Alameda County adopts 6th‑cycle housing element zoning changes after residents urge delay

Alameda County supervisors voted Dec. 17 to adopt zoning changes implementing the county’s sixth‑cycle housing element, overruling calls from multiple unincorporated‑area residents and municipal advisory council representatives that asked for a 45‑day referral to revisit site selection.

Residents from Fairview, Castro Valley and other unincorporated communities told the board the draft element improperly selected sites and drastically increased unit allotments in certain neighborhoods. Diane Widler, chair of the Eden Area Municipal Advisory Council, told supervisors that approving the draft “is effectively tearing up the San Lorenzo Village specific plan” and urged a 45‑day delay to revise site choices. Several speakers raised concerns about infrastructure—sewer access, traffic and services—and the effect of upzoning on local commercial corridors.

County staff and the Community Development Agency had previously taken the housing element through the ad hoc committee and a first reading. Supervisor Carson moved adoption and Supervisor Marquez seconded. On roll call (Supervisor Halbert excused), Supervisor Marquez voted Aye, Supervisor Tam Aye, Supervisor Carson Yes and President Miley No; the ordinance was adopted.

Supporters in the room argued the element is necessary to meet state deadlines and avoid possible sanctions or loss of funding. Opponents said the county should prioritize local review of site inventories and ensure changes reflect community input. After the vote, supervisors discussed paths to return with amendments and additional materials in January, including redline versions to make changes visible to the public.

The board’s action modifies Title 17 of the county’s General Ordinance Code to implement the housing element and rezoning needed to meet the 2023–2031 cycle.