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Since 2000, I have actively addressed housing issues in Santa Cruz.

We have approved close to 1000 new housing units in a variety of sizes and affordability. Two major projects featured 40% of those new units being affordable. We've focused on "smart growth" with higher density being planned and approved in the Downtown and near transportation corridors. We've liberalized our accessory dwelling ordinance, reducing fees and making them easier for residents to complete.

Still to do is an amnesty and grandfathering program to bring illegal units into safety code compliance.

UCSC plans a significant expansion during the next few years. The City must INSIST that adequate housing is developed to meet that need and not cause even more pressure on our housing stock.

Other cities require that 25% of all new units be affordable. We must at least stand by our commitment of inclusionary zoning making 15% of new housing affordable.

 

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See also:

• Bay Area Economics (BAE) information on Affordable Housing and Social Services: http://www.bayareaeconomics.com/aff_hsg2.htm

• "Inclusionary Zoning? A Viable Solution to the Affordable Housing Crisis?" (Innovative Housing Institute): http://www.inhousing.org/NHC-Report/NHC-Main.htm