Planning and zoning: housing development: higher education institutions and religious institutions.
The bill requires that 100% of the units in a housing development project must be affordable to lower-income households, with a small percentage designated for moderate-income households and staff affiliated with the institutions. The introduction of this law is seen as a significant way to address housing shortages, particularly in urban areas where such institutions are typically located. Furthermore, it also opens up the opportunity for developers to receive additional bonuses and incentives, such as density bonuses and parking standard waivers, thereby encouraging higher density residential development.
Senate Bill 4, known as the Affordable Housing on Faith and Higher Education Lands Act of 2023, aims to promote housing development on land owned by independent institutions of higher education and religious organizations. By streamlining the approval process for housing projects and deeming them as a 'use by right,' the law simplifies the bureaucracy involved in planning and zoning. This legislative move allows developers to bypass traditional conditional use permits, enabling quicker and potentially more efficient construction of affordable housing units.
Overall, the sentiment around SB 4 is largely positive from proponents who argue that the bill could significantly aid in alleviating the housing crisis in California. Supporters include lawmakers and advocacy groups who prioritize the need for affordable housing access. However, there are voices of contention regarding the potential for local governments to lose authority over land-use decisions. Critics express concerns that such a significant preemption of local control might lead to deficiencies in addressing unique community needs related to housing and urban development.
A notable point of contention lies in the implications for local governance. Opponents worry that streamlined approval processes might undermine local planning agencies' ability to enforce community standards and plan effectively for integrated development. Additionally, the requirement for local governments to provide clear documentation if they find a proposed development inconsistent with established objectives may place additional burdens on local administrative resources. This dynamic between state mandates and local control is at the heart of the discussions surrounding SB 4.