Last week California Senate Bill 79 passed out of the Senate Appropriations Committee with a 4-2 vote. Next, SB 79 now goes to the Senate for a vote.
Within the broader conversation of California’s housing affordability, a FIERCE zoning debate continues that has the potential to change the character of single-family neighborhoods across the state. Introduced by State Senator Scott Wiener, SB 79 aims to increase housing density near major public transit stops. This is this third such effort since 2018.
Here in Los Angeles everyone agrees that Los Angeles needs more affordable housing. The question is HOW to best address it.
Instead of destroying residential neighborhoods, land use advocacy groups such as United Neighbors
Rather than disrupting stable neighborhoods like Hancock Park, United Neighbors and Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council (GWNC) are calling on LA City council to amend the current legislation. Increased density can be directed to transit corridors where underused commercial properties and sufficient infrastructure exist. They have created community maps that locate enough housing to meet the state’s housing mandate.
If SB 79 is passed by the State Senate in its current form it would allow multi-family buildings up to 7 stories within a quarter mile of major transit stops and lower-height buildings within a half-mile radius. The bill also seeks to streamline the permitting process for such developments, reducing local governments’ ability to impose restrictions.
Implications to Hancock Park and neighborhoods across the city and state are significant. Stay informed and help your local community.
Resources to learn more:
*LUNA