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Planning director to attend more often; commission asks staff to study post‑entitlement build rates and RHNA counting
Summary
Planning Director William Gilchrist told the commission he plans to attend meetings monthly to provide context on regional agencies and state law changes. Commissioners requested staff report back on the feasibility of counting non–deed‑restricted units toward RHNA and on post‑entitlement build rates for approved projects.
Planning Director William Gilchrist told the Oakland Planning Commission on July 16 that he intends to attend commission meetings more regularly and provide periodic reports that contextualize city and regional work affecting planning decisions. "I plan on attending this meeting monthly," Gilchrist said, adding staff will bring context on the general plan update and state law changes that affect discretion versus ministerial review.
Commissioners used the opportunity to request two follow‑up staff reports: (1) an investigation into whether non–deed‑restricted units (for example certain ADUs or other market units) can be counted toward RHNA totals, drawing on methodologies used in Berkeley, Antioch, Brentwood and Oakley; and (2) a report on the outcomes after entitlement — the rate at which entitled projects proceed to construction and factors that delay building. The secretary and staff confirmed these requests will be forwarded to the director and returned as informational items for future director’s reports.
Deputy City Attorney Michael Branson reminded commissioners that the city attorney's office is available as a resource for questions about SB 35, SB 423/SMAP and other state legislation affecting land use.
