Agoura Hills officials discuss affordable housing and former Regency Theater redevelopment

In a recent webinar held in Agoura Hills, city officials gathered to address pressing questions about housing development and affordability in the community. The meeting, led by Assistant City Manager Ramiro Adeba, featured key members from the Community Development and Public Works departments, including Community Development Director Denise Thomas and Principal Planner Robbie Mesovic.

The session began with an overview of California's housing landscape, emphasizing the state's ongoing housing crisis. Thomas explained that recent legislation aims to increase housing production by limiting local government control over development. This shift is intended to facilitate the construction of affordable housing, particularly in areas deemed at risk for wildfires.

One of the primary topics discussed was the density bonus law, which allows developers to build additional units beyond local zoning limits if they include affordable housing. This law provides incentives such as reduced parking requirements and increased building height, enabling developers to meet state-mandated housing quotas. Thomas clarified that local regulations must be adjusted if they hinder the financial feasibility of projects aimed at meeting these quotas.

The city is required to provide a total of 318 housing units, including 199 designated for low-income residents. The webinar highlighted the importance of the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA), which allocates housing targets to jurisdictions across California. Agoura Hills has identified 20 sites capable of accommodating these units, with state guidelines dictating the density of development.

Participants also inquired about the potential for converting existing unoccupied structures into housing. Thomas confirmed that state laws support the redevelopment of underutilized properties, including theaters, provided they meet zoning requirements.

Mesovic took the stage to clarify what constitutes "affordable housing." He explained that eligibility is based on household income relative to size, with specific income limits set by the state. For instance, a single-person household can qualify for low-income housing if they earn less than $77,700 annually. The discussion underscored the stark contrast between current market rents, which can exceed $2,600 for a one-bedroom apartment, and the significantly lower rents for affordable units.

As the meeting progressed, the focus shifted to the construction at the former Regency Theater site, addressing community concerns about traffic, emergency evacuation, and unit availability. The officials reassured attendees that these issues are being carefully considered as development plans move forward.

The webinar concluded with a commitment to transparency and ongoing communication with the community as Agoura Hills navigates its housing challenges. The discussions highlighted the city's proactive approach to addressing the housing crisis while balancing the needs of its residents.