(17)AR 030607 Regional Housing Needs Assessment

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hearings were held for the 2007 Integrated Growth Forecast/RHNA methodology. The RHNA methodology did not result in a favorable outcome for many cities, especially for those cities that were not able to calculate the housing vacancy rate as part of meeting the housing need. Colton was assigned the responsibility to provide housing programs that would result in the construction of 3,106 dwelling units by the year 2014. On February 1, 2007, SCAG presented a report on the status of RHNA Pilot Program (Senate Bill 12) and Amended Appeals Procedure to address a revision process required under SB12. It is through this process that the City of Colton is formally appealing the R1 NA figures for 2006 to 2014 of 3,106 dwelling units. DISCUSSION/ANALYSIS: Using the guidelines outlined in the RHNA appeal process for forecasting future housing, the City of Colton is petitioning the housing number of 3,016 for the period of 2006 to 2014. The City of Colton is not opposed to all aspects of the proposed pilot program in SB 12. However, the City of Colton appeals the RHNA housing numbers based on Methodology and AB 2158 Factors. Our appeal would be based on the following arguments: 1. The RHNA numbers assigned to the City would require housing starts of approximately 345 units per year. The City issued 317 housing permits between the years of 2002- 2006, and average of 63.4 per year. 2. The RHNA allocation to Colton does not take into account the amount of land constrained by the Delhi Sands Flower Loving Fly. Thus, even though such land is vacant and may be zoned for housing development, it is not truly available within the planning period. 3. The RHNA numbers assigned to Colton do not take into account the City's high vacancy rates — meaning that there is really more housing available than Colton is given credit for. Staff is researching additional arguments with other surrounding cities. Letters appealing the RHNA numbers are due on March 15, 2007. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no impact to the General Fund. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: None. CONFLICT OF INTEREST: None. RECOMMENDATION: Authorize staff to submit a letter to SCAG under the Mayor's signature, appealing the RHNA numbers for housing units to be constructed in the City of Colton. Staff is working with the City Attorney and other cities to formalize additional arguments.