent discrimination based on income sources, and Assembly Bill 4840, which proposes enhancements to low-income housing tax credits. These initiatives are seen as vital steps toward improving housing access for vulnerable populations.

Additionally, the committee discussed the need for a reevaluation of the "five meeting rule" under the builder's remedy law, which some members believe limits public input on housing projects. This rule has raised concerns about transparency and community involvement in the decision-making process.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Legislative Committee Meeting underscored the ongoing tension between state-level housing policies and local governance. As Santa Barbara navigates these challenges, the committee's commitment to advocating for local control and affordable housing solutions remains paramount. The next steps will involve continued monitoring of proposed legislation and active engagement with state lawmakers to ensure that local needs are prioritized in housing policy decisions.