Exempt surplus land: regional housing need.
With the passage of AB 1748, jurisdictions that meet certain criteria will have increased flexibility in how they manage surplus properties, effectively expediting the process involved in repurposing these lands for residential uses. The amendment aims to boost the supply of affordable housing by making it easier for local agencies to develop previously ignored surplus lands, enabling them to respond more effectively to housing demands, particularly in dense urban areas. This aligns with the state’s ongoing efforts to address housing shortages and affordability issues across California.
Assembly Bill 1748, introduced by Assembly Member Seyarto, seeks to amend Section 54221 of the Government Code regarding the treatment of surplus land. This legislation expands the definition of exempt surplus land, allowing for properties zoned for up to 30 residential units and owned by local agencies to be exempt from stringent disposal requirements if they demonstrate adequate progress in meeting their regional housing needs as outlined in state regulations. This is particularly focused on incentivizing jurisdictions that show compliance with housing development standards set forth in planning law.
The reception of AB 1748 has revealed a spectrum of perspectives among lawmakers and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill is a pivotal step towards alleviating the current housing crisis by facilitating the quicker development of much-needed housing units. Critics, however, express concerns over potential overreach and the adequacy of the measures to ensure that the housing developed will genuinely meet the diverse needs of low- and moderate-income families. These discussions reflect the broader debate on balancing local regulatory autonomy with statewide housing goals.
Key points of contention surrounding AB 1748 include concerns from opponents regarding the implications for local governance and control over land use. Some advocate for maintaining rigorous standards around surplus land disposal to ensure that developments align with local community needs and values. Their view is that hasty amendments might prioritize development speed over thoughtful urban planning, potentially leading to projects that do not address the specific socio-economic contexts of the areas. The legislation seeks to navigate these conflicting priorities by imposing certain accountability measures tied to regional housing goals.