If enacted, SB 1408 would adjust the Planning and Zoning Law which mandates local entities to develop a general plan that includes a housing element. This law currently requires an annual report detailing the number of housing units, including rental and for-sale properties, to be submitted to the Department of Housing and Community Development. By expanding the types of units reported, the bill aims to provide a more comprehensive view of housing developments, potentially assisting local governments in better addressing housing shortages and meeting community needs.
Summary
Senate Bill 1408, introduced by Senator Allen, seeks to amend existing provisions related to housing planning and reporting requirements in California. Specifically, it allows planning agencies to include additional types of housing units—namely single-room occupancy units and nontraditional housing units—in their annual reports if these units were developed during previous planning periods and were not counted in prior reports. The bill aims to enhance the data quality about regional housing needs, ensuring that all types of residential units are accounted for in local planning documents.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SB 1408 appears to be positive among proponents who view it as a necessary step toward improving housing accountability and planning. Supporters argue that including a wider array of housing types in planning reports will allow for more accurate assessments of housing needs in California's diverse communities. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation and the potential administrative burden on local agencies to track and report these additional units accurately.
Contention
While the bill’s intent is generally supported, some points of contention may arise regarding the feasibility and accuracy of the data collection process for these additional housing types. Critics may question whether local governments possess the necessary resources to manage these new reporting requirements effectively, as well as the potential for discrepancies in reporting that could arise from counting units across different planning periods.