Last week, Senate Bill 50, by Senator Scott Wiener, was amended to provide cities with more local control. This bill was originally introduced in 2019 and later held in the Senate Appropriations Committee, stalling any action. The Committee will hear the bill in its new version this month, and if approved it will move forward in the legislative process.
SB 50 seeks to increase housing production by streamlining eligible projects. Developments that are built with affordable housing, near transit, and in job rich communities will be provided concessions such as: higher density opportunities, reduced parking requirements and ministerial approval. Local jurisdictions will have a two-year time period to adopt their own plans as long as they meet the goals outlined in the bill. If within the allotted timeframe a city chooses not to adopt their own strategy for housing growth, the plan outlined in the legislation will take effect. For more information, please click on the links below.
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