HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 5j. Authorization to submit a Prohousing Designation Program Application Item 5j
Department: Community Development
Cost Center: 4003
For Agenda of: 6/20/2023
Placement: Consent
Estimated Time: N/A
FROM: Michael Codron, Community Development Director
Prepared By: Kyle Bell, Housing Coordinator & Ryan Tomlinson, CDD Intern
SUBJECT: PROHOUSING DESIGNATION PROGRAM APPLICATION
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Draft Resolution entitled, “A Resolution of the City Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo, California, authorizing application to and participation in the Proho using
Designation Program” authorizing the City Manager to:
1. Submit a Prohousing Designation Program application to the California
Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD); and if the application
is approved by HCD,
2. Execute all documents deemed necessary or appropriate to participate in the
Prohousing Designation Program.
POLICY CONTEXT
The City of San Luis Obispo's two-year budget approach has a long tradition of involving
the community in its goal-setting process, emphasizing long-range financial planning, and
supporting effective program management. As part of the 2021-23 Financial Plan and the
now adopted 23-25 Financial Plan, the City Council established four Major City Goals for
the City to address within the two-year financial plan cycle. One of the Major City Goals
that was established was for Housing and Homelessness which states:
“In order to expand housing options for all, continue to facilitate the
production of housing, including the necessary supporting infrastructure,
with an emphasis on affordable and workforce housing…”
The Prohousing Designation Program is consistent with the City’s policies established in
the City’s General Plan Housing Element, including:
Program 6.17. Financially assist in the development of 20 housing units per
year that are affordable to extremely low, very-low, low- and moderate-
income households during the planning period using State, Federal, and
local funding sources, with funding priority given to projects that result in the
maximum housing benefits for the lowest household income levels.
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Item 5j
Program 8.20. Actively seek and collaborate with non-profit housing
providers to (jointly) apply for two revenue sources each year during the
planning period for State, Federal, and local funding sources to financially
assist with the development of housing for persons with developmental
disabilities.
DISCUSSION
The City of San Luis Obispo has an opportunity to become one of the Prohousing
Designation jurisdictions in the State – gaining a competitive advantage for critical grant
funding and sending a strong signal to the housing development community statewide
that the City of San Luis Obispo is focused on meeting its housing production goals.
In 2019, as part of the 2019-2020 Budget Act, Assembly Bill 101 established the
Prohousing Designation Program (PDP) administered by the California Department of
Housing and Community Development (HCD). The PDP creates incentives for
jurisdictions that are compliant with housing laws, housing element requirements, and
have enacted local policies that go beyond existing housing law.
Jurisdictions awarded a Prohousing Designation will receive a competitive advantage for
critical affordable housing and infrastructure grant programs, including:
Affordable Housing & Sustainable Communities (AHSC)
Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG)
Transformative Climate Communities (TCC)
Solutions for Congested Corridors
Local Partnership Program
Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP)
Pro Housing Designation (PDP) Overview
HCD’s review and consideration for designating jurisdictions include the following:
A. The Jurisdiction’s actions to facilitate the planning, approval, or construction of a
variety of housing types (e.g., increasing zoned capacity for supply, facilitating
affordability for all income levels, removing regulatory barriers to development, and
streamlining approval). Such action should be balanced by the Jurisdiction’s equal
efforts to prevent displacement, preserve existing affordable housing, and
establish tenant protections.
B. The Jurisdiction’s accomplishment of integrated planning and development
consistent with the state planning priorities set forth at Government Code section
65041.1 and/or the regional transportation plan adopted by the relevant
transportation agency pursuant to Government Code sections 65080 and
65080.01. The Jurisdiction may accomplish this outcome through various actions,
including, but not limited to, the facilitation of Location Efficient Communities that
reduce auto dependence and Vehicles Miles Traveled (VMT), and that are
consistent with climate change priorities (e.g., climate change adaptation and
hazard mitigation).
Page 646 of 802
Item 5j
C. The Jurisdiction’s meaningful actions to foster inclusive and equitable communities
with adequate, affordable, and accessible housing and transportation
infrastructure pursuant to Government Code Section 8899.50.
D. The Jurisdiction’s collaboration with public entities to align policies and programs,
and with private entities to implement policies and to leverage funding and other
resources.
E. The Jurisdiction’s compliance with established housing law and recent housing
reform statutes (e.g., the Housing Accountability Act, the Streamlined Ministerial
Approval Process (SB 35), and the Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (SB 8)).
The application will ascribe points using four scoring categories. Applicants shall
demonstrate that they have enacted or proposed at least one policy that significantly
contributes to the acceleration of housing production in each of the four categories as
outlined in Attachment B. A Prohousing Designation requires a total score of 30 points or
more across all four categories:
(1) Favorable Zoning and Land Use (18 possible points). Examples include allowing
duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes by right in single -unit dwelling zones, going
beyond the State Density Bonus Law, going beyond State law for Accessory
Dwelling Units (ADUs), eliminating off-street parking requirements, and allowing
residential land uses in non-residential zones.
(2) Acceleration of Housing Production Timeframes (19 possible points). Examples
include ministerial approval processes for a variety of housing types, streamlined
environmental review processes, streamlined permitting processes, and reduced
plan check times.
(3) Reduction of Construction and Development Costs (11 possible points). Examples
include deferred, reduced, or waived impact fees1 and pre-approved plans for
ADUs and missing middle housing types.
(4) Providing Financial Subsidies (12 possible points). Examples include participating
with a local housing trust fund, offering surplus City-owned land for affordable
housing development, and prioritization of local general funds for affordable
housing.
1 The City cannot waive Development impact Fees per se and any fees that are not within the reasonable
nexus of mitigating impacts must be offset by other revenue sources. The City generally reduced
Transportation Impact Fees by 25% which required the General Fund to backfill to otherwise have a fee
program that met the requirements of the Mitigation Fee Act.
Page 647 of 802
Item 5j
Staff has completed a summary of the City’s compliance with each of the four categories,
with a score of 43 points, plus 19 enhancement factor points, resulting in a total s core of
62 points (Attachment C). Once the application is released, HCD has 60 days from the
time the application is submitted to issue preliminary findings to the City. The City has 15
days to provide a written response to HCD. HCD then has 60 days to iss ue a final
determination of the designation as a Prohousing Jurisdiction.
Public Engagement
Public notice of this hearing has been published in a widely circulated local newspaper,
and hearing agendas for this meeting have been posted at City Hall, consistent with
adopted notification procedures. Public comment on the item can be provided to the City
Council through written correspondence prior to the meeting and through public testimony
at the meeting.
CONCURRENCE
The Prohousing Designation Application was compiled with input from multiple City
Departments including the Planning Division, Housing Team, Building Division,
engineering Division, and the Transportation Division .
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The proposed report contemplates the receipt of State designation and will not result in a
significant effect on the environment. Future projects that utilize grant funding will undergo
CEQA review. (CEQA Guidelines sections 15061(b)(3) (the common-sense exemption);
15378(b)(4) (the creation of government funding mechanisms).
FISCAL IMPACT
Budgeted: n/a Budget Year: 2022-23
Funding Identified: n/a
Fiscal Analysis:
Funding
Sources
Total Budget
Available
Current
Funding
Request
Remaining
Balance
Annual
Ongoing
Cost
General Fund $ $ $ $
State
Federal
Fees
Other:
Total $ $ $ $
There are no fiscal impacts (costs) directly related to this item. Local governments with
Prohousing Designation are eligible to apply for new Prohousing Incentive Program grant
funding, such as the $26 million state investment from the Building Homes and Jobs Trust
Fund.
Page 648 of 802
Item 5j
ALTERNATIVES
Deny the Project. Council could direct staff not to pursue the Prohousing Designation
Program.
ATTACHMENTS
A - Draft Resolution authorizing an application to the Prohousing Designation Program
B - Prohousing Designation Application
C - Prohousing Compliance Summary
Page 649 of 802
Page 650 of 802
R ______
RESOLUTION NO. ______ (2023 SERIES)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS
OBISPO, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING APPLICATION TO AND
PARTICIPATION IN THE PROHOUSING DESIGNATION PROGRAM
WHEREAS, Government Code section 65589.9 established the Prohousing
Designation Program (“PDP” or “Program”), which creates incentives for jurisdictions that
are compliant with state housing element requirements and that have enacted Prohousing
local policies; and
WHEREAS, such jurisdictions will be designated Prohousing, and, as such, will
receive additional points or other preference during the scoring of their competitive
applications for specified housing and infrastructure funding; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Housing and Community Development
(“Department”) has adopted emergency regulations (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 25, § 6600 et
seq.) to implement the Program (“Program Regulations”), as authorized by Government
Code section 65589.9, subdivision (d); and
WHEREAS, the City of San Luis Obispo desires to submit an application for a
Prohousing Designation (“Application”).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo as follows:
SECTION 1. The City of San Luis Obispo is hereby authorized and directed to
submit an Application to the Department.
SECTION 2. The City of San Luis Obispo acknowledges and confirms that it is
currently in compliance with applicable state housing law.
SECTION 3. The City of San Luis Obispo acknowledges and confirms that it will
continue to comply with applicable housing laws and refrain from enacting laws,
developing policies, or taking other local governmental actions that may or do inhibit or
constrain housing production. Examples of such local laws, policies, and actions include
moratoriums on development; local voter approval requirements related to housing
production; downzoning; and unduly restrictive or onerous zoning regulations,
development standards, or permit procedures.
SECTION 4. The City of San Luis Obispo further acknowledges and confirms that
it commits itself to affirmatively furthering fair housing pursuant to Government Code
section 8899.50.
Page 651 of 802
Resolution No. _______ (2023 Series) Page 2
R _______
SECTION 5. If the Application is approved, the City of San Luis Obispo is hereby
authorized and directed to enter into, execute, and deliver all documents required or
deemed necessary or appropriate to participate in the Program, and all amendments
thereto (the “Program Documents”).
SECTION 6. The City of San Luis Obispo acknowledges and agrees that it shall
be subject to the Application; the terms and conditions specified in the Program
Documents; the Program Regulations; and any and all other applicable laws.
SECTION 7. The City Manager is authorized to execute and deliver the Application
and the Program Documents on behalf of the City of San Luis Obispo for participation in
the Program.
Upon motion by______________, seconded by ______________, and on the
following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
The foregoing resolution was adopted this ______ day of _________ 2023.
___________________________
Mayor Erica A. Stewart
ATTEST:
_________________________
Teresa Purrington
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________
J. Christine Dietrick
City Attorney
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the
City of San Luis Obispo, California, on ______________________.
___________________________
Teresa Purrington
City Clerk
Page 652 of 802
Prohousing Designation Program Application
State of California
Governor Gavin Newsom
Lourdes Castro Ramírez, Secretary
Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency
Gustavo Velasquez, Director
Department of Housing and Community Development
Megan Kirkeby, Deputy Director
Division of Housing Policy Development
2020 West El Camino, Suite 500
Sacramento, CA 95833
Website: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/community-development/prohousing
Email: ProhousingPolicies@hcd.ca.gov
July 2021
Page 653 of 802
Prohousing Designation Program Application Package
Instructions
The applicant is applying for a Prohousing Designation under the Prohousing Designation
Program (“Prohousing” or “Program”), which is administered by the Department of Housing and
Community Development (“Department”) pursuant to Government Code section 65589.9.
The Program creates incentives for Jurisdictions that are compliant with Housing Element
requirements and that have enacted Prohousing Policies. These incentives will take the form of
additional points or other preference in the scoring of applications for competitive housing and
infrastructure programs. The administrators of each such program will determine the value and
form of the preference.
In order to be considered for a Prohousing Designation, the applicant must accurately complete
all sections of this application, including any relevant appendices. The Department reserves the
right to request additional clarifying information from the applicant.
This application is subject to Government Code section 65589.9, and to the regulations (Cal. Code
Regs., tit. 25, § 6600 et seq.) adopted by the Department in promulgation thereof (“Regulations”).
All capitalized terms in this application shall have the meanings set forth in Section 6601 of the
Regulations.
All applicants must submit a complete, signed application package to the Department, in
electronic format, in order to be considered for a Prohousing Designation . Please direct electronic
copies of the completed application package to the following email address:
ProhousingPolicies@hcd.ca.gov.
A complete application will include all items identified in the Application Checklist.
In relation to Appendix 1, the Formal Resolution for the Prohousing Designation Program,
please use strikethrough and underline if proposing any modifications to the text of the
Resolution.
Appendix 2, the Proposed Policy Completion Schedule, applies only if an application
includes proposed policies.
Appendix 3, Project Proposal Scoring Sheet and Sample Project Proposal Scoring Sheet,
includes a blank template to be completed by the applicant as part of the application, as well
as a Sample Project Proposal Scoring Sheet with an example of how this template may be
completed.
Appendix 4 lists examples of Prohousing Policies with enhancement factors to aid applicants
in understanding how enhancement factors may be applied .
Appendix 5 is where the applicant will include any additional information and supporting
documentation for the application.
If you have questions regarding this application or the Program, or if you require technical
assistance in preparing this application, please email ProhousingPolicies@hcd.ca.gov.
Page 654 of 802
Application Checklist
Yes No
Application Information ☒ ☐
Certification and Acknowledgement ☐ ☐
The Legislative Information form is completed. ☒ ☐
The Threshold Requirements Checklist is completed. ☒ ☐
A duly adopted and certified Formal Resolution for the Prohousing
Designation Program is included in the application package.
(See Appendix 1 for the Formal Resolution for the Prohousing
Designation Program (New 04/21) form.)
☐ ☐
If applicable, the Proposed Policy Completion Schedule is
completed. (See Appendix 2.)
☒ ☐
The Project Proposal Scoring Sheet is completed. (See Appendix 3
for the Project Proposal Scoring Sheet and the Sample Project
Proposal Scoring Sheet)
☒ ☐
Additional information and supporting documentation (Applicant to
provide as Appendix 5)
☐ ☐
Application Information
Applicant (Jurisdiction): City of San Luis Obispo Community
Development Department
Applicant Mailing Address: 919 Palm Street
City: San Luis Obispo, CA
ZIP Code: 93401
Website: https://www.slocity.org/government/department-
directory/community-development
Authorized Representative Name Michael Codron
Authorized Representative Title: Director
Phone: 805.781.7187
Email: mcodron@slocity.org
Contact Person Name: Kyle Bell
Contact Person Title: Housing Coordinator
Phone: 805.781.7524
Email: KBell@slocity.org
Proposed Total Score (Based on
Appendix 3):
Page 655 of 802
CERTIFICATION AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
As authorized by the Formal Resolution for the Prohousing Designation Program (Resolution
No. ), which is attached hereto and incorporated by reference as if set forth in full, I
hereby submit this full and complete application on behalf of the applicant.
I certify that all information and representations set forth in this application are true and
correct.
I further certify that any proposed Prohousing Policy identified herein will be enacted within
two (2) years of the date of this application submittal.
I acknowledge that this application constitutes a public record under the California Public
Records Act (Gov. Code, § 6250 et seq.) and is therefore subject to public disclosure by the
Department.
Signature: _______________________________________
Name and Title: Kyle Bell, Housing Coordinator
Date: June 21, 2023
Page 656 of 802
Legislative Information
District Number Legislator’s Name
Federal
Congressional
District
24 Salud Carbajal
State
Assembly
District
30 Dawn Addis
State
Senate
District
17 John Laird
Applicants can find their respective State Senate representatives at
https://www.senate.ca.gov/, and their respective State Assembly representatives at
https://www.assembly.ca.gov/
Page 657 of 802
Threshold Requirements Checklist
The applicant meets the following threshold requirements in accordance with Section 6604 of
the Regulations:
Yes No
The applicant is a Jurisdiction. ☒ ☐
The applicant has adopted a Compliant Housing Element. ☒ ☐
The applicant has submitted or will submit a legally sufficient Annual
Progress Report prior to designation.
☒ ☐
The applicant has completed, on or before the relevant statutory
deadlines, any rezone program or zoning that is necessary to remain in
compliance with Government Code section 65583, subdivision (c)(1).
☐ ☐
The applicant is in compliance, at the time of the application, with
applicable state housing law, including, but not limited to, Housing
Element Law; “No Net Loss” Law (Gov. Code, § 65863); the Housing
Accountability Act (Gov. Code, § 65589.5); State Density Bonus Law
(Gov. Code, § 65915 et seq.); laws relating to the imposition of school
facilities fees or other requirements (Gov. Code, § 65995 et seq.); Least
Cost Zoning Law (Gov. Code, § 65913.1); the Housing Crisis Act of
2019 (Stats. 2019, ch. 654); and antidiscrimination law (Gov. Code, §
65008).
☒ ☐
The applicant has duly adopted and certified a Formal Resolution for the
Prohousing Designation Program, which is hereby incorporated by
reference. (A true and correct copy of the resolution is included in this
application package.)
☐ ☐
Page 658 of 802
Project Proposal
Category 1: Favorable Zoning and Land Use
Category Prohousing Policy Description Points
1A Sufficient sites, including rezoning, to accommodate 150 percent or
greater of the current or draft RHNA, whichever is greater, by total or
income category.
3
1B Permitting missing middle housing uses (e.g., duplexes, triplexes, and
fourplexes) by right in existing low-density, single-family residential
zones.
3
1C Sufficient sites, including rezoning, to accommodate 125 to 149 percent
of the current or draft RHNA, whichever is greater, by total or income
category. These points shall not be awarded if the applicant earns three
points pursuant to Category (1)(A) above.
2
1D Density bonus programs which exceed statutory requirements by 10
percent or more.
2
1E Increasing allowable density in low-density, single-family residential
areas beyond the requirements of state Accessory Dwelling Unit law
(e.g., permitting more than one ADU or JADU per single-family lot).
These policies shall be separate from any qualifying policies under
Category (1)(B) above.
2
1F Reducing or eliminating parking requirements for residential
development as authorized by Government Code sections 65852.2;
adopting vehicular parking ratios that are less than the relevant ratio
thresholds at subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) of Government Code
section 65915, subdivision (p)(1); or adopting maximum parking
requirements at or less than ratios pursuant to Government Code
section 65915, subdivision (p).
2
1G Zoning to allow for residential or mixed uses in one or more non-
residential zones (e.g., commercial, light industrial). Qualifying non -
residential zones do not include open space or substantially similar
zones.
1
1H Modification of development standards and other applicable zoning
provisions to promote greater development intensity. Potential areas of
focus include floor area ratio; height limits; minimum lot or unit sizes;
setbacks; and allowable dwelling units per acre. These policies must be
separate from any qualifying policies under Category (1)(B) above.
1
1I Establishment of a Workforce Housing Opportunity Zone, as defined in
Government Code section 65620, or a housing sustainability district, as
defined in Government Code section 66200.
1
1J Demonstrating other zoning and land use actions that measurably
support the Acceleration of Housing Production.
1
Page 659 of 802
Project Proposal
Category 2: Acceleration of Housing Production Timeframes
Category Prohousing Policy Description Points
2A Establishment of ministerial approval processes for a variety of
housing types, including single-family and multifamily housing.
3
2B Establishment of streamlined, program-level CEQA analysis and
certification of general plans, community plans, specific plans with
accompanying Environmental Impact Reports (EIR), and related
documents.
2
2C Documented practice of streamlining housing development at the
project level, such as by enabling a by-right approval process or by
utilizing statutory and categorical exemptions as authorized by
applicable law (Pub. Resources Code, §§ 21155.1, 21155.4,
21159.24, 21159.25; Gov. Code, § 65457; Cal Code Regs., tit. 14, §§
15303, 15332; Pub. Resources Code, §§ 21094.5, 21099, 21155.2,
21159.28).
2
2D Establishment of permit processes that take less than four months.
Policies under this Category (2)(D) must address all approvals
necessary to issue building permits.
2
2E Absence or elimination of public hearings for projects consistent with
zoning and the general plan.
2
2F Establishment of consolidated or streamlined permit processes that
minimize the levels of review and approval required for projects, and
that are consistent with zoning regulations and the general plan.
1
2G Absence, elimination or replacement of subjective development and
design standards with objective development and design standards
that simplify zoning clearance and improve approval certainty and
timing.
1
2H Establishment of one-stop-shop permitting processes or a single point
of contact where entitlements are coordinated across city approval
functions (e.g., planning, public works, building) from entitlement
application to certificate of occupancy.
1
2I Priority permit processing or reduced plan check times for
ADUs/JADUs, multifamily housing, or homes affordable to lower- or
moderate-income households.
1
2J Establishment of a standardized application form for all entitlement
applications.
1
2K Practice of publicly posting status updates on project permit approvals
on the Internet.
1
2L Limitation on the total number of hearings for any project to three or
fewer. Applicants that accrue points pursuant to Category (2)(E) are
not eligible for points under this Category (2)(L).
1
2M Demonstration of other actions, not listed above, that quantifiably
decrease production timeframes or promote the streamlining of
approval processes.
1
Page 660 of 802
Project Proposal
Category 3: Reduction of Construction and Development Costs
Category Prohousing Policy Description Points
3A Waiver or significant reduction of development impact fees for
residential development.
3
3B Adoption of ordinances or implementation of other mechanisms that
result in less restrictive requirements than Government Code sections
65852.2 and 65852.22 to reduce barriers for property owners to create
ADUs/JADUs. Examples of qualifying policies include, but are not
limited to, development standards improvements, permit processing
improvements, dedicated ADU/JADU staff, technical assistance
programs, and pre-approved ADU/JADU design packages.
2
3C Adoption of other fee reduction strategies separate from Category
(3)(A) above, including fee deferrals and reduced fees for housing for
persons with special needs.
1
3D Promoting innovative housing types (e.g., manufactured homes,
recreational vehicles, park models) that reduce development costs.
1
3E Measures that reduce costs for transportation-related infrastructure or
programs that encourage active modes of transportation or other
alternatives to automobiles. Qualifying policies include, but are not
limited to, publicly funded programs to expand sidewalks or protect
bike/micro-mobility lanes; creation of on-street parking for bikes; transit-
related improvements; or establishment of carshare programs.
1
3F Adoption of universal design ordinances pursuant to Health and Safety
Code section 17959.
1
3G Establishment of pre-approved or prototype plans for missing middle
housing types (e.g., duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes) in low-density,
single-family residential areas.
1
3H Demonstration of other actions, not listed above, that quantifiably
reduce construction or development costs.
1
Page 661 of 802
Project Proposal
Category 4: Providing Financial Subsidies
Category Prohousing Policy Description Points
4A Establishment of local housing trust funds or collaboration on a regional
housing trust fund.
2
4B Provide grants or low-interest loans for ADU/JADU construction
affordable to lower- and moderate-income households.
2
4C A comprehensive program that complies with the Surplus Land Act
(Gov. Code, § 54220 et seq.) and that makes publicly owned land
available for affordable housing, or for multifamily housing projects with
the highest feasible percentage of units affordable to lower income
households. A qualifying program may utilize mechanisms such as land
donations, land sales with significant write-downs, or below-market land
leases.
2
4D Establishment of an Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District or
similar local financing tool that, to the extent feasible, directly supports
housing developments in an area where at least 20 percent of the
residences will be affordable to lower income households.
2
4E Directed residual redevelopment funds to affordable housing. 1
4F Development and regular (at least biennial) use of a housing subsidy
pool, local or regional trust fund, or other similar funding source .
1
4G Prioritization of local general funds for affordable housing. 1
4H Demonstration of other actions, not listed above, that quantifiably
promote, develop, or leverage financial resources for housing.
1
Page 662 of 802
Project Proposal
Enhancement Factors
The Department shall utilize enhancement factors to increase the point scores of Prohousing
Policies. Each Prohousing Policy will receive extra points for enhancement factors in
accordance with the chart below.
Category Prohousing Policy Description Points
1 Policy that represents one element of a unified, multi-faceted strategy to
promote multiple planning objectives, such as efficient land use, access
to public transportation, affordable housing, climate change solutions,
and/or hazard mitigation.
2
2 Policies that promote development consistent with the state planning
priorities pursuant to Government Code section 65041.1.
1
3 Policies that diversify planning and target community and economic
development investments (housing and non-housing) to improve lower
opportunity areas. Such areas include, but are not limited to, Low
Resource and High Segregation & Poverty areas designated in the
most recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps, and
disadvantaged communities pursuant to California Senate Bill 535
(2012).
1
4 Policies that go beyond state law requirements in reducing
displacement of lower income households and conserving existing
housing stock that is affordable to lower income households .
1
5 Rezoning and other policies that support high-density development in
Location Efficient Communities.
1
6 Rezoning and other policies that result in a net gain of housing capacity
while concurrently mitigating development impacts on or from
Environmentally Sensitive or Hazardous Areas.
1
7 Zoning policies that increase housing choices and affordability in High
Resource and Highest Resource areas, as designated in the most
recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps.
1
8 Other policies that involve meaningful actions towards affirmatively
furthering fair housing pursuant to Government Code section 8899.50,
including, but not limited to, outreach campaigns, updated zoning
codes, and expanded access to financing support.
1
Page 663 of 802
Project Proposal Scoring Sheet Instructions
The Department shall validate applicants’ scores based on the extent to which each identified Prohousing Policy contributes to the
Acceleration of Housing Production. The Department shall assess applicants’ Prohousing Policies in accordance with Government
Code section 65589.9, subdivision (f)(2), and Sections 6605 and 6606 of the Regulations.
The Department shall further assess applicants’ Prohousing Policies using the following four scoring categories: Favorable Zoning
and Land Use; Acceleration of Housing Production Timeframes; Reduction of Construction and Development Costs; and Providing
Financial Subsidies. Applicants shall demonstrate that they have enacted or proposed at least one policy that significantly
contributes to the Acceleration of Housing Production in each of the four categories. A Prohousing Designation requires a total
score of 30 points or more across all four categories.
Instructions
Please utilize one row of the Scoring Sheet for each Prohousing Policy.
Category Number: Select the relevant category number from the relevant Project Proposal list in this application. Where
appropriate, applicants may utilize a category number more than once.
Concise Written Description of Prohousing Policy: Set forth a brief description of the enacted or proposed Prohousing
Policy.
Enacted or Proposed: Identify the Prohousing Policy as enacted or proposed. For proposed Prohousing Policies, please
complete Appendix 2: Proposed Policy Completion Schedule.
Documentation Type: For enacted Prohousing Policies, identify the relevant documentary evidence (e.g., resolution,
zoning code provisions). For proposed Prohousing Policies, identify the documentation which shows that implementation of
the policy is pending.
Web Links/Electronic Copies: Insert the Web link(s) to the relevant documentation or indicate that electronic copies of the
documentation have been attached to this application as Appendix 5.
Points: Enter the appropriate number of points using the relevant Project Proposal list in this application.
Enhancement Category Number (optional): If utilizing an enhancement factor for a particular Prohousing Policy, enter
the appropriate category number using the relevant Project Proposal list in this application.
Enhancement Points (optional): If utilizing an enhancement factor for a particular Prohousing Policy, enter the point(s) for
that Prohousing Policy.
Total Points: Add the enhancement point(s) to the Prohousing Policy’s general point score.
Page 664 of 802
Formal Resolution for the Prohousing Designation Program
(New 04/21)
Appendix 1: Formal Resolution for the Prohousing Designation Program
Formal Resolution for the Prohousing Designation Program (New 04/21)
RESOLUTION NO. [INSERT RESOLUTION NUMBER]
A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF
The City of San Luis Obispo
AUTHORIZING APPLICATION TO AND PARTICIPATION IN THE PROHOUSING
DESIGNATION PROGRAM
WHEREAS, Government Code section 65589.9 established the Prohousing Designation
Program (“PDP” or “Program”), which creates incentives for jurisdictions that are compliant
with state housing element requirements and that have enacted Prohousing local policies;
and
WHEREAS, such jurisdictions will be designated Prohousing, and, as such, will receive
additional points or other preference during the scoring of their competitive applicatio ns for
specified housing and infrastructure funding; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Housing and Community Development (“Department”) has
adopted emergency regulations (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 25, § 6600 et seq.) to implement the
Program (“Program Regulations”), as authorized by Government Code section 65589.9,
subdivision (d); and
WHEREAS, the [CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO] (“Applicant”) desires to submit an
application for a Prohousing Designation (“Application”).
THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED THAT:
1. Applicant is hereby authorized and directed to submit an Application to the
Department.
2. Applicant acknowledges and confirms that it is currently in compliance with applicable
state housing law.
3. Applicant acknowledges and confirms that it will continue to comply with applicable
housing laws and to refrain from enacting laws, developing policies, or taking other
local governmental actions that may or do inhibit or constrain housing production.
Examples of such local laws, policies, and actio n include moratoriums on
development; local voter approval requirements related to housing production;
downzoning; and unduly restrictive or onerous zoning regulations, development
standards, or
Page 665 of 802
Formal Resolution for the Prohousing Designation Program
(New 04/21)
4. permit procedures. Applicant further acknowledges and confirms that it commits itself
to affirmatively furthering fair housing pursuant to Government Code section 8899.50.
5. If the Application is approved, Applicant is hereby authorized and directed to enter
into, execute, and deliver all documents required or deem ed necessary or appropriate
to participate in the Program, and all amendments thereto (the “Program
Documents”).
6. Applicant acknowledges and agrees that it shall be subject to the Application; the
terms and conditions specified in the Program Documents; the Program Regulations;
and any and all other applicable law.
7. [The Director of the Community Development Department] is authorized to
execute and deliver the Application and the Program Documents on behalf of the
Applicant for participation in the Program.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this ____ day of ________, 20__, by the following vote:
AYES: [Insert #] NOES: [Insert #] ABSENT: [Insert #] ABSTAIN: [Insert #]
The undersigned, [INSERT NAME AND TITLE OF NONSIGNATORY] of Applicant, does
hereby attest and certify that the foregoing is a true and full copy of a resolution of the
Applicant’s governing body adopted at a duly convened meeting on the date above-
mentioned, and that the resolution has not been altered, amended, or repealed.
SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____________________
NAME: __________________________ TITLE: _____________________
Page 666 of 802
Appendix 2: Proposed Policy Completion Schedule
Category
Number
Concise Written Description of
Proposed Policy
Key Milestones and
Milestone Dates
Anticipated
Completion
Date
Notes
1B Permitted missing middle housing uses by
allowing duplexes, and triplexes by right in
existing low-density, single-family residential
zones.
12/31/2023
Page 667 of 802
Appendix 3: Project Proposal Scoring Sheet and Sample Project Proposal Scoring Sheet
Project Proposal Scoring Sheet
Page 668 of 802
Category
Number
Concise Written
Description of
Prohousing Policy
Enacted
or
Proposed
Documentation Type
(e.g., resolution,
zoning code)
Insert Web
Links to
Documents or
Indicate that
Electronic
Copies are
Attached as
Appendix 5
Points Enhancement
Category
Number
Enhancement
Points
Total Points
1D Density bonus
programs which exceed
statutory requirements
by 10 percent or more.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.140.070.B.
3
2 1 2 4
1F Reducing or eliminating
parking requirements
for residential
development as
authorized by
Government Code
sections 65852.2;
adopting vehicular
parking ratios that are
less than the relevant
ratio thresholds.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.86.020.B.3.
f
2 2
1G Zoning to allow for
residential or mixed
uses in one or more
non-residential zones
(e.g., commercial, light
industrial). Qualifying
non-residential zones
do not include open
space or substantially
similar zones.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.10.020
Table 2-1
(Uses Allowed
by Zone)
2 1 2 3
Page 669 of 802
1H Modification of
development standards
and other applicable
zoning provisions to
promote greater
development intensity.
Potential areas of focus
include floor area ratio;
height limits; minimum
lot or unit sizes;
setbacks; and allowable
dwelling units per acre.
These policies must be
separate from any
qualifying policies
under Category (1)(B)
above.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.70.040.A.1
2 6 1 2
1J Demonstrating other
zoning and land use
actions that measurably
support the
Acceleration of Housing
Production.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.141
(Downtown
Flexible
Density)
1 1 2 3
2A Establishment of
ministerial approval
processes for a variety
of housing types,
including single-family
and multifamily
housing.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.106.020.C
3 2 1 4
2B Establishment of
streamlined, program -
level CEQA analysis
and certification of
general plans,
community plans,
specific plans with
accompanying
Environmental Impact
Reports (EIR), and
related documents.
E Climate Action Plan &
Land Use and
Circulation Element
Final EIR
CEQA GHG
Emissions
Analysis
Compliance
Checklist
Land Use and
Circulation
Element
Programmatic
Final EIR
2 1 2 4
Page 670 of 802
2C Documented practice of
streamlining housing
development at the
project level, such as
by enabling a by-right
approval process or by
utilizing statutory and
categorical exemptions
as authorized by
applicable law
E Resolutions Resolution No.
PC-1066-22
Resolution No.
ARC-1005-18
2 7 1 3
2D Establishment of permit
processes that take
less than four months.
E Website Document Building
Permit
Process Guide
2 2
2E Absence or elimination
of public hearings for
projects consistent with
zoning and the general
plan.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Chapter 17.69
(Objective
Design
Standards for
Qualifying
Residential
Projects)
2 2
2F Establishment of
consolidated or
streamlined permit
processes that
minimize the levels of
review and approval
required for projects,
and that are consistent
with zoning regulations
and the general plan.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.106.030
(Levels of
Development
Review)
1 1
2G Absence, elimination or
replacement of
subjective development
and design standards
with objective
development and
design standards that
simplify zoning
clearance and improve
approval certainty and
timing.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Chapter 17.69
(Objective
Design
Standards for
Qualifying
Residential
Projects)
1 1
Page 671 of 802
2H Establishment of one-
stop-shop permitting
processes or a single
point of contact where
entitlements are
coordinated across city
approval functions
(e.g., planning, public
works, building) from
entitlement application
to certificate of
occupancy.
E Website Community
Development
Department
1 1
2I Priority permit
processing or reduced
plan check times for
ADUs/JADUs,
multifamily housing, or
homes affordable to
lower- or moderate-
income households.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.86.020.B.4
1 1
2K Practice of publicly
posting status updates
on project permit
approvals on the
Internet.
E Website Current
Development
Projects
Planning &
Building Logs
1 1
2M Demonstration of other
actions, not listed
above, that quantifiably
decrease production
timeframes or promote
the streamlining of
approval processes.
E Website Document Application
Checklist –
Pre-
Application
1 1
3A Waiver or significant
reduction of
development impact
fees for residential
development.
E Resolution Resolution No.
9903 (2007
Series)
3 8 1 4
Page 672 of 802
3B Adoption of ordinances
or implementation of
other mechanisms that
result in less restrictive
requirements than
Government Code
sections 65852.2 and
65852.22 to reduce
barriers for property
owners to create
ADUs/JADUs.
E Zoning Code &
Website
Zoning
Regulations
Section
17.86.020.B.3.
d.iv.(a).
2 2
3D Promoting innovative
housing types (e.g.,
manufactured homes,
recreational vehicles,
park models) that
reduce development
costs.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.86.210.E
1 1
3E Measures that reduce
costs for transportation-
related infrastructure or
programs that
encourage active
modes of transportation
or other alternatives to
automobiles. Qualifying
policies include, but are
not limited to, publicly
funded programs to
expand sidewalks or
protect bike/micro-
mobility lanes; creation
of on-street parking for
bikes; transit-related
improvements; or
establishment of
carshare programs.
E Zoning Code Zoning Code
Section
17.72.050
(Parking
Reductions)
1 1 2 3
Page 673 of 802
3F Adoption of universal
design ordinances
pursuant to Health and
Safety Code section
17959.
E Zoning Code Zoning
Regulations
Chapter
17.112
(Reasonable
Accommodati
on)
1 1
3H Demonstration of other
actions, not listed
above, that quantifiably
reduce construction or
development costs.
E Website Document &
Resolution
Comprehensiv
e Fee
Schedule
2022-2023
Resolution No.
8415 (1995
Series).
1 1
TOTAL: 43 19 62
Sample Project Proposal Scoring Sheet
Note: This is a Sample Project Proposal Scoring Sheet; an actual submission may include more specificity when an
applicant completes the “Concise Written Description of Prohousing Policy.”
Category
Number
Concise Written
Description of
Prohousing Policy
Enacted
or
Proposed
Documentation Type
(e.g., resolution,
zoning code)
Insert Web
Links to
Documents or
Indicate that
Electronic
Copies are
Attached as
Appendix 5
Points Enhancement
Category
Number
Enhancement
Points
Total Points
1B Permitted missing
middle housing uses by
allowing duplexes, and
triplexes by right in
existing low-density,
single-family residential
zones.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
3 6 1 4
1C Sufficient sites to
accommodate 131
percent of the current
P Resolution Electronic
copy attached
2 1 2 4
Page 674 of 802
Category
Number
Concise Written
Description of
Prohousing Policy
Enacted
or
Proposed
Documentation Type
(e.g., resolution,
zoning code)
Insert Web
Links to
Documents or
Indicate that
Electronic
Copies are
Attached as
Appendix 5
Points Enhancement
Category
Number
Enhancement
Points
Total Points
RHNA with rezoning by
total or income
category.
1D Density bonus program
exceeds statutory
requirements by 12
percent.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
2 2
1F Reduced parking
requirements for
residential development
as authorized by
Government Code
sections 65852.2.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
2 2
1G Zoning that allows
mixed uses in one or
more light industrial
zones.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
1 1 2 3
1H Modified development
standards/other
applicable zoning
provisions to promote
greater development
intensity including floor
area ratio and minimum
lot or unit sizes.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
1 1 2 3
1J Other zoning and land
use actions that
measurably support the
Acceleration of Housing
Production.
P Resolution Electronic
copy attached
1 1
2B Streamlined program-
level CEQA analysis
and certification of
general plans,
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
2 2
Page 675 of 802
Category
Number
Concise Written
Description of
Prohousing Policy
Enacted
or
Proposed
Documentation Type
(e.g., resolution,
zoning code)
Insert Web
Links to
Documents or
Indicate that
Electronic
Copies are
Attached as
Appendix 5
Points Enhancement
Category
Number
Enhancement
Points
Total Points
community plans,
specific plans with
accompanying
Environmental Impact
Reports (EIR), and
related documents.
2G Absence of subjective
development and
design standards with
objective development
and design standards.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
1 1
2I Priority permit
processing or reduced
plan check times for
ADUs/JADUs.
P Resolution Electronic
copy attached
1 1 2 3
2M Other actions that
quantifiably decrease
production timeframes.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
1 1
3A Waiver of residential
development impact
fees.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
3 3
3B Adopted ordinances
that result in less
restrictive requirements
than Government Code
sections 65852.2 and
65852.22.
P Resolution Electronic
copy attached
2 1 2 4
3E Measures that reduce
costs for transportation-
related infrastructure.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
1 1
3H Other actions that
quantifiably reduce
construction or
development costs.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
1 1
Page 676 of 802
Category
Number
Concise Written
Description of
Prohousing Policy
Enacted
or
Proposed
Documentation Type
(e.g., resolution,
zoning code)
Insert Web
Links to
Documents or
Indicate that
Electronic
Copies are
Attached as
Appendix 5
Points Enhancement
Category
Number
Enhancement
Points
Total Points
4A Local housing trust
funds.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
2 2
4C Surplus Land Act
program making
publicly owned land
available for affordable
housing.
E Zoning code Electronic
copy attached
2 2 1 3
4E Directed residual
redevelopment funds to
affordable housing.
E Zoning code 1 1
4G Prioritization of local
general funds for
affordable housing.
E Zoning code 1 1
4H Other actions, that
leverage financial
resources for housing.
E Zoning code 1 1
TOTAL 31 12 43
Page 677 of 802
Appendix 4: Examples of Prohousing Policies with Enhancement Factors
If a Prohousing Policy incorporates any of the enhancement factors specified in the Project
Proposal Enhancement Factors chart, it will receive extra points as indicated therein.
Examples of such qualifying Prohousing Policies include the following:
Category 1: Favorable Zoning and Land Use
Rezoning sufficient sites to accommodate 150 percent or greater of the Regional
Housing Needs Allocation by total or income category, including sites in Location
Efficient Communities
Rezoning sufficient sites to accommodate 150 percent or greater of the Regional
Housing Needs Allocation by total or income category, including sites in High
Resource and Highest Resource areas (as designated in the most recently updated
TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps).
Rezoning to accommodate 125 to 149 percent of the Regional Housing Needs
Allocation in downtown commercial corridors or other infill locations.
Expanding density bonus programs to exceed statutory requirements by 10 percent or
more in Location Efficient Communities.
Reducing or eliminating parking requirements for residential development as
authorized by Government Code section 65852.2 in Location Efficient Communities.
Increasing allowable density in low-density, single-family residential areas beyond the
requirements of state Accessory Dwelling Unit law in High Resource and Highest
Resource areas (as designated in the most recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity
Maps).
Modification of development standards and other applicable zoning provisions to
promote greater development intensity in downtown commercial corridors or other infill
locations.
Coupling rezoning actions with policies that go beyond state law requirements in
reducing displacement of lower income households and conserving existing housing
stock that is affordable to lower income households.
Category 2: Acceleration of Housing Production Timeframes
Ministerial approval processes for multifamily housing in High Resource and Highest
Resource areas (as designated in the most recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity
Maps).
Streamlined, program-level CEQA analysis and certification of specific plans in
Location Efficient Communities.
Documented practice of streamlining housing development at the project level in
downtown commercial corridors and other infill locations.
Expedited permit processing for housing affordable to lower income households in
High Resource and Highest Resource areas (as designated in the most recently
updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps).
Category 3: Reduction of Construction and Development Costs
Fee waivers for affordable housing in High Resource and Highest Resource areas (as
designated in the most recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps).
Page 678 of 802
Fee waivers or reductions for higher density housing in downtown commercial
corridors or other infill locations.
Measures that reduce costs and leverage financial resources for transportation-related
infrastructure or programs in Low Resource and High Segregation & Poverty areas (as
designated in the most recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps).
Adoption of universal design ordinances to increase housing choices and affordability
for persons with disabilities in High Resource and Highest Resource areas (as
designated in the most recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps).
Permitting innovative housing types, such as manufactured homes, recreational
vehicles or park models, in High Resource and Highest Resource areas (as
designated in the most recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps).
Category 4: Providing Financial Subsidies
Targeting local housing trust funds to acquisition or rehabilitation of existing affordable
units, or to affordable units at risk of converting to market rate uses, in Low Resource
and High Segregation & Poverty areas (as designated in the most recently updated
TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps).
Marketing grants and other financial products for ADUs/JADUs in High Resource and
Highest Resource areas (as designated in the most recently updated TCAC/HCD
Opportunity Maps).
Utilizing publicly owned land for affordable housing in High Resource and Highest
Resource areas (as designated in the most recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity
Maps).
Establishment of an Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District or similar local
financing tool in a Low Resource or High Segregation & Poverty area (as designated
in the most recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps).
Directing residual redevelopment funds or general funds to conservation or
preservation of affordable housing in areas at high risk of displacement .
Page 679 of 802
Appendix 5: Additional Information and Supporting Documentation
Page 680 of 802
PROHOUSING DESIGNATION CRITERIA ASSESSMENT
The application will ascribe points using four scoring categories. Applicants shall demonstrate
that they have enacted or proposed at least one policy that significantly contributes to the
acceleration of housing production in each of the four categories. A Prohousing Designation
requires a total score of 30 points or more across all four categories.
Enhancement Factors
The Department shall utilize enhancement factors to increase the point scores of Prohousing
Policies. Each Prohousing Policy will receive extra points for enhancement factors in accordance
with the chart below.
Category Prohousing Policy Description Points
1e
Policy that represents one element of a unified, multi-faceted strategy to
promote multiple planning objectives, such as efficient land use, access
to public transportation, affordable housing, climate change solutions,
and/or hazard mitigation.
2
2e Policies that promote development consistent with the state planning
priorities pursuant to Government Code section 65041.1. 1
3e
Policies that diversify planning and target community and economic
development investments (housing and non-housing) to improve lower
opportunity areas. Such areas include, but are not limited to, Low
Resource and High Segregation & Poverty areas designated in the most
recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps, and disadvantaged
communities pursuant to California Senate Bill 535 (2012).
1
4e
Policies that go beyond state law requirements in reducing displacement
of lower income households and conserving existing housing stock that
is affordable to lower income households.
1
5e Rezoning and other policies that support high-density development in
Location Efficient Communities. 1
6e
Rezoning and other policies that result in a net gain of housing capacity
while concurrently mitigating development impacts on or from
Environmentally Sensitive or Hazardous Areas.
1
7e
Zoning policies that increase housing choices and affordability in High
Resource and Highest Resource areas, as designated in the most
recently updated TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps.
1
8e
Other policies that involve meaningful actions towards affirmatively
furthering fair housing pursuant to Government Code section 8899.50,
including, but not limited to, outreach campaigns, updated zoning codes,
and expanded access to financing support.
1
Page 681 of 802
Prohousing Designation Criteria Assessment
Page 2
Category 1: Favorable Zoning and Land Use
(18 possible points).
Category Prohousing Policy Description City’s Policy Response EF* +
Score
1A
Sufficient sites, including
rezoning, to accommodate 150
percent or greater of the current
or draft RHNA, whichever is
greater, by total or income
category.
Sites identified in the Housing
Element do not exceed the current
RHNA by income category. 0/3
1B
Permitting missing middle
housing uses (e.g., duplexes,
triplexes, and fourplexes) by right
in existing low-density, single-
family residential zones.
Duplexes are allowed by right in
exiting low-density single family
residential zones, as authorized by
Government Code Section
65852.21. However, points are only
awarded for programs that exceed
the minimum requirements of State
Law.
0/3
1C
Sufficient sites, including
rezoning, to accommodate 125 to
149 percent of the current or draft
RHNA, whichever is greater, by
total or income category. These
points shall not be awarded if the
applicant earns three points
pursuant to Category (1)(A)
above.
Sites identified in the Housing
Element do not exceed the current
RHNA by income category.
0/2
1D
Density bonus programs which
exceed statutory requirements by
10 percent or more.
Zoning Code Section
17.140.070.B.3 allows for density
bonus applications to statutory
requirements by 10 percent or more.
1e + 2
4/2
1E
Increasing allowable density in
low-density, single-family
residential areas beyond the
requirements of state Accessory
Dwelling Unit law (e.g., permitting
more than one ADU or JADU per
single-family lot). These policies
shall be separate from any
qualifying policies under Category
(1)(B) above.
Up to two detached ADU’s are
allowed within the low-density single
family residential zones consistent
with provisions under Government
Code Section 65852.21 (SB 9).
However, points are only awarded
for programs that exceed the
minimum requirements of State
Law.
0/2
1F
Reducing or eliminating parking
requirements for residential
development as authorized by
Government Code sections
65852.2; adopting vehicular
Zoning Code Section
17.86.020.B.3.f permits ADUs and
JADUs without any parking
requirements.
2/2
Page 682 of 802
Prohousing Designation Criteria Assessment
Page 3
parking ratios that are less than
the relevant ratio thresholds.
1G
Zoning to allow for residential or
mixed uses in one or more non-
residential zones (e.g.,
commercial, light industrial).
Qualifying non-residential zones
do not include open space or
substantially similar zones.
Zoning Code Section 17.10.020
Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone)
allows Mixed-Use developments by
right in multiple commercial zones. 1e + 2
3/1
1H
Modification of development
standards and other applicable
zoning provisions to promote
greater development intensity.
Potential areas of focus include
floor area ratio; height limits;
minimum lot or unit sizes;
setbacks; and allowable dwelling
units per acre. These policies
must be separate from any
qualifying policies under Category
(1)(B) above.
Zoning Code Section 17.70.040.A.1
incentivizes smaller residential units
by decreasing the density allocation
for 1-bedroom and studio units that
are less than 1,000 square feet in
size. This program allows for more
residential units to be constructed
on a property than under standard
density allocations.
6e + 1
2/1
1I
Establishment of a Workforce
Housing Opportunity Zone, as
defined in Government Code
section 65620, or a housing
sustainability district, as defined
in Government Code section
66200.
The City has not yet designated a
Workforce Housing Opportunity
Zone.
0/1
1J
Demonstrating other zoning and
land use actions that measurably
support the Acceleration of
Housing Production.
Zoning Code Section 17.141
(Downtown Flexible Density) adds
to the city’s housing toolkit and
measurably accelerates housing
production. This is achieved by
rezoning portions of downtown and
eliminating density limitations for
residential units that are less than
600 square feet in size within the
City’s Downtown Area, which was
funded through Senate Bill 2.
1e + 2
3/1
Category 1 Score: 14/18
* EF stands for “Enhancement Factors” which are represented by #e, which means that the policy
or program qualifies for a specific EF and earns additional points towards the score.
Page 683 of 802
Prohousing Designation Criteria Assessment
Page 4
Category 2: Acceleration of Housing Production Timeframes
(19 possible points)
Category Prohousing Policy Description City’s Policy Response EF* +
Points
2A
Establishment of ministerial
approval processes for a variety
of housing types, including
single-family and multifamily
housing.
Zoning Code Section 17.106.020.C
allows single-unit, duplexes,
triplexes, and fourplexes to be
reviewed ministerially.
2e + 1
4/3
2B
Establishment of streamlined,
program-level CEQA analysis
and certification of general
plans, community plans, specific
plans with accompanying
Environmental Impact Reports
(EIR), and related documents.
The City’s Climate Action Plan
identifies, in Appendix C, a method
to streamline CEQA analysis
through a CEQA GHG Emissions
Analysis Compliance Checklist that
can be utilized in plan- and project-
level CEQA review documents.
The City’s General Plan Land Use
and Circulation Element
Programmatic Final EIR addresses
the program’s effects as specifically
and comprehensively as possible,
many subsequent activities could be
found to be within the Program EIR
scope and additional environmental
review may not be required (CEQA
Guidelines Section 15168(c)).
1e + 2
4/2
2C
Documented practice of
streamlining housing
development at the project level,
such as by enabling a by-right
approval process or by utilizing
statutory and categorical
exemptions as authorized by
applicable law
1142 Monterey Mixed-Use project,
consisting of 106 affordable units
that was approved through a
categorical exemption (Class 32).
Resolution No. PC-1066-22
San Luis Square consists of 63
residential units and was approved
through a categorical exemption
(Class 32) Resolution No. ARC-
1005-18
7e + 1
3/2
2D
Establishment of permit
processes that take less than
four months.
The City’s Building Permit Process
Guide establishes a permit review
process of 4 weeks for Minor
projects, 6 weeks for Moderate
projects, and 8 weeks for Major
projects. If subsequent reviews are
necessary, the review timelines are
reduced by 50% upon resubmittal.
2/2
2E
Absence or elimination of public
hearings for projects consistent
Zoning Code Chapter 17.69
(Objective Design Standards for
Qualifying Residential Projects)
2/2
Page 684 of 802
Prohousing Designation Criteria Assessment
Page 5
with zoning and the general
plan.
established a by-right ministerial
review process for qualifying
housing projects.
2F
Establishment of consolidated or
streamlined permit processes
that minimize the levels of
review and approval required for
projects, and that are consistent
with zoning regulations and the
general plan.
Zoning Code Section 17.106.030
(Levels of Development Review)
reduces the number of public
hearings for housing projects with
less than 49 units.
1/1
2G
Absence, elimination or
replacement of subjective
development and design
standards with objective
development and design
standards that simplify zoning
clearance and improve approval
certainty and timing.
Zoning Code Chapter 17.69
(Objective Design Standards for
Qualifying Residential Projects)
provides objective design standards
for qualifying housing projects. 1/1
2H
Establishment of one-stop-shop
permitting processes or a single
point of contact where
entitlements are coordinated
across city approval functions
(e.g., planning, public works,
building) from entitlement
application to certificate of
occupancy.
Community Development
Department has been established
as a one-stop shop for all planning
entitlements, parcel/final map
reviews, grading permits,
encroachment permits, building
permits, and inspections.
1/1
2I
Priority permit processing or
reduced plan check times for
ADUs/JADUs, multifamily
housing, or homes affordable to
lower- or moderate-income
households.
Zoning Code Section 17.86.020.B.4
establishes a building permit review
process of a maximum of 60 days. 1/1
2J
Establishment of a standardized
application form for all
entitlement applications.
A standard Planning Application
form has been established for all
entitlement applications:
1/1
2K
Practice of publicly posting
status updates on project permit
approvals on the Internet.
Current Development Projects are
quarterly updated on the City’s
website.
A complete inventory of all
entitlement applications received,
and all building permits issues is
also available on the City’s Planning
& Building Logs webpage.
1/1
2L
Limitation on the total number of
hearings for any project to three
or fewer. Applicants that accrue
Already covered under Category
(2)(E) 0/1
Page 685 of 802
Prohousing Designation Criteria Assessment
Page 6
points pursuant to Category
(2)(E) are not eligible for points
under this Category (2)(L).
2M
Demonstration of other actions,
not listed above, that
quantifiably decrease production
timeframes or promote the
streamlining of approval
processes.
A pre-application process has been
created to assist with early
conceptual development review
assistance prior to formal
application submittal. Providing
early comments on projects helps
streamline the review procedures
during formal review.
Application Checklist – Pre-
Application.
1/1
Category 2 Score: 22/19
Category 3: Reduction of Construction and Development Costs
(11 possible points)
Category Prohousing Policy Description City’s Policy Response EF* +
Points
3A
Waiver or significant reduction of
development impact fees for
residential development.
Resolution No. 9903 (2007 Series)
waives development impact fees for
affordable housing projects that
exceed the inclusionary housing
requirement.
8e + 1
4/3
3B
Adoption of ordinances or
implementation of other
mechanisms that result in less
restrictive requirements than
Government Code sections
65852.2 and 65852.22 to reduce
barriers for property owners to
create ADUs/JADUs.
Zoning Regulations Section
17.86.020.B.3.d.iv.(a). allows
detached ADU’s to be constructed
up to 25 feet in height, whereas,
Government Code Section 65852.2
allows for a maximum height of 16
feet.
The County of San Luis Obispo has
adopted Pre-Reviewed ADU Design
Packages. The City is working with
the County to use the Pre-Reviewed
ADU Designs within the City limits.
2/2
3C
Adoption of other fee reduction
strategies separate from
Category (3)(A) above, including
fee deferrals and reduced fees for
housing for persons with special
needs.
Already covered under Category
(3)(A)
0/1
3D
Promoting innovative housing
types (e.g., manufactured homes,
recreational vehicles, park
Zoning Code Section 17.86.210.E
established that moveable tiny
houses shall be considered an
1/1
Page 686 of 802
Prohousing Designation Criteria Assessment
Page 7
models) that reduce development
costs.
additional type of accessory
structure, allowed as an accessory
use to a single-unit residential
dwelling unit.
3E
Measures that reduce costs for
transportation-related
infrastructure or programs that
encourage active modes of
transportation or other
alternatives to automobiles.
Qualifying policies include, but
are not limited to, publicly funded
programs to expand sidewalks or
protect bike/micro-mobility lanes;
creation of on-street parking for
bikes; transit-related
improvements; or establishment
of carshare programs.
Zoning Code Section 17.72.050
(Parking Reductions) establishes
criteria for development projects to
reduce on-site parking
requirements. Parking Reductions
applications may request up to
100% reductions to eliminate all on-
site parking requirements.
1e + 2
3/1
3F
Adoption of universal design
ordinances pursuant to Health
and Safety Code section 17959.
Zoning Regulations Chapter 17.112
(Reasonable Accommodation)
provisions allow for flexibility in the
application of regulations and
procedures to ensure equal access
to housing, under which a disabled
person may request a reasonable
accommodation in the application of
zoning requirements.
1/1
3G
Establishment of pre-approved or
prototype plans for missing
middle housing types (e.g.,
duplexes, triplexes, and
fourplexes) in low-density, single-
family residential areas.
The City does not have any pre-
approved prototype plans for
missing middle housing. 0/1
3H
Demonstration of other actions,
not listed above, that quantifiably
reduce construction or
development costs.
Reduction of development costs are
granted for smaller/higher density
units through reducing impact fees
by up to 50% (Comprehensive Fee
Schedule 2022-2023).
The City exempts very-low and low
income affordable housing
developments from all planning,
building, or engineers development
review fees and from water meter
and sewer meter installation fees
through Resolution No. 8415 (1995
Series).
1/1
Category 3 Score: 12/11
Page 687 of 802
Prohousing Designation Criteria Assessment
Page 8
Category 4: Providing Financial Subsidies
(12 possible points)
Category Prohousing Policy Description City’s Policy Response EF* +
Points
4A
Establishment of local housing
trust funds or collaboration on a
regional housing trust fund.
The City helped create and funds
opportunities with the County of
San Luis Obispo Housing Trust
Fund.
8e + 1
3/2
4B
Provide grants or low-interest
loans for ADU/JADU construction
affordable to lower- and
moderate-income households.
The City has awarded $300,000
from the Affordable Housing Fund
for an affordable housing project by
Transitions Mental Health, which
will assist with the development of a
project that includes two ADUs that
will be reserved for lower-income
households. Resolution No. 11321
(2022 Series).
8e + 1
3/2
4C
A comprehensive program that
complies with the Surplus Land
Act (Gov. Code, § 54220 et seq.)
and that makes publicly owned
land available for affordable
housing, or for multifamily
housing projects with the highest
feasible percentage of units
affordable to lower income
households. A qualifying program
may utilize mechanisms such as
land donations, land sales with
significant write-downs, or below-
market land leases.
Housing Element Program 6.15
directs the City to identify excess,
surplus, and underutilized parcels
for residential development.
The City identified 851 and 860
Humbert as available surplus land
for affordable housing and
authorized the sale of the property
to the Housing Authority of San Luis
Obispo. Resolution No. 10066
(2009 Series)
The city implements Housing
Element Program 6.15, biannually
to identify surplus lands that may be
underutilized or vacant. This
resulted in a 100% affordable
housing project provided by the
Housing Authority of SLO.
2/2
4D
Establishment of an Enhanced
Infrastructure Financing District
or similar local financing tool that,
to the extent feasible, directly
supports housing developments
in an area where at least 20
percent of the residences will be
affordable to lower income
households.
The City has not yet established
any Enhanced Infrastructure
Financing District.
0/2
4E Directed residual redevelopment
funds to affordable housing.
The City does not have any residual
redevelopment funds. 0/1
Page 688 of 802
Prohousing Designation Criteria Assessment
Page 9
4F
Development and regular (at
least biennial) use of a housing
subsidy pool, local or regional
trust fund, or other similar funding
source.
The City annually participates in the
Community Development Block
Grant Program through the Urban
County Cooperative Agreement.
The majority (65%) of these funding
allocations are designated for
affordable housing projects. The
City works with local non-profit
partners to ensure that it receives
competitive affordable housing
project applications biennially at a
minimum, but always encourages
partners to apply annually.
Additionally, the City of San Luis
Obispo founded the San Luis
Obispo Housing Trust Fund and
annually contributes $40,000.00 to
this fund. Resolution No. 11376
(2022 Series).
8e + 1
2/1
4G
Prioritization of local general
funds for affordable housing.
The City has prioritized local
funding for affordable housing
through fee deferrals, the Grants-in-
Aid Program, and partnering with a
Below Market Housing
Administrator (HouseKeys) which is
overseen by the City’s Housing
Team.
8e + 1
2/1
4H
Demonstration of other actions,
not listed above, that quantifiably
promote, develop, or leverage
financial resources for housing.
The City coordinates the
designation of funding instruments
such as the Tax Credit Allocation
Committee program or the Tax
Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act
program to our local non-profit
partners. Resolution No. 11196
(2020 Series).
The City exercises it’s option to
waive reimbursement fees under
the Local Reviewing Agency
Evaluation for these programs to
reduce overall costs to the project
and schedules notices and hearings
to ensure the funds can be
distributed correctly under the
program guidelines.
8e + 1
2/1
Category 4 Score: 14/12
Total Score: 62/60
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