Sacramento approves dual affordable housing strategies for Stonebridge and Granite developments

Sacramento County is set to advance its affordable housing initiatives following the Board of Supervisors' recent meeting, where two key strategies for affordable housing in the Stonebridge and Granite areas were approved. The Granite strategy will rely solely on payment of affordability fees for compliance, while the Stonebridge strategy proposes to meet up to 50% of its obligations through these fees, with the remainder fulfilled via land dedication or construction of affordable units.

The Stonebridge plan is designed to align with other master plans in the Jackson Corridor by averaging dedication ratios, ultimately establishing a compliance ratio of 7.5%. This approach is seen as a progressive step in addressing the county's housing needs, as it allows for flexibility in how developers can meet their obligations.

During the meeting, the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (SHRA) suggested an alternative strategy based on a previous fee calculation from 2017, which would have resulted in the construction of approximately 61 additional affordable units. However, county planning staff recommended the current fee structure, which adjusts annually, as a more suitable method for compliance. This recommendation was supported by the board, emphasizing the importance of using updated financial metrics to reflect current market conditions.

The discussions highlighted the board's ongoing commitment to providing developers with a range of options to meet affordable housing goals, a policy shift that has been in place since a comprehensive review in 2014. This flexibility is intended to encourage development while ensuring that the community's housing needs are met effectively.

As Sacramento County moves forward with these strategies, the implications for affordable housing availability in the region are significant, promising to enhance access for residents in need. The board's decisions reflect a proactive approach to tackling housing challenges, setting a precedent for future developments in the area.