What is a Housing Element?

The Housing Element is a chapter of the General Plan that outlines the City's plan for addressing local housing needs. One of the key components of the Housing Element is the inventory of sites available for housing, presented in a table showing the location, size and zoning applicable to each site together with a projection of the number of housing units that could realistically be accommodated on the parcel in view of past trends and local conditions. A map of the sites is also included. By law, the Housing Element must also include an assessment of local housing needs, potential constraints to housing production, and fair housing issues - which means any factors that impede access to housing for disadvantaged groups like the disabled, the elderly, or racial of linguistic minorities. In view of that assessment, the Housing Element must include a program of actions to address identified needs, constraints and fair housing issues.

Show All Answers

1. What does the project involve?
2. What is a General Plan and who uses it?
3. When was the last General Plan updated and what is different about this one?
4. What is the difference between the General Plan and the Zoning Ordinance?
5. What is a Housing Element?
6. What is RHNA?
7. What will be in the Rumrill Boulevard Corridor Plan?
8. What is the timeline for the project?
9. How can I get involved?