CP&DR Podcast: Mar. 26, 2020: Coronavirus; SB 50; Future of California Housing

The second Trump Administration is likely to back off of zoning reform, environmental protection, and transit funding. Will the state's own laws and policies serve as a firewall against these changes?

Judge rejects several arguments and tells the city to adopt a housing element by September.

Concluding that the Attorney General's Office is likely to win its case against the recalcitrant city, the judge granted both temporary relief and a preliminary injunction while the case moves forward.

The Surf City claimed that its 14th Amendment rights were violated by the RHNA process -- and claimed it could sue because it is a charter city and not a "subdivision of the state". A federal judge disagreed. 

Koll Center Developer Can Use Old EIR: Kennedy Commission Beats Huntington Beach Again

The developer has agreed to withdraw all 14 builder's remedy applications, but would be able to resubmit eight projects for expedited ministerial approval under the city's new rules. 

City makes novel arguments like violation of First Amendment and Commerce Clause, but also argues that its charter city rights are violated and the relationship between the RHNA and CEQA puts it in an untenable position.

Both cities claim that their Housing Elements are compliant, even though HCD has not yet approved them. Sonoma also claimed an apartment proposals application was deficient.

Judge shifts gears and rules against city in Housing Accountability Act case in light of San Mateo ruling.

In turning down a 48-unit condominium project near Beach Boulevard, did Huntington Beach violate the Housing Accountability Act's requirement that findings be based on objective standards? Or will a fire expert's 11th-hour conclusion that one standard was violated be enough to save the city's case?

It can't really be about the buildings. It must be about the people.

Housing experts say small projects will cost less and be easier to build than large multifamily projects weighted down by affordable housing and union labor requirements.