Monrovia City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing affordable housing in the community by introducing a new ordinance aimed at updating the city's density bonus regulations. During the regular meeting on September 16, 2025, the council reviewed draft ordinance number 2025-O9, which aligns local zoning codes with state law to promote the development of affordable housing.

Senior Planner Jennifer Driver presented the ordinance, highlighting its importance in fulfilling the city's housing element goals for the 2021-2029 cycle. The update is part of a broader initiative to address the housing needs of all segments of Monrovia's population, as outlined in the city's six-cycle housing element. This ordinance is one of the final action items needed to ensure compliance with state requirements.

The proposed changes will consolidate all density bonus regulations into a single chapter of the municipal code, making it easier for developers to understand and apply for density bonuses. The ordinance outlines eligibility thresholds, procedures, and timelines that mirror state law, ensuring that Monrovia remains compliant while incentivizing the construction of affordable housing units.

Key features of the ordinance include the establishment of minimum and maximum density bonuses based on the percentage of affordable units provided. For example, developers can receive a 50% density bonus if they set aside 15% of their units for very low-income households. The ordinance also introduces additional opportunities for density bonuses for special needs housing, such as for transitional foster youth and disabled veterans.

In addition to the density bonus provisions, the ordinance streamlines the application process by allowing developers to consolidate affordable housing agreements required for both density bonus and inclusionary housing projects. This aims to reduce redundancies and simplify the approval process for new housing developments.

The council's approval of this ordinance marks a crucial advancement in Monrovia's efforts to meet its housing goals and address the pressing need for affordable housing in the community. As the city moves forward with these changes, residents can expect to see increased opportunities for affordable housing options in the near future.