Document elcerrito_gov_doc_d6f4f7bbae

2007-2014 Housing Element Update REVISED January 2012 City of El Cerrito Environmental and Development Services Department 10890 San Pablo Avenue El Cerrito, CA 94530 Adopted by the City Council on Certified by the State Department of Housing and Community Development on ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 1 of 90 TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Introduction A. Purpose and Content B. Housing Element Update Process C. State Law and Local Planning 1. Consistency with State Law 2. General Plan Consistency 3. Relationship to Other Plans and Programs D. Housing Element Organization E. Citizen Participation II. Housing Needs Assessment and Inventory A. Introduction B. Community Profile 1. Population Trends and Characteristics 2. Housing Type and Composition 3. Income 4. Poverty 5. Employment Trends 6. Special Housing Needs 7. Existing Housing Stock 8. Housing Costs 9. 10. Current Housing III. Resources and Constraints A. Governmental Resources and Constraints 1. Land Use Controls 2. Density Bonus Ordinance 3. Residential Care Facilities 4. Emergency Shelters, Transitional Housing and Single-Room Occupancy Units 5. Second Unit Ordinance 6. Housing for Persons with Disabilities 7. Building Codes and Enforcement 8. Local Processing and Permit Procedures 9. El Cerrito Redevelopment Agency Housing Fund Program 10. On and Off-Site B. Non-Governmental Resources and Constraints 1. Vacant and Underutilized Land 2. Land Prices 3. Construction Costs 4. Financing 5. Energy Conservation 6. Environmental and Infrastructure IV. Housing Policy Program A. Goals, Policies and Programs B. Quantified Objectives APPENDICES Appendix A: Residential Land Resources A. Adequate Sites Analysis 1. Construction Achievements Through January 2008 A-1 ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 2 of 90 2. Site Summary – Future Development Potential A-3 Appendix B: At-Risk Assisted Units 1. Assisted Housing Units at Risk of Converting to Market Rate Rents B-1 2. At-Risk Units B-1 3. Preservation and Replacement B-3 4. Cost B-5 5. Resources for Preserving at-Risk Units B-5 Appendix C: Review of Housing Element Past Performance Appendix D: Glossary of Housing Terms Appendix E: Comments from the Public LIST OF TABLES Section I: Introduction Table I-1: State Housing Element Table I-2: Summary of General Plan Goals and Policies Affecting Section II: Housing Needs Assessment and Inventory Table II-1: Population Growth Table II-2: Projected El Cerrito and Contra Costa County Population Growth 2008-2030 Table II-3: Comparison of Race by City, County, and State Population Table II-4: Age Distribution (percent) Table II-5: Number of Persons per Household (2008) Table II-6: Household Composition by Type Table II-7: Household Income Table II-8: Income Characteristics Table II-9: City of El Cerrito and Contra Costa County 2008 Household Income Range by Income Table II-10: Contra Costa County Income Limits Table II-11: Poverty Thresholds Table II-12: El Cerrito 2008 Poverty Rates Table II-13: Major Employers (2008-2009) Table II-14: Oakland-Fremont-Hayward Metropolitan Division Projections of Employment 2009 Table II-15: Pattern of Aging of the El Cerrito Population Table II-16: State Department of Social Services Licensed Elderly Care Facilities Table II-17: Housing Problems – Extremely Low Income Households Table II-18: Housing Estimates for the City of El Cerrito (2000 through Table II-19: Housing Estimates for Contra Costa County (2000 through Table II-20: Housing Occupancy (2008) Table II-21: Homeownership Rates (2000) Table II-22: Tenure by Age Table II-23: Age of Housing Units Table II-24: Persons Per Room in All Occupied Housing Units – 2008 Table II-25: Median Rental Rates in El Cerrito and surrounding Cities (2009) Table II-26: 2008 Fair Market Rents for Existing Housing in Contra Costa County Table II-27: Mobile Home Park Space Rental Rates Table II-28: Home Prices in El Cerrito (October 2010) Table II-29: Median Home Prices for El Cerrito and Surrounding Areas (February Table II-30: Number of Households Paying Over 30 Percent of Income on Housing (2000)......38 ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 3 of 90 Table II-31: El Cerrito Housing Expenditure Rate per Income Group Table II-32: Homes Sold that Are Affordable to Lower-Income Households Table II-33: Regional Housing Needs Determination (2007-2014) Table II-34: Affordable Unit Development Chart Section III: Resources and Constraints Table III-1: El Cerrito General Plan Residential Land Use Table III-2: Residential Uses Allowed in All Table III-3: Residential Development Table III-4: Multi-family Residential Development Standards in Commercial Zones Table III-5: Required Residential Parking Table III-6: Low & Moderate Income Housing Fund - Projected Revenues Available for Housing Program Table III-7: Parcels for Sale or Sold in 2010 Table III-8: Mortgage Lending Rates-2007 Oakland-Fremont-Hayward MSA Section IV: Housing Policy Program Table IV-1: Quantified Objectives (January 1, 2007 – June 30, 2014) Appendix A: Residential Land Resources Table A-1: Residential Projects Built or Approved since January 1, A-2 Table A-2: Remaining Need Based on Units Approved/Built/Under A-2 Table A-3: Available Land Inventory A-3 Table A-4: Zoning Districts that Permit A-29 Table A-5: Allowable Building A-29 Map A-1: Available Land Inventory – Northern 1/3 of El Cerrito A-30 Map A-2: Available Land Inventory – Middle 1/3 of El A-31 Map A-3: Available Land Inventory – Southern 1/3 of El A-32 Appendix B: At-Risk Assisted Units Table B-1: Inventory of Publicly Assisted Rental Housing B-1 Table B-2: Market Value of At-Risk B-3 Table B-3: Rental Subsidies B-4 ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 4 of 90 I. INTRODUCTION A. PURPOSE AND CONTENT The City of El Cerrito’s Housing Element is the component of the City’s General Plan that addresses housing needs and opportunities for present and future El Cerrito residents through 2014. The Housing Element provides the primary policy guidance for local decision- making related to housing. The Housing Element of the General Plan is the only General Plan Element that requires review and certification by the State of California. The Housing Element provides a detailed analysis of El Cerrito’s demographic, economic and housing characteristics as required by State law. The Element also provides a comprehensive evaluation of the City’s progress in implementing the past policy and action programs related to housing production, preservation, conservation, and rehabilitation. Based on the community’s housing needs, available resources, constraints, opportunities and past performance, the Housing Element identifies goals, policies, actions and objectives that address the housing needs of present and future El Cerrito residents. The El Cerrito Housing Element is based on four strategic goals that have been developed by the community over time: 1) conserve and improve El Cerrito’s existing housing supply, 2) facilitate and encourage the development of housing to meet regional housing needs allocations established by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 3) expand housing opportunities for the elderly, the handicapped, households with very low- to moderate-income, and for persons with special housing needs, and 4) promote housing opportunities for all persons regardless of race, age, marital status, ancestry, national origin or color. B. HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE PROCESS The California State Legislature has identified the attainment of a decent home and suitable living environment for every Californian as the State’s main housing goal. Recognizing the important part that local planning programs play in pursuit of this goal, the Legislature has mandated that all cities and counties prepare a Housing Element as part of their comprehensive General Plans (California Government Code Section 65580 et al.). It is intended that this Housing Element be reviewed annually and updated and modified no less than every five years in order to remain relevant and useful and reflect the community’s changing housing needs. This Housing Element covers the planning period from January 2007 to July 2014. The time frame of the planning period is determined by State law. This document represents the update required and responds to the issues that currently face the City. C. STATE LAW AND LOCAL PLANNING 1. Consistency with State Law The Housing Element is one of the seven General Plan elements mandated by the State of California, as articulated in Sections 65580 to 65589.8 of the California Government Code. State law requires that each jurisdiction’s Housing Element consist of “an identification and analysis of existing and projected housing needs and a statement of goals, policies, ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 5 of 90 quantified objectives, and scheduled program actions for the preservation, improvement, and development of housing.” The Housing Element plans for the provision of housing for all segments of the population. Section 65583 of the Government Code sets forth specific requirements regarding the scope and content of each Housing Element. Table I-1 summarizes these requirements and identifies the applicable sections in the Housing Element where these requirements are addressed. Table I-1 State Housing Element Requirements Required Housing Element Component Reference A. Housing Needs Assessment 1. Analysis of population trends in El Cerrito in relation to countywide trends Section II 2. Analysis of employment trends in El Cerrito in relation to regional trends Section II 3. Projections and quantification of El Cerrito’s existing and projected housing needs for all income groups Section III 4. Analysis and documentation of El Cerrito’s housing characteristics, including: a. Level of housing cost compared to ability to pay Section II b. Overcrowding Section II c. Housing stock condition Section II 5. An inventory of land suitable for residential development including vacant sites and having redevelopment potential and an analysis of the relationship of zoning, public facilities and services to these sites Appendix A 6. Analysis of potential and actual governmental constraints upon the maintenance, improvement, or development of housing for all income levels Section III 7. Analysis of potential and actual nongovernmental constraints upon the maintenance, improvement, or development of housing for all income levels Section III 8. Analysis of special housing need: elderly, persons with disabilities, large families, farm workers, and families with female heads of household Section II 9. Analysis of housing needs for families and persons in need of emergency shelter Section II 10. Analysis of opportunities for energy conservation with respect to residential development Section III 11. Analysis of assisted housing developments that are eligible to change from lower-income housing during the next 10 years Appendix B B. Goals and Policies 12. Identification of El Cerrito’s goals, quantified objectives and policies relative to maintenance, improvement and development of housing Section IV C. Implementation Program ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 6 of 90 13. Identify adequate sites which will be made available through appropriate action with required public services and facilities for a variety of housing types for all income levels Appendix A 14. Programs to assist in the development of adequate housing to meet the needs of low and moderate income households. Section IV 15. Address, and where appropriate and legally possible, remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing Section IV 16. Remove constraints to or provide reasonable accommodations for housing for persons with disabilities Section IV 17. Conserve and improve the condition of the existing affordable housing stock in El Cerrito Section IV 18. Promote housing opportunities for all persons Section IV 19. Identify programs to address the potential conversion of assisted housing development to market-rate housing Appendix B 20. Program actions to identify zone(s) where emergency shelters are permitted without a conditional use or other discretionary permit and with the capacity to meet the needs of individuals and persons needing emergency shelter. Section II 2. General Plan Consistency The Housing Element is one component of the City’s overall long-range planning strategy. The California Government Code requires that the General Plan contain an integrated, consistent set of goals and policies. The Housing Element is affected by policies contained in other elements of the General Plan. For example, the Land Use Element designates land for residential development and indicates the type, location and density of the residential development permitted in the City. Working within this framework, the Housing Element identifies goals, policies, actions and objectives for the planning period that directly addresses the housing needs of El Cerrito’s existing and future residents. The policies contained within other elements of the General Plan affect many aspects of life that residents enjoy – the amount and variety of open space, the preservation of natural, historic and cultural resources, the permitted noise levels in residential areas and the safety of the residents in the event of a natural or man-made disaster. The Housing Element policies must be consistent with policies identified in other elements of the General Plan. The Housing Element has been reviewed for consistency with the City’s other General Plan elements. The policies and programs in this Element reflect the policy direction contained in other parts of the General Plan, which was last updated in 1999. As portions of the General Plan are amended in the future, this Housing Element will be reviewed to ensure that internal consistency is maintained. The 1999 General Plan contains several elements with policies related to housing. Policies and the means for achieving consistency are summarized in Table I-2. The City will ensure consistency between the Housing Element and General Plan policies through the following actions: ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 7 of 90 Table I-2 Summary of General Plan Goals and Policies Affecting Housing General Plan Element Policy Means for Achieving Consistency LU1.1 Ensure that the existing single-family neighborhoods remain in predominately single-family use, but include accessory units, by prohibiting incompatible uses. All new housing units developed will comply with the City’s existing zoning. LU1.3 Ensure that all multi-family or mixed-use development in residential areas addresses compatibility and quality of life issues. All new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will incorporate size and design to blend with existing architecture and neighborhood character as well as provide housing for a variety of needs. LU1.5 Promote suitably located housing and services for all age groups within the City. All new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will be phased in accordance with the population and job growth in the City and will provide for a variety of housing needs. LU1.6 Encourage diverse housing types, such as live-work units, studio spaces, townhouses, co-housing, congregate care, and garden apartments. The updated Housing Element policies encourage a diversity of housing types to be incorporated in order to meet the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). LU1.7 Maintain the maximum multi-family density at 35 dwelling units per acre, except as otherwise provided in this Plan. All new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will be developed in compliance with the City’s Zoning Ordinance and General Plan densities. LU1.8 Maintain the appearance of existing residential areas by discouraging paving of front yards and parkway strips, excessively wide curb cuts and driveways, and inappropriate fence materials in front yards. All new proposed housing units constructed in the City would be in compliance with the City’s design guidelines. Land Use LU5.1 Encourage high-densities and a mix of uses near the city’s two Bay Area Regional Transit (BART) stations to take advantage of the transit opportunities they provide. Some housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element may be constructed between the City’s two BART stations to take advantage of the transit opportunities the City provides. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 8 of 90 LU5.2 Encourage mixed-use centers along San Pablo Avenue including development along Fairmount Avenue, Stockton Avenue and Moeser Lane, between San Pablo Avenue and the Ohlone Greenway, that provide the opportunity for people to walk among business, employment, and residences. Some high-density housing units may be constructed in mixed-use centers along various downtown City streets to encourage people to walk among business, employment, and residences. LU5.3 Encourage mixed uses, especially offices or housing over ground-floor retail uses, where commercial uses are allowed. Some high-density housing units may be incorporated into mixed-use projects over commercial uses on the ground floor. CD1.1 Preserve and enhance the character of existing residential neighborhoods by limiting encroachment of new buildings and activities that are out of scale and character with the surrounding uses. All new housing units constructed in the City will reflect the architectural style of the neighborhoods in which they are placed and any visual impacts to the surrounding environment will be carefully considered. CD4.3 Provide front yards in residential areas with structures and parking lots stepped along public streets in keeping with the character and setbacks of surrounding buildings. Ensure that yard spaces are landscaped appropriately to fit the surrounding context. All new housing developed will comply with the City’s Community Development and Design Element. Policies established in the updated Housing Element will not conflict with the current General Plan. CD4.4 Ensure that building design takes into consideration air circulation, natural lighting, views, and shading areas to interior and exterior spaces. All proposed housing units will take into special consideration air circulation, natural lighting, views, and shading areas around interior and exterior spaces. CD4.5 Integrate good design with the use of energy efficient techniques and equipments, and with materials and construction practices that minimize adverse environmental affects. The updated Housing Element policies encourage the use of energy efficient techniques and equipment, and construction practices that minimize adverse environmental affects. Community Development and Design CD5.2 Encourage planned development projects and other techniques that cluster developments to create and preserve open spaces, views, and other amenities. Where possible, all new housing units proposed in the updated Housing Element will be clustered to reduce encroachment into open space areas, views, and other amenities. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 9 of 90 Growth Management GM5.1 Adopt and implement a development mitigation program requiring developers to pay the costs necessary to offset impacts of their projects on the local police, fire and park service system. Ensure that the local development review process includes consultation with contract agencies supplying domestic water, sanitary sewage and flood control services so that cost impacts are identified and appropriate mitigation included on a cooperative basis. All new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will comply with the City’s development review process. T2.1 Recognize the link between land use and transportation. Promote land use and development patterns that encourage walking, bicycling, and transit use. Emphasize high-density and mixed land use patterns that promote transit and pedestrian travel. Some of the City’s housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will be located in mixed-use projects and high density housing units that promote transit and pedestrian travel. Transportation and Circulation T2.2 Projects should be designed to include features that encourage walking, bicycling, and transit use. Where feasible new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will incorporate features that encourage walking, bicycling, and transit use. PR1.3 Use a level of service standard of five acres of publicly owned parkland per 1,000 residents as the minimum requirement for recreation and open space land. All new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will comply by the City’s standard of five acres of publicly owned park land per 1,000 residents as the minimum requirement for recreation and open space land. Public Facilities and Services PR1.12 Require that all new multi-family residential projects provide on-site open space and recreational facilities for residents or provide a combination of park in-lieu fees and on-site facilities. All new multifamily residential projects proposed by the updated Housing Element will provide on-site facilities for the residences including open space or a means for providing open space. Police Service PS1.1 Prior to approval of new development, the Police Department shall be requested to review all applications to determine the ability of the department to provide protection services. All new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will be reviewed by the Police Department to determine the ability of the department to provide protection services. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 10 of 90 Fire Service PS2.1 Prior to approval of new development, the applicant will be required to demonstrate that adequate emergency water supply, storage, and conveyance facilities, and access for fire protection either are, or will be, provided concurrent with development All new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will be reviewed by the Fire Department to determine the ability of the department to provide protection services. PS3.1 Approve new development only if the capacity of public infrastructure is in place or can be reasonably provided. All new housing units developed will show proof that they will be developed to comply with existing capacities. Public Infrastructure PS3.5 Coordinate and work with other service providers, including East Bay Municipal Utilities District (EBMUD), the Stege Sanitary District, the East Bay Sanitary Company, Contra Costa County, Caltrans, BART, AC Transit, and the East Bay Regional Park District to ensure adequate and safe public infrastructure to serve existing and planned development in the community. All new housing units developed will be designed to comply with existing service providers in the community. R1.1 Limit development in areas that support rare and endangered species. If development of these areas must occur, any loss of habitat should be fully compensated onsite. If off-site mitigation is necessary, it should occur within the El Cerrito planning area whenever possible, and a monitoring program prepared by a qualified biologist. No new housing units are proposed in environmentally sensitive areas, and if development should occur, any loss of habitat will be fully compensated onsite. If off-site mitigation is necessary, it should occur within the El Cerrito planning area wherever possible. R1.3 Encourage development patterns that minimize impacts on the City’s biological, visual and cultural resources, and integrate development with open space areas. The updated Housing Element does not propose the development of housing in any environmentally sensitive areas. Resources and Hazards R1.9 For development adjacent to creeks and major drainages, provide adequate building setbacks from creek banks, provision of access easements for creek maintenance purposes and for public access to creekside amenities, and creek improvements such as bank stabilization. Also, protect riparian vegetation outside the setback. Any new housing units constructed adjacent to creeks and major drainages will require the necessary building setbacks regulated by the City, and special consideration for the natural vegetation in the area will be taken in to consideration. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 11 of 90 R1.12 Control development on ridges to protect the form of the ridges and, in particular, by restricting development on ridgelines. Natural contours and vegetation on ridgelines should be maintained. Locate and design structures and other public and private improvements so as to minimize cut and fill areas that will impact public views, safety and surrounding uses, and avoid building profiles (silhouettes) being located above the ridgelines when viewed from public and designated public access areas. No new housing units developed in the City will be developed on ridgelines. All new units will be constructed in a way that minimizes cut and fill areas that could potentially impact public views, safety, and surrounding uses. R1.13 Preserve prominent views of visual resources and the bay, and consider visual access and view corridors when reviewing development proposals. Require assessment of critical public views, ridgelines, scenic overlooks, bay vista points, significant knolls, stands of trees, rock outcrops, and major visual features as part of the project review process to assure that projects protect natural resources through proper site planning, building design and landscaping, and that public access is provided if possible to vista points. An assessment of critical public views will be taken into consideration in every housing-units proposal. All prominent views of visual resources and the bay will be preserved. H1.9 Evaluate new development on sites that may have involved hazardous materials (such as older fill sites, historical auto service uses, industrial uses, or areas where hazardous materials may have been used) prior to development approvals. All new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will comply with the City’s Building Code and will be inspected by the City’s Building Inspector for compliance with all geological hazards prevention standards H1.15 Flood Hazards. Assure existing and new structures are designed to protect people and property from the threat of potential flooding. New development shall be designed to provide protection from potential impacts of flooding during the chance” or “100-year” flood. H1.16 In order to maintain unobstructed drainage courses, existing laws prohibiting the dumping of debris, fill or other waste materials into creeks and channels, and the littering of garbage should be strictly enforced. The City will also continue to maintain a high level of maintenance for its storm drainage facilities. New developments will be carefully reviewed to insure that adequate storm drain facilities are available both on and off the site. H1.17 Ensure storm drainage capacity to be available to carry runoff generated by new developments, and implement the City’s Storm Water Master Plan. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 12 of 90 H3.1 New residential development projects shall meet acceptable exterior noise level standards. All new housing units proposed by the updated Housing Element will comply with the City of El Cerrito’s General Plan, which includes noise level standards. 3. Relationship to Other Plans and Programs The Housing Element identifies goals, objectives, policies and action programs for the 2007- 2014 Planning period that directly address the housing needs of El Cerrito. There are a number of City plans and programs that work to implement the goals and policies of the Housing Element, including, the City’s Municipal Code and Zoning Ordinance. a. El Cerrito Municipal Code The El Cerrito Municipal Code contains the regulatory and penal ordinances and certain administrative ordinances of the City, codified pursuant to Sections 50022.1 through 50022.8 and 50022.10 of the Government Code. The El Cerrito Municipal Code includes the City’s Zoning regulations. The Subdivision Chapter of the Municipal Code regulates the design, development and implementation of land division. It applies when a parcel is divided into two or more parcels; a parcel is consolidated with one or more other parcels; or the boundaries of two or more parcels are adjusted to change the size and/or configuration of the parcels. Title 19 - Zoning of the Municipal Code is the primary tool for implementing the General Plan, and is designed to protect and promote the health, safety and welfare of the people. The Zoning Chapter designates various districts and outlines the permitted, conditionally permitted and prohibited uses for each zone district. Finally, Title 19 provides property development standards for each zone district and overall administrative and legislative procedures. b. Redevelopment Plans The State Legislature allows cities to adopt Redevelopment Plans under the State of California’s Community Redevelopment Law (CRL). The Redevelopment Plans are intended to reverse deteriorating economic and physical conditions; redevelop blighted, underutilized and vacant properties; improve public facilities and infrastructure; and produce revenues through the development of job-creating properties. These plans are one of the more powerful means cities have to implement the goals and policies set forth in their General Plan. El Cerrito has one redevelopment project area with approximately 368 acres of land. c. Specific Plans Specific Plans are customized regulatory documents that provide focused guidance and regulations for a particular area to address the specific characteristics or needs for that area. They generally include a land use plan, circulation plan, infrastructure plan, zoning ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 13 of 90 classifications, development standards, design guidelines, and implementation plan. The San Pablo Avenue Specific Plan is currently in progress and is the first plan for San Pablo Avenue that cooperatively involves the City of Richmond. D. HOUSING ELEMENT ORGANIZATION California Government Code Section 65583 requires a jurisdiction’s Housing Element include the following components: • A review of the previous Element’s goals, policies, objectives and programs to ascertain the effectiveness of each of these components, as well as the overall effectiveness of the Housing Element. • An assessment of housing need and an inventory of resources and constraints related to meeting these needs. • A statement of goals, policies and quantified objectives related to the maintenance, preservation, improvement and development of housing. • A policy program that provides a schedule of actions that the City is undertaking or intends to undertake implementing the policies set forth in the Housing Element. The El Cerrito Housing Element is organized into four parts: I. Introduction - Explains the purpose, process and contents of the Housing Element. II. Housing Needs Assessment and Inventory - Describes the demographic, economic and housing characteristics of El Cerrito and analyzes the current and projected housing needs in El Cerrito. III. Resources and Constraints - Analyzes the actual and potential governmental and nongovernmental constraints to the rehabilitation, preservation, conservation and construction of housing IV. Housing Policy Program - Details specific policies and programs the City of El Cerrito will carry out over the planning period to address the City’s housing goals. Given the detail and analysis in developing the Housing Element, supporting background material is included in the following appendices: • Appendix A: Land Resources • Appendix B: At-Risk Assisted Units • Appendix C: Review of Past Performance • Appendix D: Glossary of Housing Terms • Appendix E: Comments from the Public ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 14 of 90 E. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION The California Government Code requires that local governments make diligent efforts to solicit public participation from all segments of the community in the development of the Housing Element. In compliance with this requirement, the City of El Cerrito has completed the public outreach and community involvement activities described below: The Housing Element was developed through combined efforts of City staff, the City’s Planning Commission, City Council and El Cerrito residents and stakeholders. Community input was sought and received through public workshops, hearings and direct communication with stakeholder groups. Citywide informational materials were available via a Citywide newsletter and the City website. The City also reached out to the organizations and stakeholders listed in the Element. Response and participation by those organizations was limited. The City has historically had low participation when it comes to long-range planning. For example, when a new Zoning Ordinance was developed, over 10,000 individual postcards were sent to every household in the City. This generated less than 8 people at the City Council hearings and even less at the Planning Commission. Community involvement has historically been much higher for individual development projects than for policy items.1. Public Meetings and Hearings A Housing Element Study Session/Community Workshop was held on May 19, 2010 to cover general information about the housing element as it related to 1) The City’s General Plan, 2) State and Federal requirements, and 3) Association of Bay Area Government’s (ABAG’s) Regional Housing Needs Determination and begin discussion of existing and proposed goals and policies. A Housing Element Study Session was held on June 16, 2010 with the Planning Commission to review and revise the Housing Element’s existing and proposed goals and policies. A study session was conducted on the draft Housing Element prior to its submittal to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for the initial review with the Planning Commission on February 16, 2011 and the City Council on February 22, 2011. Public hearings on the revised Housing Element were conducted after receipt and consideration of HCD’s comments, and prior to City Council adoption of the updated Housing Element. The Planning Commission hearing was conducted on October 19, 2011 and the City Council hearing on TBD. 2. Public Notice and Outreach The City prepared notification using a variety of media and techniques to inform the public and interested organizations of the update process, and to solicit participation by all segments of the community. Articles and notices regarding the development of the Housing Element and references to meetings and available resources regarding the Element were included numerous times within the Citywide Newsletter that is delivered to all residences and businesses in the City. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 15 of 90 The City of El Cerrito website established a web page for the Housing Element (http://www.el-cerrito.org/planning/HousingElement.html) to keep the public and interested stakeholders up to date on Element development process. The draft Housing Element was made available on the City’s website for public review and comment at the same time as the initial submittal to HCD for compliance review. Subsequent drafts will be placed on the City’s website. Additionally, the City notified stakeholder groups and other interested parties of the availability of the draft in writing. The following is a list of Community Outreach Groups that have been notified about all public meetings and the availability of the draft document Executive Director Shelter Inc. 1815 Arnold Drive Martinez, CA 94553 Housing Coordinator Salvation Army 4600 Appian Way El Sobrante, CA Pastor St. John Baptist Catholic Church 11150 San Pablo Ave. El Cerrito, CA 94530 Contra Costa Housing Authority 3133 Estudillo Street Martinez, CA 94553 Executive Director Child Care Council 3065 Richmond Parkway Suite #112 Richmond, CA 94801-5719 Contra Costa Housing Authority Richmond Office 1601 N. Jade St. Richmond, CA 94801 Housing Coordinator County Homeless Crisis Center P.O. Box 3364 Walnut Creek, CA 94598 Executive Director Bay Area Rescue Mission 2114 MacDonald Ave. Richmond, CA 94801-2934 Housing Coordinator St. Vincent De Paul Society 2210 Gladstone Drive Pittsburg, CA 94565 Executive Director WIC 2355 Stanwell Circle Concord CA 94520 Executive Director Contra Costa Housing Authority 3133 Estidullo Ave. Martinez, CA 94553 Executive Director Greater Richmond Interfaith Program (GRIP) 165 22nd St. Richmond CA, 94801 Greenbelt Alliance 631 Howard Street, Suite 510 San Francisco, CA 94105 Bay Area Legal Aid 1025 MacDonald Ave. Richmond, CA 94802 Non-Profit Housing Association of Northern California 369 Pine Street, Suite 350 San Francisco, CA 94104 ABAG P.O. Box 2050 Oakland, CA 94604-2050 Contra Costa County Homeless Program 597 Center Ave., Suite 325 Martinez, CA 94553 Center for Elders Independence 510 17th Street, Suite 300 Oakland, CA 94612 Rubicon Programs Inc. 2500 Bissell Ave, Richmond, CA 94804. Attention: Director of Housing and Case Management. East Bay Housing Organizations 538 9th Street, Suite 200 Oakland, CA 94607 Attention: Executive Director Urban Habitat 436 14th St. # 1205 Oakland California, 94612 Attention: Land Use & Housing Program ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 16 of 90 3. Stakeholder meetings A Housing Element Community Forum addressing the draft Housing Element was held on February 15, 2011. Members of the public and representatives of housing advocacy organizations and homeowners associations attended the forum. 4. Public Review of Documents Throughout the process of updating the Housing Element, the City posted relevant documents, including presentation materials and draft documents on the website for easy download and review by residents and interested parties. A public review draft was prepared and made available to the community for a 60-day period from March 1, 2011. The public review draft was sent to the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), Contra Costa County, non-profit organizations, and various service providers. Public comments received on the Draft Housing Element are summarized in Appendix E. As appropriate, the Housing Element has been revised to address the comments. The 2007- 2014 Housing Element includes programs to further housing rehabilitation and neighborhood improvement efforts and to facilitate the development of a variety of housing types to better match the community’s housing needs. However, the City recognizes the limited resources available compared to the extent of housing needs. Objectives established in the Housing Element are based on the realistic financial resources available to the City. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 17 of 90 II. HOUSING NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND INVENTORY A. INTRODUCTION The Housing Needs Assessment analyzes population and housing characteristics, identifies special housing needs among certain population groups, evaluates housing conditions, and provides other important information to support the goals, policies, and programs to meet the needs of current and future El Cerrito residents. An understanding of housing needs helps formulate an appropriate and adequate housing plan for the City. The needs assessment and inventory focuses on demographic information, such as population trends, ethnicity, age, household composition, income, employment, housing characteristics, general housing needs by income, and housing needs for specialized segments of the population. Primary data sources utilized in this analysis include the 2000 U.S. Census, the 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates, the California Department of Finance (DOF), the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG). These data sources are the most reliable for assessing existing conditions and provide a basis for consistent comparison with historical data and for making forecasts. B. COMMUNITY PROFILE 1. Population Trends and Characteristics The type and amount of housing need in a community is largely determined by population growth and various demographic characteristics. Factors such as age, race/ethnicity, occupation, and income level combine to influence the type of housing needed and the ability to afford housing. This section provides a summary of the changes to the population size, age and racial composition of the City. a. Historical, Existing and Forecast Growth The City of El Cerrito is one of 19 cities in Contra Costa County. The DOF estimates that Contra Costa County’s population in 2008 was 1,061,325. Table 10-2 lists adjacent counties and their respective populations. El Cerrito was incorporated in 1917. Since then, the City’s population has increased steadily until the 1960s, with the greatest increase occurring between 1940 and 1960. Between 1960 and 1980, the population declined as the City reached build-out and household sizes declined. El Cerrito’s population began to increase again slowly, beginning in 1980 due to an influx of residents seeking lower housing costs and larger home sizes. Between 1990 and 2000, the City gained 482 residents, increasing from 22,869 to 23,171. Much of the population growth experienced in El Cerrito since 1990 has resulted from infill development, redevelopment and changes in household size. Between 2000 and 2008, limited growth has occurred as El Cerrito continues to rely on infill development. Table II-1 compares changes in El Cerrito’s and Contra Costa County’s population since 1990. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 18 of 90 Table II-1 Population Growth 1990 2000 2008 Percent Change City 22,869 23,171 23,431 + 1% County 803,732 948,816 1,061,325 + 12% Source: 1990 and 2000 U.S. Census Data, California Department of Finance, E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties and the State, 2001-2010. Table II-2 shows the City of El Cerrito and Contra Costa County’s projected population increases between 2008 and 2030 according to the American Community Survey and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG). ABAG has projected an approximately 4 percent increase in population between 2008 and 2020, and an approximately 4.7 percent increase between 2020 and 2030. Comparatively, in Contra Costa County, ABAG has projected a 19 percent growth rate increase between 2008 and 2020, and an 8 percent growth rate increase between 2020 and 2030. U.S. Census data indicate that the number of households in the City increased from 10,208 to 10,213 (less than 1 percent) between 2000 and 2008. ABAG projects that the number of households in the City is estimated to grow to 10,820 by 2020 (6 percent) and is expected to grow to 11,310 in 2030 (5.5 percent). By 2020 the number of persons per household is projected to decrease from 2.3 to 2.23. In the year 2030, the number of persons per household is estimated to remain relatively the same at 2.24. ABAG projects Contra Costa County to experience an increase in the number of persons per household from 2.73 to 2.75 by 2020, and decrease from 2.75 to 2.73 by 2030. Table II-2 Projected El Cerrito and Contra Costa County Population Growth 2008-2030 2008 2020 2030 Population El Cerrito 23,4311 24,4002 25,6002 Contra Costa County 948,8161 1,177,4002 1,273,7002 Households El Cerrito 10,2131 10,8202 11,3102 Contra Costa County 344,1291 424,3402 461,3302 Persons per Household El Cerrito 2.31 2.232 2.242 Contra Costa County 2.731 2.752 2.732 Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates and ABAG Projections 2009. 1 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates. 2 ABAG 2009 Projections. b. Ethnicity An analysis of El Cerrito’s population between 2000 and 2008 (Table II-3) shows a slight shift in the City’s demographic distribution. Over 50 percent of the population is White; however, there was a 1 percent increase in Blacks, a 1 percent decrease in Asian/Pacific Islanders and a 1 percent increase in Hispanics. In 2000, the Census introduced a new ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 19 of 90 category called “two or more races.” Nine percent of the City’s residents have identified themselves with this category. By comparison, the countywide and statewide population has a larger percentage of persons of Hispanic origin and a smaller proportion of persons of Asian/Pacific Islander origin. Table II-3 Comparison of Race by City, County, and State Population Race City (1990) City (2000) City (2008) County (2008) State (2008) White 62% 58% 56% 62% 60% Black 9% 9% 10% 9% 6% Native American 1% Asian/Pacific Islander 22% 25% 24% 14% 13% Other 3.1% 4.2% 10% 16% Two or More Races * 5.5% 6% 4% 3% Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 6% 8% 9% 22% 36% Source: 1990 & 2000 U.S. Census Data, 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates. *This category began with the 2000 Census. c. Age of Population A comparison of the ages of the City, County, and State population shows significant differences (Table II-4). El Cerrito has a higher percentage of residents aged 65 and older, and a lower percentage of minors (under 18) than either countywide or statewide. Therefore, El Cerrito has a higher median age, 44 in 2008 according to the Census, compared to 38 for all of Contra Costa County and 35 for all of California. Individuals over the age of 35 comprised 64 percent of the City’s population in 2000, compared to 54 percent countywide and 50 percent statewide. Table II-4 Age Distribution (percent) Age El Cerrito 2008 Contra Costa County 2008 California 2008 Under 5 years 6% 7% 7% 5 to 19 years 12% 21% 21% 20 to 34 years 17% 19% 22% 35 to 54 years 31% 30% 29% 55 to 64 years 14% 12% 10% 65 and over 19% 12% 11% Median age 44 38 35 Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 20 of 90 2. Household Type and Composition Further insight into the characteristics of the City’s population can be gained by examining the composition of the household population, such as the proportion of families with children, single adults, and single parents. Table II-5 shows that two-person households represented the highest percentage of households (40 percent). One-person households represented the next largest percentage (28 percent). Compared to the countywide population, El Cerrito has a higher proportion of one- and two-person households and a lower percentage of households with three or more persons. Table II-5 Number of Persons per Household (2008) El Cerrito 2008 Contra Costa County 2008 1 Person 28% 22% 2 Persons 40% 34% 3 Persons 16% 18% 4 Persons 11% 16% 5 Persons 3% 6% 6 Persons 1% 2% 7+ Persons 1% 2% Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates. Consistent with the City’s profile of smaller households, El Cerrito has a lower percentage of family households and a higher percentage of non-family, single-person and elderly households (Table II-6). Table II-6 Household Composition by Type (2008) Number of People Percent of People Household Type City County City County Households Family households (families) 6,359 254,623 62.30% 69.80% With own children under 18 years 2,640 124,249 25.80% 34.10% Married-couple family 4,692 194,163 45.90% 53.20% With own children under 18 years 1,673 91,514 16.40% 25.10% Male householder, no wife present, family 409 18,795 4.00% 5.20% With own children under 18 years 153 8,939 1.50% 2.50% Female householder, no husband present, family 1,258 41,665 12.30% 11.40% With own children under 18 years 814 23,796 8.00% 6.50% Nonfamily households 3,854 110,020 37.70% 30.20% ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 21 of 90 Householder living alone 2,915 88,842 28.50% 24.40% 65 years and over 1,014 30,216 9.90% 8.30% Total 10,213 364,643 Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates. 3. Income Characteristics The 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates reported that the median household income in El Cerrito was $81,972 and the mean household income was $96,727. Contra Costa County’s median household income was $78,619 and the mean household income was $103,553. Table II-7 shows the distribution of incomes in 2008 for El Cerrito and Contra Costa County. Table II-7 Household Income (2008) Income 2008 Percent of Total Households in El Cerrito 2008 Percent of Total Households in Contra Costa County Less than $10,000 2.70% 4.00% $10,000 to $14,999 4.30% 3.70% $15,000 to $24,999 7.40% 6.60% $25,000 to $34,999 6.00% 6.90% $35,000 to $49,999 9.50% 10.40% $50,000 to $74,999 16.50% 16.10% $75,000 to $99,999 11.80% 14.10% $100,000 to $149,999 25.60% 18.90% $150,000 to $199,999 9.10% 8.70% $200,000 or more 7.20% 10.70% Median household income (dollars) 81,972 78,619 Mean household income (dollars) 96,727 103,553 Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates. Four income categories are typically used for comparative purposes. These categories are based on a percentage of the County median income and adjusted for household size (Table II-8). These categories are referred to as “very low-income,” “low-income,” “moderate-income,” and “above-moderate-income.” The median income on which these four categories are based represents the mid-point at which half of the households earn more and half earn less. In a normally distributed population (that is, one not skewed to either end of the income scale), approximately 40 percent of the population will have income within the very low- and low-income ranges, about 20 percent within the moderate-income range, and about 40 percent in the above moderate-income range. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 22 of 90 Table II-8 Income Characteristics Income Definitions Extremely Low-Income 30 percent of the Contra Costa County Median Income Very Low-Income 50 percent of the Contra Costa County Median Income Low-Income 51 to 80 percent of the Contra Costa County Median Income Moderate-Income 81 to 120 percent of the Contra Costa County Median Income Above Moderate-Income 121 percent of the Contra Costa County Median Income Source: HUD Income Limits, 2008. Income comparison between the City and County, based on 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates data shows that the City and County have a relatively similar percentage of people in the extremely low-, very low- and low-income categories (Table II-9). The City has a higher percentage of households in the moderate- and above moderate-income category (57 percent compared to 56 percent). Table II-9 City of El Cerrito and Contra Costa County 2008 Household Income Range by Income Category Income Category 2008 Income Range El Cerrito % of Households in 2008 (approximately) Contra Costa County % of Households in 2008 (approximately) Extremely Low Income $0-$25,830 14.4% 14.3% Very Low Income $25,831-$43,050 12.34% 12.94% Low Income $43,051-$68,880 16.66% 16.58% Moderate Income $68,881-$103,320 15.8% 18.1% Above Moderate Income $103,321 and over 40.9% 37.9% 2000 Contra Costa County Median Family Income: $67,6001 2000 El Cerrito City Median Family Income: $57,2533 2008 Contra Costa County Median Family Income: $86,1002 2008 El Cerrito City Median Family Income: $96,0474 Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates 1 2000 Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Income Limits 2 2008 Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Income Limits 3 2000 U.S. Census Median Family Income – American Fact Finder 4 2008 U.S. Census Median Family Income – American Fact Finder Another measure of change in income is the annual update of income limits prepared by the federal government and adopted by the State of California. These limits define income levels for the four income groups discussed previously (very low-, low-, moderate-, and above-moderate-) based on a percentage of median income for the county in which the jurisdiction is located. Although these income limits are not based on actual surveys of local ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 23 of 90 incomes, the annual changes can show trends in estimated changes among different regions of the State. Table II-10 provides limits for Contra Costa County for 2008. Table II-10 Contra Costa County Income Limits (2008) Household Size Extremely Low-Income (30% of Median) Very Low-Income (50% of Median) Low-Income (80% of Median) 1 Person 18,100 30,150 46,350 2 Persons 20,700 34,450 53,000 3 Persons 23,250 38,750 59,600 4 Persons 25,850 43,050 66,250 5 Persons 27,900 46,500 71,550 6 Persons 30,000 49,950 76,850 7 Persons 32,050 53,400 82,150 8 Persons 34,100 56,850 87,450 Source: HUD, 2008. 4. Poverty The poverty rate is a federally defined level of income for minimum subsistence. The dollar threshold for poverty is adjusted for household size and composition. Table II-11 provides year 2008 poverty thresholds for several types of households. Table II-11 Poverty Thresholds (2008) Single Person 65+ $10,326 Two Adults, One Child $17,330 Single Person Under 65 $11,201 One Adult, Three Children $21,910 Two Persons 65+ $13,030 Two Adults, Two Children $21,834 Two Persons Under 65 $14,489 One Adult, Four Children $25,301 One Adult, Two Children $17,346 Two Adults, Three Children $25,694 Source: 2008 U. S. Census Poverty Data - http://www.census.gov/hhes/www/poverty/data/threshld/thresh08.html According to the 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates, approximately 8.4 percent of the City’s population was below the poverty level (Table II-12). Of households below the poverty level, the poverty rate for seniors was 3.9 percent, 8.3 percent for adults ages 18 to 64, 13.4 percent for persons younger than 18 years of age, and 14.8 percent for single mothers. In the County, approximately 8.8 percent of all persons were impoverished. Eight point two (8.2) percent of all adults (18-64) in the County are below the poverty level, 6.1 percent of all senior citizens and 13.7 percent of all children under 18 are below the poverty level. Single mother represent 19.4 percent of impoverished families. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 24 of 90 Table II-12 El Cerrito 2008 Poverty Rates Group Above Poverty Level Below Poverty Level Poverty Rate 65 years and over 4,545 185 3.9% 18-64 14,130 1,279 8.3% Adults 18 years and over 18,649 1,490 7.4% Under 18 years 3,564 552 13.4% Single-Mother Families 1,072 186 14.8% Married-Couple Families 4,495 197 4.2% Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates 5. Employment Trends Area Employment Profile According to the 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates, 32.6 percent of the El Cerrito residents were employed in educational services, and health care and social assistance. Professional, scientific, and management, and administrative and waste management services had the second largest number of employees (17.8 percent), 9.3 percent were employed in Finance and insurance, and real estate and rental and leasing, and 7.8 percent were employed in Retail trade. In terms of major sources of employment within the City, according to the 2007 US Economic Census, highest number of employers in El Cerrito was based in retail trade, accommodations and food service and professional, scientific, and technical services. The largest number of paid employees were in the retail sector. Table II-13 lists major employers in El Cerrito. Table II-13 Major Employers (2008-2009) Autometrics Nation’s Restaurant Barnes and Noble Orchard Supply Hardware Bed, Bath and Beyond Pastime Hardware Dollar Tree PetCo Animal Supplies City of El Cerrito Romano’s Macaroni Grill Guitar Center Ross Stores Honda of El Cerrito Safeway Stores Long’s Drugs Staples Lucky Supermarket Trader Joe’s Marshall’s Walgreen’s Drug Store McDonald’s Restaurant West Contra Costa Unified School District Source: City of El Cerrito 2009 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 25 of 90 The California Employment Development Department (EDD) produced an Occupational Employment and Wage Data spreadsheet by County for 2008. This spreadsheet lists over 600 jobs in Contra Costa County alone. A sample of jobs and salaries was taken relating to necessary services in El Cerrito. The mean annual wage, and the 25th percentile and 75th percentile of the working force for each job category are listed below (Table II-14). Table II-14 Oakland-Fremont-Hayward Metropolitan Division Projections of Employment 2009 Occupational Group Estimated Employment (2006) Estimated Employment (2016) Numeric Change Annual Salary1 Income Group2 Personal and Home Care Aides 16,650 25,190 8,540 $24,470 Very Low Registered Nurses 17,220 20,260 3,040 $93,646 Above Moderate Combined Food Preparation and Serving Workers, Including Fast Food 13,920 16,670 2,750 $18,168 Extremely Low Computer Software Engineers, Applications 7,890 10,460 2,570 $96,353 Above Moderate Home Health Aides 3,960 5,500 1,540 $21,867 Very Low Network Systems and Data Communications 3,460 4,580 1,120 $76,675 Moderate Medical Assistants 3,830 4,520 690 $34,276 Low Veterinary Technologists and Technicians 680 1,310 630 $40,670 Low Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment 3,180 3,780 600 $19,008 Extremely Low Social and Human Service Assistants 2,940 3,530 590 $41,942 Low Source: Employment Development Department, 2009. 1 Annual salary is figured by multiplying hourly wage by 2,080 2 Based on a four-person household income 6. Special Housing Needs a. Elderly The elderly face special housing challenges related to physical and financial conditions. Older adults face declining mobility and self-care capabilities, which create special housing needs and challenges. Many older adults, even those owning their own homes, face financial challenges due to limited incomes from Social Security and other retirement benefits. Data on the incomes and housing expenses of households 65 and older indicate that a substantial number (although by no means the majority) of these older adults may need assistance related to: ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 26 of 90 • Repair and maintenance of owned dwellings units; • Modifications to existing homes to better meet mobility and self-care limitation; • Financial assistance to meet rising rental housing costs for those who do not own; and • Supportive services to meet daily needs, such as those provided at assisted care residences. Table II-15 compares the number of older adults in 2000 and 2008. The elderly population in El Cerrito is decreasing compared to the total population. Table II-15 Pattern of Aging of the El Cerrito Population 2000 2008 Percent Change Total Population 23,171 23,431 1% Population 55+ 7,053 3,501 -50% Population 65+ 4,733 4,730 Source: 2000 U.S. Census and 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates In 2008, the incidence of poverty in El Cerrito was lower among the population over 65 years of age (3.9 percent) than it was for the population between the ages of 18 to 64 (8.3 percent). Tenure is important when analyzing the needs of seniors. Older adults tend to have the highest rates of homeownership of any age group. In 1990, the proportion of seniors living in owner-occupied housing was 83 percent (2,609) and 17 percent (540) living in rental units according to the 1990 Census. At that time, although seniors represented about 21 percent of the population, they comprised 43 percent of all homeowners. Although 2000 & 2008 Census data on tenure by age was not available, the total percentage of homeowners in 2000 was 61 percent and 62 percent in 2008, suggesting that the gap in homeownership rates by age may have decreased by about 50 percent since 1990. In 2008, of owner- occupied units in El Cerrito, 32% do not have a mortgage – meaning they are owned outright. Given the length of the standard mortgage of 20-30 years, this data point would suggest that nearly a third of all owner occupied units in El Cerrito are owned by seniors. This data point is supported by the 2008 data point that 27.6% of households in El Cerrito have one or more residents over 65. One common special need for a growing portion of the elderly is for assisted living facilities that combine meal, medical, and daily living assistance in a residential environment. The State Department of Social Services licensed elderly care facilities provide services in El Cerrito (Table II-16). All offer assisted living services in a residential home setting. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 27 of 90 Table II-16 State Department of Social Services Licensed Elderly Care Facilities Name Address License Status Number of Beds Adams Care Home 7400 Potrero Avenue Licensed 6 Bayview Happy Home 1345 Scott Street Licensed 6 El Cerrito Royale 6510 Gladys Avenue Licensed 185 Grace Elder Care 2610 Francisco Way Licensed 6 Red Maple Residential Home 7100 Manila Avenue Licensed 6 RN Loving Care Home 1299 Lawrence Street Licensed 6 Rn3 Loving Care Home I 917 Elm Street Licensed 6 Rn3 Loving Care Home II 921 Elm Street Licensed 6 Rn3 Loving Care Home III 1320 Devonshire Drive Licensed 6 Via Community 253 Pomona Avenue Licensed 6 Yume Assisted Living 7450 Moeser Lane Licensed 6 Source: State of California Care Network, 2010. The facilities listed above are primarily institutional care facilities. Many of the seniors who might consider selling their home are younger, active seniors who do not yet require institutional, nursing care. There is a need in the community to provide high-quality, independent living senior housing that provides on-site nursing care and individual living units. Because many seniors desire to “downsize” when they move, these senior housing developments will likely be higher density projects with on-site supportive services. An increase in this type of available housing for seniors makes it possible for them to sell their homes and remain in the community. b. Mobility and Self-Care Limitations Less than 13 percent of the City’s non-institutionalized residents have physical conditions that affect their abilities to live independently in conventional residential settings. These individuals have mobility impairments, self-care limitations, or other conditions that may require special housing accommodations or financial assistance. Individuals with such disabilities can have a number of special needs that distinguish them from the population at large. Individuals with mobility difficulties (such as those confined to wheelchairs) may require special accommodations or modifications to their homes to allow for continued independent living. Such modifications are often called “handicapped access.” Individuals with self-care limitations (which can include persons with mobility difficulties) may require residential environments that include in-home or on-site support services, ranging from congregate to convalescent care. Support services can include medical therapy, daily living assistance, congregate dining, and related services. Individuals with developmental disabilities and other physical and mental conditions that prevent them from functioning independently may require assisted care or group home environments. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 28 of 90 Individuals with disabilities may require financial assistance to meet their housing needs. Because a higher percentage of the population at large are low-income, their special housing needs are often more costly than conventional housing. Some people with mobility and/or self-care limitations are able to live with their families to assist in meeting housing and daily living needs. A segment of the disabled population, particularly low-income and retired individuals, may not have the financial capacity to pay for needed accommodations or modifications to their homes. In addition, even those able to pay for special housing accommodations may find them unavailable in the City. Disabled persons often require special housing features to accommodate physical limitations. Some disabled persons may have financial difficulty due to the cost of having their special needs met or due to difficulty in finding appropriate employment. Although the California Administrative Code Title 24 requires that all public buildings be accessible to the public through architectural standards such as ramps, large doors, and restroom modifications to enable handicap access, not all available housing units have these features. According to 2007 American Fact Finder Census data, there were approximately 2,944 non-institutionalized disabled persons over age 5 in El Cerrito. c. Female Heads of Households Most female-headed households are either single elderly women or single-mothers. Traditionally, these two groups have been considered special needs groups because their incomes tend to be lower, making it difficult to obtain affordable housing, or because they have specific physical needs related to housing (such as child care or assisted living support). Single-mothers, in particular, tend to have difficulty in obtaining suitable, affordable housing. Such households also have a greater need for housing with convenient access to child-care facilities, public transportation, and other public facilities and services. Of the 10,213 households in the City in 2008, 1,258 are female-headed households, or 12.5 percent of the total households in El Cerrito. Approximately 14.8 percent of female-headed households are classified as living below the poverty level and if there are children under age 5 in the home, that percentage rises to 38.7 percent. It may be assumed that most of these households are overpaying for housing (i.e. more than 30 percent of their income), or are experiencing other unmet housing needs. As a result of poverty, female heads of households often spend more on immediate needs such as food, clothing, transportation, and medical care, than on home maintenance, which can result in living units falling into disrepair. d. Large Families The Census Bureau defines large families as households of five or more related individuals. In El Cerrito, there were 550 households of five or more persons in 1990. In 2000, that number had increased to 561 households. Data is unavailable for 2008. In 1990, large families comprised approximately 98 percent of these households, 96 percent in 2000, while non-families, non-related persons living together, represented 2 percent, 4 percent in 2000. Large families often face special challenges in the housing market because they need to find housing of sufficient size (three or more bedrooms) and do not always have sufficient income to purchase or rent such housing. No specific information was available on the income of large families relative to housing payments to determine if there is a significant ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 29 of 90 problem of overpayment of housing costs by low-income large families. However, the 2006- 2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates reported 2.2 percent of El Cerrito households were overcrowded, (overcrowded households are defined as households with more than 1.01 persons per room) virtually all of which are likely to be large families based on the definition of overcrowding e. Farm Workers El Cerrito is not an agricultural area, although there are a few sites left in the City that have active agricultural uses as the primary land use. The likelihood of special farmworker housing needs is extremely low. According to the 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates, less than 1 percent of the City's residents were employed in farming, forestry, and fishing occupations of the total labor force. The California Employment Development Department includes farm workers, nursery workers, delivery truck drivers for produce and flower, horticulturists, landscapers, tree trimmers, and lawn gardeners in this category. Given El Cerrito’s location in an urban region, it is likely that few, if any, of these “farmworkers” are employed in crop production or harvesting and would require special farmworker housing. If needed, the construction of a farmworker housing project is allowed with in all residential and commercial zones. f. Homeless and Individuals Homeless individuals and families have perhaps the most immediate housing needs of any group. According to Contra Costa County’s 2004 plan “Ending Homelessness in Ten Years: A County-Wide Plan for the Communities of Contra Costa County,” the most common reasons for homelessness in the County are the inability to find a job because of lack of education or skills, high housing costs in comparison to incomes, and family disputes. For others, homelessness may also be the result of chronic health problems, physical disabilities, or substance abuse. It is challenging to accurately count homeless populations, which include people living in vehicles and in places not designed to be permanent housing (such as motels) in addition to those on the streets and in shelters. According to the annual county-wide homeless count conducted by the Contra Costa Inter-jurisdictional Council on Homelessness (CCICH) and Project HOPE in January 30, 2007, there were 4,157 homeless persons in Contra Costa County. Of these, a total of 2,408 persons were sheltered and another 1,749 individuals were unsheltered at the time of the survey. The survey identified 117 unsheltered homeless people in El Cerrito including 21 women and 5 children under the age of 16. Of these 117, over one-quarter were in encampments. There are no homeless or transitional shelters located in El Cerrito. The closest shelters are located in Richmond, including the Bay Area Crisis Nursery, which provides 20 year-round individual beds, Calli House Youth Shelter, with 6 year-round beds for transition-age youth, Emergency Shelter with 75 year-round beds for families with children, Bay Area Rescue Mission with 150 year-round beds for families with children. In terms of permanent housing serving the formerly homeless, the City of El Cerrito was a sponsor of the Idaho Apartments, a 28-unit affordable housing development located on the El Cerrito-Richmond border. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 30 of 90 Contra Costa County is the primary planning agency charged with providing services to the homeless throughout the County. The County’s Public Health Division offers a variety of homeless programs such as the Shelter Plus Care (S+C) Program; Project HOPE; Project Coming Home; Health, Housing and Integrated Services Network (HHISN); and other programs. They are made available to all Contra Costa residents, including those in El Cerrito. Besides the County, there are a number of private non-profit organizations in and around the Bay Area that provide services to the homeless and special needs groups. They include Shelter, Inc., Rubicon Programs, Inc., The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, American Red Cross, and Bay Area Rescue Mission. The City supports the County’s “Ending Homelessness in Ten Years: A County-Wide Plan for the Communities of Contra Costa County” (Ten Year Plan); particularly its “housing first” strategy, which works to immediately house a homeless individual or family rather than force them through a sequence of temporary shelter solutions. Additionally, the City supports the Ten Year Plan goal of deemphasizing emergency shelters by supporting “interim housing” as a preferred housing type. Interim housing is very short-term and focuses on helping people access permanent housing as quickly as possible. Services provided in interim housing include housing search assistance and case management to help address immediate needs and identify longer-term issues to be dealt with once in permanent housing. Consistent with the Ten Year Plan, the City will prioritize the use of its limited housing development resources to support permanent housing affordable to those with extremely low, very low- and low-incomes. In 2008, a new State law was adopted (Government Code 65583 requiring local jurisdictions to identify a zone or zones where emergency shelters are allowed as a permitted use without a conditional use or other discretionary permit. The City Zoning Ordinance allows emergency, transitional and group housing facilities as a permitted use within the Community Commercial (CC) zone. The Idaho Apartments, operated by Rubicon Programs, is an example of permanent rental housing that offers supportive services for its residents. g. Extremely Low Income Households Extremely low-income households are defined as those households with incomes under 30 percent of the County’s median income. Extremely low-income households typically consist of minimum wage workers, seniors on fixed incomes, the disabled, and farmworkers. This income group is likely to live in overcrowded and substandard housing conditions. This group of households has specific housing needs that require greater government subsidies and assistance, housing with supportive services, single room occupancy (SRO) and or shared housing, and/or rental subsidies or vouchers. In recent years, rising rents, higher income and credit standards imposed by landlords, and insufficient government assistance has exacerbated the problem. Without adequate assistance this group has a high risk of homelessness. The area median income in Contra Costa County is $78,619. For extremely low income households, this results in an income of $25,830 or less for a four-person household. Households with extremely low incomes have a variety of housing situations and needs. In 2000, approximately 964 extremely low-income households resided in the City, representing ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 31 of 90 10.5 percent of the total households. Most (73.9 percent) extremely low-income households experience a high incidence of housing problems. Housing problems (primarily overpayment) exist for 76.7 percent of extremely low-income renters and 69.3 percent of extremely low income owners. Even further, 64.3 percent of extremely low-income households paid more than 50 percent of their income toward housing costs, compared to 11.5 percent for all households. Table II-17 Housing Problems – Extremely Low Income Households Household by Type, Income, & Housing Problem Total Renters Total Owners Total Households Household Income <=30% MFI 589 375 964 % with any housing problems 76.7 69.3 73.9 % Cost Burden >30% 74 68.3 71.8 % Cost Burden >50% 70.6 54.4 64.3 Total Households 3,954 6,211 10,165 % with any housing problems 38.3 23.5 29.2 % Cost Burden >30 32.8 21.9 26.2 % Cost Burden >50 15.4 9 11.5 Source: Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy, 2000 - http://socds.huduser.org/chas/reports To calculate the projected housing needs, the City assumed 50 percent of its very low- income regional housing allocation are extremely low-income households. As a result, from the very low income need of 93 units, the City has a projected need of 46 units for extremely low-income households by 2014. Many extremely low-income households will be seeking rental housing and most likely facing an overpayment, overcrowding or substandard housing condition. Some extremely low-income households could be with mental or other disabilities and special needs. 7. Existing Housing Stock a. Housing Composition According to the California Department of Finance, over two-thirds of the units in El Cerrito in 2008 were single-family detached (69 percent), 15.3 percent were multiple units of five or more, 12.3 percent were multiple units of two to four, 3 percent were single-family attached housing and 1 percent were mobile homes. Analysis of the County’s housing units shows, 68 percent single-family detached, 17 percent multiple units of five or more, 8 percent single-family attached, 6.5 percent multiple units of two to four, and 2 percent mobile homes. Tables II-18 and II-19 show annual changes in the housing stock (City and County respectively) between January 1990 and January 2010 as determined by the California Department of Finance. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 32 of 90 Table II-18 Housing Estimates for the City of El Cerrito (2000 through 2010) Housing Units Persons Single Multiple Per Year Total Detached Attached 2 to 4 5 Plus Mobile Homes(a) Occupied Household 1990 10,311 7,299 324 1,295 1,319 74 9,924 2.29 2000 10,462 7,296 343 1,303 1,488 32 10,208 2.3 2001 10,468 7,300 343 1,305 1,488 32 10,214 2.23 2002 10,482 7,310 343 1,309 1,488 32 10,228 2.27 2003 10,490 7,318 343 1,309 1,488 32 10,236 2.28 2004 10,493 7,321 343 1,309 1,488 32 10,239 2.28 2005 10,504 7,332 343 1,309 1,488 32 10,250 2.25 2006 10,610 7,338 355 1,315 1,570 32 10,353 2.22 2007 10,614 7,342 355 1,315 1,570 32 10,357 2.11 2008 10,699 7,347 355 1,319 1,646 32 10,440 2.22 2009 10,705 7,350 358 1,319 1,646 32 10,446 2.23 2010 10,714 7,353 364 1,319 1,646 32 10,455 2.25 Source: California Department of Finance, 2000-2010 City/County Population and Housing Estimates. El Cerrito contains one registered recreation vehicle (RV) park containing 28 spaces. There are no other known mobile home parks in El Cerrito. The Census count of mobile homes may include manufactured or modular units used as second units or temporary homes. Table II-19 Housing Estimates for Contra Costa County (2000 through 2010) Housing Units Single Multiple Year Total Detached Attached 2 to 4 5 Plus Mobile Homes Occupied Persons Per Household 1990 316,170 202,523 26,269 23,227 56,739 7,412 300,288 2.64 2000 354,577 232,051 29,939 24,919 60,089 7,579 344,129 2.72 2001 357,381 234,541 29,939 25,169 60,160 7,572 346,848 2.75 2002 362,260 238,601 29,945 25,205 60,934 7,575 351,578 2.76 2003 366,882 242,681 30,229 25,284 61,097 7,591 356,052 2.76 2004 372,307 247,094 30,397 25,321 61,906 7,589 361,318 2.75 2005 378,954 251,915 30,712 25,624 63,103 7,600 367,742 2.73 2006 387,227 257,043 30,911 25,848 65,813 7,612 375,727 2.70 2007 392,650 261,448 31,020 25,996 66,563 7,623 380,770 2.69 2008 396,544 264,573 31,093 26,016 67,239 7,623 384,742 2.70 2009 399,187 266,199 31,120 26,066 68,174 7,628 387,147 2.71 2010 400,268 266,962 31,183 26,066 68,422 7,635 388,353 2.73 Source: California Department of Finance, 2000-2010 City/County Population and Housing Estimates. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 33 of 90 b. Housing Occupancy and Tenure Of the 10,675 year-round dwelling units in El Cerrito reported by the Census Bureau in 2008, 10,213 units (96 percent) were occupied and 462 units (4 percent) were vacant (Table II-19). By comparison, 93 percent of the dwelling units countywide were occupied and 7 percent were vacant. Table II-20 shows that El Cerrito had a lower homeowner vacancy rate (1.2 percent) than Contra Costa County (3 percent). El Cerrito also has a lower rental vacancy rate of 2.8 percent while Contra Costa County has a rental vacancy rate of 6.1 percent. Of the 10,213 housing units in the City, 62 percent (6,335) of them were owner occupied and 38 percent (3,878) were renter occupied. Table II-20 Housing Occupancy (2008) City County City Percent County Percent Occupied housing units 10,213 364,643 96% 93% Vacant housing units 462 27,846 4% 7% Total housing units 10,675 392,489 100% 100% Homeowner vacancy rate 1.2% 3.0% Rental vacancy rate 2.8% 6.1% Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates Homeownership rates listed in Table II-21 reveal that half of all Whites, Blacks, Asian/Pacific Islander and Native Americans own their own homes. Persons of Other race, two or more races, and persons of Hispanic origin have the highest rental rates of all the races. Table II-21 Homeownership Rates (2000) Race Owners Renters Ownership Rate Rental Rate White 4,200 2,383 64% 36% Black 407 418 49% 51% Native American 27 25 52% 48% Asian 1,394 720 66% 34% Other 109 204 35% 65% Two of more races 102 254 29% 71% Hispanic origin 214 357 37% 63% Source: 2000 U.S. Census Data. Due to a lack of data in the American Fact Finder for the 2008 period, analysis of 2000 Census data for tenure by age was completed. The analysis reveals that nearly one-third of persons age 45 and over in the City were homeowners. The ownership rate for persons aged 55 and older was over 70 percent, over 80% for persons 75 and over. The rental rate for the majority of the population was low, as persons 15 to 34 rented the majority of their housing (over 80 percent) (Table II-22). ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 34 of 90 Table II-22 Tenure by Age (2000) Age Owners Renters Ownership Rate Rental Rate 15 to 24 33 260 11% 89% 25 to 34 358 1,171 23% 77% 35 to 44 885 972 48% 52% 45 to 54 1,273 699 65% 35% 55 to 64 569 236 71% 29% 65 to 74 430 136 76% 24% 75 and over 1,114 220 84% 16% Total 6,239 4004 61% 39% Source: 2000 U.S. Census Data. c. Age and Condition of Housing Stock The age and condition of the housing stock provide additional measures of housing adequacy and availability in many communities. Although age does not always correlate with substandard housing conditions, neighborhoods with a preponderance of homes more than 40 years old are more likely than newer neighborhoods to have a concentration of housing problems related to deferred maintenance, inadequate landscape care, outdated utilities or interior amenities, and a need for housing rehabilitation. The year a structure was built can, at times, be an indicator of the current condition of the housing unit. Housing units built before 1940 may be old, but may not necessarily be in a rundown condition. In contrast, newer homes that were built equipped with adequate utilities and amenities may already be rundown due to abuse or general lack of care. However, it is useful to look at the age of the housing stock to determine where inadequacies may lie, or why certain units remain vacant. Table II-23 shows that the highest percentage (60.8 percent) of housing units in the City were built between 1940 and 1950. Seventy percent of the City’s housing stock was built between the 1940 and 1960. Table II-23 Age of Housing Units Year Number of Units Percentage 1939 or earlier 1,145 10.7% 1940 to 1949 3,223 30.2% 1950 to 1959 3,262 30.6% 1960 to 1969 1,237 11.6% 1970 to 1979 884 8.3% 1980 to 1989 365 3.4% 1990 to 1999 312 2.9% ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 35 of 90 2000-2004 88 2005 and later 159 1.5% Total 10,675 100% Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates d. Overcrowding In general, overcrowding is a measure of the ability of existing housing to adequately accommodate residents and can result in deterioration of the quality of life within a community. Overcrowding is defined by most housing analyses as more than one person per room. Extreme overcrowding is often defined as more than 1.5 persons per room. Overcrowding typically results when either: 1) the costs of available housing with a sufficient number of bedrooms for larger families exceeds the family’s ability to afford such housing, or 2) unrelated individuals (such as students or low-wage single adult workers) share dwelling units due to high housing costs. This can lead to overcrowded situations if the housing unit is not large enough to accommodate all of the people effectively. Table II-24 summarizes the overcrowding status in the City. Half of one percent of the City’s occupied housing units were overcrowded, compared to .7 percent of the County’s occupied housing units. In 2008, the average household size for owner-occupied housing was 2.39 persons in El Cerrito, 2.82 in Contra Costa County. For rental housing, the average persons per household was 2.20 in El Cerrito and 2.60 in Contra Costa County. Table II-24 Persons Per Room in All Occupied Housing Units - 2008 Persons City Percent County Percent 1.00 or less 9,989 97.8% 351,758 96.5% 1.01 to 1.5 174 1.7% 10,218 2.8% 1.51 or more 50 2,667 Source: 2006-2008 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates 8. Housing Costs a. Rental Rates A survey of rental rates in the City and surrounding communities reveal a variety of units and the different rental price ranges (Table II-25). El Cerrito’s rental prices appear to be higher than some of the neighboring communities. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 36 of 90 Table II-25 Median Rental Rates in El Cerrito and surrounding Cities (2009) Type: Bedroom (BR)/Bath (BA) City Studio 1BR/1BA 2 BR/1BA 2BR/1+BA 3BR/1+BA Average Rent El Cerrito $756 $1,217 $1,260 $1,515 $1,387 $1,227 Pinole $800 $944 $1,082 $1,798 $1,610 $1,246 Richmond $985 $888 $1,026 $1,510 $2,450 $1,372 San Pablo $870 $899 $1,247 $1,908 $1,751 $1,335 Pleasant Hill $989 $1,202 $1,236 $1,478 $2,004 $1,382 Concord None $875 $1,073 $1,369 $1,725 $1,261 Martinez $723 $1,137 $1,204 $1,512 $1,860 $1,287 Walnut Creek $1,122 $1,075 $1,090 $1,578 $2,725 $1,518 El Sobrante $1,256 $1,247 $1,264 $1,639 $1,406 $1,362 Source: 2010-2015 Contra Costa County Draft Consolidated Plan Fair market rents for the Contra Costa County area in fiscal year 2008 are provided in Table II-26. The rental rates listed above (Table II-25), show that El Cerrito’s rental rates are somewhat higher than the fair market rates for the area making El Cerrito less affordable compared to some of the other cities in the County. In 2009, El Cerrito’s median rental rate for a one-bedroom apartment was $1,217, and $1,260 for a two-bedroom apartment. Table II-26 2008 Fair Market Rents for Existing Housing in Contra Costa County Studio 1 Bedroom 2 Bedrooms 3 Bedrooms 4 Bedrooms $866 $1,046 $1,239 $1,680 $2,080 Source: Federal Register, HUD, 2008. Table II-27 shows the listing of one mobile home park space rents in El Cerrito. There are very few vacancies. Table II-27 Mobile Home Park Space Rental Rates Name Total Spaces Average Rent Audiss RV Park 28 $620.00 Source: Audiss RV Park, 2010. b. Home Prices Table II-28 lists prices of homes that were listed “for sale” or “sold” in October 2010, according to ZipRealty.com and Blockshopper.com. The highest percentage of homes in either category was two-bedroom single-family units. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 37 of 90 Table II-28 Home Prices in El Cerrito (October 2010) Bedrooms Units for Sale Median Average City Range % of Total Single-Family Homes 1 0 0% 2 15 $425,000 $416,125 $74,888-$665,000 45% 3 11 $479,000 $495,636 $245,000- $699,000 33% 4 7 $745,000 $787,000 $539,000- $1,255,000 21% 5+ 1 1,780,000 Total 33 85% Condominiums 1 1 $138,000 50% 2 1 $345,000 50% Total 2 5% Source: and Blockshopper.com, October 2010 Homes Prices in Surrounding Areas Table II-29 is a list of median “for sale” home prices throughout El Cerrito and the surrounding area. These prices were taken from the Contra Costa County Consolidated Plan. These prices only reflect existing units during a survey done in November 2009; the size and number of bedrooms is not known. Housing sales prices for El Cerrito, noted on Table II-29, shows prices comparable to surrounding cities. Table II-29 Median Home Prices for El Cerrito and Surrounding Areas (February 2010) Jurisdiction Median Home Price Number of Units For Sale Albany $518,500 45 Martinez $333,000 90 Pinole $267,354 32 Hercules $325,000 54 El Cerrito $539,500 21 Richmond $157,000 177 Lafayette $805,000 76 San Pablo $152,344 45 Pleasant Hill $439,500 54 Source: Trulia.com, February 2010. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 38 of 90 9. Affordability Lower Income Households Overpaying for Housing As stated previously, there are four income categories typically used for comparative purposes based on the median countywide income: very low-income (0-50 percent of median income), low-income (50-80 percent of median income), moderate-income (80-120 percent of median income) and above moderate-income (120 percent or more of median income). One method of analyzing housing affordability to each income group is to compare the number and/or percent of housing units by cost to the number and/or percent of households by comparable income levels. A standard measure of housing affordability is that housing expenses should not exceed 30 percent of a household’s income, on the average. Those who pay 30 percent or more of their income on housing may have trouble in affording other necessities. However, to truly evaluate housing affordability, individual circumstances must be taken into account. These factors include other long-term debt, mortgage interest rates, the number of household members, and other large, ongoing expenses (such as medical bills). Since it is impossible to consider each household’s individual circumstances, the 30 percent rule-of-thumb provides a general measure of housing affordability for the average household. Table II-30 shows the number of households paying over 30 percent of their income on housing in 2000. Data was unavailable for the 2008 planning period. Of renters, approximately 80 percent of very low-income households spend over 30 percent of their income on housing, and 46 percent of low-income households spend over 30 percent of their income on housing. For owner occupied households, 52 percent of very low-income and 37 percentage of low income households spend over 30 percent of their income on housing. Some households choose to pay over 30 percent of their income for various reasons, such as location, aesthetics, or other factors. Other households choose to pay larger percentages of their income because they may receive tax advantages or are investing with the knowledge that their income will increase so that they pay a lower percentage of their income on a long-term basis. In contrast, very low- and low-income households are forced to pay a large percentage of their income either because they cannot afford anything less, or they are limited to certain costs due to a lack of available low-cost housing options. Table II-30 Number of Households Paying Over 30 Percent of Income on Housing (2000) Income Owners % Paying over 30% Renters % Paying over 30% Total Very Low-Income 897 52% 1039 80% 1936 Low-Income 741 37% 651 46% 1392 Source: Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy, 2000 - http://socds.huduser.org/chas/reports Further analysis of housing expenditures as a percent of income shows that most homeowners and renters with incomes of $50,200 (2000) and above paid less than 30 percent of their income to housing (Table II-31). Renters and owners with incomes below $33,799 paid the highest percentages of income to housing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 39 of 90 Table II-31 El Cerrito Housing Expenditure Rate per Income Group (2000) Income <$20,300 $20,300- 33,799 $33,800 – 50,199 $50,200+ Total Households Renters Under 30% 26 13 55 92.4 64 30%+ 74 87 45 7.6 36 50%+ 70 27 10 0.2 15 Total Households 589 [PHONE REDACTED] 3954 Owners Under 30% 32 64 63 86 74 30%+ 68 36 37 14 26 50%+ 54 26 20 1.5 11.5 Total Households [PHONE REDACTED] 4573 6211 Source: Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy, 2000 - http://socds.huduser.org/chas/reports A household can typically qualify to purchase a home that is 2.5 to 3.0 times its annual income, depending on the down payment, the level of other long-term obligations (such as a car loan), and interest rates. Based on the homes sold in October 2010, and affordability rates at 3.0 times the annual income of a four-person household, Table II-32 shows that there was only one home affordable to very low-income households and it was a single bedroom condominium – unsuitable for a family of four. This particular home was also a short sale which can present a number of problems (length of time for approval, difficulty in financing) for the purchaser. Table II-32 Homes Sold that Are Affordable to Lower-Income Households (2010)1 Income Group Affordability Level2 Homes For Sale in 20103 Very Low-Income $129,150 2% Low-Income $206,640 8% Moderate-Income $309,960 11% Source: HUD 2001 Income Limits, ZipRealty.com and Blockshopper.com for October 2010. 1Units include single-family homes and condominiums. 2 The affordability level is based on 3 times the Contra Costa County median income for 2008 (HUD 2008 Income Limits). 3 Homes for sale were taken from the October 2010 search from ZipRealty.com and Blockshopper.com. 10. Current Housing Needs a. Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) This section evaluates projected future housing needs for El Cerrito based on the RHNA adopted by Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) on May 15, 2008. ABAG allocates a “fair share” by income category based on projected housing need for each jurisdiction. Each jurisdiction is required to report to HCD on how the fair share allocation can be accommodated within the planning period. The allocations are intended to be used by jurisdictions when updating their housing elements as the basis for assuring that ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 40 of 90 adequate sites and zoning are available to accommodate at least the number of units allocated. State law (California Government Code Section 65584) provides for councils of governments to prepare regional housing allocation plans that assign a share of a region’s housing construction need to each city and county. In the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area, ABAG is the council of governments authorized under State law to identify existing and future housing needs for the region. ABAG’s methodology is based on the regional numbers supplied by the HCD. These are "goal numbers" and often exceed anticipated growth in housing units. A goal vacancy rate is set by HCD, and then a housing unit needs to meet that vacancy rate is derived by assessing potential growth rates (population, jobs, households) and loss of housing due to demolition. The numbers produced by HCD are provided to ABAG in the form of a regional goal number, which is then broken into income categories. ABAG is then mandated to distribute the numbers to Bay Area jurisdictions by income categories. The Regional Housing Needs Allocation is a minimum needs number—cities and counties are free to plan for, and accommodate, a larger number of dwelling units than the allocation. The City must however use the numbers allocated under the RHNA to identify measures (policies and ordinances) that are consistent with these new construction goals. While the City must also show how it will accommodate for these units to be built, it is not obligated to build any of the units itself or finance their construction. According to the RHNA, the City of El Cerrito has a total housing construction need of 431 units and an annual need of 54 units. Table II-33 shows El Cerrito’s 2007-2014 planning period allocation. Table II-33 Regional Housing Needs Allocation (2007-2014) Dwelling Units % of Total Income Level 46 10% Extremely Low-Income 47 11% Very Low-Income 59 14% Low-Income 80 19% Moderate-Income 199 46% Above Moderate-Income 431 100% Total Source: ABAG (2007-2014) Regional Housing Needs Determination. HCD allows jurisdictions to count four types of credits toward meeting their Regional Housing Needs Allocation: • Actual Production. Jurisdictions can count the number of approved and built units during the planning period of 2007-2014 toward their RHNA. • Rehabilitation of Units. Under State law, cities can count up to 25 percent of their RHNA for the rehabilitation of qualified substandard units that would otherwise be demolished. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 41 of 90 • Preservation of Affordable Units. AB 438 (2002) authorizes jurisdictions to count a part of the affordable units which would otherwise revert to market rents but are preserved through committed assistance from the jurisdiction. • Available Land for Development. Cities and counties may also count potential housing production on suitable vacant and underutilized sites within the community. b. Regional Housing Needs Plan and Residential Potential by Income Level Although most of the vacant or under-utilized parcels are small infill lots, the potential number of units is well over 431, ABAG’s RHND number for El Cerrito. Of the 431 units, at least 93 must be affordable to very low-income households, 59 to low-income households, and 80 to moderate- income households. The remaining 199 housing units are allocated to households with above-moderate incomes. Based on the Vacant and Under-utilized land inventory in Appendix A, Table A-3 illustrates a minimum number of potential units for each zoning district classification. Table II-34 illustrated the estimated number of units produced for each income category. The City believes that the Community Commercial and Transit-Oriented Mixed Use zones and the RM zone have the greatest potential to produce housing affordable to low- and moderate-income households because they allow up 45 dwelling units per acre up to 70 units per acre under certain circumstances.. California Redevelopment Law requires that 15% of all housing units produced within the Redevelopment Project Area by a public or private entity (other that a Redevelopment Agency itself), must be affordable to very low, low or moderate-income households. Of that 15%, a minimum of 40% of the units must be affordable for very low-income households. Based on the available land inventory in Appendix A, El Cerrito would be able to meet its RHNA for all income categories. The affordable units would be created primarily in the Community Commercial and Transit-Oriented Mixed Use zones and the RM zoning district. Table II-34 demonstrates a distribution of affordable units that could be built based on the total number of vacant or underutilized lots in Table A-3: Available Land Inventory. Table II-34 Affordable Unit Development Chart based on Table A-3: Available Land Inventory Zoning District Classification Very Low- Income Low- Income Moderate Above- Moderate Total Community Commercial, Transit Oriented Mixed Use 65 58 51 909 1083 RM, Multifamily Residential 3 1 2 34 40 RD, Duplex 6 6 RS, Single-Family Residential 238 238 TOTALS 68 59 53 1187 1367 c. Progress in Meeting the RHNA ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 42 of 90 One of the Housing Element’s main goals is to ensure that a variety of housing opportunities at a range of prices and rents are made available to residents. This includes, but is not limited to, conventional single-family homes, multi-family apartments, town homes, and housing for special needs groups. Since the Housing Element planning period runs from January 1, 2007, to June 30, 2014, El Cerrito’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) can be reduced by the number of new units built or approved since January 1, 2007. Table A-1 showing all residential projects with an affordable housing component that have been approved or constructed since the start of the current Housing Element planning period (January 1, 2007) is located in Appendix A. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 43 of 90 III. RESOURCES AND CONSTRAINTS A. GOVERNMENTAL RESOURCES AND CONSTRAINTS Governmental resources include programs that provide funds for housing-related activities, as well as, incentives provided by the local jurisdiction for the provision of housing. Governmental constraints are policies, standards, requirements and actions imposed by the government that may have a negative impact on the development and provision of housing for a variety of income levels. These constraints may include land use controls, building codes and their enforcement, environmental review fees and processes, site improvements, fees, exactions required of developers, and local processing and permit procedures. Land use controls may limit the amount or density of development, thus increasing the cost of housing per unit. Building codes may set specific building standards that add material costs or limit building space on a site, thus increasing costs, as do off-site costs such as the installation of a traffic signal. State and federal agencies play a role in the imposition of governmental constraints; however, these agencies are beyond the influence of local government and are, therefore, not addressed in this analysis. 1. Land Use Controls Land use controls include city-initiated General Plan policies, zoning regulations and standards, permit processing requirements and development fees. a. General Plan The General Plan constitutes the highest-level policy document for the City of El Cerrito. The Land Use Element of the General Plan identifies the location, distribution and density/intensity of the land use within the City. Residential densities are measured in dwelling units per acre (du/ac). The 1999 El Cerrito General Plan identifies five land use designations that permit residential uses. Table III-1 El Cerrito General Plan Residential Land Use Designations Designation Description Permitted Density Very Low Density Residential The Very Low Density category of residential land uses is intended for single-family, residential units on large lots. Typically the Very Low Density category is to protect sensitive hillside areas from extensive development and to protect against hazards related to earthquakes, unstable terrain, and wild fires. In addition, Very Low Density land uses are also intended to protect sensitive environmental areas and features, and provide sites for larger, distinctive residences. Maximum of 6 dwelling units per net acre. Low Density Residential The Low Density category of residential land uses is intended to promote and protect single-family neighborhoods. Maximum of 10 dwelling units per net acre. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 44 of 90 Designation Description Permitted Density Medium Density Residential The Medium Density category of residential land use accommodates more intensive forms of residential development while still remaining compatible with surrounding land uses. This category is intended to provide greater housing choice in the City for different family sizes and incomes. Medium density residential uses are intended to be located closer to community and retail services, such as neighborhood shopping centers, parks and open spaces areas, and near minor and major collector streets where greater access can be provided. This land use category includes a number of housing development types including duplexes, townhouse projects, apartments, and small-lot, single-family residential designs. Maximum of 20 dwelling units per net acre. High Density Residential The High Density residential land use category is intended to provide opportunities for multiple-family residential development in a well-designed environment. The range is intended to be located in areas where higher traffic volumes and buildings can be accommodated. These developments should be located outside of single-family residential communities, where services and transportation systems are adequate to serve the increased densities. Maximum of 35 dwelling units per net acre. Commercial/ Mixed Use The Mixed-Use Commercial designation is intended primarily for all types of commercial uses and secondarily for residential uses or a combination of the two. The designation is intended to encourage ground floor, pedestrian friendly, retail sales and service uses with upper floors of office and residential uses. The Mixed-Use Commercial category applies to commercial activity ranging from neighborhood convenience stores to community shopping centers and regionally oriented specialty stores. In addition to retail stores, the Mixed-Use Commercial designation is also intended to allow for residential and office uses, including administrative, professional, medical and dental offices, and “high-tech” research and development uses and laboratories. The Mixed-Use Commercial designation also allows for limited, small-scale specialty manufacturing uses, such as arts and crafts, woodworking, and assembly processes, when located on sites compatible with surrounding neighborhoods. Maximum of 35 units per net acre. b. Zoning Code The Zoning Code is the primary tool for implementing the General Plan. It is designed to protect and promote public health, safety and welfare, as well as to promote quality design and quality of life. The City of El Cerrito’s residential zoning designations control both the use and development standards of each residential parcel. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 45 of 90 Table III-2 summarizes permitted residential uses in residential districts. Residential zoning includes six main districts: RS, RD, RM, TOM, CC and CN. The RS District is split into four separate subsets guiding the minimum size of each lot and other development standards such as minimum lot depth and width and setbacks—RS-5 would be a minimum lot size of 5,000 square feet, RS-7.5 = 7,500 square feet, RS-10 = 10,000 square feet, and RS-20 = 20,000 square feet. The minimum lot sizes for multi-family housing units in the RM zone are as follows: 2 units: 5,000 square feet 3 units: 6,500 square feet 4 units: 7,700 square feet 5 units: 8,700 square feet 6 units: 9,650 square feet 7 units: 10,500 square feet 8 units: 11,350 square feet 9 units: 12,150 square feet 10 units: 13,000 square feet 11 units 13,900 square feet 12 units 15,000 square feet 12+ units 1,250 square feet x the number of units. Single-family units are permitted as a matter of right in all single-family residential districts. New single family uses are not allowed in the RM, TOM, CC, CN districts. Multiple family dwellings are permitted by right in the RM, TOM, CC and CN zones. Table III-2 Residential Uses Allowed in All Zones Zone Single-Family Detached Multi-family Second Unit Duplex Transitional or Homeless Shelter Single-Family Residential District (RS-5) P P Single-Family Residential District (RS-7.5) P P Single-Family Residential District (RS-10) P P Single-Family Residential District (RS-20) P P ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 46 of 90 Duplex Residential District (RD) P P P Multi-Family Residential District (RM) P P with existing single family use CUP Neighborhood Commercial (CN) P P with existing single family use Community Commercial District (CC) P < 25 units CUP > 25 units P with existing single family use P Transit Oriented Mixed Use District (TOM) P P with existing single family use AUP, CUP P=Permitted by Right, AUP= Administrative Use Permit, CUP = Conditional Use Permit Source: City of El Cerrito Zoning Code Residential Development Standards The City regulates the type, location, density, and scale of development through the General Plan and the Zoning Ordinance. Provisions in the Zoning Ordinance specify minimum lot areas, setbacks, coverage, FAR, height limits, and parking (see Tables III-2, III-3, and III-4). El Cerrito regulations are comparable to those of similar cities. In addition to the base zoning districts described in the following tables, applicants can request rezoning to a customized Planned Development (PD) District that allows deviation from the normal regulations where a development project is consistent with the General Plan and meets other community objectives. El Cerrito’s zoning regulations are not restrictive and do not create a financial or physical constraint to residential development due to a wide range of densities permitted by the City and flexible parking requirements. Table III-3 Residential Development Standards RS-5 RS-7.5 RS-10 RS-20 RD RM Minimum Lot Area (sq. ft.) Interior Lots 5000 7500 10,000 20,000 5000 5000 Corner Lots 6000 7500 10,000 20,000 6000 6000 Minimum Lot Width at Building Setback Line (ft.) Interior Lots 50 75 80 100 50 50 Corner Lots 60 75 80 100 60 60 Maximum Lot Coverage Where Lot Slope is 30% or Less 50 50 50 50 50 60, 80 with underground parking ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 47 of 90 RS-5 RS-7.5 RS-10 RS-20 RD RM Where Lot Slope >30% 40 40 40 40 40 40 Maximum Impervious Surface Coverage on Lots with Slopes >30% 40 40 40 40 40 40 Minimum Yards (ft.) Front - Minimum 10 20 20 30 10 10 Front - For the Entire Width of Required Covered Parking 20 25 25 35 20 20 Side 5 6 6 12 5 5; 10 in some cases Minimum Yards (ft.) Corner Side – Minimum 8.5 8.5 8.5 12 8.5 8.5 Corner Side – For the Entire Width of Required Covered Parking 20 20 20 20 20 20 Rear 15 15 20 25 15 15, 20 in some cases Maximum Height (ft.) Base Height 25-35; Maximum Height with CUP 30-40 Base Height 30; Maximum Height with CUP-35 35 Required Off-Street Parking 2 spaces per dwelling unit for each unit of two or more bedrooms. 1 space per studio or 1-bedroom unit. 1 space for a Second Unit in addition to the spaces required for the primary dwelling unit. Multi-family Housing The purpose of the City’s mixed use zones is to promote and encourage multiple family developments at densities that are consistent with the General Plan land use designation and surrounding development. The intent is to provide for higher density classifications in and around in the development nodes and adjacent to major transit centers, and lower density multi-family development in transition areas between single-family development and commercial areas or higher density residential areas. The development regulations for properties within the City’s mixed use zones is summarized in Table III-4. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 48 of 90 Table III-4 Multi-family Residential Development Standards in Commercial Zones CN CC TOM Minimum Lot Size (sq. ft.) 5,000 2,000 for commercial 5,000 5,000 Minimum Residential Density 35 units per acre within 300 feet of the BART stations Maximum Residential Density – lot area per unit (sq. ft.) (may be in addition to non-residential FAR) Base Density 20 units per acre 35 units per acre 35 units per acre Density for Mixed Use Development 35 units per acre Density with Incentives 25 units per acre 45 units per acre 45 units per acre; up to 70 du/ac for housing for elderly and disabled persons if services are provided. Density with State Affordable Housing Bonuses 27 units per acre 48 units per acre 48 units per acre; up to 70 du/ac for housing for elderly and disabled persons if services are provided. Maximum Building Height (ft.) 35 35, up to 50 with CUP 50, up to 65 with CUP in Del Norte & Plaza areas 35, up to 45 with CUP in Midtown node Minimum Building Height 2 stories, exceptions may be granted with a CUP Building Setback on Street Frontages 0 - 10 feet 0 - 10 feet, more with a CUP 0 - 10 feet Minimum Yard Requirements (ft.) – None unless adjacent to a residential district Building Transition Zone Adjacent to Residential Districts For any portion of a structure adjacent to a residential district boundary), the minimum required setbacks of the residential district shall apply. To protect privacy and minimize sunlight blockage, structures shall not intercept a 45-degree daylight plane inclined inward starting from a height of 35 feet above existing grade at the setback line. Exceptions to the above requirements are permitted for a one-story parking or garage structure that does not exceed 10 feet in height in a side or rear yard that does not front on a street. Required Off Street Parking RM & CC Zones: 2 spaces per dwelling unit for each unit of two or more bedrooms. TOM Zones: 1.5 spaces per dwelling unit for each unit of two or more bedrooms. At least one space per unit must be located in a garage or carport. In the TOM district, required parking reduced by 25% within ¼ mile of a BART station. Parking Table III-5 summarizes residential parking requirements in El Cerrito. Parking requirements do not constrain the development of housing directly. However, parking requirements may reduce the amount of available lot area for residential development. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 49 of 90 Table III-5 Required Residential Parking Use Classification Required Off-Street Parking Spaces Additional Regulations Single Family Dwelling 2 spaces per dwelling unit for each unit of two or more bedrooms. 1 space per studio or 1-bedroom unit. 19.06.030(N), Limitations on Parking and Garage Frontage. All required spaces must be located in a garage or carport. Second Unit 1 space for the Second Unit in addition to the spaces required for the primary dwelling unit. Section 19.20.190(D), Second Units. Two-Family Dwelling; Multiple Family Residential 1 space per unit for each studio or 1-bedroom unit. RD, RM & CC Zones: 2 spaces per dwelling unit for each unit of two or more bedrooms. TOM Zones: 1.5 spaces per dwelling unit for each unit of two or more bedrooms. 19.06.030(N), Limitations on Parking and Garage Frontage At least one space per unit must be located in a garage or carport. Group Housing 0.5 per unit 19.06.030(N), Limitations on Parking and Garage Frontage. Senior Citizen Housing 0.5 per unit 19.06.030(N), Limitations on Parking and Garage Frontage. Transitional Housing 0.5 per unit 19.06.030(N), Limitations on Parking and Garage Frontage. c. Planned Development District The specific purpose of the -PD Planned Development district is to provide for detailed review of development that warrants special review and deviations from the existing development standards. This district is also intended to provide opportunities for creative development approaches and standards that will achieve superior community design, environmental preservation and public benefit, in comparison to subdivision and development under district regulations. All site and building requirements, including yard, building height, lot coverage, and landscaping are determined on a case-by-case basis based on the specific characteristics of the site and the need to provide additional zoning control by establishing site specific conditions of approval and standards for a specific PD District. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 50 of 90 2. Density Bonus Ordinance In order to encourage the construction of affordable housing developments for Very-Low and Low Income households, and senior households, and in accordance with Section 65915 et seq. of the California Government Code, the City of El Cerrito has two different Density Bonus Ordinances. The first is the Affordable Housing Bonus program (Chapter 19.22 of the Zoning Ordinance) that is governed by the requirements of Government Code Section 65915. The second is the Incentives Program (Chapter 19.23. of the Zoning Ordinance). a. Affordable Housing Bonus (Chapter 19.22 of the ECMC) The Affordable Housing Bonus program implements the policies of the General Plan Housing Element for encouraging and expanding housing opportunities for households with very-low and lower incomes, seniors, disabled, other persons with special housing needs and development that includes a childcare facility through density bonuses and additional incentives, consistent with Government Code Section 65915 and the General Plan Housing Element. The program also provides additional incentives for affordable housing containing three or more bedrooms to meet the needs of large families. It also requires resale and rental controls on affordable housing and ensures that lower income rental units remain affordable for at least 30 years or such other term approved by the City, consistent with State law. b. Incentives Program (Chapter 19.32 of the ECMC) Should any of the development standards for the multi-family (RM), CC or TOM zone create an impediment to achieving permitted densities under the City’s Zoning Ordinance, the developer can take advantage of the Incentives Program described below, which allows for flexibility in the application of zoning requirements. The Incentives program encourages and makes practical developments and structures which enhance the quality of life in the City through improved design and optimum use of land, and to implement the goals and objectives in the General Plan and in Council-adopted plans and policies. The program recognizes that desirable characteristics incorporated into a development project may require modifications to the limitations, requirements and development standards established by the Zoning Ordinance. When such modifications result in an exceptional project, and/or closer adherence to the goals of the City's General and/or Specific Plans, policies and other applicable requirements and regulations, the project could be approved with a higher density under the Incentives Program. The purposes of this Chapter and the Incentives Program are to: • Encourage and make practical, developments, and structures which enhance the quality of life in the City through excellent design and optimum use of land. • Provide flexibility in the application of zoning requirements in cases where development standards for the RM, CC or TOM districts create an impediment to achieving permitted densities under the Zoning Ordinance. • Balance the impacts of a project through desirable features of development, and/or community amenities that will benefit the City and the public. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 51 of 90 • Authorize the Planning Commission to modify the limitations, requirements and development standards of this Zoning Ordinance for development projects which incorporate certain desirable features and/or community amenities such as, but not limited to those outlined in this Chapter. • Implement the goals and objectives in the General Plan and in Council-adopted plans and policies. In determining whether to authorize incentives provided in Section 19.23.030 below, the decision-making authority shall evaluate each Incentives application against the following Incentives Evaluation Criteria, and rate each on a point basis, in order to determine whether to approve an Incentives proposal. A project does not need to include all of the desirable criteria listed below; however the application must achieve a score of at least 50 points, out of the 174 total points available to be eligible for consideration for an Incentives approval. Each feature shall have a maximum number of points that can be awarded by the decision- making authority. The decision-making authority may approve an Incentives use permit subject to the findings required by Section 19.23.040(B). The evaluation criteria for which a use permit for Incentives may be awarded are: • Projects that include high quality, innovative design and product type, maximum provisions for pedestrian and bicycle use, and reflect progressive planning principles such as Smart Growth, Transit Oriented Development, Neotraditional design, and/or the Ahwanee Principles. (Up to 15 points possible) • Projects that provide creative design solutions for improvements to unusual or irregular sites that are difficult to develop for optimum use. (Up to 7 points possible) • Substantial rehabilitation and/or reuse of blighted or under-utilized on site and/or off site structures or properties. (Up to 10 points possible) • Usable open space or landscaped areas that are at least 25 percent greater than the minimum requirements stated in this Zoning Ordinance and which offer specific visual, community amenity, or functional benefits. (Up to 7 points possible) • Creative solutions or design of off-street parking which minimizes the land devoted to, or visual impact of parking through car sharing, transit use incentives, undergrounding structures, landscaping, design, or sharing of facilities by more than a single use. (Up to 15 points possible) • Provision of affordable housing or other specialized facilities. (Up to 20 points possible) • Provision of affordable housing that is over and above what is required by State law, Redevelopment law, and/or this Zoning Ordinance, for a range of incomes and lifestyles, or individuals or groups with special needs including affordable housing for very low, low, and/or moderate income: large families; the disabled; seniors; credentialed school teachers; City of El Cerrito Police or Firefighters; and/or City of El Cerrito public employees. Under the Incentives Program, project density of up to 70 du/acre may be allowed provided the project includes housing for elderly and/or disabled persons, where there is a commitment to provide services such as congregate care, on-site counseling, rehabilitation or medical services for residents. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 52 of 90 • Provision of market rate housing for the exclusive use of the elderly or the disabled. • Provision of on-site and/or off-site community services, amenities and/or infrastructure (other than standard requirements and improvements) such as funding for public safety facilities and/or services, facilities for the arts, libraries, senior centers, community meeting rooms, child care or recreation, new or enhanced public spaces such as the Ohlone Greenway, sidewalks, streets, parking areas, pathways or parks; in addition to required facilities. (Up to 20 points possible) • Provision of green building and/or energy efficient design, layout, landscaping, construction and materials of an active or passive nature, which exceed those otherwise required by Title 24 but do not achieve LEED certification. (Up to 9 points possible) • Compliance with LEED certified development standards. (Up to 20 points possible) • Provision of environmental benefits such as preservation or restoration of such features as creeks, historical structures, or off-site remediation of sites affected by hazardous materials. (Up to 10 points possible) • Development of job generating land uses, or facilities to assist economic development, in conjunction with the development of dwelling units. (Up to 20 points possible) • Significant improvements to public school property or facilities, exceeding minimum school mitigation fee or development requirements. (Up to 10 points possible) • Provision of significant measures for the use of clean air and/or alternative fuel vehicles, and/or public transit. (Up to 20 points possible) If the decision-making authority grants at least 50 points for the evaluation criteria specified in Section 19.23.020, the decision-making authority may grant Incentives approval to modify the zoning requirements, limitations and development standards otherwise applicable to a development project, including modifications to: • Site requirements for area, height, setback, dimensions and coverage. • The allowable capacity, density or intensity of residential and nonresidential uses. An increase in density granted through this program shall not be combined with increased density granted through a separate section of this code. • Off-street parking requirements. • Landscaping and screening requirements. • Usable open space requirements. • Requirements for public improvements. • Land use limitations. 3. Residential Care Facilities A “residential care facility” is a resident-occupied dwelling, licensed by the State/County that provides housing and care for children and/or adults on a full-time, live-in basis. Licensed residential care facilities with six or fewer beds are allowed by right in all residential districts in El Cerrito, consistent with State law. According to the Federal Department of ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 53 of 90 Health and Social Services, there are a total of 11 licensed care facilities in El Cerrito. Table II-16 in Section II shows the breakdown of licensed care facilities and their capacity. 4. Emergency Shelters, Transitional Housing and Single Room Occupancy Units In 2008, a new State law was adopted (Government Code 65583 requiring local jurisdictions to identify a zone or zones where emergency shelters are allowed as a permitted use without a conditional use or other discretionary permit. The City Zoning Ordinance allows emergency shelters as a permitted use under “Community Social Service Facilities” within the Community Commercial (CC) zone. The definition of Community Social Service Facilities as listed in the City’s Zoning Ordinance is below: Community Social Service Facilities. Any noncommercial facility, such as homeless shelters, emergency shelters and facilities providing social services such as job referral, housing placement and which may also provide meals, showers, and/or laundry facilities, typically for less than 30 days. Specialized programs and services related to the needs of the residents may also be provided. This classification excludes transitional housing facilities that provide living accommodations for a longer term. The Community Commercial (CC) zone contains approximately 4 existing vacant parcels ranging from .10 acre to .43 acre which could accommodate one or more year-round emergency shelters. All four lots have utilities and are in existing service areas. In addition, the zoning district contains other underutilized parcels such as surface parking lots and underdeveloped properties that total a little more than an acre. Existing and future building vacancies could also accommodate one or more year-round emergency shelters. The City Zoning Ordinance allows transitional housing as a permitted use under “Transitional Housing” within the Community Commercial (CC) zone and as a conditional use in the Transit Oriented Mixed Use (TOM) zone. The definition of Transitional Housing as listed in the City’s Zoning Ordinance is below: Transitional Housing. Establishments providing temporary housing in a structured living environment and where residents have access to various voluntary support services, such as health, mental health, education and employment/training services to obtain skills necessary for independent living. Living accommodations are shared living quarters with or without separate kitchen or bath facilities for each room or unit. The occupancy period shall be at least 30 days. This category excludes temporary housing that does not include support services and community social service facilities such as emergency shelters. The City Zoning Ordinance considers supportive housing under the “Residential Care Facilities” use classification. Residential care facilities of less than 6 people are permitted by right in all residential zones. Residential care facilities of 6 or more people are allowed by conditional use permit in all residential and commercial zones. Program 15.6 will ensure zoning treats supportive housing as a residential use and that the definition of supportive housing is updated to stand alone. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 54 of 90 The City Zoning Ordinance allows single room occupancy units (SRO) as a permitted use under “Group Housing” within the Community Commercial (CC) and the Transit Oriented Mixed Use (TOM) zones. The definition of Group Housing as listed in the City’s Zoning Ordinance is below: Group Housing. Shared living quarters without separate kitchen or bathroom facilities for each room or unit. This classification includes rooming and boardinghouses, dormitories, and private residential clubs, offering shared living quarters, but excludes hotels, residential care facilities and transitional housing facilities. 5. Second Unit Ordinance Second Units may be established on any lot in any district where a primary single family dwelling has been previously established or is proposed to be established in the RS zone in conjunction with construction of a second unit. Only one Second Unit is permitted per primary single-family dwelling on the same lot. Second dwelling units must comply with City design and development standards to ensure that they are compatible with existing neighborhoods. The City’s Second Unit regulations (Section 19.20.190) sets forth the criteria for second units including the definition of a second unit, the maximum allowable square footage, and the development standards for these units. These criteria do not pose a constraint to the development of second units. Criteria for second units include: Type of Unit. A Second Unit may be attached, detached, or located within the living area of the primary dwelling unit on the lot, subject to the standards of this Section. Minimum and Maximum Floor Area. The maximum floor area of a Second Unit shall not exceed 750 square feet or 40 percent of the floor area of the primary dwelling, whichever is less, except that an attached Second Unit of 400 square feet in floor area is permitted regardless of the size of the primary dwelling. Up to 1200 square feet or 75% of the floor area of the primary dwelling, whichever is less, may be permitted with the approval of a Conditional Use Permit. No Second Unit may be smaller than 150 square feet. Development Standards. Second Units shall conform to setback, height, lot coverage, and other zoning requirements applicable to the primary dwelling in the zoning district where the Second Unit is proposed, subject to the following additional standards: A detached Second Unit may exceed 15-foot in height with the approval of a Conditional Use Permit. • An attached or detached Second Unit shall be located on the interior side of a corner lot or behind the existing dwelling. • An attached Second Unit that results in two-story construction shall be located in the rear half of the structure. • A Second Unit shall have a separate, private exterior entrance. Architectural Compatibility. The architectural design, exterior materials and colors, roof pitch and style, type of windows, and trim details of the second unit shall be substantially the ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 55 of 90 same as, and visually harmonious and compatible with the primary dwelling, as determined by the Zoning Administrator. Color photographs of the street-facing side(s) of the primary dwelling unit shall be submitted with the second unit building permit application. Parking. One additional parking space shall be provided for each Second Unit. This space may be in tandem with required parking of the principal dwelling unit, may be located in front setback areas provided the ground slope in this area does not exceed 10 percent and may be uncovered. The principal dwelling unit must conform to the parking requirements of Chapter 19.24: Off-Street Parking and Loading. Exceptions. Exceptions to Subsections E and F above shall require an Administrative Use Permit and a finding that the second unit is compatible with, and preserves, the single-family character of the primary dwelling and the surrounding neighborhood. Exceptions to Subsections D and G above shall require a Conditional Use Permit. Deed restriction. The Second Unit shall not be sold, transferred, or assigned separately from the Primary Dwelling. 6. Housing for Persons with Disabilities The U.S. Census Bureau defines persons with disabilities as those with a long-lasting physical, mental or emotional condition. This condition can make it difficult for a person to do activities such as walking, climbing stairs, dressing, bathing, learning or remembering. This condition can also impede a person from being able to go outside the home alone or to work at a job or business. a. Reasonable Accommodations The provisions of SB 520 require municipalities to analyze potential and actual constraints upon the development, maintenance and improvement of housing for persons with disabilities, and demonstrate local efforts to remove governmental constraints that hinder the locality from meeting the need for housing for persons with disabilities. Cities are required to include programs that remove constraints and provide reasonable accommodations for housing designed for persons with disabilities. The City of El Cerrito makes reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities to allow equal access to City services and facilities and equal participation in public processes. Individuals with disabilities can request special accommodations at the City’s public counter make an advance request for such accommodations through one of several communications channels offered by the City. These channels include contacting the appropriate department via, phone, email, permit fax line, or email. A City staff person at the public counter or who takes the inquiry/request determines the nature of the need and ensures that persons requesting accommodations have adequate access to the requested services of the responsible City department. The City follows this same accommodations process for persons with special needs who desire to participate in public events in City facilities (such as public hearings and meetings). The City also offers reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities in its approach to zoning and building regulation. At no time has the City denied a zoning ordinance exception to an individual who has requested a variance for access accommodations or other disabilities needs. The City provides public information at its permit counter that ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 56 of 90 summarizes processes for requesting variances from codes and standards to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. Discretionary permits applications that do not require California Environmental Quality Act review must be submitted at least thirty days prior to the scheduled hearing dates. But for applicants requesting permits for reasonable accommodations purposes, the discretionary process is fast-tracked, which means that applicants can apply twenty days prior to the upcoming hearing dates instead of the standard thirty-days. Twenty days is necessary for staff to route plans and comply with State public noticing requirements, which stipulates a 10-day public review and comment period prior to public hearings. Zoning Ordinance standards and CEQA review determines if a project is discretionary. If a project or request complies with zoning ordinance standards and is exempt under CEQA guidelines, then it not considered discretionary. Non-discretionary (ministerial) projects are routed through the department responsible for the request. Typically ministerial projects in El Cerrito only require building permits. The Building Department, via administrative procedures, ensures that handicap accessible modifications comply with the California Building Code, so the Department does not distribute brochures. If reasonable accommodations are requested, the building department provides additional help, information, and/or consideration to applicants on an as needed basis. b. Permits and Processing Residential care facilities -limited (for less than 6 individuals) are allowed by right in all residential zones. The City does not restrict residential care facilities – limited other than compliance with the same zoning standards as for any other single-family use. Residential care facilities - general (for 6 or more individuals) are allowed in all residential and commercial zones with a conditional use permit. Currently, the City’s Zoning Ordinance allows large family daycare facilities (8-14 children) with non-discretionary Zoning Administrator permits. Large family daycare facility applicants that satisfy noise, parking, traffic, and signage requirements can obtain a non-discretionary use permit (Section 19.13.103 of the Zoning Ordinance). Applicants that do not satisfy criteria for a non-discretionary permit or request locations within commercial districts are subject to a discretionary conditional use permit process. The conditional use permit process involves one public notice and hearing before the Planning Commission. Applicants or other interested parties may appeal the Planning Commission’s decision to the City Council. Small family daycare (up to 8) facilities are allowed by right in any residential zone. c. Zoning and Other Land Use Regulations The City has not identified any zoning or other land-use regulatory practices that could discriminate against persons with disabilities and impede the availability of such housing for these individuals. Examples of the ways in which the City facilitates housing for persons with disabilities through its regulatory and permitting procedures are: Supportive multiple-family or single-family housing for the disabled is permitted in any residential zone that permits non-designated single- or multiple-family housing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 57 of 90 All multiple-family complexes are required to provide handicapped parking spaces, depending on the size of the development. The City is flexible and works with the developers of special needs housing and will reduce parking requirements if the applicant can demonstrate a reduced need for parking. The City has no separate restrictions or development standards for group homes or other special needs housing. Recognizing that some persons with disabilities may require the assistance of specially trained persons who live with the disabled persons, the Zoning Code does not differentiate between related and unrelated persons occupying the same residential unit. 7. Building Codes and Enforcement The City of El Cerrito building codes are adopted to preserve public health and safety, and ensure the construction of safe and decent housing. These codes and standards also have the potential to increase the cost of housing construction or maintenance. a. Building Codes The City of El Cerrito current operates under the 2007 California Building Code, which is based on the 2006 International Building Code and establishes construction standards for all residential buildings. The latest edition of the California Building Code must be submitted to the City Council from time to time together with changes or modifications as are reasonable and necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions, or as otherwise permitted by State law. The regulations set forth are designed to ensure the safety and welfare of El Cerrito’s residents. The 2010 Cal Green Building Code was recently adopted by City Council and will go into effect in January 2011. b. Americans with Disabilities Act The Federal Fair Housing Act of 1998 (FHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are federal laws intended to assist in providing safe and accessible housing. ADA provisions include requirements for a minimum percentage of units in new developments to be fully accessible for persons with physical disabilities. Compliance with these regulations may increase the cost of housing construction as well as the cost of rehabilitating older units, which may be required to comply with current codes. However, the enforcement of ADA requirements is not at the discretion of the City, but is mandated under federal law. c. Code Enforcement The City conducts code enforcement activities on a complaint basis in response to reports from residents and other community members. When a complaint is received the City inspects the property and determines whether there is a code violation. If there is a code violation, the City sends a letter to the property owner informing them that they have 10 days to correct the violation. If the violation is not abated within the 10 days, an administrative citation with fine is issued. Each violation of the El Cerrito Municipal Code constitutes a separate violation for every day such violation continues, and an administrative citation may be issued for each and every separate violation. As such, an administrative citation will then be issued everyday until the violation is abated. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 58 of 90 8. Local Processing and Permit Procedures a. Building and Development Fees Building permit fees can add between 10 percent and 15 percent to the cost of single-family home and between five and ten percent to the cost of a multifamily dwelling (based on development costs reported in the non-governmental constraints section). The City can help to mitigate the cost impact of fees by allowing developers to maximize achievable densities (which reduces the total cost per unit of fees), providing subsidies for affordable housing developers to off-set the cost of fees, or waiving, reducing, or deferring City- imposed fees to reduce the initial cost to the affordable housing developer. Various development fees are charged by the City and other agencies to cover administrative processing costs associated with development. These fees ensure quality development and the provision of adequate services. Often times, development fees are passed through to renters and homeowners in the price/rent of housing, thus affecting the affordability of housing. In most California cities, home builders are required to provide a full complement of on-site improvements such as streets, curbs, gutters, water lines, and sewer lines. Many cities also collect impact fees to fund the cost of expanding infrastructure and community services, such as sewers, parks, and roads, to serve new growth. Impact fees as high as $60,000 per unit are common in newer East Bay cities. These fees are typically passed on to homeowners in the form of higher sales prices. Because El Cerrito is an infill city and essentially built out, the vast amount of development opportunities are on sites with a full complement of existing urban services and impact fees are not required. El Cerrito is one of the few cities in the East Bay that does not collect impact fees. This represents a significant savings relative to the cost of development in nearby communities. It should be noted that the City does not charge “impact” fees, except for a state transportation mitigation program fee of $780 per single-family home and $624 per multifamily dwelling. Water and sewer facilities impact fees are levied directly by the East Bay Municipal Utilities District (EBMUD). EBMUD charges between $800 and $3,600 for new water connection, depending on the number of meters per lateral line. The most expensive connection is a single meter on a two-inch line at $3,600. A typical residential unit will have between a 5/8” and 1” line, for a cost of approximately $2,600 per connection. The lowest cost connection per dwelling unit, about $800, is for a 5/8” line with eight meters. EBMUD also charges a system capacity fee of approximately $1,100 to account for the additional demand of a new water connection. EBMUD charges a wastewater capacity fee of approximately $600 per dwelling unit for connections to the regional wastewater treatment system. Developers are required to provide laterals to connect to local sewer lines that fee into the regional system. EBMUD charges additional fees when unusual conditions exist, such as when the meter is more than 25 feet from the lateral line, underground utilities or other obstructions are in the way of a lateral line, or traffic conditions requires special traffic control measures. Other charges may include a system capacity charge based on the meter size or domestic demand in excess of average. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 59 of 90 School impact fees are levied by the West Contra Unified Costa School District and collected at the time of application for a building permit. The school impact fee is $4.41 per square foot for new residential dwellings. An impact fee of $2.97 per square foot is levied on additions of habitable residential space of more than 500 square feet. Impact fees charged by EBMUD and the West Contra Cost School District represent between four and eight percent of the total cost of a dwelling unit, or between 40 percent and 50 percent of the total cost of fees imposed on residential development. Based on the residential projects constructed in El Cerrito, the City has not found the development and permit fees to hinder the supply of housing or negatively impact the affordability of housing. b. Planning Fees Unless a property is proposed to be rezoned or contain a planned development, planning fees represent a very small percentage of the overall project cost. As noted above in the summary text following Table A-3 in Appendix A, most of the multi-family housing units will be produced within the City’s commercial and mixed use zoning districts around the City’s two BART stations. A Planning Commission use permit would be required as would an Incentives Program permit for increased density, if developers requested parking, height, and or other exceptions and were eligible for the Incentives Program. Design Review would also be required. The fees for each permit/review for a project for more than 11 units are below: y Use Permit: $4,097 y Incentives Program: $3,860 y Design Review: $4,214 By themselves, planning fees for discretionary multi-family applications represent a small fraction of the overall development cost and do not pose barriers for multi-unit development. For instance, if 300 units were produced on the first lot identified in Table A-3 (Central Avenue), one-time planning fees would average about $39/unit, which is low in proportion to other fees. Fees for environmental review under CEQA vary dependant upon the nature of the proposed development and existing conditions. The City charges a 30% administrative fee on any consultant contract for an environmental review. If the project is small enough for City staff to conduct the environmental review, fees run from $175 for a categorical exemption to $3,175 for a negative declaration to $9,156 for a mitigated negative declaration. The City does not impose any impact fees. c. Permit Processing Procedures Applications for development permits are made in writing to the Community Development Department. Application processing times vary depending on the permit being requested. In addition, some planning applications require public hearings. On average, development permits are processed in less than 90 days. Overall, development permit approval processing in El Cerrito does not create any unnecessary delays or increases to the cost of housing. The City is required to determine if an application is complete within 30 days of receipt. Once deemed complete, application processing begins. Applications are reviewed for consistency with the General Plan and Zoning Code, and conformance with design standards. On average, development permits are processed in less than 90 days. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 60 of 90 The City has determined that the most likely zoning categories that can accommodate very low- or low-income housing are the RM (multi-family residential), CC (community commercial) and TOM (transit oriented mixed-use) zoning districts. Assuming that neither a general plan amendment nor rezoning is needed, a typical single- family home will require the following permits: • If in a new subdivision, tentative/final subdivision approval (more than four parcels) or minor subdivision approval (four parcels or fewer); • Design review for single-family structures within a PD or subdivision requiring design review; • CEQA compliance review (A single-family home will typically be exempt or require a negative declaration if part of a subdivision.); • Grading permit; • Site work plan review (if project is not part of a subdivision) if two or more stories are proposed; and • Building permit. A typical multifamily project will require the following permits: • Administrative design review (for small projects such as duplexes) or Design Review Board review; • Use permit, if located within a commercial zoning district; • Planned development permit (if developer proposes a planned development overlay designation); • Incentives Program review (if developer proposes to use the City’s Incentives Program; • CEQA compliance review (typically a negative declaration); • Grading permit; and • Building permit. Permits are processed by City staff. However, several types of permits require review and public hearings before the Planning Commission or Design Review Board: tentative subdivision maps, use permits, planned development permits, Incentives Program permits, and CEQA review (other than exempt activities). The injection of additional layers of review and public hearings create the potential for project delay and modifications. The City’s experience has been that even projects requiring discretionary review can be processed within a reasonable timeframe with minimal modifications that do not significantly affect cost or project density so long as the City’s development standards are followed. Developers requesting planned development approvals or participation in the Incentives Program may find longer approval timeframes because part of the process for these projects is to determine site-appropriate development standards. In the City of El Cerrito, the time necessary for obtaining these typical permit approvals varies widely depending on the complexity of the project. On average, a single-family development will require a maximum of six months for development approvals. Delays usually occur because of environmental analysis or public concern. El Cerrito acts upon tentative subdivision applications for minor subdivisions within three months. Final maps require only one month. El Cerrito completes plan checks and building permits within approximately three weeks. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 61 of 90 Multifamily projects can also be reviewed and approved within six months, unless the project requires and environmental impact report (typically not the case in El Cerrito). Multifamily projects do not typically involve subdivision of land, so tentative and final map approvals are not required. However, a typical multifamily project will involve review by the Design Review Board (DRB). If the project needed a use permit, it would also require Conceptual Review by the DRB. In the past, review by the Board has not resulted in significant delay for residential projects because of the use of study session and conceptual review to identify potential design issues early. Design review by the DRB is a significant issue primarily within the Del Norte and El Cerrito Plaza areas as well as along San Pablo Avenue areas. Multifamily projects are permitted by right within the multifamily residential zone (RM). A use permit would be required for multifamily projects of 25 units or more within the CC & TOM zones, however mixed use projects are permitted by right (no additional CUP required for retail). The findings of approval required for projects that require a use permit are listed in Section 19.343.040 of the El Cerrito Municipal Code. These findings provide guidance to developers throughout the design and permit processes as do codified guidelines for basic massing and compatibility with other zoning districts within the Zoning Ordinance. The required findings of approval for a CUP are as follows: 1. The location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the proposed development will be harmonious and compatible with and will not adversely affect the livability or appropriate development of abutting properties and the surrounding neighborhood. 2. The location and design of the proposal will provide a convenient and functional living, working, shopping, or civic environment that will be an attractive amenity for the City. 3. The proposal is consistent with the purposes of the district where it is located and conforms in all significant respects with the El Cerrito General Plan and with any other applicable plan adopted by the City Council. Design Review Projects requiring review by the Design Review Board require an additional step in the process, a public hearing. In practice, even design review by the Board does not add significant time for approving a multifamily project. If a developer wishes to design a project that varies from the City’s zoning requirements, the Incentives Program is available to permit variations from the underlying standards in exchange for a project-specific design review. Projects that incorporate “desirable features” noted above in the description of the Incentives Program can qualify for modified parking, setback, building, lot coverage, and other standards. The City encourages developers to use the Incentives Program to facilitate creative design approaches to new residential development. Because many of the desirable features for which the City may grant incentives relate to project design, the Incentives Program is used in conjunction with design review. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 62 of 90 Environmental Review Certain applications for development are subject to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and require the preparation of an environmental document environmental impact report or mitigated negative declaration) before a project can be approved. The requirement to prepare an environmental document can substantially lengthen the development review process, sometimes taking up to one year to obtain project approval. However, the cost associated with preparing an environmental document is not considered to disproportionately constrain residential development in El Cerrito. The costs associated with development project review will vary between projects. El Cerrito utilizes an efficient and comprehensive approach towards development review and permitting that allows for quick response to developer applications. In addition, the City utilizes many practices such as expedited application processing, reducing costs, and clarification of the process to developers and homeowners to minimize City impacts on the development process. Increased development costs resulting from the City’s development review and permitting process are not considered to constrain housing development. 9. El Cerrito Redevelopment Agency Housing Fund Program In accordance with State law, the El Cerrito Redevelopment Agency sets aside 20 percent of all tax increment revenue generated from its redevelopment project area to fund projects that increase, improve, or preserve the supply of affordable housing. Housing developed with these set-aside funds must remain affordable to low- and moderate-income households for at least 55 years for rentals and 45 years for ownership housing. The Agency receives approximately $1 million in set-aside funds annually in addition to other revenues. A significant portion of revenues fund debt service on existing Agency Tax Allocation Bond obligations and other debt. Table III-__ summarizes projected Redevelopment Agency Low and Moderate Income Housing Fund revenues and obligations over the Housing Element planning period. Over the planning period, the Agency has prioritized the new construction and preservation of rental housing for extremely low, very low, low, and moderate income households. Between 2007 and 2011, the Agency committed approximately $8.4 million in housing funds to assist with the financing of three affordable housing rental developments. In 2008, the Agency provided a take-out loan to the Idaho Apartments, an acquisition/rehabilitation project completed in 2000 serving persons with special needs. Also in 2008, the Agency provided Housing Funds for acquisition and predevelopment activities for Ohlone Gardens, a proposed 57-unit new construction multifamily and special needs development which received planning entitlements in 2009. Thirdly, the Agency also used Housing Funds to purchase a site adjacent to City Hall, issued a Request for Proposals to develop this site with affordable rental housing, and selected Eden Housing as the developer for the proposed 64-unit mixed-use affordable housing project. In addition to the above $8.4 million in existing housing fund project commitments, the Agency estimates an additional $773,000 in Housing Fund revenues will become available over the planning period to allocate to housing projects and programs. Given current limited sources of State and Federal funds for affordable housing and local land values and development costs within the City and Redevelopment Project Area, $773,000 is not anticipated to be sufficient subsidy to attract a developer to undertake a new project or to acquire land. Likely uses would be as gap financing for an existing RDA-assisted housing project or to let the Housing Fund balance accumulate until there are sufficient funds to ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 63 of 90 undertake an additional project such as new construction or acquisition and rehabilitation of affordable projects with expiring affordability controls. Table III-6 Low & Moderate Income Housing Fund - Projected Revenues Available for Housing Program El Cerrito Redevelopment Agency - FY 2007/08 to FY 2013/14 Projected Actual Actual Actual Proposed Fiscal Year 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013 2013-2014 Total Beginning Year Cash Balance 5,889,000 $ 6,429,000 $ 623,000 $ 682,000 $ 53,000 $ 10,000 $ 376,000 $ Revenues: Housing Fund Deposits 1,088,000 1,170,000 1,049,000 999,000 1,020,000 1,079,000 1,117,000 7,522,000 Loan Repayments 61,000 186,000 1,947,000 415,000 487,000 487,000 487,000 4,070,000 Bond/Loan Proceeds - 1,200,000 - - - - - 1,200,000 Interest Earnings 258,000 92,000 35,000 6,000 1,000 - 8,000 400,000 Subtotal Revenue 1,407,000 2,648,000 3,031,000 1,419,000 1,509,000 1,566,000 1,611,000 13,191,000 - - - - - - - Agency Obligations: - - - - - - - County Admin Fee 9,000 12,000 11,000 12,000 12,000 13,000 13,000 82,000 Existing Debt Service 606,000 606,000 2,521,000 1,114,000 750,000 743,000 750,000 7,090,000 Agency Housing Administration Costs 251,000 378,000 410,000 425,000 439,000 445,000 450,000 2,798,000 Existing Project and Program Commitments - 7,457,000 30,000 497,000 350,000 - - 8,334,000 Subtotal Agency Obligations 867,000 8,453,000 2,972,000 2,048,000 1,552,000 1,200,000 1,214,000 18,306,000 - - - - - - - Available Cash Balance 6,429,000 $ 623,000 $ 682,000 $ 53,000 $ 10,000 $ 376,000 $ 773,000 $ Future Housing Programs 6,429,000 $ (5,806,000) $ 59,000 $ (629,000) $ (43,000) $ 366,000 $ 398,000 $ 773,000 $ Federal Entitlement Funds The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is the largest federal housing-related program for affordable housing. It is a "pass-through" program that allows local governments to use federal funds to alleviate poverty and blight. Cities with populations of over 50,000 receive CDBG funds directly from HUD, while smaller cities usually use county-administered CDBG funds. HUD makes allocations based on a formula that takes population, poverty, and housing distress into account. CDBG funds are used for a variety of housing efforts including activities aimed at reducing costs for private development (helping fund site acquisition, improvement, and other soft costs); housing acquisition and rehabilitation through short and long-term loans, grants or loan guarantees; direct payment of rent or mortgage and housing counseling services; and fair housing activities. CDBG funds are best used in combination with other subsidy sources or to provide predevelopment funding to initiate housing development. El Cerrito’s population has not reached 50,000, and thus CDBG funds are administered and allocated by Contra Costa County to fund program and service priorities that are established and implemented through the Five-Year Contra Costa County Consolidated Plan. The ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 64 of 90 County receives an allocation of approximately $3.4 million annually, of which $1.5 million is targeted for housing. The Home Investments Partnership (HOME), like CDBG, is a federal formula-based block grant program. HOME funds must be spent only on housing, and are intended to provide incentives for the acquisition, construction, and rehabilitation of affordable rental and home ownership. HOME requires local governments to provide matching funds, though the matching ratio depends on the specific uses to which HOME funds are to be put. The federal-to-local matching ratio for tenant assistance is currently four-to-one, while the match for rental construction is two-to-one. The FY 2010/11 budget for HOME funds is approximately $3 million for Contra Costa County. Eligible housing projects in El Cerrito are eligible to apply on a competitive basis for County HOME funds. Section 8 is rental assistance provided to a household which bridges the gap between 30 percent of the household's gross income and the fair market rent of a unit. Although this long-standing federal assistance program is not expected to increase in size or scope, it remains an important program for affordable housing by helping to balance household income and housing costs. Section 8 assistance in El Cerrito is administered by the Contra Costa County Housing Authority. Other funding sources include Housing Opportunities for Persons Living with Aids (HOPWA) funds from the HUD, California Housing Finance Authority (CalHFA) and Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) program funds at the State level, and low income housing tax credit equity funds. Any other loans, grants or financial assistance from any other public or private sources may be utilized if available. 10. On and Off-Site Improvements For new subdivisions, the City may require developers to dedicate land, construct on and off-site improvements or pay fees necessary to construct the necessary improvements. Pursuant to the City’s Subdivision Ordinance, the City may require construction of streets; including curbs, gutters and sidewalks; and all necessary public utilities. For new projects, underground utilities are required. In addition to the required on-site improvements, the City may require off-site improvements as mitigation measures to certain project impacts. These off-site mitigations are determined as necessary on a project specific basis through the CEQA process. There are virtually no privately held parcels in El Cerrito, within zoning districts that allow residential uses, which are large enough to require new streets at the time of development. Nearly every street in the City is improved with curb, gutter and sidewalk which would continue to serve future residential development. It is extremely unlikely that new projects would be required to dedicate or construct a significant amount of off-site street improvements due to the built-out nature of El Cerrito. Street widening could possibly occur within existing public rights-of-way, if necessary, but it is unlikely that any project would need to dedicate right-of-way or construct a public street with a right-of-way wider than that of a minor street. There are no additional major or secondary streets identified for construction in the City’s General Plan. Street classifications and standards are found in Section 18.24.040 of the El Cerrito Municipal Code. They are as follows: ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 65 of 90 • Major Street - Minimum right-of-way width of 86 feet in commercial areas and 80 feet in residential areas. Minimum pavement width of 64 feet in commercial areas and 56 in residential areas. • Secondary Street – Minimum right-of-way width of 60 feet. Minimum pavement width of 40 feet. • Minor Street – Minimum right-of-way width of 50 feet. Minimum pavement width of 34 feet. B. NON-GOVERNMENTAL CONSTRAINTS 1. Vacant and Underutilized Land A thorough analysis of vacant and underutilized land within the City of El Cerrito is provided in Appendix A. 2. Land Prices Land costs have a demonstrable influence on the cost and availability of affordable housing. Land prices are determined by numerous factors, most important of which are land availability and permitted development densities. As land becomes less available, the price of land increases. Land costs in the San Francisco Bay Area are relatively high as compared with the rest of the nation. Given the current downturn in the real estate market, land price projections are difficult to track accurately. A search of Trulia and Zip Realty Internet land-for-sale records for 2010 uncovered few vacant residential properties for sale in El Cerrito (Table III-7). Table III-7 Parcels for Sale or Sold in 2010 Type Lot Size/Total Units Location Price Vacant Land Single-Family Residential 10,454 square feet El Cerrito $85,000 Single-Family Residential 13,939 square feet El Cerrito $834,500 Single-Family Residential 26,571 square feet El Cerrito $739,000 Single-Family Residential 2,613 square feet El Cerrito $79,000 Single-Family Residential 11,900 square feet El Cerrito $249,000 Multi-Family Residential 3 acres El Cerrito $3,500,000 Multi-Family Residential 37,897 square feet El Cerrito $2,500,000 Given these extremely high land costs, it is unlikely that increases in density (such as a 25 percent density bonus) would significantly reduce the unit cost of building a dwelling unit to the level of affordability for low- or moderate-income households. Densities of 45 units or more per acre, combined with greatly reduced dwelling unit sizes, would be necessary to construct affordable housing to moderate- and some low-income households without significant public subsidies. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 66 of 90 3. Construction Costs Construction costs are primarily determined by the costs of materials and labor. They are also influenced by market demands and market-based changes in the cost of materials. Construction costs depend on the type of unit being built and the quality of the product being produced. The most significant constraint on development of new housing in El Cerrito is the overall cost, including land costs and construction costs. Many factors can affect the cost to build, including the type of construction, materials, site conditions, finishing details, amenities, and structural configuration. Development costs were developed from estimates provided by residential builders who work in the region. Permitting costs and fees are between $30,000 and $35,000 for an average size home. Once a vacant parcel is purchased, the contractor has to make certain site improvements to prepare for building on the property. Such improvements include connections to existing utility systems, rough grading, and installation of water and sewer lines. This type of work generally costs between $55,000 and $80,000 depending on the amount of work required at each location. Including impact fees and land costs (assuming a single-family home) the minimum cost to produce a modest home for a family of four in El Cerrito would be nearly $450,000. According to US Census data for building permits issued in 2008, the average construction cost for single-family housing in El Cerrito was $290,141 per unit. A search on an internet source (www.building-cost.net), provided by Craftsman Book Company, provided a lower estimate of $215,400 for a small three bedroom house of 1,700 square feet. It is important to note that estimates here do not include land costs, financing, permit/fees, developer profit or marketing costs. Based on construction costs alone, a single-family home constructed in El Cerrito can cost between $125 and $150 per square foot, depending on the quality of finishes and amenities. Based on the costs listed above for a single-family home, none of the very low-, low-, or even many moderate-income households in El Cerrito could afford to own a new housing unit constructed in the City. The scarcity of easily developed land, combined with the great demand, indicates that housing construction costs are likely to remain high in the future. El Cerrito will continue to follow the trend of increasing housing costs that is occurring throughout the Bay Area. Construction costs for multifamily residential units can vary more than those for single-family homes due to the greater range in which they can be built. A high-end senior complex with senior-friendly amenities will cost much more than an affordable multifamily complex. RS Means Quick Estimator (www.rsmeans.com) estimates construction costs for a low-rise, 7,200 square foot multifamily apartment building to be in the range of $150 and $208 per square foot. To reduce construction costs, developers may build at higher densities to increase the economies of scale. In most cases, reduced parking requirements can also make construction more affordable. Developers can also reduce costs by using better, newer construction methodology such as modular construction, off-site manufacturing and prefabrication. Many of these techniques help save time, control quality, eliminate waste and ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 67 of 90 labor costs – thereby keeping costs to a minimum. Amenities such as elevators, common open space and landscaped areas can also add to the overall cost. 4. Financing Mortgage interest rates have a large influence over the affordability of housing. Higher interest rates increase a homebuyer’s payment and decrease the range of housing that a household can afford. Lower interest rates result in a lower cost and lower payments for the homebuyer. When interest rates rise, the market typically compensates by decreasing housing prices. Similarly, when interest rates decrease, housing prices begin to rise. There is often a lag in the market, causing housing prices to remain high when interest rates rise until the market catches up. Lower-income households often find it most difficult to purchase a home during this time period. As shown in Table III-8, the number of loan applications increases as income increases. The percentage of persons denied for a home loan in the Oakland-Fremont-Hayward Metropolitan Area is highest for the very low-income (less than 50 percent of the MFI) category with 35.8 percent. Table III-8 Mortgage Lending Rates-2007 Oakland-Fremont-Hayward MSA Income Group Total Applications Loans Originated Applications Denied % Denied <50% MFI 1,631 614 583 35.8% 50-79% MFI 9,367 5,481 2,058 22% 80-99% MFI 10,373 6,136 2,141 20.6% 110-119% MFI 14,845 8,370 3,254 21.9% 120% MFI 128,000 67,995 28,769 22.5% Total 164,216 88,596 36,805 22.4% Total1 61,087 32,138 14,009 22.9% Note: 1 Total is provided by FFIEC. There is a discrepancy between the two totals, but the reason is unknown. Source: Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC), HMDA Data, 2007 Mortgage interest rates steadily decreased until January 2008. Interest rates then began to rise and reached a high point in August 2008. Since then, interest rates have again steadily decreased. Interest rates are determined by national policies and economic conditions and there is little that a local government can do to affect these rates. There have been recent changes in the qualifications and lending standards for home loans. Nationally there has been a large increase in the number of delinquencies and foreclosures in the residential market; as a result, lenders have more stringent qualifications for home loans and lower-income households may find it more difficult to qualify. The availability of financing directly impacts a person’s ability to purchase or improve a home. During the early to mid-2000s (2003, 2004, 2005), lenders provided an increasing number of subprime loans, and, in response to high housing costs, many lenders provided mortgages of up to 95% of the value of the home, rather than the traditionally allowed 80%. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 68 of 90 In 2006 and 2007, borrowers began to default on those loans. In 2008, lenders significantly tightened their lending standards. Currently, in mid-2009, lending standards remain tight. Underwriting criteria remain stringent and borrowers typically must have at least 20% of the purchase price for a down payment and must have a high credit score to obtain competitive financing. Although it is currently difficult for all but the most credit worthy borrowers to secure a mortgage loan, funds are available and mortgage rates remain low. Federal, state, and local housing programs, particularly first-time homebuyer programs and similar mortgage assistance programs, can be a useful tool for providing help with down payment and closing costs, which can be significant obstacles to home ownership for lower income and minority groups. 5. Energy Conservation There are many opportunities for conserving energy in new and existing homes. New buildings, by design, can easily incorporate energy efficient techniques into the construction. Since much of El Cerrito is already developed, however, it is important to consider the opportunity for energy savings in existing housing also. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the concept of energy efficiency in buildings is demonstrated by the building envelope, which is everything that separates the interior of the building from the outdoor environment: the doors, windows, walls, foundation, roof, and insulation. All the components of the building envelope need to work together to keep a building warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Constructing new homes with energy-conserving features, in addition to retrofitting existing structures, will result in a reduction in utility costs. There are many ways to determine how energy efficient an existing building is and, if needed, what improvements can be made. PG&E offers free home energy audits and can specify areas for energy conservation. Examples of energy conservation opportunities include installation of insulation and/or storm windows and doors, use of natural gas instead of electricity, installation or retrofitting of more efficient appliances and mechanical or solar energy systems, and building design and orientation which incorporates energy conservation considerations. Many modern building design methods are used to reduce residential energy consumption and are based on proven techniques. These methods can be categorized in three ways: Building design that keeps natural heat in during the winter and keeps natural heat out during the summer. Such design reduces air conditioning and heating demands. Proven building techniques in this category include: • location of windows and openings in relation to the path of the sun to minimize solar gain in the summer and maximize solar gain in the winter; • use of “thermal mass,” earthen materials such as stone, brick, concrete, and tiles that absorb heat during the day and release heat at night; • “burying” part of the home in a hillside or berm to reduce solar exposure or to insulate the home against extremes of temperature; • use of window coverings, insulation, and other materials to reduce heat exchange between the interior of a home and the exterior; ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 69 of 90 • location of openings and the use of ventilating devices that take advantage of natural air flow (particularly cool evening breezes); • use of eaves and overhangs that block direct solar gain through window openings during the summer but allow solar gain during the winter; and • zone heating and cooling systems, which reduce heating and cooling in the unused areas of a home. Building orientation that uses natural forces to maintain a comfortable interior temperature. Examples include: • north-south orientation of the long axis of a dwelling; • minimizing the southern and western exposure of exterior surfaces; and • location of dwellings to take advantage of natural air circulation and evening breezes. Use of landscaping features to moderate interior temperatures. Such techniques include: • use of deciduous shade trees and other plants to protect the home; • use of natural or artificial flowing water; and • use of trees and hedges as windbreaks. In addition to natural techniques, a number of modern methods of energy conservation have been developed or advanced during the present century. These include: • use of solar energy to heat water; • use of solar panels and other devices to generate electricity; • window glazing to repel summer heat and trap winter warmth; • weather-stripping and other insulation to reduce heat gain and loss; • use of natural gas for dryers, stovetops and ranges; • use of energy efficient home appliances; and • use of low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to reduce hot water use. The City’s Mediterranean-like climate is typical of coastal northern California with year-round mild temperatures that provides an opportunity to use solar energy techniques to generate electricity, heat water, and provide space heating during colder months. Natural space heating can be substantially increased through the proper location of windows and thermal mass. Use of solar panels can generate 1,000 watts of electricity on a sunny day. This can constitute more than enough power for daily residential operations and a special converter attached to the solar panels can take excess electricity and funnel it back into the PG&E grid. PG&E also offers energy-efficiency tax credits under the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Both homeowners and builders may qualify for these tax credits. Existing homeowners are eligible for tax credits up to a maximum of $500 for energy-efficiency improvements. An additional tax credit is available for solar energy systems. Builders of energy-efficient new homes are eligible for tax credits up to a maximum of $2,000. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 70 of 90 6. Environmental and Infrastructure Constraints Environmental hazards affecting housing units include geologic and seismic conditions, which provide the greatest threat to the built environment. The following hazards may impact future development of residential units in the City. a. Noise The major sources of noise in El Cerrito are related to vehicular traffic including automobile and truck traffic, particularly in areas along Interstate 80 and San Pablo Avenue. This traffic noise is expected to continue to be a major noise source in the future, however, there is not expected to be a significant increase in noise from these sources. A 3 dBA change is realized by a doubling or halving of the traffic volume or by about 7 miles per hour increase or decrease in speed. Interstate 80 at the present time only has a direct noise impact on El Cerrito at the northern end of San Pablo Avenue near Cutting and Potrero. In most of this area, the freeway and San Pablo Avenue are just 450 feet apart and the combination of the two generates levels of noise exceeding 70 decibels. BART noise affects the City differently in that unlike traffic, which is characterized by gradual changes in volumes, train noise is characterized by numerous discrete, periodic events during train pass-bys. Based on existing studies, BART trains produce maximum noise levels typically in the range of 72-76 dBA. When the trains travel farther away from the station at a significantly higher speed maximum noise levels range from 75-80 dBA. Multi-family housing is subject to the requirements of Title 24 of the State Building Code and would require further detailed analysis during the design of these projects due to noise exposure. A major concern of the residential land use pattern along the Ohlone Greenway is high levels of noise due to proximity of the BART tracks and San Pablo Avenue. New construction standards and development requirements are expected to mitigate interior noise levels by incorporating required sound barriers such as double paned windows, wall insulation and building orientation. b. Geologic and Seismic Hazards The Hayward Fault passes through El Cerrito, generally following the route of Arlington Boulevard. The city is also potentially subject to ground-shaking from a major earthquake on the San Andreas Fault, located about 18 miles away. According to earthquake predictions made in 1990 by the Working Group in California Earthquake Probability, there is roughly a one-in-four chance of a large earthquake (magnitude 7 or greater) occurring in the next 30 years (beginning in 1990) along the northern segment of the Hayward Fault and the same chance of such an earthquake on the peninsula segment of the San Andreas Fault. The Working Group will announce its new predictions for the Bay Area in October 1999. The area immediately adjacent to the Hayward Fault has been designated as a special study zone, which imposes some additional development restrictions. From a geologic and geotechnical standpoint, the primary concerns in El Cerrito are slope stability, earthquake ground shaking, fault ground rupture, and liquefaction potential. According to the Tri-Cities Seismic Safety Study (Bishop 1973), virtually all of the upland areas of El Cerrito have a moderate to high landslide risk. The highest risk for groundshaking is in the flatter areas, which have shallow alluvium. The greatest risk of ground rupture is along the fault trace. Several small areas along Baxter and Cerrito creeks are identified as having a high liquefaction potential. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 71 of 90 c. Flood Hazards A number of large storms have caused drainage problems and flooding in the past in El Cerrito. Recent completion of the first phase in the City’s storm drain master plan program has addressed the highest priority sites and significantly reduced localized flooding issues in the city. During past years of heavy rains, only three sites had drainage-related flooding problems. The only portion of El Cerrito located in a FEMA Flood Insurance Zone is the area located west of San Pablo Avenue and south of Central Avenue. Flooding is generally caused by the relatively low ground elevations and high tides in this area, coupled with hydraulic restrictions in the existing channels located in Richmond between El Cerrito and San Francisco Bay. d. Water Water supply to the Planning Area is provided by the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), which derives its water source from the Mokelumne River in the Sierra Nevada. This pristine water is transmitted, via aqueduct, to storage and treatment facilities throughout EBMUD’s service area, and then distributed to customers. EBMUD operates five terminal reservoirs within the following East Bay areas: Briones, Chabot, Lafayette, Upper San Leandro, and San Pablo. To improve water supply reliability in future droughts, EBMUD is adopting a multi-pronged approach to reduce water demand, increase water storage capacity, and find alternative sources of water supply. Some ongoing programs include the Freeport Regional Project, Seawater Deslination Research, and Groundwater Banking Program. These efforts should improve the water supply situation during the planning period. e. Wastewater El Cerrito is located in the Stege Sanitary District, which comprises 5.3 square miles and includes the communities of El Cerrito, Kensington and that portion of Richmond Annex west of El Cerrito and south of Potrero Avenue. The sewage collection system includes 147 miles of collection lines and two small pump stations. The primary elements of this collection system are the public main sewers and the private lateral sewers. The SSD owns and has maintenance responsibility for the main sewers located in public rights-of-way or in easements on private land. Individual property owners own and have maintenance responsibility for their lateral sewers installed between the building plumbing and the main sewer. Wastewater collected in the SSD system flows to the Special District #1 Interceptor sewer and is then conveyed to the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) Wastewater Treatment Facility in Oakland. The only expected growth of the District is through building on the few remaining vacant parcels and commercial area redevelopment. Average annual rainfall is 22.5 inches and generally occurs between November and April. As of 2009, the average age of the collection system is about 57 years. The oldest lines in the District are 86 years old. District main lines are predominantly vitrified clay pipe (VCP) with cement mortar joints, and six inches diameter. Over 90% of the VCP sewers were installed prior to the introduction of modern pipe joints such as compression gaskets, which were not available until the 1960’s and the introduction of improved VCP manufacturing standards initiated in the mid 1950’s. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 72 of 90 In 1995, a System Rehabilitation Program (SRP) was developed as a result of the need to maintain the collection system in a serviceable condition for the current and future generations of customers of the District. Its emphasis is on optimizing the useful life of the collection system and eliminating costly and environmentally damaging system failures. The methodology employed first defines the sewer line segments in terms of their vulnerability to failure by assessing various physical, technical and cost rating factors to each line segment and then ranking the lines by their overall rating. Lines most vulnerable to failure are scheduled for video inspection for verification of condition and possible rehabilitation. Video inspection of the sewer line segments will continue at a rate of approximately 167,000 feet per year until the entire collection system is inspected and rated as to its condition. Each year lines found to be cost-effective for replacement will be scheduled for construction when within the financial resources of the District. Approximately $750,000 per year is planned for these purposes. The SRP is planned to continue indefinitely. The District is in its 90th year of existence and the majority of the collection system is over 50 years old. Implementation and continuation of the SRP will assure the customers of the District of an economic and reliable sanitary sewer system into the future. f. Electricity and Gas Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) currently provides gas and electric services to El Cerrito homes and businesses and is regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). PG&E obtains its energy supplies from power plants and natural gas fields in northern California and delivers electricity through high voltage transmission lines. Electrical power is provided to the City of El Cerrito from various distribution feeders located throughout the City. The availability of electricity and gas services is not expected to become an issue during the housing planning period since almost all land inventory sites are located within urban infill areas close to existing development. If increased capacity is needed, PG&E can increase demand from regional power plants and natural gas fields or construct new electrical substations in the region, as necessary. Which there is no way to completely eliminate additional energy use, improved transportation, conservation and design standards can curtail both existing and future demand for additional energy. Goal 5 and Policies 20-23 promotes energy conservation and green building to support efforts to both conserve energy and reduce housing costs. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 73 of 90 IV. HOUSING POLICY PROGRAM Previous sections of the Housing Element establish the housing needs, opportunities, and constraints in the City of El Cerrito. The Housing Policy Program contains objectives and policies that will be implemented to address a number of important housing-related issues. This section also contains quantified objectives for housing construction, rehabilitation, and the preservation of affordable housing. City staff regularly reviews Housing Element programs, objectives, and progress towards accommodating the City’s share of the regional housing need. An annual implementation report will be prepared and provided to the California Office of Planning and Research (OPR) and California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). Depending on funding availability, the City will consider modifications to Housing Element programs as necessary and appropriate to implement General Plan goals and policies. A. GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS This section describes the City of El Cerrito’s Policy Program for the 2007-2014 planning period. The Policy Program describes specific policy actions necessary to address present and future housing needs, meet statutory requirements and consider the input by residents and stakeholders. In developing this Policy Program, the City assessed its housing needs, evaluated the performance of existing programs, and collaborated with residents and stakeholders. The City of El Cerrito has identified four broad areas of housing policy priorities and goals: • Preservation, Rehabilitation and Conservation of Existing Housing Resources • Production of New Housing • Increase Access to Housing Opportunities • Promote Energy Conservation and Green Building Goal 1: Conserve and improve El Cerrito’s existing housing supply. Goal 2: Facilitate and encourage the development of housing to meet regional housing needs allocations established by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) by minimizing the impact of potential governmental constraints on the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing. Goal 3: Expand housing opportunities for the elderly, the disabled, households with very low- to moderate-income and for persons with special housing needs. Goal 4: Prohibit discrimination in the provision of housing based on race, color, religion, gender identity, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, disability, or sexual orientation and to promote equal housing opportunities. Goal 5: Promote energy conserving practices in the location, construction, renovation, and maintenance of El Cerrito’s housing units. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 74 of 90 Goal 1: Conserve and Improve El Cerrito’s existing housing supply Policy 1: Encourage neighborhood preservation and housing rehabilitation of viable older housing to preserve neighborhood character and, where possible, retain a supply of very low-, low-, and moderate- income units. Program 1.1: Continue to implement the Residential Rental Inspection Program under Section 16.30.040 of the El Cerrito Municipal Code. The Program’s purpose is to ensure that rental housing units in the City are maintained in a safe and habitable condition and comply with all codes and standards applicable to rental housing and requires that each rental unit in the City be inspected every two years. If the property is in compliance with applicable codes and standards, a certificate of compliance shall be issued to the property owner. Over time, as it is implemented, the Program will provide a current housing condition survey of all rental housing units within the City. This survey should include the number of units in need of rehabilitation or replacement. Responsibility: Building Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Program 1.2: Continue to investigate complaints and take action about code violations in single- and multi- family rental housing, and provide information on the City’s Residential Rental Inspection Program, the County Rental Rehabilitation Program and the County Neighborhood Preservation Program. Responsibility: Building Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 75 of 90 Program 1.3: Continue to encourage the rehabilitation of existing housing units by providing information on programs available to assist in housing rehabilitation, such as the Contra Costa County Housing Authority Rental Rehabilitation Loan Program and the Contra Costa County Neighborhood Preservation Program. Informational material on these programs will be available through the City’s website, at City Hall and in conjunction with the City’s code enforcement program. Responsibility: Economic Development Department and Planning Division. Time Frame: 2010 Funding: General Fund, outside Grants Program 1.4: Continue to permit new housing units and housing rehabilitation in mixed use and commercial zoning districts subject to Zoning Ordinance requirements so that housing and commercial uses can complement and support one another. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Program 1.5: Continue to regulate condominium conversions in accordance with Chapter 19.45 of the Zoning Ordinance. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 76 of 90 Program 1.6: Continue to regularly monitor assisted housing units to help preserve the existing stock of affordable housing. The Redevelopment Agency will continue to maintain a database of assisted housing units and annually review existing agreements to ensure that they are in compliance with affordability requirements. Responsibility: Redevelopment Agency Time Frame: Annual Funding: Redevelopment Funds, General Fund where appropriate for housing analyst Program 1.7: Continue to enforce notification requirements on Below Market Rate [BMR] and Section 8 Project Based Subsidy units, prior to resale of units or and/or conversion of such units to market-rate in accordance with Chapter 19.22 of the Zoning Ordinance. Responsibility: Redevelopment Agency Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Funds Program 1.8: Capital Improvements Program: The Planning Commission and City Council shall, on an annual basis, review the City Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to determine what special priorities are needed for capital improvement projects required to maintain the community’s older residential neighborhoods. Annual review of the CIP shall also include verification that needed improvements are scheduled for funding. Responsibility: Planning Division, Public Works Department Time Frame: Annually Funding: General Fund ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 77 of 90 Policy 2: Discourage the conversion of residential uses to non-residential uses, unless there is a finding of clear public benefit and equivalent housing can be provided for those who would be displaced by the proposed conversion. Program 2.1: Retain existing residential zoning and discourage non-residential uses in these zones. The City will strictly enforce the Zoning Code which states that non-residential uses in residential areas are limited to churches, daycares, and schools. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Policy 3: Maintain housing supply and reduce the loss of life and property caused by earthquakes by encouraging structural strengthening and hazard mitigation in all housing types. Program 3.1: Consider enacting additional incentive programs and requirements to encourage retrofitting of seismically unsafe buildings, such as soft-story buildings. Responsibility: Planning Division, Economic Development Department Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Funding, General Fund, grant funding Program 3.2: Explore possible funding sources or programs to minimize the financial impact of retrofits on low- and moderate-income residents. Review upcoming grant opportunities on a quarterly basis and explore programs bi-annually. Responsibility: Planning Division, Economic Development Department Time Frame: Review opportunities quarterly, plan for programs bi-annually Funding: Redevelopment Funding, General Fund, grant funding ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 78 of 90 Goal 2: Facilitate and encourage the development of housing to meet regional housing needs allocation established by ABAG by minimizing the impact of potential governmental constraints on the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing. Policy 4: Provide adequate residential sites for the production of new for-sale and rental residential units for existing and future residents. Program 4.1: Conduct an annual evaluation of the City’s inventory of available sites, and take appropriate action to ensure that the inventory list is available to potential housing developers. Responsibility: Economic Development Department Time Frame: Annually Funding: Redevelopment Funding Policy 5: Encourage the development of multi-family residential uses in mixed-use projects, in the redevelopment area, and near transit- oriented facilities to help meet ABAG’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation for El Cerrito and so that housing and commercial uses can complement and support one another. The City will encourage the construction of transit-oriented developments (TODs) that seek to maximize opportunities for the use of public transit and transportation corridors through high-density residential and mixed-use projects along those corridors in accordance with the City’s Incentives Program (Chapter 19.23 of the El Cerrito Zoning Ordinance). Program 5.1: Maintain General Plan designations for mixed use and high-density residential housing and the Transit Oriented Mixed Use districts in the development nodes of the City. Promote such development through the use of the following zoning tools that are incorporated in the City’s Zoning Ordinance: o Incentives program o Density Bonus o PD and DA process o Parking reduction ¼ mile from Transit o Economic Development efforts to market vacant and underutilized sites (Potential Dev. Sites workbook). Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Policy 6: Encourage and facilitate the construction of second/accessory dwelling units, pursuant to the City’s Second Unit regulations (Section 19.20.190 of the El Cerrito Zoning Ordinance). Program 6.1: Continue to fast-track processing for units meeting established City standards and provide additional information on second units and the application process for public distribution. Responsibility: Planning and Building Divisions Time Frame: Ongoing ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 79 of 90 Funding: General Fund Program 6.2: Consider the establishment of a “pre-approved” second unit program. Such a program could offer residents and contractors the opportunity to purchase or use second unit plans that have been pre-approved by the City for conformance with building codes and many other standards. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: 2012-2013 Funding: General Fund Policy 7: Continue to permit manufactured and prefab housing in residential districts. Program 7.1: Continue to implement City-adopted regulations that allow manufactured housing and pre-fab housing in residential districts provided any manufactured unit is certified under the standards set forth in the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1976 (42 USC 5401 et seq.) and follows the standards set in Chapter 19.20 of the Zoning Ordinance. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Policy 8: Identify and evaluate the reuse of underutilized or deteriorated sites in commercial areas with potential under the City’s zoning requirements for conversion or redevelopment to mixed use housing, retail, and commercial uses that can support and complement one another. Program 8.1: Continue to support property owners and developers to identify underutilized and deteriorated properties where redevelopment as higher-density, transit-oriented developments could be feasible. The required 431 units may be realized through the redevelopment of lots to higher density across the City’s TOM (Transit Oriented Mixed-Use) zoning district Responsibility: Economic Development Department and Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Funding ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 80 of 90 Policy 9: Encourage innovative housing approaches in the design and ownership of units to increase the availability of affordable housing. Program 9.1: Encourage the use of the planning development process included in the recently updated Zoning Ordinance to allow innovative approaches aimed at increasing affordable rental and for-sale housing opportunities. Through applications for Planned Development or Development Agreements for new units or the conversion of apartments to condo or vise-versa, staff will negotiate with the applicant to provide 15% of the units to be affordable housing units. Through the City’s Density Bonus program in the Zoning Ordinance developers are allowed to build additional units and in turn create additional affordable housing units. Responsibility: Planning and Building Divisions Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Policy 10: Encourage diversity of unit size and number of bedrooms within multi-family housing developments and strive to provide family housing of 3 to 4 bedroom units within projects. Program 10.1: Revise the Zoning Ordinance to include housing size diversity standards. Staff will examine incentives (i.e. expedited plan check and planning review, see Program 13.1 and 15.3) for multi-family residential projects that have 3 to 4 bedroom units Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: 2012 Funding: General Fund Policy 11: Provide regulatory and/or financial incentives where appropriate to offset or reduce the costs of affordable housing development, including density bonuses and flexibility in site development standards. Program 11.1: Continue to enforce the Zoning Ordinance which provides regulatory incentives for affordable housing development, including density bonuses and site flexibility. Incentives currently in the ZO: o Incentives program o Density Bonus ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 81 of 90 o PD and DA process o Parking reduction ¼ mile from Transit Responsibility: Planning and Building Divisions Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Program 11.2: Continue to inform developers about and allow density bonuses consistent with State law, the General Plan, and Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 19.22 ECMC). . Responsibility: Redevelopment Agency, Economic Development Department and Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment and General funds Policy 12: Periodically review the City’s regulations, ordinances and development fees to ensure they do not unduly constrain the production, maintenance and improvement of housing. Program 12.1: During the annual revision of the Master Fee Schedule evaluate planning and development fees as they relate to housing development. Responsibility: Planning and Building Division and Public Works Department Time Frame: Annually Funding: General Fund Policy 13: Provide for streamlined processing of residential projects to minimize the time and costs in order to encourage housing production. Program 13.1: The City will help streamline the application process by continuing to offer interdepartmental team meetings with applicants, conceptual review and study sessions with approval bodies and assistance with pursuing outside funding opportunities. Responsibility: Planning and Building Division and Public Works Department Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 82 of 90 Policy 14: Based on the land-use strategy developed in the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance, direct growth into compact patterns of development to promote infill and intensify land uses Program 14.1: Continue to enforce the Zoning Ordinance and encourage development in the Transit Oriented Mixed Use Zone. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 83 of 90 Goal 3: Encourage and Expand housing opportunities for the elderly, the disabled, households with extremely low to moderate incomes, and for other persons with special housing needs. Policy 15: Encourage the provision of housing for special needs groups. Program 15.1: Assist developers in obtaining state and federal funding available to develop affordable housing for seniors, persons with special needs, large families and households with children. Where possible, leverage Redevelopment Agency funds with state and federal sources of funding. Responsibility: Economic Development Department and Redevelopment Agency Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Agency funding and grant funding Program 15.2: Continue to enforce Federal and State Handicapped Accessibility and Adaptability Standards. Responsibility: Planning and Building Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Program 15.3: The City will continue to fast track the planning and building inspection processes for housing units with three or more bedrooms for large families, housing for seniors, and other special needs housing for extremely low-, very low-, low-, and moderate-income households. Responsibility: Planning and Building Divisions Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 84 of 90 Program 15.4: The City shall continue to encourage and support development of senior housing that offers a wide range of housing choices that offer a wide range of community services including healthcare, nutrition, transportation and other amenities. Responsibility: Redevelopment Agency, Economic Development Department and Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Agency funding and General Fund. Program 15.5: Facilitate the provision of housing that supports “aging in place” for the City’s senior population. Responsibility: Redevelopment Agency, Economic Development Department and Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Agency funding and General Fund. Program 15.6: The City shall update its Zoning Ordinance to include a definition of transitional and supportive housing as defined in Health and Safety Code Sections 50675.2 and 50675.14. Transitional and supportive housing will be allowed as a permitted use subject to only the same restrictions on residential uses contained in the same type of structure. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Dec 2012 Funding: General Fund. ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 85 of 90 Policy 16: Provide housing opportunities for very low- , low-, and moderate-income households. Program 16.1: To the extent financially feasible, assist in the development of extremely low-, very low-, low- and moderate income housing units. Responsibility: Redevelopment Agency, Economic Development Department and Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Agency funding and General Fund. Program 16.2: Conduct a study of the feasibility of an inclusionary housing ordinance that would include the terms and conditions under which new developments would be required to provide a specified percentage of housing affordable to very low-, low-, and/or moderate-income households. or pay into an affordable housing in-lieu fee (i.e. based on a % of project cost) to offset building affordable units. As part of a potential inclusionary program, the City will consider requirements and incentives to developers for a mix of dwelling sizes, including units with three or more bedrooms to meet the need of large families. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: 2012 Funding: General Fund Program 16.3: Continue to encourage developers to leverage limited Redevelopment Agency Housing Funds with other sources of assistance, such as Low Income Housing Tax Credits, mortgage revenue bonds and other sources that fund affordable housing. Provide assistance and support to developers in pursuing these sources of funds for affordable housing developments. Responsibility: Redevelopment Agency and Economic Development Department Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Agency Funds ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 86 of 90 Policy 17: Support efforts to provide temporary and permanent shelter and transitional housing for the homeless. Program 17.1: Continue to allow emergency and transitional housing facilities as a permitted use within the CC zone. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Program 17.2: Consult with the El Cerrito Police Department and the County’s Task Force on Homelessness to maintain 2007 - 2014 estimates of the demand for emergency housing. Responsibility: Economic Development Department and Redevelopment Agency Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund, Grant Funding Program 17.3: Continue to coordinate with the County and cities to develop the annual 5-Year Consolidated Plan to address housing and social service needs of the homeless in Contra Costa County. Responsibility: Economic Development Department Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Agency funding Policy 18: Assist and cooperate with non-profit, private, and public entities to maximize opportunities to develop affordable housing. Program 18.1: The City will look for opportunities with non-profits and other agencies for cooperative efforts to expand the City’s supply of affordable housing. Responsibility: Economic Development Department Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Agency funding ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 87 of 90 Goal 4: Prohibit discrimination in the provision of housing based on race, color, religion, gender identity, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, disability, or sexual orientation and to promote equal housing opportunities. Policy 19: Promote fair housing opportunities for all people. Program 19.1: Continue to provide non-discrimination clauses in rental agreements and deed restrictions for housing constructed with either City or DD&A’s funds and Owner Participant Agreements when Redevelopment Agency participation occurs. Responsibility: Redevelopment Agency, Economic Development Department Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Agency funding Program 19.2: Reasonable Accommodation Procedures To accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities and provide a streamlined permit review process, the City will continue to implement reasonable accommodation procedures through the City’s Building Official. The City will continue to provide information on accommodation procedures. Responsibility: Planning and Building Divisions Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 88 of 90 Program 19.3: Continue the City’s participation in the Contra Costa Urban County CDBG Consortium. The County utilizes CDBG funds to help fund the Contra Costa County Housing Services Collaborative on behalf of the Urban County jurisdictions. The Housing Services Collaborative offer free housing services including tenant- landlord counseling, fair housing services, and legal advice and representation to Urban County residents, including El Cerrito. Brochures and information about the services offered by the Housing Services Collaborative will be distributed through the City’s website, at City Hall, the City’s Senior and Community Centers, and the El Cerrito Library. Responsibility: Economic Development Department and Redevelopment Agency Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: Redevelopment Funds Program 19.4: To comply with Senate Bill (SB) 2 the City will continue to maintain emergency shelters, transitional housing and supportive housing to homeless individuals and families to be allowed by right in the CC (Community Commercial) zone. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 89 of 90 Goal 5: Promote energy conserving practices in the location, construction, renovation and maintenance of El Cerrito’s housing units. Policy 20: Promote residential energy conservation programs which provide assistance for energy conservation improvements. Program 20.1: Develop an energy conservation strategy that includes programs that 1) promote programs offered by PG&E; 2) provide educational materials and technical assistance; 3) encourage green building and energy conservation in projects. Responsibility: Environmental and Developmental Service Department Time Frame: Adopt policies by 2011. Funding: General Fund Policy 21: Encourage the incorporation of energy conservation design features in existing and future residential development. Program 21.1: Continue to enforce the State Energy Conservation Standards for new residential construction and additions to existing structures, and promote the City policy that provides for no fee building permits for solar energy installations. Responsibility: Planning and Building Divisions Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund Policy 22: Encourage the use of sustainable and green building design in new and existing housing in compliance with the legislation in AB32 and SB375. Program 22.1: Develop policies consistent with AB32 and SB375 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and work with other agencies in the region to establish common thresholds for Green Building. Incorporate incentives for green building to reduce the costs of compliance, such as reduced building fees and rebates. To address energy conservation in existing buildings, promote Pacific Gas and Electric utility assistance programs on the City’s website and through handouts. Responsibility: Environmental and Developmental Service Department Time Frame: Adopt policies by 2011. Funding: General Fund ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 90 of 90 Policy 23: Encourage the location of multi-family housing near transit centers where living and/or working environments are within walkable distances in order to reduce auto trips to work, roadway expansion and air pollution. Program 23.1: Continue to enforce the sections of the Zoning Ordinance that increase density, reduce parking requirements, and establish design and development standards to create inviting, mixed- use neighborhoods around transit. Responsibility: Planning Division Time Frame: Ongoing Funding: General Fund B. QUANTIFIED OBJECTIVES State law requires that the City plan to accommodate its fair share of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). In addition, this Housing Element includes quantified objectives for the number of units that can reasonably be expected to be rehabilitated, conserved or constructed during the next five years. The quantified objectives expected to be met through Housing Element programs are estimated based on past program performance, construction trends, land availability and anticipated future program funding. These quantified objectives reflect current economic conditions and the dramatic decrease in housing starts between 2008 and 2010. Table IV-1 Quantified Objectives (January 1, 2007 – June 30, 2014) Income Category New Construction Rehabilitation Preservation2 Extremely-Low Income1 46 0 0 Very-Low Income 47 0 0 Low Income 59 0 0 Moderate Income 80 0 0 Above-Moderate Income 199 0 0 Total 431 0 0 Notes: 1 The Extremely-Low Income need is assumed to be 50 percent of the Very-Low Income need. The Extremely-Low Income need is a subset of Very-Low Income units; not included in total. 2 The City will continue to monitor at-risk assisted units. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendices ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 1 of 32 APPENDIX A: LAND RESOURCES A. ADEQUATE SITES ANALYSIS Each city is mandated through State Housing Element Law to demonstrate it has adequate sites available through appropriate zoning and development standards and with the required infrastructure for a variety of housing types and income levels. The City must demonstrate it has capacity or adequate sites to accommodate the projected need for housing through the 2007-2014 planning period. The State Department of Finance (DOF) is responsible for developing the total Statewide housing demand projection. With the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), this demand is apportioned to each of the State’s regions. The demand represents the number of additional units needed to accommodate the anticipated growth in the number of households, to replace expected demolitions and conversions of housing units to non- residential uses, and to allow for a future vacancy rate conducive to a healthy functioning housing market. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), the Council of Governments (COG) representing the region, in cooperation with local jurisdictions, is responsible for allocating the region’s projected new housing demand in each jurisdiction. This process is known as the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) and the goals are referred to as the RHNA goals or the “regional share” goals for new housing construction. The allocation takes into account factors such as employment opportunities, market demand for housing, availability of suitable sites and public facilities, community patterns, types and tenure of housing needs and others. The allocation is divided into four income categories: • Extremely Low Income – 0 to 30 percent of median household income • Very-Low Income – 0 to 50 percent of the median income • Low Income – 51 to 80 percent of the median income • Moderate Income – 81 to 120 percent of the median income • Above-Moderate Income – more than 120 percent of the median income In determining a jurisdiction’s share of new housing needs by income category, the allocation is adjusted to avoid an over-concentration of lower-income households in one jurisdiction. In addition to the allocation in the four income categories, recent legislation requires cities to consider the needs of Extremely-Low Income households earning 30 percent or less of the median income. The RHNA prepared by ABAG for the planning period of January 1, 2007 through June 30, 2014, identifies El Cerrito’s projected regional share need as 431 new housing units. 1. Achievements through December 2010 Housing units built and or approved after January 1, 2007 may be counted towards satisfying El Cerrito’s current regional housing need numbers. Since January 2007, El Cerrito has built or approved 244 units, with 46 of these units affordable to very-low income households and 38 to low-, or moderate income households. Having met 56% of the RHNA objective, El Cerrito plans to continue to work towards satisfying its remaining RHNA, particularly focusing on the targets for affordable housing production. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 2 of 32 Construction of the remaining RHNA units may continue to be an issue as the current economic downturn has significantly delayed or cancelled construction starts and has had a chilling effect on proposed residential development projects. As shown in Table A-1, El Cerrito has built or approved a mix of single family and multi- family units along with a number of second units. The income-restricted units recently currently approved but not yet built reflect at least the minimum number of required affordable units. As noted elsewhere in this Housing Element, the City should pursue the construction of new multi-family income-restricted units as part of its program to make progress toward meeting its RHNA targets. Table A-1 Residential Projects Built or Approved since January 1, 2007 Units by Income Level Project Name Status -Built -Under Construction -Approved Total Units VL L M AM Methodology of Affordability Determination Creekside @ El Cerrito Plaza Approved 128 22 106 RDA inclusionary agreement 6431 and 6495 Portola Avenue – Hatlen Approved 57 46 11 State Affordable Housing Density Bonus 10520-10536 San Pablo Avenue Approved 31 5 RDA inclusionary agreement New Single Family Built/Under Construction 17 17 None Accessory Living Units Built/Under Construction 11 11 None To show the development capacity to meet the remaining RHNA of 213 units illustrated in Table A-2, a site by site analysis of sites suitable for residential development was conducted. This section provides detailed information about the sites identified in this Housing Element. Together, the identified vacant and housing opportunity sites can yield more than 1000 new housing units, meeting and exceeding the City’s RHNA. A majority of those units would occur on land owned by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and have additional hurdles to development beyond that of normal land development. The City is poised to work closely with BART and facilitate these future developments. Table A-2 Remaining Need Based on Units Approved/Built/Under Construction A B A-B Income Category New Construction Need Units Built, Under Construction or Approved Remaining Need Very Low (0-50% of AMI) 93 46 47 Low (51-80% of AMI) 59 0 59 Moderate (81-120% of AMI) 80 38 42 Above Moderate (over 120% of AMI) 199 134 65 TOTAL UNITS 431 218 213 ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 3 of 32 There is market interest in the redevelopment of the BART parking lots at each of the stations. Over the years, there have been numerous attempts to redevelop the BART parking lots. Two recent proposals, one at each of the stations, failed due to the downturn in the economy. Redevelopment staff is working closely with BART to put together a joint planning agreement to facilities new proposals for redevelopment. 2. Sites Summary – Future Development Potential There is vacant and underutilized land located throughout the City ranging from very low- to high-density zoning. The following table, Table A-2, summarizes the Development potential of the vacant lots based on it zoning classification, general plan land use designation and comments specific to the site. A set of maps following Table A-2 showing the location of each site within the City limits. For the purposes of this table, a maximum density of 35 units per acre has been assumed for most multi-family and mixed use projects in the RM, TOM and CC zones. This is the maximum density normally allowed by the City’s General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. Additional density is allowed through the City’s incentive program (up to 45 units per acre), affordable housing bonus program or when housing for the elderly or disabled persons is provided with services (up to 70 units per acre.) It has been the City’s experience that these densities are realistically achievable when all other required development standards are taken into account. Several recently approved multi-family projects have achieved densities at or near 35 units per acre and 45 units per acre through the incentives program. These examples demonstrate that the development standards in the City’s Zoning Ordinance do not prohibit development form achieving the maximum allowed density. The Creekside project and Vitale Mixed-Use project were approved through the City’s incentives program with densities of 45 and 44 units per acre, respectively. The incentives program allows developers relief from certain development standards when public benefits are included in the project. The program provides developers with flexibility necessary to achieve a maximum density of 45 units per acre. The Village at Town Center is the most recently approved multi-family project which was not subject to the City’s incentives program. This project which is situated on four separate, unconnected parcels was approved with densities of 30-35 units per acre. The Ohlone Gardens project is the City’s most recently approved multi-family project which includes housing for the disabled with services. This project was approved with a density of 61 units per acre. As stated in Section 1, a majority of those units would occur on land owned by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and have additional hurdles to development beyond that of normal land development. These sites have had multiple development attempts over the years and have been thoroughly investigated (CEQA analysis, Phase I & II evaluations). There are no existing conditions that require remediation on either of the BART station area sites. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 4 of 32 Table A-3 Available Land Inventory Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 1 El Cerrito Plaza BART Central Ave. (surface parking lot) TOM Commercial/ Mixed Use 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 8.28 acres Under Utilized - El Cerrito Plaza BART Station surface parking lot. 260-333 Yes 289-370 units could be could be developed under the 35-45 units/acre density standards. Number is discounted by 10% to account for flexibility related to development standards. Maximum number is achievable with reductions to development standards allowed in the TOM district. 2 Mayfair Block Bordered by San Pablo Avenue, Knott Blvd, Cutting Blvd, and Kearny Street TOM Commercial/ Mixed Use 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 1.56 acres Vacant 54-70 Yes 54-70 units could be developed under the 35-45 units/acre density standards. Previous development proposals included 50-60 units. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 5 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 3 Del Norte BART Bordered by Key Blvd, Knott Blvd, Cutting Blvd, and Kearny Street TOM Commercial/ Mixed Use 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 2.72 acres Under Utilized - Site is currently a Del Norte BART Station surface parking lot. 85-110 Yes 95-122 units could be developed under the 35-45 units/acre density standards. Number is discounted by 10% to account for flexibility related to development standards. Maximum number is achievable with reductions to development standards allowed in the TOM district. 4 Del Norte BART bordered by San Pablo Avenue, Cutting Boulevard, Hill Street and Key Blvd TOM Commercial/ Mixed Use 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 9.8 acres Under Utilized - Site is currently used as a Del Norte BART Station surface parking lot. 309-397 Yes About 343-441 units could be could be developed under 35-45 units/acre density standards. Number is discounted by 10% to account for flexibility related to development standards. Maximum number is achievable with reductions to development standards allowed in the TOM district. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 6 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 5 11450 San Pablo Avenue TOM Commercial/ Mixed Use 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 5.95 Under Utilized – Site is location of a former Target store now converted to new Safeway store. 104-133 Yes About 208-267 units could be could be developed under 35-45 units/acre density standards across the site. The number is reduced by 50% given the location of the new Safeway. There is still a desire to see Transit Oriented development including housing on the corner of the project site. 6 10520-10536 San Pablo Avenue CC Commercial/ Mixed Use 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 30,000 sq. ft. Vacant 31 Yes 31 units have been approved; Density is 45 units/acre. 7 2101 Kearney St. CC Commercial/ Mixed Use 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 2,250 sq. ft. Vacant 1 Yes Minimum required residential lot size is 5,000 square feet. Multi-family development is allowed in CC zoning district subject to a use permit, but minimum lot size must be met. This parcel would need to merged with 2103 Kearney Street to create a conforming parcel size and unit number. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 7 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 8 2103 Kearney St. CC Commercial/ Mixed Use 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 2,250 sq. ft. Vacant 1 Yes Minimum required residential lot size is 5,000 square feet. Multi-family development is allowed in CC zoning district subject to a use permit, but minimum lot size must be met. This parcel would need to merged with 2103 Kearney Street to create a conforming parcel size and unit number. 9 10496 San Pablo Ave. CC Commercial/ Mixed Use 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 7,500 sq. ft. Vacant 6-7 Yes Multi-family allowed in CC zoning district. This site could accommodate a small mixed use or multi- family residential project 10 2635 Ellerhorst Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 5,000 Under utilized - large driveway for 2639 Ellerhorst. 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes 11 7500 Moeser Lane RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 55,757 Vacant 0 Yes Site is owned by the City of El Cerrito and is adjacent to large PG&E power lines. 12 6515 Morris St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,500 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 8 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 13 1330 Scott St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 3,450 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 14 1431 Scott St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 3,850 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling.. 15 2065 Tapscott Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 4,425 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may determine the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit construction of a home or accessory structure can be built. It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 16 2610 Yuba St RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 6,775 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 9 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 17 5711 Alta Punta RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 3,000 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 18 2332 Alva Ave RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 3,564 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 19 2220 Arlington Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 3,074 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 20 928 Arlington Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 6,885 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes 21 934 Arlington Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 7,155 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes These parcels are landlocked and access easements would be required in order for them to be developed. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 10 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 22 809 Ashbury Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,812 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be impossible to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 23 716 Balra Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 6,000 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of the residence and or any accessory structure. 24 721 Balra Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 4,320 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 25 920 Balra Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 5,460 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit a residence or accessory structure. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 11 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 26 None Balra Dr. (two lots) RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 10,500 4,300 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on these two parcels. Yes Minimum required residential lot size is 5,000 square feet. These parcels have steep slopes that may the limit number and location of the residences and any accessory structures. A lot line adjustment could be performed to increase the square footage of the 4,300 sq. ft. lot to 5,000 sq. ft. 27 5914 Barrett Avenue RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 3,036 1,360 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes The lots should be combined. It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 28 Adj. to 565 Bonnie Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,750 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 12 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 29 7846 Burns Ct. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 5,035 Under Utilized 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes Previous residence deemed uninhabitable and demolished. Site is within close proximity of a severe slide and may not be developable. 30 7858 Burns Ct. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 5,000 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes Site may be undevelopable and unstable due to severe slide. 31 911 Clark Pl. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 11,750 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this parcel if it was split. Yes This parcel has a steep slope and is located within the Alquist-Priolo fault zone both of which may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit a residence and any accessory structures. 32 704 Colusa Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 5,600 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes 33 834 Craft Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 7,280 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes Parcel is landlocked and an access easement would be required in order for it to be developed. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 13 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 34 6607 Cutting Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,700 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 35 6631 Cutting Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,660 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 36 7140 Cutting Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 6,970 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes Part of a 4-lot subdivision. This is the remaining vacant lot. 37 7120 Cutting Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 32,670 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this parcel. Yes Site contains huge rock outcropping limiting buildable area; owner proposing one single-family residence at this time. 38 5205 Cypress Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,300 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 14 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 39 7755 Earl Ct. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 6,000 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes 40 441 Everett St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 3,700 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 41 443 Everett St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,500 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 42 630 Everett St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,500 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 43 943 Galvin Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 13,780 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel if it was split. Yes This parcel has steep slopes that may the limit number and location of any residences or accessory structures. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 15 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 44 712 Gelston Pl. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 4,984 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes 45 6465 Hagen Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,775 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes 46 6469 Hagen Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,750 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes These parcels have steep slopes that may the limit number and location of residences even if they are combined. 47 6473 Hagen Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,750 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 48 6518 Hagen Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 6,000 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel-See comment to the right Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit whether a home or accessory structure can be built. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 16 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 49 6747 Hagen Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 5,000 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel-See comment to the right Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit whether a home or accessory structure can be built. 50 6806 Hagen Blvd. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 1,440 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 51 2134 Junction Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,575 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes 52 2138 Junction Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,525 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes 53 2142 Junction Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,500 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes Lots could be combined into conforming parcels to allow for larger single family construction. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 17 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 54 2146 Junction Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,277 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes 55 2150 Junction Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,574 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes 56 941 King Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 8,848 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes 57 953 King Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 10,080 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this parcel. Yes 58 961 King Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 10,340 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this parcel. Yes 59 969 King Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 10,971 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this parcel. Yes Large portion of the sites are encumbered by a Pacific Gas and Electric utility company easement that would prohibit construction of a residence. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 18 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 60 1244 Liberty St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,500 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel.1 Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 61 5550 Ludwig RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 1,595 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 62 1415 Navellier St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 1,250 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes Minimum required residential lot size is 5,000 square feet. 63 543 Norvell St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,100 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 64 805 Park Way RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 3,910 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 19 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 65 754 Pomona Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 6,800 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes 66 814 Pomona Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,331 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 67 5334 Potrero Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 4,600 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 68 925 Richmond St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 5,000 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site. Yes 69 1534 Richmond St. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 2,125 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 20 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 70 710 Sea View Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 3,705 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 71 956 Sea View Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 15,400 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this site. Yes It would be difficult to locate a detached accessory unit on a lot less than 5,000 feet but it is possible to incorporate one into a primary dwelling. 72 839 Shevlin Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 12,580 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this site Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit whether a home or accessory structure can be built. 73 928 Shevlin Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 10,170 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this site Yes 74 937 Shevlin Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 10,925 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this site Yes Large portions of these sites are encumbered by a Pacific Gas and Electric utility company easements that would prohibit construction of a residence. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 21 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 75 941 Shevlin Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 29,400 Vacant 6 primary and 6 accessory units could be developed on this site Yes 76 2570 Tassajara Ave. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 11,550 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this site Yes 2 units could be developed if the lot were subdivided, otherwise 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this parcel. 77 8049 Terrace Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 10,200 Vacant 2 primary and 2 accessory units could be developed on this site Yes A utility easement and slide traverse this site and it has a steep slope, all of which may prohibit where residences are located or if residences can be built. 78 8350 Terrace Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 8,184 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site. Yes A slide traverses this site and it has a steep slope, both of which may prohibit where residences are located or if residences can be built. 79 8363 Terrace Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 4,995 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 22 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 80 8551 Terrace Dr. RS-5 Low Density Residential 9 units/acre 5,200 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit a residence or accessory structure. 81 1013 King Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 3,049 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes Minimum required residential lot size is 5,000 square feet 82 6 units/acre 18,295 Yes 83 2,614 Yes 84 Madera Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 331,492 Vacant 14 primary and 14 accessory units could be developed on this site Yes Bay Vista Subdivision proposed 14 lots. The tentative map was approved, but a subsequent tentative map extension request was denied. The site has a known slide and is very steep. 85 1370 Contra Costa Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 13,600 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes 86 1364 Contra Costa Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 13,188 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site. Yes These parcels have steep slopes that may the limit number and location of residences. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 23 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 87 1324 Contra Costa Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 11,900 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site. Yes 88 1304 Contra Costa Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 8,400 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes Minimum lot size in the RS- 10 zoning district is 10,000 sq. ft., so an exception to the subdivision ordinance would be required to build on this site. 89 1103 Contra Costa Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 9,798 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes 90 1115 Contra Costa Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 9,750 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit a residence or accessory structure. 91 1340 Brewster Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 9,310 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit a residence or accessory structure. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 24 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 92 1618 Julian Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 10,800 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit a residence or accessory structure. 93 1626 Julian Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 10,560 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit a residence or accessory structure. 94 1638 Julian Dr. RS-10 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 11,600 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit a residence or accessory structure. 95 Leneve Pl. RS-7.5 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 10,120 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes This parcel has a steep slope that may limit the location of a residence or accessory structure or prohibit a residence or accessory structure. 96 8407 Wildcat Dr. RS-20 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 19,994 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes These sites are located within the Alquist-Priolo fault zone and contain active landslides. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 25 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 97 8440 Wildcat Dr. RS-20 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 19,800 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes 98 8430-36 Wildcat Dr. RS-20 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 20,043 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes 99 1460 Rifle Range Rd. RS-20 Very Low Density Residential 6 units/acre 19,994 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes 100 1610 Liberty St. RD Medium Density Residential 20 units/acre 2,500 Vacant 2 Yes 101 444 Richmond St. RD Medium Density Residential 20 units/acre 3,700 Vacant 2 Yes 102 1745 Elm St. RM High Density Residential 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 6,150 Vacant 2 Yes Zoning Ordinance allows up to 2 units on a 5,000 sq. ft. lot 103 1743 Liberty St. RM High Density Residential 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 6,500 Vacant 3 Yes Zoning Ordinance allows up to 3 units on a 6,500 sq. ft. lot ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 26 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 104 3405 Carlson Blvd. RM High Density Residential 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 2,280 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes Minimum required residential lot size for more than one unit is 5,000 square feet. The parcel could possibly be merged with adjacent parcel, but no application has been submitted for a lot merger. 105 3416 Yosemite Ave. RM High Density Residential 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 2,500 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes Minimum required residential lot size for more than one unit is 5,000 square feet. 106 5833 Central Ave. RM High Density Residential 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 2,704 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes Minimum required residential lot size for more than one unit is 5,000 square feet. 107 3027 Carlson Blvd. RM High Density Residential 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 2,500 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes Minimum required residential lot size for more than one unit is 5,000 square feet. 108 5931 Avilla St. RM High Density Residential 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 2,950 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes Minimum required residential lot size for more than one unit is 5,000 square feet. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 27 of 32 Map No. Address or Location Zoning General Plan Maximum Permitted Density (According to General Plan) Lot Size (Square Feet or Acres) Vacant or Under Utilized (Existing use) Estimated # of dwelling units Infrastructure Capacity Constraints & Comments 109 5627 Central Ave. RM High Density Residential 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 2,175 Vacant 1 primary and 1 accessory unit could be developed on this site Yes Minimum required residential lot size for more than one unit is 5,000 square feet. 110 5730 El Dorado St. RM High Density Residential 35 units/acre, up to 45 units per acre with zoning ordinance incentives 12,500 Vacant 9 Yes Zoning Ordinance allows up to 9 units on a 12,150 sq. ft. lot SUMMARY BY ZONE Community Commercial and Transit Oriented Mixed Use: 851-1083 units RS-5, RS- 7.5, RS-10, Low Density: 178 units RS-20, Very Low Density: 60 units RD, Medium Density: 6 units RM, High Density: 40 units Total: 1135-1367 units Source: City of El Cerrito, 2010. Notes: The lower end of the range for commercial mixed-use projects reflects the City’s estimate of realistic development potential based on potential site constraints described in Table A-3 for several of the mixed use projects. With the Zoning Ordinance Incentives Program, the dwelling units per acre can be increased to 45 for Community Commercial (CC) and Transit Oriented Mixed Use (TOM) zoning districts and 25 for Neighborhood Commercial (CN) zoning districts. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 28 of 32 Explanation of Site Development Potential (Table A-3) The number of units identified in the Unit Production Summary Chart takes into account Zoning Ordinance standards and General Plan requirements. For the vacant parcels in the Single-Family Residential (R-1) zoning districts, some of the lots are constrained, as noted in Table A-2, by their topography (steep slopes) or small size. A few of these sites are within landslide and/or seismic hazard zones based on their proximity to a fault that runs along the eastern border of the City. Both potential landslide hazards and topography specific to each site determine whether and where residences and/or accessory structures can be built. The areas adjacent, to or immediately surrounding, San Pablo Avenue have a General Plan land use designation of “Mixed Use,” indicating that the sites could contain a mix of uses that include high-density residential. These areas consist of “Transit Oriented Mixed Use (TOM)” and Community Commercial (CC)” zoning district classifications. The intent of mixed use zoning and the allowance of multi-family residential housing on commercially zoned parcels is to balance the need for commercial growth with housing opportunities. The maximum permitted density for multi-family housing is 35 units/acre, or up to 45 units/acre if a project is eligible and meets the criteria of the Zoning Ordinance Incentives Program. The Zoning Ordinance Incentives Program allows exceptions to height, setbacks and other zoning ordinance requirements for a development if it exhibits desirable features, such as affordable housing. On commercial and TOM sites, the City considered factors such as commercial development potential, height, parking, and setbacks in assessing residential development potential on these sites. These factors may limit the number of residential units that can realistically be developed, and the comments on the City’s analysis in Table A-2 reflect those limitations. Other factors that govern residential development on vacant sites include design criteria and building height. Site-specific design requirements that aid in ensuring the compatibility of a development with surrounding uses dictate how a site is configured, thus affecting the number of units created. Design criteria for mixed use, general commercial, industrial, high-density and duplex zoning districts are determined by the City’s Design Review procedures. Design Review is a discretionary process whereby developments are reviewed either by staff or the City’s Design Review Board for quality and adequacy in architecture and landscaping. Sites in the RS single-family residential zoning district are not subject to Design Review. In medium- to high-density residential and Community Commercial zones, the maximum allowable building height is 35 feet, which restricts housing unit construction to within three stories. In the TOM zoning districts, with the exception of the midtown TOM node, the maximum allowable building height is 50 feet. Table A-4 summarizes height limits by zoning district. Even with the parking, design, and height limits discussed above, the City has determined that the maximum permitted densities of 35 and 45 units per acre are achievable for mixed-use projects with a combination of studio, one- and two-bedroom units. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix A Page 29 of 32 The Zoning District and General Plan Designations are as follows: Table A-4 Zoning Districts that Permit Residences SYMBOL ZONING GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION RS Single-Family Residential Very Low Density Low Density Up to 6 units per net acre Up to 9 units/acre RD Duplex (2 units) Medium Density Up to 20 units/acre RM High-Density Residential High Density Up to 35 units/acre and up to 45 units/acre with Zoning Ordinance Incentives CN Neighborhood Commercial CC Community Commercial TOM Transit Oriented Mixed-Use Commercial/Mixed Use Up to 35 units/acre and up to 45 units/acre with Zoning Ordinance Incentives Table A-5 Allowable Building Height Zoning Districts Ground Slope Height TOM Not Applicable 50, up to 65 with CUP in Del Norte & Plaza areas 35, up to 45 with CUP in Midtown node CC Not Applicable 35, up to 50 with CUP NC Not Applicable 35 Less than 10% 25 Feet RS-5, RS-7.5, RS-10, RS-20 10%-50% 30 Feet Greater than 50% 35 Feet ---PAGE BREAK--- 985 ft CityGIS 2 4 3 4 5 7 8 15 17 16 10 18 19 27 27 34 35 37 36 38 45-47 48 49 50 12 51-55 61 67 76 100 102 103 69 Map of Available Land Northern 1/3 of El Cerrito Appendix A Page 30 of 32 ---PAGE BREAK--- 971 ft CityGIS 11 13 14 20 21 25 29 31 33 39 43 44 56-58 59 62 71 72 73 75 77 78 79 80 81 82-84 85 86 87 88 90 89 91 92 93 94 95 98 97 96 99 74 Map of Available Land Middle 1/3 of El Cerrito Appendix A Page 31 of 32 ---PAGE BREAK--- 857 ft CityGIS 1 1 1 1 6 9 23 24 26 28 32 40 41 42 63 64 65 66 68 101 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 22 Map of Available Land Southern 1/3 of El Cerrito Appendix A Page 32 of 32 ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix B Page 1 of 5 APPENDIX B: AT RISK ASSISTED UNITS 1. Assisted Housing Units at Risk of Converting to Market Rate Rents Housing that receives governmental assistance is often a significant source of affordable housing in many communities. Because of its significance, this section identifies publicly assisted rental housing in El Cerrito, evaluates the potential of such housing to convert to market rate during a ten-year planning period (2010 to 2020), and analyzes the options and associated costs to preserving these units. Covenants and deed restrictions are the typical mechanisms used to maintain the affordability of publicly assisted housing, ensuring that these units are available to lower and moderate income households in the long term. Over time, the City may face the risk of losing some of its affordable units due to the expiration of covenants and deed restrictions. As the relatively tight housing market continues to put upward pressure on market rents, property owners are more inclined to discontinue public subsidies and convert the assisted units to market-rate housing. Table B-1 provides the inventory of assisted rental housing units in El Cerrito as of June 2010. Of the 487 total assisted units within five developments, 121 units in three developments are at risk of converting to market-rate during the 2010 to 2020 period. Table B-1 Inventory of Publicly Assisted Rental Housing Project Name Address Total Units Assisted Units Population Assisted Type of Subsidy Earliest Expiration of Affordability At-Risk Hazel Shirley Manor 11025 San Pablo 63 63 Senior; mobility impaired HUD 202 & Project- based Section 8 2011 (Sec. 2026 (HYes El Cerrito Royale Assisted Living 6510 Gladys 102 31 Senior RDA; CDBG; County Tax-Exempt bonds 2019 (RDA) Yes Del Norte Place 11720 San Pablo 135 27 Senior/Family TCAC; County Tax- Exempt bonds; RDA 2020 (RDA) Yes Idaho Apartments 10203 San Pablo 29 25 HIV/AIDS/Hom eless/Mental Illness RDA; County HOPWA; Richmond 2052 (RDA) No Village at Town Center Apartments 10810 San Pablo 158 24 Family RDA Inclusionary Agreement 2035 (RDA) No Total Assisted Units: 487 170 At-Risk Units: 121 2. At-Risk Units Eskaton Hazel Shirley Manor: At the time the project-based Section 8 contract was renewed for this 63-unit affordable senior development, a five-year contract renewal was the maximum extension granted by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The property was funded through HUD Section 202 program and ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix B Page 2 of 5 the property owner, a non-profit affordable senior housing provider, has expressed their intention to pursue a renewal of the Section 8 contract when it expires in 2011. Given these two factors, this development is not considered at high risk of conversion to market-rate in the next ten years. [California Housing Partnership Corporation, Affordable Rental Housing At-Risk in Alameda, Contra Costa and San Mateo Counties, January 2010.] Nevertheless, the options for preserving and/or replacing these affordable units are included in this analysis. El Cerrito Royale: The El Cerrito Royale is a 102-unit congregate care facility that is licensed through the State. The project includes 31 very low-income units. The El Cerrito Redevelopment Agency holds the ground lease though a partnership. The County issued tax-exempt bonds for the project. The initial 30-year period of affordability is set to expire in 2019. Room, board and care are included in the unit rent and some units are double occupancy. This makes the market value of the project difficult to estimate as this project is not a typical multi-family rental development. For this analysis, the market value was estimated assuming an operating cost that included an estimated social service expense. Del Norte Place: Del Norte Place is a 135-unit apartment complex in El Cerrito near the Del Norte BART Station. In exchange for El Cerrito Redevelopment Agency assistance through a Disposition & Development Agreement and a ground lease, the development allocates 27 units for very low income households. These units are also restricted through the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program. The term of affordability is set to expire in 2020. Because it is not possible to only acquire the 27 affordable units in Del Norte Place, the estimated market value is calculated for all 135 units in the project, as shown in Table B-2. 3. Preservation and Replacement Options To preserve the existing affordable housing stock, the City must either preserve the existing assisted units or facilitate the development of new units. Depending on the circumstances of the at-risk projects, different options may be used to preserve or replace the units. Preservation options typically include: 1) transfer of project to non- profit ownership; 2) provision of rental assistance to tenants using other funding sources; and 3) purchase of affordability covenants. In terms of replacement, the most direct option is the development of new assisted multi-family housing units. Transfer of Ownership: Transferring ownership of an at-risk project to a non-profit housing provider is generally one of the least costly ways to ensure that the at-risk units remain affordable for the long term. By transferring property ownership to a non-profit organization, low income restrictions can be secured and the project would become potentially eligible for a greater range of governmental assistance. The estimated market value for the at-risk units in three projects is provided in Table B- 2. Because it is not possible to only acquire the affordable units in the Del Norte and El Cerrito Royale developments, the estimated market value is calculated for all units in each of the projects, as indicated in Table B-2. Current market value for the projects is estimated on the basis of the project’s potential annual income, and operating and maintenance expenses. As indicated below, the estimated market value of the three projects is $36.3 million. (These estimates are provided for purposes of comparison and understanding the magnitude of costs involved and do not represent the precise market ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix B Page 3 of 5 values of these projects. The actual market values at time of sale will depend on market and property conditions, among other factors.) Table B-2 Market Value of At-Risk Projects Del Norte Place Total 1-bedroom units 67 2-bedroom units 68 Total Units 135 Annual Operating Costs 864,000 $ Annual Gross Income 2,110,668 $ Estimated Market Value 14,960,016 $ Hazel Shirley 1-bedroom units 63 Total Units 63 Annual Operating Costs 333,459 $ Annual Gross Income 920,052 $ Estimated Market Value 7,039,116 $ El Cerrito Royale 1-bedroom units 102 Total Units 102 Annual Operating Costs 570,486 $ Annual Gross Income 1,489,608 $ Estimated Market Value 11,029,464 $ Total Estimated Market Value 33,028,596 $ Assumptions Average market rent 1-bedroom 1,217 $ 2-bedroom 1,388 $ 3-bedroom source: PMC rental survey, December 2009 from Contra Costa Consortium Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice Annual operating expenses PUPY Del Norte 6,400.00 $ Hazel Shirley 5,293.00 $ EC Royale 5,593.00 $ source: Bay Area LISC Operating Cost Database According to a list of qualified entities maintained by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), there are a number of non-profit housing providers that would be suitable candidates to receive the transfer ownership of the at- risk units discussed here. There are three qualified entities on the HCD list that are well established non-profit housing providers active in Contra Costa County, including ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix B Page 4 of 5 BRIDGE Housing Corporation (San Francisco), Resources for Community Development (Berkeley), and Eden Housing, Inc. (Hayward), which could be suitable candidates for the transfer of ownership. The HCD list does not include a number of housing developers who have the capacity to own and manage this type of property. The entities named above are representative of the active developers in the County. Rental Assistance: Rental subsidies using other funding sources can be used to maintain affordability of the 121 at-risk affordable units. These rent subsidies could be structured to mirror the federal Section 8 program. Under Section 8, HUD pays the difference between what tenants can pay (defined as 30 percent of household income) and what HUD estimates as the fair market rent (FMR) on the unit. In Contra Costa County, the 2009 FMR was $1,093 for a one-bedroom unit and $1,295 for a two- bedroom unit. The feasibility of this alternative is highly dependent upon the availability of reliable funding sources necessary to make rent subsidies and the willingness of property owners to participate in the program. As indicated in Table B-3, the total cost of subsidizing the rents of all 121 at-risk units is estimated at $45,951 per month or $551,406 annually. Table B-3 Rental Subsidies Required Unit Size Total Units 2009 Fair Market Rent Household Size Annual HH Income - Very Low Income Affordable Housing Cost (less Utilities) per unit Subsidy Total Subsidy 1-bedroom 72 1,093 $ 1 31,250 $ 682 $ 411 $ 29,574 $ 1-bedroom 35 1,093 $ 2 35,700 $ 794 $ 300 $ 10,483 $ 2-bedroom 14 1,295 $ 3 40,200 $ 874 $ 421 $ 5,894 $ 3-bedroom 0 1,756 $ 5 48,200 $ 1,042 $ 714 $ - $ Total 121 45,951 $ Total Annual Cost: 551,406 $ Notes: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is determined by HUD. Contra Costa County 2009 Area Median Income (AMI) limits set by the California Department of Housing & Community Development (HCD). Very Low Income is calculated at 50% of AMI. Affordable Housing Cost equals 30% of household income less utility allowance Bedrooms per units: Hazel Shirley (63 1-bedroom units); Del Norte (13 1-bedroom and 14 2-bedroom units); El Cerrito Royale (31 1-bedroom units). Tax-Exempt Bond Refinancing: Contra Costa County acts as a conduit issuer of mortgage revenue bonds. The El Cerrito Royale was partially financed with County- issued tax-exempt bonds. A potential way to preserve the affordability of the 31 very low- income restricted units at the El Cerrito Royale under the bond program is to refinance the remaining mortgage on the project. When refinanced, the project would be required by the 1986 Tax Reform Act to commit its 20 percent affordable units for the greater of 15 years or as long as the mortgages are outstanding. The costs to refinance the project would include the difference in interest rates on the remaining debt between the previous ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix B Page 5 of 5 and renegotiated loan packages, an issuance cost to be paid up front by the County, and administrative costs. To provide the property owner with an incentive to refinance, the County could offer to refinance the project with a new tax-exempt bond issue at an interest rate lower than the rate on the initial bond. Other assistance, such as rehabilitation loans or grants, may also be available. Purchase of Affordability Covenants: Another option to preserve the affordability of the at-risk project is to provide an incentive package to the owner to maintain the project as affordable housing. Incentives could include writing down the interest rate on the remaining loan balance, providing a lump-sum payment, and/or supplementing the rents to market levels. The feasibility of this option depends on whether the complex is too highly leveraged. By providing lump-sum financial incentives or ongoing subsides in rents or reduced mortgage interest rates to the owner, the City can ensure that some or all of the units remain affordable. Construction of Replacement Units: The construction of new low income housing units is a means of replacing the at-risk units should they be converted to market-rate units. The cost of developing housing depends upon a variety of factors including density, size of the units, location, land costs, and type of construction. The average construction cost for a rental residential unit is approximately $300,000 (including land costs), based on assessments from recent multi-family developments in the County. Based on this estimate, it would cost approximately $36.3 million to develop 121 new assisted units should all three projects convert to market rate. 4. Cost Comparisons The previous analysis attempts to estimate the cost of preserving the at-risk units under various options. The cost of acquiring the three projects and transferring ownership to non-profit housing organizations is high at approximately $33 million. In comparison, the annual costs of providing rental subsidies to preserve the 121 assisted units are relatively low ($551,406); however, long-term provision of rental subsidies for at least 55 years would cost more than $30 million. Overall, new construction of 121 replacement units is the most costly option at approximately $36.3 million and is constrained by a variety of factors, including growing scarcity of land zoned for residential use and land costs. 5. Resources for Preserving At-Risk Units Available public and non-profit organizations with the capacity to preserve assisted housing developments include Contra Costa County, the City of El Cerrito, and various non-profit developers, including Eden Housing, Resources for Community Development, Mercy Housing, EAH, and Bridge Housing Corporation. Financial resources available include City of El Cerrito Redevelopment Agency Tax Increment Set-Aside monies, and bond financing, as well as CDBG and HOME funds, Section 8 rental assistance, and low income housing tax credits. ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX C REVIEW OF HOUSING ELEMENT PAST PERFORMANCE Goal/Policy/Action Progress in Implementation Goal 1: Conserve and improve El Cerrito’s existing housing supply. P.1 Housing Rehabilitation: Encourage neighborhood preservation and housing rehabilitation of viable older housing to preserve neighborhood character and, where possible, retain a supply of very low-, low-, and moderate-income units. P.2 Displacement of Residential Units: Discourage the conversion of residential uses to non-residential uses, unless there is a finding of clear public benefit and equivalent housing can be provided for those who would be displaced by the proposed conversion. P.3 Condominium Conversions: Allow condominium conversions where feasible recognizing that condominiums may offer affordable housing ownership opportunities. P.4 Relocation/ of Non-conforming Mobile Home Parks: Encourage conversion of non-conforming mobile home parks to other uses, while residents displaced from non-conforming mobile home parks shall be provided relocation assistance pursuant to State Law. P.5 Energy Conservation Improvements: Promote residential energy conservation programs which provide assistance for energy conservation improvements. IP. 1 Maintain Existing Residential Zoning: Retain existing residential zoning and discourage non-residential uses in these zones. The City will strictly enforce the Zoning Code which states that non-residential uses in residential areas are limited to churches, daycares, and schools. The City actively enforces zoning laws during review of development applications and a Code Enforcement officer will perform enforcement for existing land uses. Completed and ongoing. The updated Zoning Ordinance effective March 2008 maintains existing residential zoning. A new code enforcement program was also launched in 2007 and is operating successfully. IP.2 Certificate of Occupancy Program: Continue to implement the Certificate of Occupancy Permit Program for rental housing on a biennial basis to maintain the quality of the housing stock. The City’s Building Division launched the Residential Rental Inspection Program in 2009. The Program’s purpose is to ensure that rental housing units in the City are maintained in a safe and habitable condition and comply with all codes and standards applicable to rental housing and requires that each rental unit in the ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 2 of 11 City be inspected every two years. If the property is in compliance with applicable codes and standards, a certificate of compliance shall be issued to the property owner. IP.3 Condominium Conversion: Amend the zoning ordinance to allow condominium conversions, require relocation assistance when units are converted; and require first right of refusal by occupants. Completed with the adoption of new Zoning Ordinance in 2008. Since that time the City has received one application for a condominium conversion that was later withdrawn due to economic issues. IP.4 Rehabilitation Preservation Program: Participate in the Neighborhood Preservation Program in cooperation with the Contra Costa County Housing Authority (CCCHA) which provides low interest loans for the rehabilitation of homes owned or occupied by low- to moderate-income households. The City will improve citizen awareness of this rehabilitation loan program by: a) making pamphlets on this program available at City Hall and at the public library; b) contacting neighborhood groups in older residential areas with this information; c) continuing building code enforcement; and d) use funding sources such as the Deferred Payment Rehabilitation Loan Program as well as Redevelopment Tax Increment Set-Aside funds to implement this program. Residential property owners in the City continue to be eligible to participate in Contra Costa County’s Rental Rehabilitation Program and the Neighborhood Preservation Program. The City is a member of the Contra Costa Urban County CDBG Consortium and as such City residents and property owners are eligible for these programs, which are funded through Contra Costa County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. The City continues to make program information available to residents through the City’s website, availability of program marketing materials at City Hall and other City locations and through City code enforcement efforts. The City has no plans to supplement County CDBG funds for this activity with Redevelopment Agency Housing Funds at this time as no funds are available. However, as funds are available the City would consider requests for matching funds for Rental Rehabilitation Program applicants within the City. IP.5 Housing Rehabilitation in Non-conforming Areas: Continue to permit new housing units and housing rehabilitation in commercial zoning districts subject to Zoning Ordinance requirements so that housing and commercial uses can complement and support one another. Ongoing ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 3 of 11 IP.6 Capital Improvements Program: The Planning Commission and City Council shall, on an annual basis, review the City Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to determine what special priorities are needed for capital improvement projects required to maintain the community’s older residential neighborhoods. Annual review of the CIP shall also include verification that needed improvements are scheduled for funding. Ongoing IP.7 Relocation of Mobile Home Residents: The City has no plans to convert mobile home sites within the City to other uses during the 2001-2006 implementation and assessment period. To the extent that redevelopment projects cause mobile home parks to be converted to other uses, the Redevelopment Agency will ensure that residents of mobile home parks obtain relocation assistance pursuant to State law and that they are referred to agencies such as the Contra Costa Housing Authority and the Contra Costa Community Services Department. Relocation assistance would include the Redevelopment Agency conducting a relocation study and paying for the residents’ relocation. The Agency would also build (or cause to be built) replacement housing units equal to the number removed. The City did not convert any mobile home sites during the implementation period. The Redevelopment Agency, in its FY 2007-FY 2012 Implementation Plan, does not have any plans to convert or relocate any mobile home parks and there are no mobile home parks currently in the Redevelopment Project Area. IP.8 Code Enforcement New Hire: The City will hire a full-time Code Enforcement Officer to replace the current part-time position. A full time code enforcement officer is on staff and has a very active caseload. 452 cases were opened in 2009 Goal 2: Facilitate and encourage the development of the housing to meet regional housing needs allocations established by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG). P.6 Pursue Available Funding Sources: Provide housing opportunities for very low-, low-, and moderate-income households. P.7 Mixed Use: Encourage the development of multi-family residential uses in existing and new commercial areas so that housing and commercial uses can complement and support one another. P.8 Large Scale Commercial & Office Projects: Consider impacts on housing demand in the environmental review ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 4 of 11 process of commercial and office projects. P.9 Regional Housing Needs: The City will encourage the construction of multi-family housing in mixed-use projects, in the redevelopment area, and near transit-oriented facilities to help meet the ABAG’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation for El Cerrito. P.10 Transit-Oriented Development: The City will encourage the construction of transit-oriented developments (TODs) that seek to maximize opportunities for the use of public transit and transportation corridors through high-density residential and mixed-use projects along those corridors in accordance with the City’s Incentives Program (Chapter 19.32 of the El Cerrito Zoning Ordinance). P.11 Accessory Living (Second Dwelling) Units: Continue to facilitate the construction of second dwelling units, pursuant to the City’s Accessory Living Unit Ordinance. P.12 Adaptive Reuse: Identify and evaluate the reuse of underutilized or deteriorated buildings in commercial areas with potential under the City’s zoning requirements for conversion to mixed use housing, retail, and commercial uses that can support and complement one another. IP.9 Mixed Use: Review the Mixed Use Zoning District to consider revisions to parking, setback, height, lot coverage and other standards to facilitate increased multi- family housing densities integrated with retail and commercial uses. Among the items to be considered are alternative parking standards where several land uses share a parking facility; exemptions for structured parking facilities from lot coverage or building height standards; and establishment of performance criteria, so that housing and commercial uses can complement and support one another. El Cerrito has one Mixed Use Zoning District. The entire district is located adjacent to the Del Norte BART station and has the potential for high-density residential and mixed-use projects identified in Policy P.10-Transit- Oriented Development. The City currently offers incentives to promote high-density projects in this zoning district and will be considering revisions to the zoning ordinance to execute the tasks listed above. Higher densities would be subject to General Plan and Zoning Completed with the adoption of new Zoning Ordinance in 2008. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 5 of 11 Ordinance standards of 35 dwelling units per acre or up to 45 dwelling units per acre under the Zoning Ordinance Incentives Program. The City is also in the process of updating design guidelines for the Del Norte area and anticipates completion in November 2003. IP.10 Adaptive Reuse and Transit Oriented Development: Continue to survey the City to identify underutilized and deteriorated buildings and properties where adaptive reuse and high-density, transit-oriented developments could be feasible. Prepare a report for the Planning Commission and City Council with recommendations for specific strategies for adaptive reuse of identified building(s) and properties, taking into consideration the flexibility provided by the Incentives Program, participation of the Redevelopment Agency, and the density bonus provisions of the Zoning Ordinance. A few of the underutilized sites identified in the vacant land survey in Appendix B are located near or directly around the City’s two BART stations and along San Pablo Avenue, the City’s major transportation thoroughfare and could support public transit with high-density uses. These sites, in particular, have the potential to be high-density residential and mixed-use developments due to the General Plan’s allowable densities and City incentives (under the El Cerrito Zoning Ordinance Incentives Program, Chapter 19.32). Criteria for incentives eligibility include “location of housing in close proximity to shopping, employment, or transportation centers”. The Adaptive Reuse report will acknowledge the sites that are within close proximity to the City’s BART stations with respect to the incentives offered by the zoning ordinance that promotes “the BART stations as focal points for integrated transportation, commercial, and residential centers”. Ongoing. Redevelopment/Economic Development completed a survey of potential development sites and continues to work with property owners, businesses and brokers on development opportunities of underutilized sites. The City works with property owners to assess the development potential of their property given current zoning and incentives offered by the zoning ordinance. IP.11 Facilitate the Construction of Accessory Living (Second Completed with the adoption of new Zoning Ordinance ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 6 of 11 Dwelling) Units: Consider fast-track processing for units meeting established City standards and prepare a brochure on second units to be distributed to the public at the City’s development permit counter and promoted through other City communications to El Cerrito residents. The City will also consider amending the Zoning Ordinance to revise provisions relating to parking, setback, height, lot coverage and other zoning-related factors that could impact the feasibility of accessory living unit construction. in 2008. Goal 3: Expand housing opportunities for the elderly, the handicapped, households with very low- to moderate- income and for persons with special housing needs. P.13 Facilitate Additional Special Needs Housing: Special needs housing projects may be developed with density bonuses and with less restrictive parking and setback requirements than specified in the Zoning Ordinance, where found to be consistent with maintaining the character of the surrounding neighborhood. Continue to facilitate housing for all special needs persons. Continue to provide density bonuses to projects that provide the required percentage of total units affordable to very-low and low-income households and for units meeting the special housing needs requirements identified in this Element as specified by State law. P.14 Notification Requirements for BMR and Section 8 Project-Based Subsidy Units: Impose notification requirements on Below Market Rate [BMR] and Section 8 Project Based Subsidy units, prior to resale of units or and/or conversion of such units to market-rate. P.15 Monitor Conversion of Section 8 to Market Rate Units: Work with the Contra Costa Housing Authority to monitor Section 8 and other affordable BMR units that are scheduled to be converted to market rate units, and to develop programs preventing the loss of these affordable units. P.16 Emergency and Transitional Housing: Allow emergency and transitional shelter within the City as a permitted use in the C-2 and C-3 Zoning District. P.17 Inter-agency Cooperation: Work with private, County, and State Agencies to provide emergency housing for the homeless. IP.12 Prepare the Appropriate Housing Impact and Mitigations Reports/Studies for employment-generating commercial, Ongoing ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 7 of 11 office, and industrial developments in the Environmental Review process. IP.13 Additional Housing for Senior Households: Assist developers in obtaining funding for construction of senior housing sites. Continue to permit senior housing developments, for persons aged 55 and over, in residential and commercial areas with reduced parking, setbacks and other requirements. Senior housing is allowed in all zoning districts, but, in commercial areas, approval of a use permit is necessary. The City will facilitate the construction of senior housing by soliciting development proposals on opportunity sites identified by the City that are suitable for senior housing. The availability of these sites will be advertised to senior housing developers through the City’s web site and an inventory to be provided to developers upon request. Completed with the adoption of new Zoning Ordinance in 2008. IP.14 Additional Housing for Persons with Disabilities and Other Special Needs: The City will abide by the Federal and State American Disabilities Act (ADA) laws which require at least 5 percent of new residential projects comprising 25 or more units to be adapted to or built for handicapped persons. The City will investigate the possibility of implementing a preference system to ensure that persons requiring handicap-accessible units are given preference for handicap-accessible units. The City will also amend the Zoning Ordinance to designate appropriate zoning districts in which residential care facilities and other group homes of more than six persons may locate under a conditional use permit process and to change the definition of “family” in the Zoning Ordinance to clarify that households comprised of unrelated individuals (such as in large group homes) are permitted by the City. The City will offer regulatory incentives as described in Completed with the adoption of new Zoning Ordinance in 2008. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 8 of 11 the City’s Incentives Program (Chapter 17.32 of the Zoning Ordinance) for projects meeting accessibility criteria. IP.15 Fast-Tracking of Affordable Housing for Special Needs Groups: The City will “fast track” the planning process for housing units with three or more bedrooms for large families, housing for seniors, and other special needs housing for very low-, low-, and moderate-income households. Fast tracking indicates that those applications are processed as a higher priority than other projects. Completed with the adoption of new Zoning Ordinance in 2008. IP.16 Density Bonus: The City will comply with the Density Bonus provisions of Government Code Section 65913.4 and 65917 requiring the granting of a density bonus and an additional financial incentive, or financially equivalent incentive(s), to a developer of housing agreeing to construct at least: a) 20 percent of the units for low- income households; b) 10 percent of the units for very low-income households; or c) 50 percent of the units for senior citizens. In addition, the City will continue to implement fast track processing for projects with affordable housing. Completed with the adoption of new Zoning Ordinance in 2008. IP.17 Evaluate the Feasibility of an Inclusionary Housing Ordinance. The City will conduct a study of the feasibility of an inclusionary housing ordinance that would include the terms and conditions under which new developments would be required to provide a specified percentage of housing affordable to very low-, low-, and/or moderate- income households. As part of a potential inclusionary program, the City will consider requirements for units with three or more bedrooms to meet the need of large families. Not included in 2008 ZO update, but still under consideration. For new residential projects within the Redevelopment Project Area, the City has successfully implemented a 15% inclusionary policy, which resulted in 24 low- and moderate-income affordable units constructed in 2006. IP.18 Redevelopment Agency and Housing Fund: Continue to operate the Housing Fund. Contributions to the Housing Fund would come from Redevelopment Agency Set-Aside The Redevelopment Agency continues to operate the Housing Fund under the requirements of California ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 9 of 11 funds and funds collected from private and public sources to implement and/or supplement the City’s housing programs. Use of the Housing Fund will be governed by guidelines as set out in the City Redevelopment regulations, where applicable. Currently the Housing Fund is in a deficit due to expenditures on affordable housing projects: Del Norte Place, Shirley Hazel Manor, and El Cerrito Royal and the Idaho Apartments. Community Redevelopment Law. IP.19 Tax-Exempt Financing: Continue to encourage developers to utilize tax-exempt financing for affordable housing financing by informing them of available bonds, deadlines, and or contracts. Tax-exempt bonds require the developer to rent to low-income persons. Developers should follow the specifics of the bond language to meet this requirement. The Redevelopment Agency continues to work with developers to encourage them to access a variety of financing available to developers of affordable housing. IP.20 Conversion of Section 8 and BMR Units: Consider an ordinance requiring a one year notice to residents, the City, and the Contra Costa Housing Authority of all conversions of Section 8 and Below Market Rate housing units to market rents. Completed with the adoption of new Zoning Ordinance in 2008. IP.21 Standards for Emergency and Transitional Housing: Revise the Zoning Ordinance to designate an emergency and transitional housing facility as a permitted use in the C-2 and C-3 District subject to the following performance standards. Through such standards, the City believes it can facilitate and expedite the approval of emergency shelter and transitional housing because applicants will know in advance the requirements for obtaining permits for these uses. Completed with the adoption of new Zoning Ordinance in 2008. IP.22 Rental Deposit Guarantee and Revolving Loan Fund Programs: Consider funding the Rental Deposit Guarantee and Revolving Loan Fund Programs operated by Shelter, Inc. to specifically assist El Cerrito residents and to prevent and reduce homelessness based on possible funding from the Redevelopment Agency Ongoing. The City is a member of the Contra Costa Urban County CDBG Consortium. The County utilizes CDBG funds to help fund this program on behalf of the Urban County jurisdictions. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 10 of 11 Housing Fund and the annual availability of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from Contra Costa County. IP.23 Maintain 2001 - 2006 Estimates of the Demand for Emergency Housing: Consult with the El Cerrito Police Department and the County’s Task Force on Homelessness to maintain 2001 - 2006 estimates of the demand for emergency housing. The Contra Costa County Interjurisdictional Council on Homelessness conducts a countywide homeless count every two years to assess the met and unmet need for emergency shelter, transitional housing and permanent supportive housing. The City refers to this assessment in estimating the demand for emergency housing as well as consulting with the El Cerrito Policy Department. IP.24 Adopt 2002 Zoning Ordinance Amendments: The City is currently updating the Zoning Ordinance. The amendment is a comprehensive update of the Ordinance to revise outdated provisions of the City’s zoning requirements and to bring the Ordinance into conformance with the General Plan and the requirements of State law. Among the amendments will be clarification of Chapter 17.32 (Incentives Program) to indicate that incentives will be mandatory for qualifying development proposals. Completed. Goal 4: To prohibit discrimination in the provision of housing based on race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, disability, or sexual orientation and to promote equal housing opportunities. P.18 Equal Housing Opportunity: Continue to facilitate non-discrimination in housing in El Cerrito. P.19 Landlord-Tenant Disputes: Continue to refer landlord-tenant disputes to housing counseling organizations such as Shelter, Inc. IP.25 Equal Housing Opportunity: Facilitate equal housing opportunity by referring housing complaints and landlord- tenant disputes to the appropriate agencies. The City will document fair housing complaint occurrences for Ongoing. The City is a member of the Contra Costa Urban County CDBG Consortium. The County utilizes CDBG funds to help fund the Contra Costa County Housing Services Collaborative on behalf of the Urban ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix C Page 11 of 11 evaluation of future service needs. The City will designate a staff person to coordinate referral of housing discrimination and documentation of complaints. The City will also prepare brochures and pamphlets listing Shelter In. and other social service agencies. The brochures and pamphlets shall be available to the public at City Hall, the City Library, the Community Center, and office of social services organizations that serve tenants or handle tenant disputes. County jurisdictions. The Housing Services Collaborative offer free housing services including tenant-landlord counseling, fair housing services, and legal advice and representation to Urban County residents, including El Cerrito. Brochures and information about the services offered by the Housing Services Collaborative will be distributed through the City’s website and at City Hall and the El Cerrito Library. IP.26 Non-Discrimination Clauses: Continue to provide non- discrimination clauses in rental agreements and deed restrictions for housing constructed with either City or DD&A’s funds and Owner Participant Agreements when Redevelopment Agency participation occurs. The Redevelopment Agency includes non- discrimination clauses in all its housing agreements. Goal 5: Adopt and implement a Housing Element that is in compliance with State law and the requirements of the State Department of Housing and Community Development. P.25 City Leadership: Provide active leadership in implementing the policies and programs contained in the Housing Element in a timely manner. P.26 Public Participation: Encourage and support public participation in the formulation and review of the City’s housing and development policies. P.27 Redevelopment Agency: The Redevelopment Agency shall promote the implementation of the policies and goals of the Housing Element, through its unique powers. P.28 Annual Review of Housing Element Implementation: Planning Commission and City Council shall annually review progress in implementing the Housing Element. IP.27 Prepare an Annual Report: to the City Council and Planning Commission, that describes the amount and type of housing activity, tied to an updated summary of the City’s housing needs. Ongoing. IP.28 Update Demographic Information: when the results of the 2000 Census become available. Completed. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix D Page 1 of 8 APPENDIX D: GLOSSARY OF HOUSING TERMS Above-Moderate Income Household. A household with an annual income usually greater than 120% of the area median family income adjusted by household size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city of a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest available legibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Section 8 housing program. Apartment. An apartment is one or more rooms in an apartment house or dwelling occupied or intended or designated for occupancy by one family for sleeping or living purposes and containing one kitchen. Assisted Housing. Generally multi-family rental housing, but sometimes single-family ownership units, whose construction, financing, sales prices, or rents have been subsidized by federal, state, or local housing programs including, but not limited to Federal state, or local housing programs including, but not limited to Federal Section 8 (new construction, substantial rehabilitation, and loan management set-asides), Federal Sections 213, 236, and 202, Federal Section 221 (below-market interest rate program), Federal Section 101 (rent supplement assistance), CDBG, FmHA Section 515, multi-family mortgage revenue bond programs, local redevelopment and in lieu fee programs, and units developed pursuant to local inclusionary housing and density bonus programs. Below-Market-Rate (BMR). Any housing unit specifically priced to be sold or rented to low- or moderate income households for an amount less than the fair-market value of the unit. Both the State of California and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development set standards for determining which households qualify as “low income” or “moderate income.” The financing of housing at less tan prevailing interest rates. Build-Out. That level of urban development characterized by full occupancy of all developable sites in accordance with the General Plan; the maximum level of development envisioned by the General Plan. Build-out does not assume that each parcel is developed to include all floor area or housing units possible under zoning regulations. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). A grant program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on a formula basis for entitlement communities and by the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for non-entitled jurisdictions. This grant allots money to cities and counties for housing rehabilitation and community development, including public facilities and economic development. Condominium. A structure of two or more units, the interior spaces of which are individually owned; the balance of the property (both land and building) is owned in common by the owners of the individual units. (See “Townhouse.”) Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). A term used to describe restrictive limitations that may be placed on property and its use, and which usually are made a condition of holding title or lease. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix D Page 2 of 8 Deed. A legal document which affects the transfer of ownership of real estate from the seller to the buyer. Density Bonus. The allocation of development rights that allow a parcel to accommodate additional square footage or additional residential units beyond the maximum for which the parcel is zoned, usually in exchange for the provision or preservation of an amenity at the same site or at another location. Density, Residential. The number of permanent residential dwelling units per acre of land. Densities specified in the General Plan may be expressed in unites per gross acre or per net developable acre. Developable Land. Land that is suitable as a location for structures and that can be developed free of hazards to, and without disruption of, or significant impact on, natural resource areas. Down Payment. Money paid by a buyer from his own funds, as opposed to that portion of the purchase price which is financed. Duplex. A detached building under single ownership that is designed for occupation as the residence of two families living independently of each other. Dwelling Unit (du). A building or portion of a building containing one or more rooms, designed for or used by one family for living or sleeping purposes, and having a separate bathroom and only one kitchen or kitchenette. See Housing Unit. Elderly Housing. Typically one- and two-bedroom apartments or condominiums designed to meet the needs of persons 62 years of age and older or, if more than 150 units, persons 55 years of age and older, and restricted to occupancy by them. Emergency Shelter. A facility that provides immediate and short-term housing and supplemental services for the homeless. Shelters come in many sizes, but an optimum size is considered to be 20 to 40 beds. Supplemental services may include food, counseling, and access to other social programs. (See “Homeless” and “Transitional Housing.”) Extremely-Low Income Household. A household with an annual income equal to or less than 30% of the area median family income adjusted by household size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city or a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest available eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Section 8 housing program. Fair Market Rent. The rent, including utility allowances, determined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for purposed of administering the Section 8 Housing Program. Family. Two or more persons related by birth, marriage, or adoption [U.S. Bureau of the Census]. An Individual or a group of persons living together who constitute a bona fide single-family housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit, not including a fraternity, ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix D Page 3 of 8 sorority, club, or other group of persons occupying a hotel, lodging house or institution of any kind [California]. General Plan. A comprehensive, long-term plan mandated by State Planning Law for the physical development of a city or county and any land outside its boundaries which, in its judgment, bears relation to its planning. The plan shall consist of seven required elements: land use, circulation, open space, conservation, housing, safety, and noise. The plan must include a statement of development policies and a diagram or diagrams illustrating the policies. Goal. A general, overall, and ultimate purpose, aim, or end toward which the City will direct effort. Green Building. Green or sustainable building is the practice of creating healthier and more resource efficient models of construction, renovation, operation, maintenance, and demolition. [US Environmental Protection Agency] Historic Preservation. The preservation of historically significant structures and neighborhoods until such time as, and in order to facilitate, restoration and rehabilitation of the building(s) to a former condition. Historic Property. A historic property is a structure or site that has significant historic, architectural, or cultural value. Household. All those persons—related or unrelated—who occupy a single housing unit. (See “Family.”) Housing and Community Development Department (HCD). The State agency that has principal responsibility for assessing, planning for, and assisting communities to meet the needs of low-and moderate income house holds. Housing Element. One of the seven State-mandated elements of a local general plan, it assesses the existing and projected housing needs of all economic segments of the community, identifies potential sites adequate to provide the amount and kind of housing needed, and contains adopted goals, policies, and implementation programs for the preservation, improvement, and development of housing. Under State law, Housing Elements must be updated every five years. Housing Payment. For ownership housing, this is defined as the mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance and utilities. For rental housing this is defined as rent and utilities. Housing Ratio. The ratio of the housing payment to total gross income. Also called Payment-to-Income Ratio or Front-End Ratio. Housing Unit. The place of permanent or customary abode of a person or family. A housing unit may be a single-family dwelling, a multi-family dwelling, a condominium, a modular home, a mobile home, a cooperative, or any other residential unit considered real property under State law. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix D Page 4 of 8 Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Department of (HUD). A cabinet-level department of the federal government that administers housing and community development programs. Implementing Policies. The City’s statements of its commitments to consistent actions. Implementation. Actions, procedures, programs, or techniques that carry out policies. Infill Development. The development of new housing or other buildings on scattered vacant lots in a built-up area or on new building parcels created by permitted lot splits. Jobs-Housing Balance. A ration used to describe the adequacy of the housing supply within a defined area to meet the needs of persons working within the same area. The General Plan uses ABAG’s definition which is a job total equal to 1.2 times the number of housing units within the area under consideration. Land Use Classification. A system for classifying and designating the appropriate use of properties. Live-Work Units. Buildings or spaces within buildings that are used jointly for commercial and residential purposes where the residential use of the space is secondary or accessory to the primary use as a place of work. Low Income Household. A household with an annual income usually no greater than 51%-80% of the area median family income adjusted by household size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city or a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest available eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the §8 housing program. Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. Tax reductions provided by the federal and State governments for investors in housing for low-income households. Manufactured Housing. Residential structures that are constructed entirely in the factory, and which since June 15, 1976, have been regulated by the federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 under the administration of the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). (See “Mobile Home” and “Modular Unit.”) Mixed-Use. Properties on which various uses, such as office, commercial, institutional, and residential, are combined in a single building or on a single site in an integrated development project with significant functional interrelationships and a coherent physical design. A “single site” may include contiguous properties. Moderate Income Household. A household with an annual income usually no greater than 81%-120% of the area median family income adjusted by household size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city or a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest available eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Section 8 housing program. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix D Page 5 of 8 Housing Expense. Total principal, interest, taxes, and insurance paid by the borrower on a basis. Used with gross income to determine affordability. Multiple Family Building. A detached building designed and used exclusively as a dwelling by three or more families occupying separate suites. Ordinance. A law or regulation set forth and adopted by a governmental authority, usually a city or county. Overcrowding Housing Unit. A housing unit in which the members of the household, or group. Are prevented from the enjoyment of privacy because of small room size and housing size. The U.S. Bureau of Census defines an overcrowded housing unit as one which is occupied by more than one person per room. Parcel. A lot or tract of land. Planning Area. The area directly addressed by the general plan. A city’s planning area typically encompasses the city limits and potentially annexable land within its sphere of influence. Policy. A specific statement of principle or of guiding actions that implies clear commitment but is not mandatory. A general direction that a governmental agency sets to follow, in order to meet its objectives before undertaking an action program. (See “Program.”) Poverty Level. As used by the U.S. Census, families and unrelated individuals are classified as being above or below the poverty level based on a poverty index that provides a range of income cutoffs or “poverty thresholds” varying by size of family, number of children, and age of householder. The income cutoffs are updated each year to reflect the change in the Consumer Price Index. Program. An action, activity, or strategy carried out in response to adopted policy to achieve a specific goal or objective. Policies and programs establish the “who,” “how” and “when” for carrying out the “what” and “where” of goals and objectives. Redevelop. To demolish existing buildings; or to increase the overall floor area existing on a property; or both; irrespective of whether a change occurs in land use. Regional. Pertaining to activities or economies at a scale greater than that of a single jurisdiction, and affecting a broad geographic area. Regional Housing Needs Assessment. A quantification by ABAG of existing and projected housing need, by household income group, for all localities within a region. Rehabilitation. The repair, preservation, and/or improvement of substandard housing. Residential. Land designated in the General Plan and zoning ordinance for building consisting of dwelling units. May be improved, vacant, or unimproved. (See “Dwelling Unit.”) ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix D Page 6 of 8 Residential Care Facility. A facility that provides 24-hour care and supervision to its residents. Residential, Multiple Family. Usually three or more dwelling units on a single site, which may be in the same or separate buildings. Residential, Single-Family. A single dwelling unit on a building site. Retrofit. To add materials and/or devices to an existing building or system to improve its operation, safety, or efficiency. Buildings have been retrofitted to use solar energy and to strengthen their ability to withstand earthquakes, for example. Rezoning. An amendment to the map to effect a change in the nature, density, or intensity of uses allowed in a zoning district and/or on a designated parcel or land area. Second Unit. A self-contained living unit, either attached to or detached form, and in addition to, the primary residential unit on a single lot. “Granny Flat” is one type of second unit. Section 8 Rental Assistance Program. A federal (HUD) rent-subsidy program that is one of the main sources of federal housing assistance for low-income households. The program operates by providing “housing assistance payments” to owners, developers, and public housing agencies to make up the difference between the “Fair Market Rent” of a unit (set by HUD) and the household’s contribution toward the rent, which is calculated at 30% of the household’s adjusted gross income (GMI). “Section 8” includes programs for new construction, existing housing, and substantial or moderate housing rehabilitation. Shared Living. The occupancy of a dwelling unit by persons of more than one family in order to reduce housing expenses and provide social contact, mutual support, and assistance. Shared living facilities serving six or fewer persons are permitted in all residential districts by §1566.3 of the California Health and Safety Code. Single-Family Dwelling, Attached. A dwelling unit occupied or intended for occupancy by only one household that is structurally connected with at least one other such dwelling unit. (See “Townhouse.”) Single-Family Dwelling, Detached. A dwelling unit occupied or intended for occupancy by only one household that is structurally independent from any other such dwelling unit or structure intended for residential or other use. (See “Family.”) Single Room Occupancy (SRO). A single room, typically 80-250 square feet, with a sink and closet, but which requires the occupant to share a communal bathroom, shower, and kitchen. Subsidize. To assist by payment of a sum of money or by the granting to terms or favors that reduces the need for monetary expenditures. Housing subsidies may take the forms or mortgage interest deductions or tax credits from federal and/or state income taxes, sale or lease at less than market value of land to be used for the construction of housing, payments to supplement a minimum affordable rent, and the like. ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix D Page 7 of 8 Substandard Housing. Residential dwellings that, because of their physical condition, do not provide safe and sanitary housing. Supportive Housing. Housing with no limit on length of stay, that is occupied by the target population as defined in California Health and Safety Code Section 53260(d), and that is linked to onsite or offsite services that assist the supportive housing resident in retaining the housing, improving his or her health status, and maximizing his or her ability to live and, when possible, work in the community. “Target population" means adults with low incomes having one or more disabilities, including mental illness, HIV or A IDS, substance abuse, or other chronic health conditions, or individuals eligible for services provided under the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act and may, among other populations, include families with children, elderly persons, young adults aging out of the foster care system, individuals exiting from institutional settings, veterans, or homeless people. [California Health and Safety Code Sections 50675.14(b) and 53260(d)] Target Areas. Specifically designated sections of the community where loans and grants are made to bring about a specific outcome, such as the rehabilitation of housing affordable by Very-Low and Low-income households. Tax Increment. Additional tax revenues that result form increases in property values within a redevelopment area. State law permits the tax increment to be earmarked for redevelopment purposes but requires at lest 20% to be used to increase and improve the community’s supply of very low and low income housing. Tenure. A housing unit is “owned” if the owner or co-owner lives in the unit, even if it is “owned only if it is mortgaged or not fully paid for. A cooperative or condominium unit is “owned only if the owner or co-owner lives in it. All other occupied units are classified as “rented,” including units rented for cash rent and those occupied without payment of cash rent. Townhouse. A townhouse is a dwelling unit located in a group of three or more attached dwelling units with no dwelling unit located above or below another and with each dwelling unit having its own exterior entrance. Transitional Housing. Shelter provide to the homeless for an extend period, often as long as 18 months, and generally integrated with other social services and counseling programs to assist in the transition to self sufficiency through the acquisition of a stable income and permanent housing. (See “homeless” and “Emergency Shelter.”) Undevelopable. Specific areas where topographic, geologic, and/or superficial soil conditions indicate a significant danger to future occupants and a liability to the City are designated as “undevelopable” by the City. Acronyms Used ABAG: Association of Bay Area Governments ACS: American Community Survey BMPs: Best Management Practices CALTRANS: California Department of Transportation CEQA: California Environmental Quality Act CIP: Capital Improvement Program ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix D Page 8 of 8 DIF: Development Impact Fee DU/ac: Dwelling units per acre EDD: California Employment Development Department FAR: Floor Area Ratio FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency HCD: Department of Housing and Community Development HOA: Homeowners Association HUD: Department of Housing and Urban Development LAFCO: Local Agency Formation Commission MFI: Median Family Income NPDES: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System RTP: Regional Transportation Plan SPA: Sectional Planning Area STF: Summary Tape File (U.S. Census) TOD: Transit-Oriented Development TDM: Transportation Demand Management TSM: Transportation Systems Management WCP: Water Conservation Plan ---PAGE BREAK--- Appendix E Page 1 of 1 APPENDIX E: COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC There have been no comments submitted from the public through the Housing Element process. There have been questions posed to Staff regarding the draft and revised Element and State Housing Element law from Planning Commissioners and City Councilmembers for clarification purposes.