Solutions to San Luis Obispo's Housing Crisis

By Dave Romero

Dave's proposals for steps the CITY COUNCIL can take to resolve the housing crisis.

The City's complicated planning procedures and processes compound the housing problem. The Margarita Area, where much of the city's future housing will be located, has been entangled in the city planning process for more than 15 years. The Airport Area and the Orcutt Area have become so mired in the city process that many property owners are opting out, preferring to deal with the county.

City Impact Fees for new houses in the city are $48,000 (greater in annexation areas). These are the highest fees in our area of the state and make housing less affordable for families.

We hear that Cal Poly, Cuesta, and the State or Federal Government should assist the city with our housing problem. They SHOULD, and some agencies are making progress. However, the key question for our City Council is, "What can WE do to help solve the housing crisis?" Token programs that result in a few units here and there won't resolve the housing problem. We need more fundamental changes in City regulations that will enable private enterprise to help make a noticeable difference. These changes can both protect our environment and IMPROVE our quality of life.

During the next 18 months, the City will conduct an extensive review and update of the Housing Element of the General Plan. During their deliberations the Planning Commission and the City Council should carefully review the following:
1. all city planning processes and procedures to eliminate undue complication, cost, and delay;
2. existing city zoning to assure the city has sufficient land zoned for housing, particularly higher density housing;
3. city requirements regarding mixed use, second dwellings, and unnecessary commission review.
4. city codes that are arbitrary and limit flexibility;
5. code requirements covering Subdivision Regulations, density, setbacks, lot coverage, and building heights to determine whether they truly reflect current needs;
6. boundaries of the Urban Reserve Line to see if adjustments are required to accommodate current needs;
7. city Impact Fees to assure they are realistic, fair and necessary.

Extensive public testimony will influence which changes are acceptable to the community while adequately protecting our environment. If enough changes can be made, significant progress can occur toward solving our housing crisis, a fine step toward improving our Quality of Life.