San Bernardino Reaches Agreement with State Over Housing Plan

Under the threat of litigation, the City of San Bernardino agreed to update its housing plan to meet its state-mandated goals, which include 8,123 additional housing units by 2029, Gov. Gavin Newsom and state Attorney General Rob Bonta announced. Under the settlement, the City of San Bernardino will:

• Adopt an expedited compliant housing plan known as a housing element no later than Feb. 7, 2024.
• Modernize its zoning code by April 17, 2024.
• Amend its emergency shelter ordinance to conform with state law, which requires streamlining the permitting process for the construction of new homeless shelters.
• Amend its local density bonus ordinance to conform with state law. State law requires local governments to permit increased density for housing projects that contain affordable dwelling units.
• Be subject to escalating penalties for failure to comply with the terms of the settlement, including limitations on its ability to approve zoning changes and variances, and eventually its ability to permit any development, except for residential projects containing affordable housing.

“Cities that fail to follow the law and plan for their fair share of housing will be held accountable – the status quo will not be tolerated,” said Newsom. “The state is providing incentives, resources and when necessary, taking legal action to ensure that communities do their part to meet the housing needs of Californians.”

Connect Orange County will take place Sept. 27, 2023 at VEA | Newport Beach Marriott in Newport Beach, concurrently with Connect Healthcare Real Estate on Sept. 27 and 28. Click here to register for Connect Orange County, and here to register for Connect Healthcare Real Estate.