Title
Introduction of Ordinance Adding Section 30-5.17 to the Alameda Municipal Code to Provide Regulations Regarding Reasonable Accommodation in Compliance with the Federal Fair Housing Act, the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, and California Housing Element Law; Action is Categorically Exempt pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15305, Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations. (Community Development 481001)
Body
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: John A. Russo, City Manager
Re: Adopt an Ordinance Adding Section 30-5.17 to the Alameda Municipal Code to Provide Regulations Regarding Reasonable Accommodation in Compliance with the Federal Fair Housing Act, the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, and California Housing Element Law; Action is Categorically Exempt pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15305, Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations
BACKGROUND
In an effort to address barriers to housing opportunities, the Federal Fair Housing Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (together, the Acts) allow eligible individuals with disabilities to request reasonable accommodation in housing according to general guidelines. In addition, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), in the 2007-2014 Housing Element cycle, required local jurisdictions to specifically address reasonable accommodation. The City of Alameda Housing Element includes an Implementation Plan, with a requirement to provide for a Reasonable Accommodation process in the Alameda Municipal Code, as required by state law.
DISCUSSION
Ways in which local governments make reasonable accommodations include modifications and exceptions in their zoning laws and various land use regulations to allow disabled persons to have "an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling."
California Government Code Section 6558...
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