The Salinas Planning Commission meeting on September 17, 2025, focused on critical housing issues and community engagement in urban planning. Key discussions highlighted the need for diverse housing options and the importance of community involvement in planning processes.

One speaker raised concerns about the city's housing strategy, questioning the emphasis on single-family homes in light of the pressing need for affordable multi-family dwellings. The speaker emphasized that building high-cost homes would not address the housing needs of many residents. They also pointed out the potential for utilizing vacant lots in the city for new housing developments, suggesting that the Planning Commission should actively encourage infill opportunities.

Peter Castavan, president of the Salinas Planning and Research Corporation (SPARC), discussed the successful community engagement process that led to the creation of the Economic Development Element (EDE) of the city's general plan. He noted that this initiative was well-received by the community, resulting in significant participation and support. Castavan urged the commission to maintain the integrity of the EDE and to involve the community in future updates to the zoning code, emphasizing that such engagement is essential for reflecting the community's values and vision.

The meeting concluded without further public comments, but the discussions underscored the ongoing challenges in addressing housing needs and the importance of community input in shaping urban development strategies. The commission's next steps will likely involve considering these community perspectives as they move forward with planning initiatives.