Mia Kang advocates AB 6 to streamline California's middle housing construction

In a pivotal meeting of the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee, advocates for affordable housing gathered to discuss Assembly Bill 6 (AB 6), a proposed legislation aimed at transforming California's housing landscape. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as Mia Kang, a seasoned affordable housing developer, and Jonathan Pacheco Bell, vice president of policy and programs for the Casita Coalition, presented their case for the bill, which seeks to address the state's ongoing housing crisis.

Kang, representing the Council of Infill Builders, emphasized the need for a data-driven approach to unlock California's potential for building "missing middle" housing—units that are crucial for affordability and equity. She pointed out that despite efforts to rezone land for higher density housing, many sites remain underutilized, often developed into large single-family homes that do not meet community needs. "It is today easier to build and get permits for a massive luxury home than it is to build a modest fourplex," she stated, highlighting the challenges faced by small-scale builders.

AB 6 aims to level the playing field by directing the Department of Housing and Community Development to form a working group of building officials and experts. This group will evaluate whether small-scale multifamily housing, ranging from three to ten units, can be constructed under the California residential building code, which is more suited to these types of developments than the current, more expensive California building code. The bill also proposes a review of building standards that contribute to rising construction costs, making it increasingly difficult for builders and future residents to find affordable housing options.

Pacheco Bell echoed these sentiments, sharing his experiences with local planning and code enforcement. He noted that many small-scale builders face significant barriers in the permit process, limiting their ability to contribute to the housing market. "AB 6 will assess streamlining to enable construction of housing developments with 3 to 10 units," he explained, drawing comparisons to cities like Portland and Seattle, which have successfully utilized similar codes to promote middle housing.

The meeting saw a wave of support from various organizations, including the California Apartment Association and Habitat for Humanity, all voicing their endorsement for AB 6. Notably, there was no opposition presented during the session, indicating a growing consensus on the need for reform in California's housing policies.

As the committee deliberated, the implications of AB 6 became clear: it represents a crucial step towards making housing more accessible and affordable for Californians. By reevaluating building codes and fostering the development of smaller, community-oriented homes, the bill aims to reshape the state's housing narrative, ensuring that it aligns more closely with the needs of its residents. The outcome of this legislation could very well determine the future of housing in California, making it a topic to watch closely in the coming months.