Surplus property: sale procedures.
The new provisions would change the landscape for local agencies by streamlining the process of disposing of surplus property, increasing the potential for development of affordable housing. This legislative change is especially relevant in regions like Pasadena and South Pasadena, where housing affordability has become a pressing issue. By allowing expedited negotiations, the bill aims to expedite the development process and respond to the urgent need for housing amid California's housing crisis. Additionally, it establishes specific requirements for housing-related entities involved in the transactions to ensure long-term affordability and compliance.
Senate Bill 9, introduced by Senator Durazo, aims to amend existing regulations regarding the sale procedures of surplus property by local agencies. The bill seeks to expand the definition of exempt surplus land, thus allowing more flexibility in how surplus properties are disposed of. Specifically, it allows for the disposal of surplus land through exclusive negotiation agreements for housing developments meeting specified affordability standards, thereby facilitating more affordable housing options in areas facing a housing crisis. The bill reinforces the requirement for properties sold under these provisions to be used for affordable housing or mixed-use developments that meet defined criteria.
The sentiment around SB 9 appears largely positive among those advocating for affordable housing solutions. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step forward in combatting California's homelessness crisis and housing shortages. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential implications for local control and whether the expedited processes might overlook community needs and input. Opposition may come from groups fearing the loss of local governance power, echoing a common theme in housing legislation debates.
Notable points of contention include the potential for the bill to override local agency discretion in property disposition, raising concerns about community oversight in development decisions. Some critics are worried that the focus on expediting property sales could lead to inadequate attention to the specific needs of neighborhoods during the development processes. Furthermore, the bill's provisions do not apply to properties already in escrow as of December 31, 2020, which could complicate transitions for certain properties, limiting the scope of its impact even as it introduces significant changes authorizing the Department of Transportation to implement emergency regulations to facilitate compliance with the new sale procedures.