Title
Public Hearing to Consider Introduction of Ordinance to Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Amending Section 30-16 Inclusionary Housing Requirements for Residential Projects.
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), this action is categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3). (Planning, Building and Transportation)
Body
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Adam W. Politzer, Interim City Manager
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City Council has recognized the need to update the inclusionary housing ordinance since adopting the Housing Element in 2022. In 2024 the City of Alameda (City) retained a consulting firm to provide advice and analysis based on best practice and local conditions. An ad hoc working group was also formed in 2024 to review their work, with members representing the Planning Board, Alameda Housing Authority, Housing and Human Services Division, and the development community. Outreach was also made to non-profit partners and housing advocates. This led to public workshop discussions with the Planning Board and City Council in 2025.
The Planning Board and City Council provided guidance on several options to be considered, including ways to adjust the percentage requirements for each of the affordability levels, in-lieu fee options, and off-site project development parameters. The recommended Ordinance reflects this guidance.
On April 13, 2026, the Planning Board conducted a public hearing and made a recommendation to City Council recommending the Ordinance as shown in the attachments to this report. In making its recommendation, the Planning Board emphasized the need to make local adjustments to assist with making housing development more feasible, to provide certainty in the development review process, and to provide flexibility through a variety of compliance options.
In its action, the Planning Board included a recommendation that a fee ...
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