“A job well done, long time coming but worthwhile,” noted Councilman John Procter.Councilman Don Johnson said adoption of the Draft Housing Element, “took a lot of hard work; it will pave our way for a couple of years. . .”Although the Draft Housing Element was a lengthy process, “I feel very strongly that the end result is what is important,” said Acting Mayor Laura Flores Espinosa. She noted that of the 11 new programs, “some are being instituted now that were never discussed before.”The Draft Housing Element was a joint effort that relied heavily on public input, Espinosa added, and “I think it’s one of the best documents I’ve ever seen; we’re actually putting dollars to this document, putting our money where our mouth is. It will greatly enhance housing resources for our residents.”It was a smooth ending for what had become a controversial issue when critics said the Draft Housing Element did not contain correct information on everything from the number of available infill building lots in the city to current rental rates. Also criticized was that early versions of the Draft Housing Element did not address housing for special needs categories, subsequently added to the final draft.The Planning Commission at a recent meeting approved the revised Draft Housing Element.
Years long effort: City Council adopts Draft Housing Element
August 28, 2002
Santa Paula News
It took over two years and underwent several revisions, but at the Aug. 19th meeting the City Council enthusiastically adopted the Draft Housing Element.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesIt took over two years and underwent several revisions, but at the Aug. 19th meeting the City Council enthusiastically adopted the Draft Housing Element.Tom Bartlett, planning director, said that although the city missed the deadline to submit the draft document to the state Department of Housing and Community Development (HDC), such tardiness is a regional issue with most other county cities still finalizing their housing elements.“Eleven of the new programs are testimony to the amount of involvement and effort put in by all,” including staff, consultants, council members and the community, Bartlett noted. “It was a very dynamic and beneficial process.”According to Bartlett’s report, the 11 new programs will have “significant fiscal impacts over the long term,” since each require administration and oversight.“I think it’s pretty good proof that everyone can work together,” said Councilman Rick Cook.
