Regular Meeting of the Artesia City Council
City Council Chambers
18747 Clarkdale Avenue
Artesia, CA 90701
(562) 865-6262
You may view this meeting live over the internet at
https://ca-artesia2.civicplus.com/241/City-Council-Meetings-Video Monday, February 9, 2026
7:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
1.A. Call to Order
2. ROLL CALL
2.A. Roll Call
3. INVOCATION
3.A. Invocation
— Pastor Rob Golding, First Christian Reformed Church
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4.A. Pledge of Allegiance
5. PUBLIC COMMENTS
This is the portion of the meeting set aside to invite public comments regarding any matter within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council. Public comments may also be submitted by email at [email protected] before 12:00 p.m. on the date of the meeting. Public comments are limited to no more than three minutes each. If comments relate to a specific agenda item, those comments will be taken following the staff report for that item and prior to the City Council vote.
Under the provisions of the Brown Act, the City Council is prohibited from taking action on items that are not listed on the agenda, but may refer the matter to staff or to a subsequent meeting. Those wishing to speak are asked to add your information at the digital public kiosk located at the entrance of the Council Chamber.
5.A. Public Comment
6. COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
6.A. Councilmember Comments
7. CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
7.A. Ross Band Certificates of Recognition
7.B. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Certificates of Recognition — Deputy Ruvalcaba
— Deputy Valdez
7.C. Gateway Cities Energy Action Award Presentation
7.D. Black History Month Proclamation
8. BUSINESS PRESENTATIONS
8.A. Los Angeles County Sanitation District Prop. 218 Rate Increase Update
8.B. ABC Unified School District Update
9. CONSENT CALENDAR
It is recommended that Items (9A) through (9I) be acted on simultaneously in one vote unless a member of the City Council requests separate discussion and/or action on the item. In the event a member of the City Council requests separate discussion on a Consent Calendar item, or the item is removed from the Consent Calendar to allow for public comments on the item to be read. The City Council will consider that item immediately following approval of the rest of the Consent Calendar.
9.A. Waive Reading of All Ordinance and Resolutions Adoptions on the Agenda and Read by Title Only
— Recommendation: Waive Reading, by Title Only, of all Ordinances and Resolutions. Said Ordinances and Resolutions Which Appear on the Public Agenda Shall Be Determined to Have Been Read by Title and Further Reading Waived.
9.B. Accounts Payable Check Register - January 2026
— Recommendation: Receive and File.
9.C. City Financial Report - December 2025
— Recommendation: Receive and File.
9.D. AB 1234 Reporting
— Recommendation: Receive and File.
9.E. City Council Meeting Minutes
— Recommendation: Approve Minutes as Presented for December 8 - Regular and Special Meetings, and December 15, 2025 - Regular and Special Meetings.
9.F. Second Reading and Consideration of Ordinance Amending the Artesia Municipal Code Relating to the Mixed Use Overlay
— Recommendation: Adopt Ordinance No. 26-980, Amending Sections of Title 48 (Mixed-Use Overlay Zone) of Chapter 2 (Zoning) of Title 9 (Planning and Zoning) of the Artesia Municipal Code and Finding the Ordinance Exempt From CEQA Pursuant To State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3); And
— Find the Ordinance Exempt From CEQA Pursuant to Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).
9.G. Legislative Platform for Calendar Year 2026
— Recommendation: Approve the Legislative Platform for Calendar Year 2026.
9.H. First Amendment to Agreement With Complete Paperless Solutions, LLC. — Recommendation: Approve, and Authorize the City Manager To Execute, the First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement With Complete Paperless Solutions, LLC Extending the the Term to June 30, 2026 and Increasing the Total Contract to an Amount Not To Exceed $170,000 Over the Two-Year Period.
9.I. Large Event Facility Use Permit for Dinesh Shah to Hold a Holi Festival on Saturday, March 8, 2026 at Artesia Park
— Recommendation: Approve the Issuance of a Large Event Facility Use Permit.
10. PUBLIC HEARING
10.A. Introduction of an Ordnance to Establish Temporary Outdoor Lighting Regulations — Recommendation: Waive Full Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 26-981, Adding Section 9-
2.1250 to Title 9 of the Artesia Municipal Code Establishing Regulations and Standards for the Use of Temporary Outdoor Lighting in Residential Zones; And Determining the Ordinance To Be Exempt From CEQA; And
— Find That That This Action Is Exempt From the Requirements of CEQA Pursuant to Sections 15378(b)(5), and 15061(b)(3).
10.B. 2021-2029 6th Cycle Housing Element Update
— Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 26-3075, Adopting the 2021-2029 Housing Element Update to the City of Artesia General Plan, and Approving Findings Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act in Connection Therewith (Case No. 2021-19); — Make a Determination of Exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines; And — Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to make minor, non-substantive modifications to the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element as required by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for purposes of State law compliance.
10.C. Second Reading and Consideration of Ordinance Regarding Updating Los Angeles County Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire, Mechanical, Residential Codes, and Green Building Standards — Recommendation: Adopt Ordinance No. 26-979, Adopting by Reference Title 26 of the Los Angeles County Code, Incorporating and Amending the 2025 California Building Code; Title 27 of the Los Angeles County Code, Incorporating and Amending the 2025 California Electrical Code; Title 28 of the Los Angeles County Code, Incorporating and Amending the 2025 California Plumbing Code; Title 29 of the Los Angeles County Code, Incorporating and Amending the 2025 California Mechanical Code; Title 30 of the Los Angeles County Code, Incorporating and Amending the 2025 California Residential Code; Title 31 of the Los Angeles County Code, Incorporating and Amending the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code; Title 32 of the Los Angeles County Code, Incorporating and Amending the 2025 California Fire Code; Title 33 of the Los Angeles County Code, Incorporating and Amending the 2025 California Existing Building Code Together With Certain Amendments, Deletions and Additions, Including Findings, Fees and Penalties; And Amending the Artesia Municipal Code; And — Find the Ordinance Exempt from CEQA pursuant to Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).
11. DISCUSSION
11.A. Introduction of an Ordinance Amending the City's Fireworks Code — Recommendation: Waive Full Reading and Introduce, Ordinance No. 28-982, Amending Chapter 2 (Fireworks) of Title 4 (Public Safety) Regarding Illegal Fireworks; — Finding the Ordinance is Exempt from CEQA Per State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060 and 15061; And
— Approve the Proposed Administrative Fines for Fireworks Violations and Direct Staff to Prepare a Resolution to Adopt the Fines.
11.B. Goods Purchase Agreement with Romtec, Inc. for a Pre-Engineered Restroom Building Kit for Artesia Park in the Amount of $307,511.43
— Recommendation: Approve the Good Purchase Agreement and With Romtec Inc., and Authorize the City Manager To Execute on Behalf of the City Council.
11.C. Consideration of a Financial Plan and Approving a Mid-Year Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26 — Recommendation: Approve the Proposed Mid-Year Budget Adjustments
12. CITY MANAGER INFORMATIONAL REPORTING
12.A. City Manager Reporting
13. COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
14. ADJOURNMENT
14.A. Adjournment
— Adjourn in memory of Tony Wong, former City Engineer and Jesus Alejandro Valdez.
The City of Artesia complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you require special assistance to attend or participate in this meeting, please call the City Clerk’s office at 562-865-6262 at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. Copies of Staff Reports are on file in the Office of the City Clerk and are available for inspection.
Date Posted: February 5, 2026
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 9A.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: Waive Reading of All Ordinance and Resolutions Adoptions on the Agenda and Read by Title Only
FROM: Jennifer Alderete, City Clerk
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council waive reading, by title only, of all ordinances and resolutions. Said ordinances and resolutions which appear on the public agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading waived.
BACKGROUND:
California Government Code 36934 allows the legislative body to waive the requirement to read ordinances and titles by the action.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with approval of this item.
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 9B.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: Accounts Payable Check Register - January 2026 FROM: Jamie Murguia, Finance Manager
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Melissa Burke, Deputy City Manager
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council receive and file this report.
BACKGROUND:
The attached demands summary (accounts payable checks) is a list of all checks issued by the City of Artesia from January 1, 2026 through January 31, 2026.
Prior to printing each check, payment requests are approved by the department manager, Finance Manager, and City Manager. Once payment requests have been approved, a batch for disbursement is processed by the Senior Accountant, and approved by the Finance Manager. Each check is then signed by the City Manager and Mayor.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with approval of this item.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
It is recommended that the City Council receive and file this report.
Attachments
2026 January Demand Check Register.pdf
Transaction Type Post Date
Due Date
Transaction
Amount
Payment # Amount Paid
711272382 Invoice 01/23/2026 $76.25 41359 $76.25
01/23/2026
708946828 Invoice 01/02/2026 $76.25 41361 $76.25
01/02/2026
711274050 Invoice 01/23/2026 $992.32 41358 $992.32
01/23/2026
709909901 Invoice 01/09/2026 $934.00 41360 $934.00
01/09/2026
708943635 Invoice 01/02/2026 $1,365.24 41362 $1,365.24
01/02/2026
$3,444.06 $3,444.06
01/09/2026 Invoice 01/13/2026 $784.31 87431 $784.31
01/13/2026
01232026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $774.58 87471 $774.58
01/27/2026
$1,558.89 $1,558.89
01232026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $8.34 87472 $8.34
01/27/2026
$8.34 $8.34
116690 Invoice 01/13/2026 $178.02 87432 $178.02
Spark Plugs 01/13/2026
115920 Invoice 01/13/2026 $19.58 87432 $19.58
01/13/2026
113815 Invoice 01/13/2026 $163.23 87432 $163.23
Weed Eater Line 01/13/2026
115924 Invoice 01/20/2026 $732.62 87454 $732.62
Edger Blades 01/20/2026
118253 Invoice 01/27/2026 $80.31 87473 $80.31
01/27/2026
115127 Invoice 01/27/2026 $592.27 87473 $592.27
Hedge Trimmer 01/27/2026
$1,766.03 $1,766.03
105859 Invoice 01/07/2026 $13,720.00 87416 $13,720.00
01/07/2026
105061 Invoice 01/27/2026 $12,348.00 87474 $12,348.00
01/27/2026
103305 Invoice 01/27/2026 $13,720.00 87474 $13,720.00
01/27/2026
$39,788.00 $39,788.00
110199 Invoice 01/13/2026 $88.38 87433 $88.38
Sand for Sand Bags 01/13/2026
$88.38 $88.38
12152025 Invoice 01/13/2026 $2,887.50 87434 $2,887.50
01/13/2026
$2,887.50 $2,887.50
Processing Charges for
period ending 01/31/2026,
01/02/2026 01/02/2026
Processing Charges for
period ending 12/31/2025,
01/23/2026 01/23/2026
City of Artesia
January 2026 Check Register
Date Transaction # Description Payment Date
ADP, Inc.
01/23/2026 01/23/2026
Union Dues, Payroll
Totals for AFSCME DISTRICT COUNCIL 36:
AFSCME PEOPLE
01/23/2026 01/27/2026
Payroll 01.09.2026 and
Totals for AFSCME PEOPLE:
Processing Charges for
period ending 01/17/2026,
01/09/2026 01/09/2026
Processing Charges for
period ending 01/02/2026,
01/02/2026 01/02/2026
Processing Charges for
period ending 12/26/2025,
Totals for ADP, Inc.:
AFSCME DISTRICT COUNCIL 36
01/09/2026 01/14/2026
Union Dues, Payroll
01/23/2026 01/27/2026
ALAN'S LAWN & GARDEN CENTER INC
01/02/2026 01/14/2026
12/23/2025 01/14/2026
Diagnostic Test for Hedge
12/08/2025 01/14/2026
12/23/2025 01/20/2026
ARTURO DE SANTIAGO
12/15/2025 01/14/2026
01/14/2026 01/27/2026
Chainsaw Replacement Parts
01/14/2026 01/27/2026
Totals for ALAN'S LAWN & GARDEN CENTER INC:
ALL CITY MANAGEMENT SERVICES
12/23/2025 01/07/2026
12/7- 12/20/25 Crossing
11/24/2025 01/27/2026
11/9- 11/22/25 Crossing
01/23/2026 01/27/2026
1/4- 1/17/25 Crossing Guard
Totals for ALL CITY MANAGEMENT SERVICES:
ARTESIA BUILDING MATERIALS
12/22/2025 01/14/2026
Totals for ARTESIA BUILDING MATERIALS:
Passenger Endorsement
Totals for ARTURO DE SANTIAGO:
AT&T
287344025104X0104202 Invoice 01/20/2026 $707.12 41329 $707.12 01/20/2026
287252847559X0113202 Invoice 01/21/2026 $223.16 41342 $223.16 01/21/2026
$930.28 $930.28
1042998 Invoice 01/07/2026 $1,030.40 87417 $1,030.40
01/07/2026
1050566 Invoice 01/20/2026 $50.40 87455 $50.40
25/12 Parks & Recreation 01/20/2026
1050563 Invoice 01/20/2026 $151.20 87455 $151.20
25/12 Administration 01/20/2026
1050579 Invoice 01/20/2026 $350.00 87455 $350.00
25/12 General Litigation 01/20/2026
1050581 Invoice 01/20/2026 $494.40 87455 $494.40
25/12 Public Records Act 01/20/2026
1050577 Invoice 01/20/2026 $507.60 87455 $507.60
01/20/2026
1050570 Invoice 01/20/2026 $560.00 87455 $560.00
25/12 Successor Agency 01/20/2026
1050580 Invoice 01/20/2026 $891.90 87455 $891.90
01/20/2026
1050572 Invoice 01/20/2026 $980.00 87455 $980.00
01/20/2026
1050573 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,015.00 87455 $1,015.00
25/12 Motel 6 01/20/2026
1050574 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,015.00 87455 $1,015.00
25/12 HCD Notice 01/20/2026
1050565 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,028.90 87455 $1,028.90
25/12 City Clerk 01/20/2026
1050580 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,241.55 87455 $1,241.55
01/20/2026
1050571 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,330.00 87455 $1,330.00
25/12 CFD General 01/20/2026
1050568 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,365.00 87455 $1,365.00
25/12 Finance 01/20/2026
1050576 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,378.90 87456 $1,378.90
25/12 Code Enforcement 01/20/2026
1050575 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,890.00 87456 $1,890.00
01/20/2026
1050569 Invoice 01/20/2026 $2,310.00 87456 $2,310.00
25/12 Labor/Employment 01/20/2026
1050580 Invoice 01/20/2026 $3,868.20 87456 $3,868.20
01/20/2026
1050567 Invoice 01/20/2026 $4,737.60 87456 $4,737.60
25/12 Public Works 01/20/2026
1050564 Invoice 01/20/2026 $6,829.20 87456 $6,829.20
25/12 Planning 01/20/2026
1050561 Invoice 01/20/2026 $6,959.50 87456 $6,959.50
25/12 City Council Project 01/20/2026
1050562 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,234.80 87455 $1,234.80
25/12 City Manager 01/20/2026
$41,219.55 $41,219.55
98937255 Invoice 01/07/2026 $150.00 87418 $150.00
01/07/2026
$150.00 $150.00
188838 Invoice 01/20/2026 $1,572.00 87457 $1,572.00
25/12 Parking Meter IT 01/20/2026
$1,572.00 $1,572.00
#A-013 Invoice 01/27/2026 $600.00 87475 $600.00
01/27/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
26/01 License Plate Readers
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
26/01 Parking Handheld
Totals for AT&T:
BEST BEST & KRIEGER LLP
10/17/2025 01/07/2026
25/10 Annexation Deposit -
17610 Pioneer Blvd
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 Special Projects -
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 Deposit 17610
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 Deposit - 17610
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 Deposit - 17104
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 Economic
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 Deposit - 11746
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
CALE AMERICA INC.
12/29/2025 01/20/2026
Totals for CALE AMERICA INC.:
CALIFORNIA CLERK ADMINISTRATION SERVICES, LLC
01/08/2026 01/27/2026
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
01/02/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for BEST BEST & KRIEGER LLP:
BRIGITTE MALLILLIN
01/07/2026 01/07/2026
Security Deposit Refund
Totals for BRIGITTE MALLILLIN:
Transcription of minutes
$600.00 $600.00
12262025 Invoice 01/09/2026 $24,757.40 41330 $24,757.40 01/09/2026
12262025 Invoice 01/22/2026 $567.16 41343 $567.16
01/22/2026
01092026 Invoice 01/14/2026 $25,541.37 41343 $25,541.37 01/14/2026
01232026 Invoice 01/28/2026 $25,981.03 41349 $25,981.03 01/28/2026
4203484552-01/2026 Invoice 01/01/2026 $80,409.98 41350 $80,409.98 26/01 Health Premium 01/01/2026
100000018160563 Invoice 01/22/2026 $1,824.00 41363 $1,824.00 01/22/2026
$159,080.94 $159,080.94
5037203747 Invoice 01/07/2026 $659.69 87419 $659.69
01/07/2026
$659.69 $659.69
62975392 Invoice 01/17/2024 $150.00 87458 $150.00
01/17/2024
85091268 Invoice 04/16/2025 $150.00 87458 $150.00
04/16/2025
79486937 Invoice 01/27/2026 $150.00 87476 $150.00
01/27/2026
$450.00 $450.00
MAR/JAN2026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $400.00 87477 $400.00
01/27/2026
$400.00 $400.00
4251708969 Invoice 01/20/2026 $304.89 87459 $304.89
01/20/2026
4253275173 Invoice 01/20/2026 $701.62 87459 $701.62
01/20/2026
$1,006.51 $1,006.51
ASIT001567 Invoice 01/27/2026 $5,401.00 87478 $5,401.00 01/27/2026
$5,401.00 $5,401.00
4409 Invoice 01/07/2026 $150.00 87420 $150.00
2026 CMRTA Due 01/07/2026
$150.00 $150.00
70687030101219 Invoice 01/01/2026 $4,416.24 41331 $4,416.24 01/01/2026
$4,416.24 $4,416.24
CCG105/26 Invoice 01/27/2026 $1,430.98 87479 $1,430.98
Tow Away Parking Signs 01/27/2026
$1,430.98 $1,430.98
1841 Invoice 01/13/2026 $2,550.00 87435 $2,550.00
01/13/2026
$2,550.00 $2,550.00
70144-00001-010126 Invoice 01/07/2026 $378.59 87421 $378.59 01/07/2026
$378.59 $378.59
99727872 Invoice 01/20/2026 $150.00 87460 $150.00
01/20/2026
1/20-2/19/26 Sharp Copiers
Totals for CELL BUSINESS EQUIPMENT:
p
11/10/25 Reg & Sp, 11/1925
Totals for CALIFORNIA CLERK ADMINISTRATION SERVICES, LLC:
CalPers
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
Pers/Pepra Retirement
01/22/2026 01/29/2026
Pers/Pepra Retirement
01/14/2026 01/29/2026
Pers/Pepra Retirement
01/28/2026 01/28/2026
Pers/Pepra Retirement
01/01/2026 01/02/2026
01/22/2026 01/22/2026
Replacement Benefit
Totals for CalPers:
CELL BUSINESS EQUIPMENT
01/05/2026 01/07/2026
12/16/2025 01/20/2026
25/12 Artesia Park Janitorial
Totals for CINTAS CORP:
CERRITOS TAMIL SANGAM INC
01/27/2026 01/27/2026
Security Deposit Refund
Totals for CERRITOS TAMIL SANGAM INC:
CHIRAG PATEL
01/27/2026 01/27/2026
Mar/Jan '25 PC Meetings
Totals for CHIRAG PATEL:
CINTAS CORP
12/02/2025 01/20/2026
25/12 AJ Park Janitorial
26/01 Supplemental
Totals for COLONIAL LIFE:
COLOR CENTER GRAPHICS
01/23/2026 01/27/2026
CITY OF BREA
01/21/2026 01/27/2026
25/12 IT service and onsite
Totals for CITY OF BREA:
CMRTA
12/01/2025 01/07/2026
Totals for CMRTA:
COLONIAL LIFE
01/01/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for COLOR CENTER GRAPHICS:
DEB'S BOOKKEEPLUS
12/05/2025 01/14/2026
25/10, 25/11 Accounting
Totals for DEB'S BOOKKEEPLUS:
DELTA DENTAL INSURANCE COMPANY
01/07/2026 01/07/2026
26/01 HMO Dental
Totals for DELTA DENTAL INSURANCE COMPANY:
DEONDRA RAGLIN
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
Facility Deposit Refund
01/17/2024 01/20/2026
Security Deposit Refund
04/16/2025 01/20/2026
Facility Deposit Refund
$150.00 $150.00
32882Z Invoice 01/13/2026 $51.00 87436 $51.00
01/13/2026
$51.00 $51.00
113858 Invoice 01/13/2026 $2,015.42 87437 $2,015.42
01/13/2026
113844 Invoice 01/13/2026 $616.42 87437 $616.42
01/13/2026
$2,631.84 $2,631.84
480414A-010626 Invoice 01/16/2026 $6,613.51 41332 $6,613.51 26/01 Electric Vehicle 01/16/2026
$6,613.51 $6,613.51
FEB2026 Invoice 01/20/2026 $240.64 87461 $240.64
26/02 Medical Premium 01/20/2026
$240.64 $240.64
167135373 Invoice 01/14/2026 $618.57 41333 $618.57
26/01 Vision Coverage 01/14/2026
$618.57 $618.57
251207 Invoice 01/27/2026 $10,940.03 87480 $10,940.03
01/27/2026
$10,940.03 $10,940.03
24157 Invoice 01/07/2026 $450.00 87422 $450.00
01/07/2026
$450.00 $450.00
01092026 Invoice 01/13/2026 $80.00 87438 $80.00
01/13/2026
01232026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $46.09 87481 $46.09
01/27/2026
01232026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $80.00 87482 $80.00
01/27/2026
$206.09 $206.09
3231563850-121925 Invoice 01/12/2026 $184.99 41344 $184.99 01/12/2026
5628095136-121625 Invoice 01/09/2026 $236.15 41344 $236.15 01/09/2026
2131797882-010426 Invoice 01/28/2026 $75.98 41351 $75.98 01/28/2026
$497.12 $497.12
01082026 Invoice 01/13/2026 $799.00 87439 $799.00
01/13/2026
$799.00 $799.00
0055238698-011426 Invoice 01/21/2026 $134.30 41345 $134.30 25/12 11938 South St. 01/21/2026
2865004438-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $311.28 41345 $311.28 01/21/2026
1373230000-011626 Invoice 01/21/2026 $425.58 41345 $425.58 01/21/2026
8072740000-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $464.16 41345 $464.16 25/12 11710 South St IRR 01/21/2026
4302440000-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $464.16 41345 $464.16 25/12 11734 IRR Artesia 01/21/2026
DUPRE ENTERPRISES
01/08/2026 01/14/2026
Totals for DEONDRA RAGLIN:
DEVAN WELLS
01/13/2026 01/14/2026
Live Scan Fingerprinting -
Totals for DEVAN WELLS:
Lease & Fleet Maintenance
Totals for Enterprise FM Trust:
ERNESTO OLIVARES
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
Electrical work for outdoor
12/10/2025 01/14/2026
Troubleshooting and Fuse
Replacement of Street
Totals for DUPRE ENTERPRISES:
Enterprise FM Trust
01/16/2026 01/20/2026
01/23/2026 01/27/2026
Ericka Jackson, 01/23/26
Totals for FRANCHISE TAX BOARD:
Totals for ERNESTO OLIVARES:
FIDELITY SECURITY LIFE INSURANCE CO.
01/14/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for FIDELITY SECURITY LIFE INSURANCE CO.:
FIESTA COOPERATIVE INC.
12/31/2025 01/27/2026
25/11 Dial-a-Ride Services
Totals for FIESTA COOPERATIVE INC.:
FORTIFYIT
12/23/2025 01/07/2026
365 Business Standard
Totals for FORTIFYIT:
FRANCHISE TAX BOARD
01/09/2026 01/14/2026
Ericka Jackson, 01/09/2026
01/23/2026 01/27/2026
Rene Trevino, 01/23/26
Totals for GATEWAY CITIES COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS:
GOLDEN STATE WATER COMPANY
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
FRONTIER
01/12/2026 01/29/2026
City Hall Internet 12/19-
01/09/2026 01/29/2026
Public Work Internet 12/16-
01/28/2026 01/28/2026
Historical House Internet
Totals for FRONTIER:
GATEWAY CITIES COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
01/08/2026 01/14/2026
26/01 1% SB2-PLHA (5th yr)
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 18609 IRR Pioneer
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 11504 Artesia Blvd
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
4273230000-012026 Invoice 01/21/2026 $426.14 41345 $426.14 25/12 12034 Artesia IRR 01/21/2026
1113139225-011628 Invoice 01/21/2026 $681.75 41345 $681.75 01/21/2026
9725940000-011626 Invoice 01/21/2026 $58.94 41345 $58.94 25/12 17202 Alburtis 01/21/2026
8217720000-012626 Invoice 01/21/2026 $301.44 41345 $301.44 25/12 17203 Corby Ave. 01/21/2026
8756430000-012026 Invoice 01/21/2026 $755.29 41345 $755.29 01/21/2026
7902030000-011626 Invoice 01/21/2026 $675.07 41345 $675.07 01/21/2026
8783687207-011426 Invoice 01/21/2026 $615.92 41345 $615.92 01/21/2026
2942430000-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $57.68 41345 $57.68 25/12 18641 Corby 01/21/2026
227430000-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $144.21 41345 $144.21 25/12 18644 Alburtis Ave. 01/21/2026
9174300000-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $606.03 41345 $606.03 01/21/2026
0274300000-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $37.42 41345 $37.42 01/21/2026
1274300000-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $608.77 41345 $608.77 25/12 18750 Clarkdale 01/21/2026
8514744341-011426 Invoice 01/21/2026 $589.30 41345 $589.30 01/21/2026
6350093223-011426 Invoice 01/21/2026 $149.40 41345 $149.40 01/21/2026
5534220000-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $464.16 41345 $464.16 01/21/2026
9138539384-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $396.70 41345 $396.70 01/21/2026
5353387681-010726 Invoice 01/21/2026 $238.96 41345 $238.96 01/21/2026
7677238922-011526 Invoice 01/21/2026 $294.05 41345 $294.05 25/12 11504 178th St. 01/21/2026
2376836656-011526 Invoice 01/21/2026 $860.50 41345 $860.50 01/21/2026
$9,761.21 $9,761.21
SIN055732 Invoice 01/27/2026 $2,264.51 87483 $2,264.51
01/27/2026
$2,264.51 $2,264.51
18343 Invoice 01/27/2026 $250.00 87484 $250.00
01/27/2026
$250.00 $250.00
SIN058021 Invoice 01/13/2026 $900.00 87440 $900.00
25/12 Cannabis Program 01/13/2026
$900.00 $900.00
5271859391 Invoice 01/07/2026 $4,659.80 87423 $4,659.80 01/07/2026
$4,659.80 $4,659.80
97961288 Invoice 01/20/2026 $150.00 87462 $150.00
01/20/2026
$150.00 $150.00
3459 Invoice 01/27/2026 $3,950.00 87485 $3,950.00
01/27/2026
$3,950.00 $3,950.00
164060 Invoice 01/27/2026 $4,500.00 87486 $4,500.00
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 17189 IRR Baber Ave.
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 17512 IRR Norwalk
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 17815 Pioneer Blvd
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 18506 IRR Pioneer
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 18747 Clarkdale Ave.
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 18747 Fp Clarkdale
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 18803 Elaine Ave.
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 Norwalk & South St.
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 Norwalk Blvd So of
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 17514 Norwalk Blvd
01/21/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 Droxford St Norwalk
JARROD LUJAN
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 186th St & Jersey Ave.
Totals for GOLDEN STATE WATER COMPANY:
HDL COREN & CONE
10/29/2025 01/27/2026
Oct/Dec '25 Property Tax
Totals for HDL COREN & CONE:
HERCULES ROOFING
01/27/2026 01/27/2026
C&D Deposit Refund -
Totals for HERCULES ROOFING:
HINDERLITER DE LLAMAS & ASSOCIATES
12/31/2025 01/14/2026
Totals for HINDERLITER DE LLAMAS & ASSOCIATES:
HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC
01/01/2026 01/07/2026
Public Works Yard - Fire
Totals for HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC:
Facility Deposit Refund
Totals for JARROD LUJAN:
JLM ENVIRONMENTAL
01/14/2026 01/27/2026
AJ Park Expansion Project
Totals for JLM ENVIRONMENTAL:
JOE A. GONSALVES & SON
01/26/2026 01/27/2026
26/02 - Lobbyist Contract 01/27/2026
163987 Invoice 01/27/2026 $4,500.00 87486 $4,500.00
26/01 - Lobbyist Contract 01/27/2026
$9,000.00 $9,000.00
ART1UO12508 Invoice 01/13/2026 $1,710.00 87441 $1,710.00 01/13/2026
ART1Ms412510 Invoice 01/13/2026 $2,433.75 87441 $2,433.75 01/13/2026
$4,143.75 $4,143.75
FEB2026 Invoice 01/20/2026 $240.64 87463 $240.64
26/02 Medical Premium 01/20/2026
$240.64 $240.64
FEB2026 Invoice 01/20/2026 $225.36 87464 $225.36
26/06 Medical Premium 01/20/2026
$225.36 $225.36
Mileage 12.04.25 Invoice 01/07/2026 $59.71 87424 $59.71 01/07/2026
$59.71 $59.71
34040881 Invoice 01/13/2026 $2,269.63 87442 $2,269.63
01/13/2026
34393558 Invoice 01/27/2026 $1,366.84 87487 $1,366.84
01/27/2026
$3,636.47 $3,636.47
24-1479 Dec25 Invoice 01/27/2026 $1,588.86 87488 $1,588.86 25/12 CAL FIRE Tree Mtc. 01/27/2026
$1,588.86 $1,588.86
01252026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $5,930.98 87489 $5,930.98
25/12 Animal Housing 01/27/2026
$5,930.98 $5,930.98
26011203768 Invoice 01/27/2026 $8,866.16 87490 $8,866.16 25/12 Industrial Waste 01/27/2026
$8,866.16 $8,866.16
261481TZ Invoice 01/13/2026 $1,951.25 87443 $1,951.25
25/11 Traffic Enforcement 01/13/2026
261439TZ Invoice 01/13/2026 $5,799.68 87443 $5,799.68
25/11 La Mirage Event 01/13/2026
261438TZ Invoice 01/13/2026 $6,105.65 87443 $6,105.65
25/11 Foot Patrol 01/13/2026
261437TZ Invoice 01/13/2026 $19,614.34 87443 $19,614.34 25/11 Gang Suppression 01/13/2026
261196TZ Invoice 01/13/2026 $395,282.85 87443 $395,282.85 01/13/2026
261436TZ Invoice 01/13/2026 $447.21 87443 $447.21
25/11 DES Hall 01/13/2026
261440TZ Invoice 01/13/2026 $565.34 87443 $565.34
25/11 5K Run 01/13/2026
$429,766.32 $429,766.32
INV-45618-J5R6J5 Invoice 01/20/2026 $8,237.00 87465 $8,237.00 01/20/2026
$8,237.00 $8,237.00
4917219973 Invoice 01/02/2026 $2,495.21 41334 $2,495.21 01/02/2026
$2,495.21 $2,495.21
25/08 Oil Payment Program
12/31/2025 01/14/2026
12/22/2025 01/27/2026
Totals for JOE A. GONSALVES & SON:
JOHN L HUNTER & ASSOCIATES
10/17/2025 01/14/2026
Mileage for Tax Training on
Totals for KARLA GARCIA:
KIMLEY HORN AND ASSOCIATES INC
11/30/2025 01/14/2026
25/11 Metro Form 60
12/31/2025 01/27/2026
25/10 Municipal Storm
Totals for JOHN L HUNTER & ASSOCIATES:
JOSE ASCENCIO
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for JOSE ASCENCIO:
KAREN HEATH
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for KAREN HEATH:
KARLA GARCIA
01/07/2026 01/07/2026
25/12 Metro Form 60
Totals for KIMLEY HORN AND ASSOCIATES INC:
LA CONSERVATION CORPS
01/21/2026 01/27/2026
Totals for LA CONSERVATION CORPS:
LA COUNTY DEPT OF ANIMAL CONTROL
01/25/2026 01/27/2026
Totals for LA COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT:
Totals for LA COUNTY DEPT OF ANIMAL CONTROL:
LA COUNTY DEPT OF PUBLIC WORKS
01/12/2026 01/27/2026
Totals for LA COUNTY DEPT OF PUBLIC WORKS:
LA COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT
12/30/2025 01/14/2026
12/30/2025 01/14/2026
12/30/2025 01/14/2026
12/30/2025 01/14/2026
12/09/2025 01/14/2026
25/11 General Law
12/30/2025 01/14/2026
11/05/2025 01/14/2026
LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
Membership dues for
Totals for LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES:
LINCOLN NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE
01/02/2026 01/20/2026
26/01 Life & Disability Ins.
Totals for LINCOLN NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE:
LOS CERRITOS COMMUNITY NEWS
38013 Invoice 01/07/2026 $625.00 87425 $625.00
01/07/2026
38022 Invoice 01/20/2026 $2,518.65 87466 $2,518.65
01/20/2026
37989 Invoice 01/20/2026 $2,362.05 87466 $2,362.05
01/20/2026
37947 Invoice 01/27/2026 $1,539.90 87491 $1,539.90
01/27/2026
38033 Invoice 01/27/2026 $1,996.65 87491 $1,996.65
01/27/2026
$9,042.25 $9,042.25
113249 Invoice 01/27/2026 $137.03 87492 $137.03
01/27/2026
$137.03 $137.03
MECARTESIA1 Invoice 01/27/2026 $2,970.00 87493 $2,970.00 01/27/2026
$2,970.00 $2,970.00
117669 Invoice 01/27/2026 $8,903.00 87494 $8,903.00
01/27/2026
$8,903.00 $8,903.00
FEB2026 Invoice 01/20/2026 $240.64 87467 $240.64
26/02 Medical Premium 01/20/2026
$240.64 $240.64
MAR/JAN2026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $350.00 87495 $350.00
01/27/2026
$350.00 $350.00
Reimbursement Invoice 01/13/2026 $530.00 87444 $530.00
01/13/2026
$530.00 $530.00
MAR/JAN2026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $200.00 87496 $200.00
01/27/2026
$200.00 $200.00
01092026 Invoice 01/09/2026 $9,364.86 41335 $9,364.86
01/09/2026
01232026 Invoice 01/23/2026 $9,418.43 41346 $9,418.43
01/23/2026
$18,783.29 $18,783.29
18253 Invoice 01/13/2026 $10,000.00 87445 $10,000.00
FY24/25 Audit Fieldwork 01/13/2026
$10,000.00 $10,000.00
23316-00001-010126 Invoice 01/07/2026 $4,078.65 87426 $4,078.65 01/07/2026
$4,078.65 $4,078.65
FEB2026 Invoice 01/20/2026 $240.64 87468 $240.64
26/02 Medical Premium 01/20/2026
$240.64 $240.64
1198667 Invoice 01/13/2026 $3,034.18 87446 $3,034.18
01/13/2026
$3,034.18 $3,034.18
35204 Invoice 01/07/2026 $16,333.34 87427 $16,333.34
25/12 Street Sweeping 01/07/2026
12/05/2025 01/20/2026
Notices - 18828 Jersey,
11/21/2025 01/27/2026
12/19/2025 01/07/2026
Holiday Ad printed on
12/19/2025 01/20/2026
Notices - 16809 Pioneer
Blvd, City Wide Project 2025-
Mar/Jan '26 PC Meeting
Totals for MAURICE PANTOJA:
MELISSA HAMILTON
25/12 Invoice for SB 1383
Totals for MARIPOSA ECO CONSULTING INC:
MARIPOSA LANDSCAPES INC
12/31/2025 01/27/2026
Legal Notice PH Ord 25- 974
12/26/2025 01/27/2026
Notice PH-26-979 - Deposit
Totals for LOS CERRITOS COMMUNITY NEWS:
MANHATTAN STITCHING CO.
01/22/2026 01/27/2026
Jackets for Managers
Totals for MANHATTAN STITCHING CO.:
MARIPOSA ECO CONSULTING INC
01/08/2026 01/27/2026
25/12 Landscape
Totals for MARIPOSA LANDSCAPES INC:
MARTIN GAMEZ
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for MARTIN GAMEZ:
MAURICE PANTOJA
01/27/2026 01/27/2026
NATALIE HERRERA
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
457b, 401a and Roth for
01/23/2026 01/29/2026
457b, 401a and Roth for
Totals for MissionSquare Retirement:
01/13/2026 01/14/2026
FY25-26 Education
Totals for MELISSA HAMILTON:
MICHELLE DIAZ
01/27/2026 01/27/2026
Mar/Jan '26 PC Meeting
Totals for MICHELLE DIAZ:
MissionSquare Retirement
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
MOSS, LEVY & HARTZHEIM, LLP
12/31/2025 01/14/2026
Totals for MOSS, LEVY & HARTZHEIM, LLP:
MUNICIPAL DENTAL POOL
01/07/2026 01/07/2026
26/01 PPO Dental Coverage
Totals for MUNICIPAL DENTAL POOL:
Totals for NATALIE HERRERA:
NATIONAL TRENCH SAFETY
12/17/2025 01/14/2026
Perma-Patch Cold Mix (for
Totals for NATIONAL TRENCH SAFETY:
NATIONWIDE ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
12/31/2025 01/07/2026
$16,333.34 $16,333.34
01092026 Invoice 01/13/2026 $8,500.00 87447 $8,500.00
BID - Invoice 2 01/13/2026
$8,500.00 $8,500.00
453565080001 Invoice 01/20/2026 $550.92 87469 $550.92
Office Supplies 01/20/2026
$550.92 $550.92
INV-0005083654 Invoice 01/27/2026 $505.00 87497 $505.00 01/27/2026
$505.00 $505.00
MAR/JAN2026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $350.00 87498 $350.00
01/27/2026
$350.00 $350.00
INV06912653 Invoice 01/12/2026 $893.08 41364 $893.08
01/12/2026
INV06907657 Invoice 01/07/2026 $1,187.50 41365 $1,187.50 01/07/2026
INV06875168 Invoice 01/02/2026 $500.78 41366 $500.78
01/02/2026
$2,581.36 $2,581.36
INVM0020435 Invoice 01/27/2026 $20,416.83 87499 $20,416.83 25/12 Bus Service 01/27/2026
$20,416.83 $20,416.83
25L0019168509 Invoice 01/04/2026 $145.91 41336 $145.91
01/04/2026
25L0021825716 Invoice 01/04/2026 $70.16 41336 $70.16
01/04/2026
25L1158700003 Invoice 01/04/2026 $242.35 41336 $242.35
City Hall - Water 11/15- 01/04/2026
12/14/25
26A0019168509 Invoice 01/20/2026 $209.37 41354 $209.37
01/20/2026
26A0021825716 Invoice 01/20/2026 $70.16 41352 $70.16
01/20/2026
26A1158700003 Invoice 01/20/2026 $355.28 41353 $355.28
01/20/2026
$1,093.23 $1,093.23
80855574-010226 Invoice 01/13/2026 $1,003.00 41337 $1,003.00 Refilled Postage Machine 01/13/2026
$1,003.00 $1,003.00
Q2101111-111025 Invoice 01/06/2026 $230.99 41338 $230.99 01/06/2026
$230.99 $230.99
14853479001 Invoice 01/29/2026 $1,068.11 41355 $1,068.11 01/29/2026
$1,068.11 $1,068.11
65721452 Invoice 01/20/2026 $2,000.00 87470 $2,000.00
01/20/2026
$2,000.00 $2,000.00
2025-12 Plan Check Invoice 01/07/2026 $1,000.00 87428 $1,000.00 01/07/2026
Totals for NEW CITY AMERICA:
ODP BUSINESS SOLUTIONS, LLC
01/07/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for ODP BUSINESS SOLUTIONS, LLC:
Totals for NATIONWIDE ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES:
NEW CITY AMERICA
01/09/2026 01/14/2026
12/31/2025 01/27/2026
Totals for PCAM, LLC:
OPC TRANSYSTEMS CORPORATION
12/15/2025 01/27/2026
25/11 AJ Padelford Park
Totals for OPC TRANSYSTEMS CORPORATION:
PAUL BARCELOS
01/27/2026 01/27/2026
Mar/Jan '26 PC Meeting
Totals for PAUL BARCELOS:
Paycor, Inc.
01/12/2026 01/12/2026
26/01 Monthly Service
Charges - Account Closure
01/07/2026 01/07/2026
25/12 W2 Processing Fee
01/02/2026 01/02/2026
26/01 Monthly Service
Totals for Paycor, Inc.:
PCAM, LLC
Totals for Quadient Finance USA Inc.:
QUADIENT LEASING USA
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
Artesia Park - Water 12/15-
PRIMO BRANDS
01/04/2026 01/20/2026
Artesia Park - Water 11/15-
01/04/2026 01/20/2026
Public Works - Water 11/15-
01/04/2026 01/20/2026
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
Public Works - Water 12/15-
01/20/2026 01/20/2026
City Hall - Water 12/15-
Totals for PRIMO BRANDS:
Quadient Finance USA Inc.
01/13/2026 01/20/2026
Planning Administrative
Totals for ROBERT HALF:
RON IBARRA ENGINEERING
01/02/2026 01/07/2026
Deposit - 18721 Arline Ave.
01/06/2026 01/20/2026
Stamp Machine Lease 12/12-
Totals for QUADIENT LEASING USA:
RINGCENTRAL
01/29/2026 01/29/2026
26/02 Telecommunication
Totals for RINGCENTRAL:
ROBERT HALF
12/18/2025 01/20/2026
$1,000.00 $1,000.00
1428 Invoice 01/27/2026 $7,080.00 87500 $7,080.00
01/27/2026
$7,080.00 $7,080.00
9658 Invoice 01/13/2026 $250.00 87448 $250.00
25/09 Advisory Fee 01/13/2026
9877 Invoice 01/13/2026 $250.00 87448 $250.00
25/10 Advisory Fee 01/13/2026
10168 Invoice 01/13/2026 $250.00 87448 $250.00
25/11 Advisory Fee 01/13/2026
$750.00 $750.00
4654775 Invoice 01/27/2026 $170.94 87501 $170.94
01/27/2026
4653370 Invoice 01/27/2026 $565.63 87501 $565.63
01/27/2026
$736.57 $736.57
700454958639-122625 Invoice 01/09/2026 $171.99 41339 $171.99 25/12 18510 Corby Ave. 01/09/2026
70048300874-122925 Invoice 01/09/2026 $6,814.43 41339 $6,814.43 25/12 Various Locations 01/09/2026
700485859203-122625 Invoice 01/09/2026 $3,567.84 41339 $3,567.84 01/09/2026
700492283835-121825 Invoice 01/09/2026 $310.89 41339 $310.89 25/12 Various Locations 01/09/2026
700492421150-121825 Invoice 01/09/2026 $169.50 41339 $169.50 25/12 Artesia/Gridley 01/09/2026
700498964105-121825 Invoice 01/09/2026 $396.78 41339 $396.78 01/09/2026
700560422190-121825 Invoice 01/09/2026 $70.75 41339 $70.75 01/09/2026
700562509108-121825 Invoice 01/09/2026 $77.72 41339 $77.72 25/12 12001 Artesia Blvd 01/09/2026
700405333439-122925 Invoice 01/09/2026 $1,076.99 41339 $1,076.99 25/12 Various Locations 01/09/2026
700491366274-010226 Invoice 01/09/2026 $18,387.17 41339 $18,387.17 25/12 Various Locations 01/09/2026
$31,044.06 $31,044.06
17949759637-011526 Invoice 01/22/2026 $14.24 41347 $14.24 26/01 18644 Alburtis Ave. 01/22/2026
04530693599-012026 Invoice 01/22/2026 $192.38 41347 $192.38 26/01 11870 169th St. 01/22/2026
12280628004-011626 Invoice 01/22/2026 $73.99 41347 $73.99 01/22/2026
17950623003-010726 Invoice 01/22/2026 $293.14 41347 $293.14 01/22/2026
17740623008-010726 Invoice 01/22/2026 $32.70 41347 $32.70 01/22/2026
12690659565-011526 Invoice 01/22/2026 $15.78 41347 $15.78 26/01 1641 Corby Ave. 01/22/2026
$622.23 $622.23
0011769920 Invoice 01/27/2026 $1,558.43 87502 $1,558.43 01/27/2026
$1,558.43 $1,558.43
112247 Invoice 01/27/2026 $21.95 87503 $21.95
01/27/2026
$21.95 $21.95
81726 Invoice 01/07/2026 $12,600.00 87429 $12,600.00
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for RON IBARRA ENGINEERING:
RON'S MAINTENANCE INC
01/13/2026 01/27/2026
26/01 Catch Basin Cleaning
Totals for RON'S MAINTENANCE INC:
SHUSTER ADVISORY GROUP
09/30/2025 01/14/2026
10/31/2025 01/14/2026
11/30/2025 01/14/2026
Totals for SHUSTER ADVISORY GROUP:
SOUTH COAST AQMD
01/02/2026 01/27/2026
Annual Renewal Emission
01/02/2026 01/27/2026
Annual Renewal Diesel
Totals for SOUTH COAST AQMD:
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 18750 Clarkdale EV
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 18600 1/2 S Norwalk
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
25/12 Various Traffic Signals
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for Southern California Gas Company:
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NEWS GROUP
12/18/2025 01/27/2026
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
01/09/2026 01/20/2026
Totals for SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO:
Southern California Gas Company
01/22/2026 01/29/2026
01/22/2026 01/29/2026
01/22/2026 01/29/2026
26/01 11931 South St. -
01/22/2026 01/29/2026
26/01 18750 Clarkdale Ave.
01/22/2026 01/29/2026
26/01 18747 Clarkdale Ave.
01/22/2026 01/29/2026
Legal Notice - Urg Ord 25-
Totals for SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NEWS GROUP:
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SECURITY CENTERS
01/14/2026 01/27/2026
Keys - Artesia Park
Totals for SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SECURITY CENTERS:
SOUTHWEST PATROL INC
12/31/2025 01/07/2026
01/07/2026
81934 Invoice 01/27/2026 $11,160.00 87504 $11,160.00
01/27/2026
$23,760.00 $23,760.00
188521501-122125 Invoice 01/07/2026 $119.99 41348 $119.99 25/12 11870 169th St. 01/07/2026
1885223011-122125 Invoice 01/07/2026 $169.99 41348 $169.99 01/07/2026
188521401-122125 Invoice 01/07/2026 $185.00 41348 $185.00 25/12 11870 169th St. 01/07/2026
188522201-122125 Invoice 01/07/2026 $190.00 41348 $190.00 01/07/2026
$664.98 $664.98
R-00635203 Invoice 01/13/2026 $388.23 87449 $388.23
01/13/2026
$388.23 $388.23
901236 Invoice 01/31/2026 $550.00 41368 $550.00
2026 FSA Renewal Fee 01/31/2026
GFSA1178792-2026 Invoice 01/31/2026 $15,200.00 41367 $15,200.00 01/31/2026
$15,750.00 $15,750.00
981989691-010126 Invoice 01/12/2026 $1,438.70 41340 $1,438.70 01/12/2026
$1,438.70 $1,438.70
7883-26/01 Invoice 01/31/2026 $26,172.52 41356 $26,172.52 01/31/2026
$26,172.52 $26,172.52
515022 - DT Invoice 01/13/2026 $2,690.00 87450 $2,690.00 01/13/2026
$2,690.00 $2,690.00
1340460 Invoice 01/01/2026 $30.50 41341 $30.50
01/01/2026
1338379 Invoice 01/01/2026 $54.95 41341 $54.95
01/01/2026
1340452 Invoice 01/01/2026 $4,608.56 41341 $4,608.56
01/01/2026
$4,694.01 $4,694.01
MAR/JAN2026 Invoice 01/27/2026 $350.00 87505 $350.00
01/27/2026
$350.00 $350.00
0160-113025 Invoice 01/13/2026 $13.62 87451 $13.62
01/13/2026
$13.62 $13.62
90316122 Invoice 01/13/2026 $142.72 87452 $142.72
01/13/2026
90316041 Invoice 01/13/2026 $109.08 87452 $109.08
26/01 18644 187th St. 01/13/2026
90316042 Invoice 01/13/2026 $109.08 87452 $109.08
26/01 18641 Corby Ave. 01/13/2026
90317321 Invoice 01/13/2026 $129.71 87452 $129.71
26/01 17203 Corby Ave.. 01/13/2026
90318756 Invoice 01/27/2026 $182.33 87506 $182.33
01/27/2026
$672.92 $672.92
Totals for SOUTHWEST PATROL INC:
SPECTRUM BUSINESS
01/07/2026 01/29/2026
Security Guard Services
01/15/2026 01/27/2026
Security Guard Services 1/1-
2/1-4/30/26 AJ Park
Totals for SSD ALARM SYSTEMS:
Sterling Administration
01/31/2026 01/31/2026
01/31/2026 01/31/2026
01/07/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 18750 Clarkdale Ave.
01/07/2026 01/29/2026
01/07/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 18750 Clarkdale Ave.
Totals for SPECTRUM BUSINESS:
SSD ALARM SYSTEMS
01/13/2026 01/14/2026
26/01 - 18644 Alburtis
01/01/2026 01/20/2026
2026 FSA Employee 50%
Totals for Sterling Administration:
T-MOBILE
01/12/2026 01/20/2026
26/01 City Cell Phone
Totals for T-MOBILE:
U.S. BANK CORPORATE PAYMENT SYSTEMS
01/31/2026 01/30/2026
26/01 Credit Card Purchases
Totals for U.S. BANK CORPORATE PAYMENT SYSTEMS:
VALIANCE CAPITAL LLC
01/09/2026 01/14/2026
Youth basketball League
Totals for VALIANCE CAPITAL LLC:
VALLEY ALARM
01/01/2026 01/20/2026
WATER REPLENISHMENT DISTRICT OF SO. CALIF.
01/13/2026 01/14/2026
25/11 Groundwater
Totals for WATER REPLENISHMENT DISTRICT OF SO. CALIF.:
WESTERN EXTERMINATOR COMPANY
01/06/2026 01/14/2026
26/01 - 17203 Corby Ave (
01/01/2026 01/20/2026
26/01 - Fire Station, AJ
Padelford Park & Artesia
Totals for VALLEY ALARM:
VICTOR MANALO
01/27/2026 01/27/2026
Mar/Jan '26 PC Meeting
Totals for VICTOR MANALO:
26/01 18747 Clarkdale Ave.
01/05/2026 01/14/2026
01/05/2026 01/14/2026
01/05/2026 01/14/2026
01/09/2026 01/27/2026
26/01 18750 Clarkdale Ave.
Totals for WESTERN EXTERMINATOR COMPANY:
109874744 Invoice 01/29/2026 $1,272.88 41357 $1,272.88
01/29/2026
$1,272.88 $1,272.88
00714739 Invoice 01/07/2026 $1,395.00 87430 $1,395.00
25/11 Housing Element 01/07/2026
00714751 Invoice 01/07/2026 $26,348.50 87430 $26,348.50 25/11 Planning Service 01/07/2026
$27,743.50 $27,743.50
5610007228 Invoice 01/13/2026 $3,071.99 87453 $3,071.99 01/13/2026
90006006 Invoice 01/13/2026 $1,989.00 87453 $1,989.00
01/13/2026
$5,060.99 $5,060.99
$1,055,888.81 $1,055,888.81
Payroll 1/9/2026 $131,132.91
1/23/2026 $132,988.23
Total Payroll $264,121.14
Total Disbursement $1,320,009.95
01/09/2026 01/14/2026
Wex Bank
GRAND TOTALS:
A total of 222 transaction(s) listed
25/12 Traffic Signal Call/Out
01/06/2026 01/14/2026
25/12 Traffic Signal
Totals for YUNEX LLC:
01/29/2026 01/29/2026
25/12 Gas Card Purchases
Totals for Wex Bank:
WILLDAN ENGINEERING
12/30/2025 01/07/2026
12/30/2025 01/07/2026
Totals for WILLDAN ENGINEERING:
YUNEX LLC
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 9C.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: City Financial Report - December 2025
FROM: Jamie Murguia, Finance Manager
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Melissa Burke, Deputy City Manager
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council receive and file the report.
BACKGROUND:
In accordance with Artesia Municipal Code (AMC) 2-4.705 (f), the attached Finance Report details the activity and balance for all City of Artesia ("City") accounts and funds as of December 31, 2025. Reports are reconciled for cash on hand (bank) to cash recorded in the general ledger through the period ending December 31, 2025.
Activity for Money Market, Checking, Revolving, Cafeteria, Local Agency Investment Fund, CDBG, and Petty Cash are provided for review. Fund Balances compare the cash to each fund's obligation. The balance of the individual accounts and funds should be read with the understanding that cash on hand, is not cash available for unplanned expenditures. The cash balance encompasses the City's contingency reserves, operating expenditures, and monies kept in restricted use funds including Trust and Agency. The City is debt-free; therefore, the finance report does not include any debt activity.
ANALYSIS:
The City is the recipient of several reimbursable grants. This means that, while the City has been awarded funding projects, the City must front the cost of those projects with General Fund revenue, and request reimbursement from the respective grantor as each project progresses. Towards that end, the balance of individual accounts and funds reflected in this Report will vary from month to month as expenses are made and reimbursements are received.
The Schedule of Investments highlights the City's longer duration investments held with Academy Asset Management, the City's investment advisor. A summary of these investments has always been highlighted on the Treasurer's Report; however, the Schedule of Investments provides an additional layer of visibility of the City's longer duration investments.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with the receipt and file of this Report.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
Staff recommends that the City Council receive and file the report.
Attachments
Treasurer Report 122025.pdf
MONEY MARKET
ACCOUNT
CHECKING
ACCOUNT
LOCAL AGENCY
INVESTMENT
ACCOUNT
Beginning Balance - 12/1/25 998,059.86 299,532.43 5,235,237.32 State/County/Misc Monthly Wires 1,060,495.76 - -
Deposits 841,042.19 - -
Civic Plus Credit deposits - 6,966.00 -
Credit Transactions - - -
PayGov Credit Deposits - 72,291.17 -
Transfer from Money Market - 2,605,000.00 -
Transfer from Investments 975,000.00 - -
Interest Income 16.12 - -
Transfer to Checking Account (2,605,000.00) - -
Transfer to CAMP/CLASS Account - (880,000.00) -
Disbursements - (1,559,493.71) -
PERS Retirement - (48,466.64) -
Payroll - (271,593.33) -
Payroll Tax Wire (IRS) - (79,124.48) -
Bank Fees/Paid Parking Fees (1,473.44) (374.56) -
Ending Balance - 12/31/2025 144,736.88 1,268,140.49 5,235,237.32
CAMP ACCOUNT CLASS ACCOUNT ACADEMY AM
Beginning Balance - 12/1/25 7,213,122.90 7,507,365.13 5,159,111.10 Transfer from Checking Account 440,000.00 440,000.00 -
Deposits 25,218.95 24,176.42 4,118.52
Transfer Out/Disbursements (175,000.00) (800,000.00) (4,190.13) Unrealized Gain/Loss - - -
Ending Balance - 12/31/2025 7,171,541.55 7,503,341.85 5,159,039.49
CAFETERIA
ACCOUNT
CDBG FIX-UP
PROGRAM PETTY CASH
Beginning Balance - 12/1/25 1,324.56 1,716.19 500.00
Ending Balance - 12/31/2025 1,716.19 1,324.56 500.00
REVOLVING
ACCOUNT
TOTAL ALL
ACCOUNTS
Beginning Balance - 12/1/25 1,362.14 26,417,331.63
Deposits - 6,494,325.13
Disbursements - (6,424,716.29)
Unrealized Gain/Loss - -
Ending Balance - 12/31/2025 26,486,940.47 1,362.14
12/31/25
Treasurer's Report
City of Artesia
GENERAL FUND
(100)
SUMMER LUNCH
PROGRAM (150)
Beginning Balance - 12/1/25 13,360,328.81 5,912.47
Receivables 959,376.91 -
Prepaid Expenses 37,243.51 -
Investment Appreciation (78,268.79) -
Liabilities & Deposits (909,311.59) -
FUND BALANCE 5,912.47 13,369,368.85
SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS
ARTESIA
HOUSING
AUTHORITY (200)
AJ PARK
EXPANSION (205)
BICYCLE /
PEDESTRIAN
FUND (210)
Cash Balance 756,480.87 (189,083.03) 17,683.81
Receivables - -
Liabilities (61,895.00) - -
FUND BALANCE (189,083.03) 694,585.87 17,683.81
PUBLIC
EDUCATION IN
GOVERNMENT
(215)
BILLBOARD
FUND (220)
CNRA SPECIFIED
GRANT (225)
Cash Balance (32,399.09) 551,275.35 (492,980.48)
Receivables - 2,238,681.62 -
Liabilities - (2,115,486.87) -
FUND BALANCE 674,470.10 (32,399.09) (492,980.48)
HOUSING
URBAN
DEVELOPMENT
(227)
CALIFORNIA
BEVERAGE
RECYCLING
(230)
YOUTH
ACTIVITIES
LEAGUE (235)
Cash Balance 16,485.83 5,773.23 (120,714.45)
Receivables - - -
Liabilities - - -
Ending Balance - 12/31/2025 5,773.23 16,485.83 (120,714.45) City of Artesia
Comparison of Cash Balances to Fund Balance
12/31/25
City of Artesia
Comparison of Cash Balances to Fund Balance
12/31/25
SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS (continued)
CITIZEN OPTION
FOR PUBLIC
SAFETY (240)
CLEAN AIR FUEL
BUS GRANT
(250)
COMMUNITY
FACILITY
DISTRICT (260)
Cash Balance 407,070.09 364,530.78 42,732.56
Receivables - - -
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE 364,530.78 407,070.09 42,732.56
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
BLOCK GRANT
(270)
CALIFORNIA
STREET GRANTS
(280)
FEDERAL STPL
(290)
Cash Balance 618,207.26 (501,625.77) 447,233.65
Receivables - - -
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE (501,625.77) 618,207.26 447,233.65
TRANSPORTN
PLANNING
GRANT (295)
MAP 21
EXCHANGE (310)
MEASURE M
(320)
Cash Balance 72,940.60 (23,367.24) 949,757.36
Receivables - -
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE (23,367.24) 72,940.60 949,757.36
MEASURE R
(330)
TOD PLANNING
GRANT (340)
COUNTY PARK
IMPROVEMENT
(350)
Cash Balance 1,496,067.87 477,211.42 2,758,531.15
Receivables - - 9,969.54
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE 477,211.42 1,496,067.87 2,768,500.69
City of Artesia
Comparison of Cash Balances to Fund Balance
12/31/25
SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS (continued)
PROPOSITION A
FUND (360)
PROPOSITION C
FUND (370) SB1 RMRA (375)
Cash Balance (1,112,465.10) 146,552.81 988,482.99
Receivables 2,773.00 - -
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE 146,552.81 (1,109,692.10) 988,482.99
SB 1383
GIVEAWAY (377)
SOUTH COAST
AIR QUALITY
MGMT DIST (390)
SAFE ROUTE TO
SCHOOL (400)
Cash Balance 290,671.15 52,135.08 259,844.87
Receivables - - -
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE 52,135.08 290,671.15 259,844.87
SHERIFF
FORFEITURES &
SEIZURES (410)
STATE GAS TAX
(420)
HOME STAY
PROGRAM (430)
Cash Balance (0.32) 1,187,564.31 (1,330,838.34)
Receivables - 4,074.00 -
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE 1,191,638.31 (0.32) (1,330,838.34)
STREET
LIGHTING
MAINTENANCE
FUND (440)
TRAFFIC
CONGESTION
RELIEF (450)
CAL FIRE URBAN
GRANT (460)
Cash Balance 339,077.10 (279,766.91) 22,891.39
Receivables - - -
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE (279,766.91) 339,077.10 22,891.39
City of Artesia
Comparison of Cash Balances to Fund Balance
12/31/25
SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS (continued)
DEVELOPMENT
IMPACT FEES
(470)
MEASURE W
(480)
RECYCLED OIL
(490)
Cash Balance 1,456,766.62 1,432,632.79 (93,286.91)
Receivables - - -
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE 1,432,632.79 1,456,766.62 (93,286.91)
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUNDS
SPECIAL /
CAPITAL
PROJECT FUND
(500)
PIONEER BOND
PROJECT (510)
HISTORICAL
DISTRICT BOND
PROJECT (520)
Cash Balance 23,618.33 (203,679.59) 341,645.10
Receivables 16,084.06 - -
Liabilities - - -
FUND BALANCE (203,679.59) 39,702.39 341,645.10
AGENCY FUNDS
TRUST AND
AGENCY (710)
SENIOR
CITIZENS (720)
GEORGE
NELSON
MEMORIAL FUND
(740)
Cash Balance 1,513,552.44 (949,957.95) 6,271.99
Receivables - - -
Liabilities (1,513,552.44) 949,957.95 (2,243.57)
FUND BALANCE - - 4,028.42
TOTAL ALL FUNDS
Cash Balance 25,079,764.90
Receivables 3,230,959.13
Fixed Assets, net -
Prepaid Expenses 37,243.51
Investment Appreciation (78,268.79)
Liabilities (3,652,531.52)
FUND BALANCE 24,617,167.23
City of Artesia
Comparison of Cash Balances to Fund Balance
12/31/25
SUCCESSOR AGENCY FUNDS
SUCCESSOR
AGENCY ADMIN
PROJECTS (800)
SUCCESSOR
AGENCY TAX
INCREMENT
(810)
REDEVELPMT
OBLIGATION
RETIREMENT
FUND (820)
Cash Balance - 2,243.57 1,404,932.00
Cash with Fiscal Agent - 811.78 -
Liabilities - (43,156.73) -
Bonds Payable - (11,602,520.00) -
FUND BALANCE (11,642,621.38) - 1,404,932.00
TOTAL SUCCESSOR FUNDS
Cash Balance 1,407,175.57
Cash with Fiscal Agent 811.78
Liabilities (43,156.73)
Bonds Payable (11,602,520.00)
FUND BALANCE (10,237,689.38)
Annual
COUPON YIELD@ Projected Weight
CUSIP # Date Date** COST # Interest
Money Market Funds + (Cash on Hand)
c First American Government Oblig F31846V203 Various Demand N/A 3.660% $22,748.39 22,748.39 22,748.39 832.59 0.004 Subtotal $22,748.39 22,748.39 22,748.39 832.59 0.004
Government Securities:
UNITED STATES TREASURY 912828Y95 2/27/2025 7/31/2026 1.875% 1.900% 730,000.00 707,244.53 723,021.20 13,687.50 0.144 UNITED STATES TREASURY 912828Z94 2/27/2025 2/15/2030 1.500% 1.640% 750,000.00 661,435.55 688,890.00 11,250.00 0.148 UNITED STATES TREASURY 91282CDK4 2/27/2025 11/30/2026 1.250% 1.280% 650,000.00 618,667.97 636,694.50 8,125.00 0.128 UNITED STATES TREASURY 91282CFB2 2/27/2025 7/31/2027 2.750% 2.790% 750,000.00 726,708.98 741,532.50 20,625.00 0.148 UNITED STATES TREASURY 91282CFT3 2/27/2025 10/31/2029 4.000% 3.950% 750,000.00 745,400.39 759,817.50 30,000.00 0.148 UNITED STATES TREASURY 91282CJW2 10/30/2025 1/31/2029 4.000% 3.950% 750,000.00 760,722.66 759,547.50 30,000.00 0.148 UNITED STATES TREASURY 91282CPA3 10/30/2025 9/30/2030 3.625% 3.640% 830,000.00 830,129.69 826,787.90 30,087.50 0.164 Subtotal 5,050,309.77 5,210,000.00 5,136,291.10 143,775.00 1.027 Total Investments 5,073,058.16 5,232,748.39 5,159,039.49 144,607.59 1.03 Investment PAR MARKET*
Schedule of Investments
City of Artesia
December 31, 2025
PURCHASE MATURITY V A L U E
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 9D.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: AB 1234 Reporting
FROM: Christina Nieto-Linares, Administrative Secretary REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council receive and file the report.
BACKGROUND:
AB 1234, became effective January 1, 2006. This bill requires a local agency that provides reimbursement for expenses to members of its legislative body to adopt a written policy on the duties for which legislative body members may receive compensation, other than meetings of the legislative body or an advisory body or attendance at a conference or organized educational activity. Resolution No. 24-2970 outlines the City’s Expense Reimbursement and Travel Policy.
STATEMENT OF FACT:
Councilmember Event
Benefit of Expenditure to the
Residents
Ali Sajjad Taj N/A N/A
Rene Trevino N/A N/A
Melissa Ramoso N/A N/A
Monica Manalo N/A N/A
Zeel Ahir N/A N/A
Additionally, Council is provided automobile reimbursement in the amount of a flat $150 per month amount as authorized in the Resolution 24-2970, which outlines the Expense Reimbursement and Travel Policy FISCAL IMPACT:
The reported expenditures are in compliance with AB 1234, the City travel policy, and have been budgeted.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
It is recommended that the City Council receive and file report.
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 9E.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: City Council Meeting Minutes
FROM: Jennifer Alderete, City Clerk
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council approve minutes as presented for the following City Council meetings:
December 8, 2025 - Special Meeting
December 8, 2025 - Regular Meeting
December 15, 2025 - Special Meeting
December 15, 2025 - Regular Meeting
BACKGROUND:
The attached action minutes serve as the official record of the City Council meetings, recording the legislative body’s decisions, recorded in its motions, actions, and votes, as mandated by Government Code 36814 and 40801.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with approval of this item.
Attachments
MINUTES 12-8-25 Special.pdf
MINUTES 12-8-25 Regular.pdf
MINUTES 12-15-25 Regular.pdf
MINUTES 12-15-25 Special.pdf
Artesia City Council Special Meeting Minutes
Monday, December 8 2025 – 6:00 p.m.
Albert O. Little Community Center
18750 Clarkdale Avenue Artesia, CA 90701
1. CALL TO ORDER SPECIAL MEETING
Mayor Taj called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Taj, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Councilmembers Ramoso, Manalo, and Ahir.
Staff Present: City Manager Avalos, Deputy City Manager Burke, Finance Manager Murguia, City Attorney Nguyen, City Clerk Alderete, Public Works Manager Sanchez, Planning Manager Valdez, Community Development Director Bollier, Parks and Recreation Manager Guerra, Special Projects Manager Lee, Human Resources Manager Jackson, and Accounting Manager Laquian.
3. OUTGOING MAYOR PROGRAM
3A. Presentations to Outgoing Mayor Taj
- Mayor Taj's Year in Review Video
- Presentations from Outside Organizations
State Treasurer Fiona Ma presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition.
State Senator Tony Strickland's Representative, District Director Chip Ahlswede, presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition. State Assemblymember QuirkSilva’s Representative, Isabella Carbajal, presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition. Los Angeles County Board of Supervisor’s Office Janice Hahn’s Representative, Lauren Yokomizo, presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition. City of Norwalk Vice Mayor Perez presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition. City of Hawaiian Gardens Mayor De Paula presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition. City of Cerritos Mayor Aurelio Yokoyama presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition. ABC Unified School District Board President Nishii presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition.
Rotary Club Representative Dan Rocha presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition. Artesia Chamber of Commerce Representative presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition. Miss Artesia presented Mayor Taj with a Certificate of Recognition.
- City's Presentation to Outgoing Mayor Taj
Mayor Pro Tem Trevino presented a Certificate of Recognition to Mayor Taj.
Councilmember Ramoso, Manalo, and Ahir presented Mayor Taj with gifts. 3B. Comments from Outgoing Mayor Taj
Mayor Taj provided comments.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments could be provided, in person or submitted by email to [email protected] by 12:00 p.m. on the date of the meeting. No public comments were provided.
5. COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
5A. Councilmember Comments
Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Councilmembers Ramoso, Manalo, and Ahir asked questions and/or provided comments.
6. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:56 p.m.
Artesia City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Monday, December 8, 2025 – 7:00 p.m.
Albert O. Little Community Center
18750 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, CA 90701
1. CALL TO ORDER REGULAR MEETING
Mayor Taj called the meeting to order at 7:09 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Taj, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Councilmember Ramoso, Councilmember Manalo, and Councilmember Ahir.
Staff Present: City Manager Avalos, Deputy City Manager Burke, Finance Manager Murguia, City Attorney Nguyen, City Clerk Alderete, Public Works Manager Sanchez, Planning Manager Valdez, Community Development Director Bollier, Parks and Manager Guerra, Special Projects Manager Lee, Human Resource Manager Jackson, and Accounting Manager Laquian.
3. INVOCATION
Rabbi Muroff of Temple Beth Ohr, delivered the invocation.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Sergeant Ramos, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
5. NATIONAL ANTHEM
Leilani Joy Tom sang the National Anthem. The City Council presented a Certificate of Recognition to Leilani Joy Tom.
6. PUBLIC COMMENTS
5A. Public Comments Public comments could be provided, in person or submitted by email to [email protected] by 12:00 p.m. on the date of the meeting. No public comments were received.
7. REORGANIZATION PROGRAM
7A. Selection of Mayor
Mayor Taj opened the nomination period for the office of Mayor. Councilmember Ramoso nominated Mayor Pro Tem Trevino. Seeing no further nominations, Mayor Taj closed the nomination period.
Mayor Pro Tem Trevino was appointed Mayor with the following Roll Call Vote:
AYES: Taj, Trevino, Ramoso, Manalo, and Ahir
NOES: None
Motion Carried 5-0
7B. Selection of Mayor Pro Tem
Mayor Trevino opened the nomination period for the office of Mayor Pro Tem.
Councilmember Ahir nominated Councilmember Ramoso. Seeing no further nominations, Mayor Trevino closed the nomination period.
Councilmember Ramoso was appointed Mayor Pro Tem with the following Roll Call Vote:
AYES: Trevino, Taj, Ahir, Manalo and Ramoso
NOES: None
Motion Carried 5-0
7C. Incoming Mayor’s Comments
Mayor Trevino provided comments.
8. COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso, Councilmembers Manalo, Ahir and Taj asked questions and/or provided comments.
9. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:41 p.m.
Artesia City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Monday, December 15, 2025 – 7:00 p.m.
City Council Chambers
18747 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, CA 90701
1. CALL TO ORDER REGULAR MEETING
Mayor Trevino called the meeting to order at 7:12 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Trevino, Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso, Councilmembers Taj, Manalo, and Ahir.
Staff Present: City Manager Avalos, Deputy City Manager Burke, Finance Manager Murguia, City Attorney Nguyen, City Clerk Alderete, Community Development Director Bollier, Planning Manager Valdez, Public Works Manager Sanchez, Human Resources Manager Jackson, Special Projects Manager Lee, Management Analyst Zambrano, and Planning Clerk Navarro.
3. INVOCATION
Ryan Klement from New Life Community Church, delivered the invocation.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Sergeant Ramos, led the pledge of allegiance.
5. PUBLIC COMMENTS
5A. Public Comments Public comments could be provided, in person or submitted by email to [email protected] by 12:00 p.m. on the date of the meeting. No public comments were received.
6. COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
Mayor Trevino, Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso, Councilmembers Taj, Manalo, and Ahir asked questions and/or provided comments.
Councilmember Manalo attended the Chamber Committee meeting, and Council of Governments meetings.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso attended the Sister Ad-hoc Committee meeting, the Utility and Franchise Committee meeting, and the Greater Los Angeles Vector Control Meeting on December 11th.
Mayor Trevino attended Contract Cities Legislative Committee meeting.
7. CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
7A. Staff Introductions
Community Development Director Paul Bollier introduced new Planning Manager Steve Valdez and new Planning Clerk Stephanie Navarro. A Certificate of Recognition was presented to Steve Valdez and Stephanie Navarro.
8. BUSINESS PRESENTATIONS
None
9. CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Taj moved, seconded by Councilmember Manalo, to approve consent calendar items 9A-9K.
Motion carried, 5-0
9A. Waive Reading of All Ordinance and Resolutions Adoptions on the Agenda and Read by Title Only
Recommendation: Waive Reading, by Title Only, of all Ordinances and Resolutions.
Said Ordinances and Resolutions Which Appear on the Public Agenda Shall Be Determined to Have Been Read by Title and Further Reading Waived. 9B. Accounts Payable Check Register – November 2025
Recommendation: Receive and File.
9C. City Financial Report – October 2025
Recommendation: Receive and File.
9D. AB 1234 Reporting
Recommendation: Receive and File.
9E. City Council Meeting Minutes
Recommendation: Approve Minutes as Presented for October 13, 2025 - Regular Meeting, and October 13, 2025 - Special Meeting.
9F. Amendment No. 2 To Service Agreement With Joe’s Sweeping, Inc., DBA Nationwide Environmental Services for Street Sweeping and Cleaning Services
Recommendation: Approve Amendment No. 2 and Authorize the City Manager To Execute the Agreement on Behalf of the City Council for Increasing it $414,000 for a Contract Total Amount Not-To- Exceed $1,975,588.
9G. Resolutions for Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) and Administrative Budgets for Fiscal Years 2026-27
Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. ASA 25-50, Approving a Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for the Fiscal Period From July 1, 2026, Through June 30, 2027, and Taking Related Actions; and Adopt Resolution No. ASA 25-51, Approving Proposed Administrative Budgets for the Six-Month Fiscal Periods from July 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026 and from January 1, 2027 through June 30, 2027, and Taking Related Actions
9H. Resolution for Last and Final Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) for Fiscal Years 2026-27 through 2046-47
Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. ASA 25-52, Approving the Last and Final Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for Fiscal Years 2026-27 Through 2046-47 9I. Maintenance Service Agreements with Honeywell International, Inc. for HVAC Building Performance Maintenance and Fire Suppression Building Performance Maintenance
Recommendation: Approve and Authorize the City Manager To Execute a 5-Year Maintenance Service Agreement in the Amount of $500,000 for HVAC Building Performance Maintenance Services; a 5-Year Maintenance Service Agreement in the Amount of $340,000 for Fire Suppression Building Performance Maintenance Services; and Authorize the City Manager To Make Amendments to the Maintenance Service Agreements That Do Not Change the Contract Amounts. 9J. A Resolution Approving the 2025 Sewer System Maintenance Plan Update Recommendation: Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 25-3070, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Artesia, California Approving and Adopting the 2025 Sewer System Management Plan Update (SSMP); and Direct Staff To Submit the Approved Document to the State Water Resources Control Board. 9K. Amendments to the Artesia Chamber of Commerce Section of the Community Benefits Grant Program Funding Policy
Recommendation: Approve the Amendments to the Artesia Chamber of Commerce Section Within the Community Benefits Grant Program Funding Policy.
10. PUBLIC HEARING
10A. Case No. 2025-27: Introduction of an Ordinance Related to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units
Recommendation: Introduce and Waive First Reading of Ordinance No. 25-978, Amending Chapter 2 of Title 9, Article 45 of the Artesia Municipal Code Relating to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units and Finding the Action To Be Statutorily Exempt From CEQA Under Public Resources Code § 21080.17 City Manager Avalos introduced the item. Planning Manager Valdez provided staff report. Councilmembers Manalo and Ahir asked questions and/or provided comments.
Mayor Trevino opened the public hearing. No public comments were provided. Mayor Trevino closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Taj moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso to approve agenda item 10A, as recommended.
Motion carried, 5-0.
10B. Urgency Ordinance Related to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units
Recommendation: Waive Full Reading and Adopt Urgency Ordinance No. 25-977U, Amending Chapter 2 of Title 9, Article 45 of the Artesia, Municipal Code Relating to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units To Comply With the Recent Changes in State Law, and Finding the Action To Be Statutorily Exempt From CEQA Under Public Resources Code § 21080.17
City Manager Avalos introduced the item. Planning Manager Valdez provided staff report. Councilmember Ahir asked questions and/or provided comments. Mayor Trevino opened the public hearing. No public comments were provided. Mayor Trevino closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Manalo moved, seconded by Councilmember Taj to approve agenda item 10B, as recommended.
Motion carried, 5-0.
10C. Introduction of Ordinance Making Minor Corrections and Cleanup Amendments to Various Sections of the Artesia Municipal Code
Recommendation: Introduce and Waive the First Reading of Ordinance No. 25-976, Amending Various Sections of Title 1, Title 3, Title 5, and Title 9 of the Artesia Municipal Code, To Make Minor Refinements, Corrections, and Clean-up Amendments; And Adding Article 10 to Chapter 4 of Title 4 Regulating Temporary Street Closures; And Determining the Ordinance To Be Exempt From CEQA; And Find That That This Action Is Exempt From the Requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) Pursuant to Sections 15378(b)(5), and 15061(b)(3).
City Manager Avalos introduced the item. Community Development Director Bollier provided staff report. Finance Manager Murguia provided input. Mayor Trevino, Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso and Councilmembers Manalo and Ahir asked questions and/or provided comments. Mayor Trevino opened the public hearing. No public comments were provided. Mayor Trevino closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Taj moved, seconded by Councilmember Ahir to approve agenda item 10C, as recommended.
Motion carried, 5-0.
11. DISCUSSION
11A. Amendment No. 1 to Employment Agreement for the City Manager Recommendation: Approve Amendment No. 1 to City Manager, Abel Avalos’, Employment Agreement to increase to Increase the Salary $12,946.44 for a Total of $268,678.34 Annually; and Adopt Resolution No. 25-3071, Approving and Adopting a City-Wide Salary Schedule as Required by the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) for, Respectively, Unrepresented Management Employees, Employees of the Managers and Supervisors Unit, and Employees to the General Unit.
City Attorney Nguyen provided staff report. Mayor Trevino, Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso, Councilmembers Taj, Manalo, and Ahir asked questions and/or provided comments.
Councilmember Manalo moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso, to approve agenda item 11A.
Motion carried, 5-0.
11B. Business License Tax CPI Adjustment for Calendar Year 2026 Recommendation: Discuss and Provide Direction To Staff Regarding the CPI Adjustment for the Business License Tax Rates for Calendar Year 2026.
City Manager Avalos introduced the item. Finance Manager Murguia provided staff report. City Attorney Nguyen and City Manager Avalos provided input. Mayor Trevino, Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso, Councilmembers Taj, Manalo, and Ahir asked questions and/or provided comments.
Councilmember Taj moved, seconded by Councilmember Ahir, to approve option number 2.
Motion carried, 5-0.
12. CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager Avalos provided updates.
13. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:19 p.m.
Artesia City Council Special Meeting Minutes
Monday, December 15, 2025 – 6:00 p.m.
City Council Chambers
18747 Clarkdale Avenue Artesia, CA 90701
1. CALL TO ORDER SPECIAL MEETING
Mayor Trevino called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Trevino, Mayor Pro Tem Ramoso, Councilmembers Taj, Manalo, and Ahir.
Staff Present: City Manager Avalos, Deputy City Manager Burke, City Attorney Nguyen, City Clerk Alderete.
3. ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments could be provided, in person or submitted by email to [email protected] by 12:00 p.m. on the date of the meeting. No public comments were provided.
4. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
The City Council recessed to discuss the closed session items listed on the agenda at 6:01 p.m.
The City Council will recess to closed session to discuss the following items:
4A. Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation Pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(d)(1)
Number of cases: 1
Boyd Horan v. City of Artesia, et al.
Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 22STCV06229
5. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION
The City Council reconvened in open session.
6. CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT
City Attorney Nguyen reported that there was no reportable action.
7. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:02 p.m.
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 9F.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: Second Reading and Consideration of Ordinance Amending the Artesia Municipal Code Relating to the Mixed Use Overlay
FROM: Jennifer Alderete, City Clerk
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt Ordinance No. 26-980, Amending Sections of Title 48 (Mixed-Use Overlay Zone) of Chapter 2 (Zoning) of Title 9 (Planning and Zoning) of the Artesia Municipal Code and Finding the Ordinance Exempt From CEQA Pursuant To State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3); And; and
2. Find the Ordinance Exempt from CEQA pursuant to Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).
BACKGROUND:
The City Council took action to waive further reading, and introduce Ordinance No. 26-980 on January 12, 2026.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There are no fiscal impact associated with the approval of this item.
Attachments
Ordinance 26-980.pdf
Ordinance 26-980 - Exhibit A.pdf
1 ORDINANCE NO. 26-980
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ARTESIA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTIONS OF TITLE
48 (MIXED-USE OVERLAY ZONE) OF CHAPTER 2
(ZONING) OF TITLE 9 (PLANNING AND ZONING) OF THE
ARTESIA MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE
ORDINANCE EXEMPT FROM CEQA PURSUANT TO
STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(b)(3)
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARTESIA DOES ORDAIN AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Recitals.
A. The Artesia City Council, on July 14, 2025, adopted Ordinance No. 25-970 establishing a Mixed-Use Overlay (MU-O) Zone to accommodate new mixed-use infill residential, retail, and commercial development within the City, and to facilitate affordable multi-family housing for lower-income households.
B. The adoption of the MU-O Zoe fulfilled General Plan Land Use Policy Action LU 1.4.1, directs the City to amend the Zoning Code to implement mixeduse zoning districts that provide development standards for mixed-use development and is necessary to implement the City of Artesia’s 6th Cycle Housing Element to ensure sufficient density allowance for the city to accommodate its share of the Regional Housing Needs allocation (RHNA) as determined by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG).
C. Since the adoption of the MU-O Zone, a recent court case (New Commune DTLA LLC v. City of Redondo Beach (2025)) has necessitated the City to amend the MU-O Zone, as residential overlay zones are insufficient to meet state housing law requirements when underlying zoning allows non-housing development.
D. The proposed amendments, in response to the Court Case, mandate that new development on parcels identified as a shortfall site (Opportunity Sites/Parcels) in the Housing Element must be residential or mixed-use.
E. Government Code Section 65353 provides that an amendment to a zoning ordinance, which amendment modifies any regulations listed in Section 65850 theretofore imposed (e.g., the use of properties), must be adopted in the manner set forth in Government Code Sections 65854 to 65857, inclusive. Government Code Section 65854 provides that the Planning Commission must hold a noticed public hearing on a proposed amendment 2 to a zoning ordinance. Government Code Section 65855 provides that after the hearing, the Planning Commission must render its decision in the form of a written recommendation to the legislative body. The recommendation must include (1) the reasons for the recommendation, (2) the relationship of the proposed amendment to applicable general and specific plans.
F. On January 13, 2026, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider the proposed amendments to Article 48 (MixedUse Overlay Zone (MU-O) of Title 9 (Planning and Zoning) of the Artesia Municipal Code, and following receipt of all public testimony, closed the public hearing on that date and adopted Resolution No. 2026-01P.
G. The City Council conducted a properly noticed public hearing on January 26, 2026, at which members of the public were afforded an opportunity to comment on this Ordinance, the recommendations of the Planning Commission and staff, and other public testimony.
H. All legal preconditions to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.
SECTION 2. Incorporation of Recitals. The City Council hereby finds that the foregoing recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein as substantive findings of this Ordinance.
SECTION 3. CEQA. In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code, §§ 21000 et seq., “CEQA”), the proposed amendments to the previously adopted Mixed-Use Overlay Zone are exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ( California Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq., ("CEQA") and the CEQA Guidelines ( 14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et seq.) because the amendments consist of revisions to the minimum density standard and definitions of terms. The amendments do not change the existing allowable maximum densities and allowable uses, which were previously analyzed as part of an Environmental Impact Report for the Housing Element and the Mixed-Use Overlay Zone when it was first introduced and adopted. The amendment, therefore, is exempt from the requirements of CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061( b)( 3), because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment.
SECTION 4. Findings. Government Code section 65860 requires a city’s ordinance to be consistent with the general plan. Based on all evidence in the record, the City Council finds as follows:
A. The proposed amendments are consistent with the goals and policies of the City’s General Plan 2030. The proposed Zoning Code Amendment amends sections of Article 48 (Mixed-Use Overlay Zone (MU-O) of Title 9 (Planning and Zoning) of the Artesia Municipal Code. The proposed Zoning Code Amendment has been designed to be consistent with State Housing Law, the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element, and the City’s General Plan 2030. The proposed Zoning Code 3 Amendment implements General Plan Community Development and Design Element, Land Use Sub-Element, Community Planning Principle LU 1, and Policy Vicinity Action LU 1.4.1. The proposed Zoning Code Amendment will not adversely affect or be detrimental to adjacent properties, as the standards of the Mixed Use Overlay Ordinance ensure the protection and enhancement of adjacent and future development. The proposed Zoning Code Amendment implements the following goals and policies contained in the City’s General Plan 2030 Community Policy Program:
1. Community Policy LU 1.1 and Policy Action LU 1.1.1, which encourage the identification of appropriate locations for residential and non-residential development to accommodate growth through the year 2030 by evaluating amendments to the General Plan Land Use Map to consider the effect that such amendments will have on the City’s ability to achieve its goals of a well planned community.
2. Community Policy LU 1.2 and Policy Action LU 1.2.1, which encourage a wide variety of commercial services in appropriate locations by analyzing the current inventory of developed and undeveloped commercial sites in the City in order to assess which are economically viable commercial developments that can be supported.
3. Community Policy LU 1.3 and Policy Action LU 1.3.1, which encourages active and inviting pedestrian-friendly street environments that include a variety of uses within commercial and mixed-use areas by enhancing access, safety and the streetscape experience for pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit riders; and focus improvements in areas with the highest need.
4. Community Policy LU 1.4 and Policy Action LU 1.4.1 and 1.4.2, which ensures mixed use developments are integrated with surrounding uses to become part of the neighborhood by utilizing cohesive architecture, lively streetscapes, interesting urban spaces, and attractive landscaping.
SECTION 5. Amendment. Sections of Article 48 (Mixed-Use Overlay Zone) of Chapter 2 (Zoning) of Title 9 (Planning and Zoning) is amended as shown in Exhibit A of this Ordinance.
SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective 30 days after the City Council adopts this Ordinance.
SECTION 7. Severability. Should any provision of this Ordinance, or its application to any person or circumstance, be determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unlawful, unenforceable, or otherwise void, that determination shall have 4 no effect on any other provision of this Ordinance or the application of this Ordinance to any other person or circumstance, an, to that end, the provisions hereof are severable.
The City Council of the City of Artesia declares that it would have adopted all the provisions of this Ordinance that remain valid if any provisions of this ordinance are declared invalid.
SECTION 8. Adoption, Certification, and Publication. The City Clerk of the City of Artesia shall certify the passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same, or a summary thereof, to be published and/or posted in the manner required by law.
SECTION 9. Record of Proceedings. The documents and materials associated with this ordinance that constitute the record of proceedings on which these findings are based are located at 18747 Clarkdale Ave, Artesia, CA 90701. The City Clerk is the custodian of the record of proceedings.
SECTION 10. The Community Development Director shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution and shall forward a copy of it to the City Clerk and to the City Council.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 26th day of January 2026.
RENE TREVINO, MAYOR
ATTEST:
____
JENNIFER ALDERETE, CITY CLERK
APPROVED TO FORM:
____________________________________
BEST BEST & KRIEGER, CITY ATTORNEY
5 I, Jennifer Alderete, City Clerk of the City of Artesia, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was adopted at the City Council Meeting held on the 26th day of January 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
JENNIFER ALDERETE, CITY CLERK
6 EXHIBIT “A”
AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE 48 (MIXED-USE OVERLAY
ZONE) OF TITLE 9 (PLANNING AND ZONING) OF THE
ARTESIA MUNICIPAL CODE
Exhibit A
Article 48
Mixed-Use Overlay Zone (MU-O)
Key:
Normal Text = Existing unmodified language in the Code
Underlined Text = Proposed language to be added to the Code § 9-2.4801. Intent and Purpose (MU-O).
(a) The Mixed-Use Overlay (MU-O) Zone is enacted to implement, in part, the City of Artesia 6th Cycle Housing Element of the Artesia General Plan, to encourage and incentivize new mixed-use infill residential, retail, and commercial development within the City, and to facilitate affordable multi-family housing for very-low and low-income classifications. This article further establishes a Community Benefit Program as set forth in Section 9-2.4809. Except as otherwise provided in Section 9-2.4802(b), this article is not intended to alter development rights or standards applicable to the underlying zoning.
(b) Specific goals of this article include:
(1) Accomplishing the housing needs of the City per the current Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) as issued by the Gateway Cities Council of Governments and the State of California;
(2) Affirmatively furthering fair housing for all income levels; (3) Incentivizing affordable housing for lower-income and special-needs households;
(4) Incentivizing socially and economically inclusive housing; (5) Increasing the opportunities for a variety of housing types; (6) Facilitating walkable development with multi-modal transportation options; (7) Creating new patterns for socially-and economically-inclusive housing that reduce, segregated living patterns and work towards truly integrated and balanced living patterns;
(8) Facilitating increased employment and multi-modal access to jobs in highresource areas. § 9-2.4802. Applicability.
(a) The MU-O Zone may be applied to all properties identified on Map A, which follows the text of this article. If a property is not identified on Map A, the MU-O Zone shall not be applied to that property unless a map amendment and overlay zone change are approved by the Artesia City Council.
(b) At an applicant's election, properties within the MU-O Zone may be developed either in accordance with: (1) this article; or (2) the standards of the underlying zoning district or Specific Plan., except development proposals on any of the Opportunity Sites/Parcels within any of the nine Opportunity Areas listed in the Housing Element must be developed in accordance with the MU-O Zone and minimum density of 40 du/ac. Projects proposing less than 40 du/ac on these parcels require a legislative approval subject to discretionary review. (c) Once an applicant elects to develop a property under the MU-O Zone or the underlying zoning district or Specific Plan, that choice governs all subsequent development and approvals.
§ 9-2.4803. Definitions.
(a) Affordable housing. "Affordable housing" for the purposes of this article means housing available and deed-restricted for low-income and very-low-income households.
(b) The term "low-income households" has the same meaning as provided in Section 50079.5 of the California Health and Safety Code. “Lower income households” include very low income and extremely low income households.
(c) The term "very-low-income households” has the same meaning as provided in Section 50105 of the California Health and Safety Code. (d) The term "extremely low-income households " has the same meaning as provided in Section 50106 of the California Health and Safety Code. (e) The term "Moderate income households" has the same meaning as provided in Section 50093 of the California Health and Safety Code. (f) Mixed-Use. "Mixed-use" means for purposes of this article a combination of commercial- retail, institutional, or office uses in the same structure as a multiplefamily residential development. § 9-2.4804. Principal Uses Permitted.
(a) The following uses are allowed as principally permitted uses where the MU-O Zone applies, if the project or proposed use complies with all development standards of Section 9-2.4807:
(1) Multiple-Family Residential Development. Except as provided in Section 9-2.4807(b) below, multiple-family residential development that is limited to residential uses and is not "mixed use" pursuant to Section 9-2.4803(f)(g) is permitted where the underlying zone is residential, or the underlying Specific Plan permits stand-alone residential uses. Multiple-family development may consist of rental apartment units or condominium units; (2) Mixed-Use Development. Commercial or office uses may occupy the first story in a multi- story structure but shall not exceed 50% of the total usable floor area of the structure;
(3) 100% affordable-housing development;
(4) Supportive housing;
(5) Employee housing;
(6) Transitional housing as defined in Government Code Section 65582(q); (7) Single-room occupancy unit where the underlying zone is commercial or industrial, or if not commercial or industrial, the site abuts the underlying commercial or industrial zone within the Mixed-Use Overlay boundary;
(8) Emergency shelters as defined in Section 9-2.406, "E" Words and Phrases, of Title 9 of the Artesia Municipal Code where the underlying zone is commercial or industrial, or if not commercial or industrial, the site abuts the underlying commercial or industrial zone within the Mixed-Use Overlay boundary;
(9) Low-barrier navigation centers, in accordance with Government Code Sections 65660 et seq.;
(10) Restaurants, where the underlying zone is commercial or in conjunction with Mixed Use development and that do not both; (i) serve alcohol; and (ii) provide outdoor dining except on any of the Opportunity Sites/Parcels within the nine Opportunity Areas identified in the Housing Element, new construction must be part of a mixed-use development subject to the mixed-use development standards;
(11) All service and professional uses that are allowed as principal uses under Section 9- 2.3002 where the underlying zone is commercial or in conjunction with Mixed Use development or an approved Specific Plan, except on any of the Opportunity Sites/Parcels within the nine Opportunity Areas identified in the Housing Element, net new commercial construction must be part of a mixed-use development subject to the mixed-use development standards. § 9-2.4805. Conditionally Permitted Uses.
(a) The following uses are allowed as Conditionally Permitted uses in the MU-O Zone, if the project or proposed use complies with all development standards of Section 9-
2.4807 where the underlying zone is commercial or if not commercial, the site abuts the underlying commercial zone:
(1) Hotels and motels;
(2) Bars and cocktail lounges;
(3) Restaurants that serve alcohol and that provide outdoor dining. § 9-2.4806. Temporary Uses.
Under the MU-O Zone, the property may be used for temporary uses as set forth in Section 9-
2.4002 of Article 40 of this chapter subject to approval of a temporary use permit in accordance with Article 40 of this chapter.
§ 9-2.4807. Development Requirements and Standards.
Projects seeking approval under this article shall be subject to the following development requirements and standards:
(a) All Projects:
(1) Property development within the MU-O Zone is subject to the Community Benefit Program and in-lieu fees (Section 9-2.4809) whether it is developed under MU-O standards or according to the underlying zoning. (2) At least 10% of the residential units, or one unit, whichever is greater, in each project developed under this article shall be reserved for households earning no more than 80% of Los Angeles County area median income adjusted for family size appropriate to the unit. The units shall be rented or sold at an affordable housing cost, as defined in Sections 50052.5 and 50053 of the California Health and Safety Code. The units shall be rented or sold in accordance with California Government Code Section 65915. (3) A 100 percent residential development will be permitted as a use by-right if the development satisfies all of the following: (1) the property is identified in the current Housing Element as an Opportunity Site/Parcel that was rezoned to accommodate RHNA for lower income households (subject to Government Code Sections 65583.2(h) and (i)); (2) the project includes at least 20 percent affordable units in accordance with subsection (a)(4) below; and (3) the site (inclusive of lot consolidations) has a capacity for 16 dwelling units. To qualify for by-right review and approval, the projects must be constructed to a minimum density of 40 dwelling units per acre or the current MU-O minimum density as set forth in Section 9-2.4807, whichever is greater. For purposes of this subsection (a)(3), “use by right” has the same meaning as provided in Government Code section 65583.2(i).
(4) Affordability. To qualify for by-right review approval under subsection (a)(3) above, at least 20% of the project’s total dwelling units must be designated as affordable to lower-income households.
(5) Mixed-use developments that combine residential and commercial uses are permitted on Opportunity Sites/Parcels that were rezoned to accommodate lower income RHNA as follows:
(i) Residential uses must occupy a minimum of 50% of the total floor area of the project.
(ii) A minimum of 2 0 % of the total dwelling units shall be reserved for lower- income households on Opportunity Sites/Parcels sites. (b) Mixed-Use Developments:
(1) Commercial uses shall occupy at least 50% of the ground-floor area of mixed-use developments; however, if a project comprises 100% low or very low income units or a combination thereof then the ground-floor commercial requirement is waived.
The ground-floor commercial requirement is also waived on properties that are required to be re-zoned to conform to Housing Element requirements. (2) Where low to very-low-income units are incorporated in a proposed mixed-use development, the minimum required commercial floor area may be decreased by 10%.
(c) Multi-Family Developments:
(1) The Condominium Development Standards contained in Article 36 of Chapter 2 of Title 9 of the Artesia Municipal Code do not apply to multi-family developments developed under the MU-O Zone. This provision does not prohibit condominium development in the MU-O Zone.
(2) Density. All residential uses within the MU-O Zone shall be developed at a minimum residential density of 40 dwelling units per acre. Housing developments with less than 40 dwelling units per acre require legislative approval subject to discretionary review. The maximum residential density shall be as follows:
(i) Where the maximum allowable building height is five stories or more, including applicable Artesia Density Bonus stories, the maximum density is 100 dwelling units per acre.
(ii) Where maximum allowable building height is four stories or fewer, including applicable Artesia Density Bonus stories, the maximum density is 70 dwelling units per acre.
(iii) Where the underlying zoning or Specific Plan permits a residential density greater than the maximum allowed under subsections (i) and (ii), the greater density applies.
(iv) California Density Bonus provisions for additional increased density with varying proportions of affordable units (Government Code Sections 65915 et seq.) may be applied to any proposed multi-family development. (3) Artesia Density Bonus. The Artesia Density Bonus increases the maximum number of stories for multiple-family or mixed-use projects that incorporate a minimum percentage of affordable units. Projects are eligible for one additional story such that where the maximum building height is five stories, the Artesia Density Bonus permits six stories; where the maximum building height is four stories, the Artesia Density Bonus permits five stories; and where the maximum building height isthree stories, the Artesia DensityBonus permits four stories. Projects are eligible for the Artesia Density Bonus if they incorporate low to moderate-income units as follows:
(i) 35% or greater of low to very-low income housing.
(ii) 45% or greater of moderate-income housing.
(iii) Projects proposing 100% market-rate units are not eligible for the Artesia Density Bonus.
Note: See Map A for height and density designations.
(4). Private outdoor living space. Each unit shall have private outdoor living space of at least 100 square feet. The outdoor living space may include rooftop decks, balconies, or patios and shall have a minimum dimension of 5 feet in every direction.
(4) Communal Open Space and Recreation Facilities. A minimum of 50 square feet per dwelling unit, with a total minimum area of 600 square feet, of communal open space and recreation facilities, shall be provided for exclusive use by multi-family or mixed-use development residents and their guests. This requirement may be satisfied by various facilities in separate locations within the residential or mixed-use building (for example, gym, garden, rooftop deck, plaza, forecourt); however, no single facility may be less than 500 square feet in area with minimum dimensions of 10 feet in every direction. Non-enclosed communal open space may be provided in setback areas.
(5) Distribution/Location of Low-Income Units. Units designated as affordable shall be reasonably dispersed throughout the development, shall contain on average the same number of bedrooms as the market-rate units, and shall be comparable with the market-rate units in terms of appearance, finish quality, and materials.
(d) Yards. Except as otherwise provided in Article 9 of this chapter, the following yard requirements apply:
(1) Front Yards. Front yards are not required.
(2) Side Yards.
(i) Each lot or parcel of land that has a side lot line adjoining property in a residential or agriculture zone shall have a side yard not less than 10 feet in width on the side adjoining such residential or agricultural lot or parcel of land.
(ii) Where a side lot line abuts a property not within the MU-O Zone that is developed with a residential use, the minimum setback for the first and second stories is 10 feet, and the minimum setback for the third and fourth stories is 15 feet. Additional stories above the fourth story that are granted pursuant to the City of Artesia Density Bonus Ordinance as affordable housing development concessions shall be subject to a minimum setback of 20 feet. Buildings may be stepped to achieve these setback requirements, or the developer may choose to set back the entire building to meet the largest setback requirement.
(iii) Where the side lot line of any lot or parcel of land adjoins property that is not within the MU-O Zone or that is not zoned for residential use, the side yard shall conform to the underlying zone of that lot or parcel. (3) Rear Yards.
(i) Each lot or parcel of land which has a rear lot line adjoining property in a residential or agricultural zone shall have a rear yard not less than 10 feet in depth.
(ii) Where a rear setback abuts a residentially-zoned property not within the MU-O Zone, the minimum setback for the first and second stories is 10 feet, and the minimum setback for the third and fourth stories is 15 feet. (e) Privacy. Where a property abuts a residentially-zoned property that is not within the MU-O Zone:
(1) Private open spaces and communal open spaces that face residentially-zoned property shall include screening that is at least six feet above floor level.
Screening is not to be considered part of the building for the purposes of measuring building height.
(2) All parts of windows on stories above ground level that face residentiallyzoned property shall be at least six feet above the floor level in that story or shall be constructed with non-transparent material to obscure views into adjacent private yards (e.g., frosted or textured glass, or other solution to the satisfaction of the Community Development Director).
(f) Height Limits. Height limits are established by the number of stories per parcel as shown on Map A, except that additional stories added pursuant to Section 9-2.4807(c)(3), Artesia Density Bonus, are allowed.
(g) Design Standards.
(1) Facade Articulation. The facade of any building shall not have a single, unarticulated plane of more than 30 linear feet. Articulation of the facade shall be of a depth not less than two feet.
(2) Building Entrance. A building entrance or entrances shall be set back or projected forward from the main facade of the building by not less than six feet. (3) Additional Design Criteria. Except where detailed in Subsections (g)(1) and (g)(2), above, development shall meet the objective design criteria applicable to the underlying zoning or Specific Plan except where the underlying zoning is a residential zone. If the underlying zoning is a residential zone, then the design standards applicable to the Commercial General (C-G) Zone apply. (4) Shade and Shadow Analysis. New development projects shall not cast shadows with durations of more than three hours during the spring and fall equinoxes, or more than four hours during the winter and summer solstices. Evidence of shadow duration may be demonstrated by a project-specific shade and shadow computer analysis, a structural model, or other means acceptable to the Community Development Director or designee. Reducing a structure's shadow potential may require reducing some or all of a structure's height, regardless of the maximum height permitted in the MU-O Zone area.
(h) Off-Street Parking. Each lot or parcel of land shall comply with the following parking location requirements:
(1) Location. The required parking facilities set forth in Subsection 3(i)(c) of this section shall be located entirely behind or within the building. Vehicle parking may not be located along any street frontage of the property. For the purposes of Subsection 3(i)(a) an alley is not a street.
(2) Additional requirements for above-grade parking:
(i) Parking garage facades shall have decorative elements as follows:
(ii) Where a property has a depth of 120 feet or longer as measured from the property street frontage, the parking garage portion of the development shall incorporate on the building's street frontage developable space to accommodate retail, office, or other permitted uses along the street frontage and to screen the parking garage from the street. (iii) Where a property has a depth of less than 120 feet as measured from the property street frontage, the parking garage facade shall incorporate screening elements, window displays, vertical landscaping, or a combination of one or more of these.
(3) Parking garages shall have a street-accessible pedestrian entry/exit door.
Access from the street shall be controlled by an electronic locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized entry.
(i) Parking Spaces Required.
(1) The following parking requirements apply:
(i) Two standard spaces per each residential unit with two or more bedrooms. (ii) One standard space per each residential unit with one or fewer bedrooms (e.g., studio units);
(iii) One quarter (1/4) space per each multi-family unit for guest parking.
Multi-family guest parking shall be identified as such and kept separate from retail and commercial parking areas;
(iv) For all commercial uses, including restaurants, retail, and service uses, parking requirements are one space per 250 square feet of floor area. (v) For all developments that include five or more affordable units, parking space requirements shall be reduced by 10%, excluding ADA parking space requirements. The number of parking spaces for such projects may be further reduced upon application to the Community Development Director.
(vi) For residential uses exclusively accommodating senior housing, supportive or transitional housing, SROs, or other housing for individuals with physical or developmental disabilities, parking-space requirements shall be reduced by 20%, excluding ADA parking space requirements.
The number of parking spaces for these uses may be further reduced upon application to the Community Development Director.
(vii) Hotels are subject to the parking requirements in Article 11. (j) Bicycle Parking.
(1) For residential uses with ten or more units, one bicycle space for every four residential units or four total spaces, whichever is more, shall be provided in a secured location for exclusive use by residents and their guests. (2) For commercial uses, one bicycle space per 1,000 square feet of retail or service use floor space shall be provided in a location accessible to the public. (k) Signs. All signage shall comply with Title 9, Ch. 2 of Article 12 of the Artesia Municipal Code.
(l) Landscaping. Except as modified by this article, landscaping shall comply with Article 15 of this chapter.
(1) Landscaping other than turfgrass (lawns) may be provided in any manner, including, but not limited to, ornamental planting at grade, including trees, shrubs, annual plants, decorative groundcover, etc., and ornamental planting in raised planters. Turfgrass shall not be used as a decorative groundcover or other non-functional application. Turfgrass may be used in common areas, but shall be subject to City or State water-conservation regulations. Landscaping may be included in rear and side setback areas.
(2) Article 15, Section 9-2.1502, Required Area, does not apply to properties developed according to the Mixed-Use Overlay.
(m) Trash Containers. Trash enclosures shall comply with the trash enclosure standards applicable to the underlying zone or Specific Plan.
(n) Air Conditioning Units. Exterior air conditioning unit locations shall comply with the Air Conditioning Unit standards applicable to the underlying zone or Specific Plan. If no standards are established by the underlying zone or Specific Plan, exterior air conditioning units shall be screened according to the development standards set forth in Artesia Municipal Code Title 9, Planning and Zoning, Article 29 Multiple Residential (M-R), Section 9-2.2904(k).
(o) Lighting. All outdoor parking lot, security, and ornamental landscape lighting, except for ornamental landscape uplights designed to illuminate tree canopies, shall be shielded and directed downwards. Lamps shall be shielded such that their illumination does not exceed 0.5 foot-candle at any property boundary. (p) Emissions Analysis. Prior to issuance of building permits, project applicants shall estimate development projects' construction and operational emissions using the CalEEMod® Emissions Estimator or equivalent modeling tool, and shall incorporate emissions-reduction measures so that estimated construction and operational emissions do not exceed applicable regional and localized thresholds. (q) Energy Efficiency. Prior to issuance of building permits, project applicants shall demonstrate in their Title 24 energy calculations that Title 24 minimum requirements will be exceeded by 10%. Projects incorporating 100% affordable residential units are exempt from this requirement.
(r) Noise and Vibration Analysis. Prior to issuance of building permits for any proposed construction activity requiring a building permit where pile drivers, pavement breakers, jack-hammers, compaction equipment such as vibratory rollers, or other equipment typically causing ground-borne vibration will be used, applicants shall evaluate the potential of construction equipment to cause vibration that would adversely affect people or structures. If the anticipated vibration would exceed 0.5 PPV, then vibration-dampening measures are required to reduce vibration to less than 0.5 PPV.
§ 9-2.4808. Design Review.
(a) Applicability. Projects meeting the following criteria are subject to discretionary Design Review approval in accordance with Article 20 of this chapter:
(1) Any proposed development in the MU-O Zone without a housing component; (2) Any proposed residential or mixed-use (commercial-residential) project that does not contain very-low-income, low income, or moderate-income units; (3) All other projects except as enumerated in Section 9-2.4808(b) below. (4) Residential or mixed-use projects that achieve a density less than 40 dwelling units per acre, require legislative approval subject to discretionary review and No Net Loss Law as outlined in Government Code section 65863. (b) Exemptions. The following development project categories are exempt from discretionary Design Review:
(1) Any proposed residential development in the MU-O Zone that is subject to ministerial review;
(2) Residential development incorporating four or fewer market-rate residential units;
(3) Multi-Family residential projects of five or more residential units that include affordable housing;
(4) Mixed-use development that are described by Government Code Section 65589.5(h)(2)(B) and that includes affordable housing;
(5) Residential projects comprising 100% low or very low income units or a combination thereof;
(6) Single room occupancy residential facilities;
(7) Emergency shelters;
(8) Employee housing;
(9) Transitional housing;
(10) Supportive housing;
(11) Residential projects designed to accommodate seniors (65+) or people with disabilities. § 9-2.4809. Community Benefit Program.
(a) Community Benefit Program. The Community Benefit Program is intended to balance development goals with community housing needs to take meaningful action to affirmatively further fair housing. The program features two Community Benefits, the Artesia Density Bonus, and the Affordable Housing In Lieu fee program. The Artesia Density Bonus permits increased residential height limits in exchange for affordable housing, and the "in-lieu" fee program permits market-rate development in exchange for contributing to developing affordable housing elsewhere in the City. All sites within the MU-O boundary are subject to the City's Community Benefit Program for Affordable Housing, as follows:
(1) Except as set forth below, projects that are entirely non-residential are exempt from providing affordable housing pursuant to this section. (2) Applicability. The provisions of this section shall be applicable to all development projects within the MU-O Zone.
(b) Artesia Density Bonus. The Artesia Density Bonus as set forth in Section 9-2.4807(c)(3) may be utilized by all projects within the MU-O zone and is intended to facilitate the development of affordable housing in the City. (c) Affordable Housing In Lieu Fee. The Affordable Housing In-Lieu fee shall be applied to development projects within the MU-O as set forth below. (1) Application:
(i) Projects proposing a minimum of 15% very-low-income units, 15% lowincome units, or 25% moderate-income units, or combination thereof, (calculated from base density) shall be exempt from the in-lieu fee; (ii) Projects proposing less than the affordability percentages in Section 9-
2.4808(c)(1)(i) shall be subject to the corresponding proportional amount of the in-lieu fee as follows:
(A) Projects proposing less than 5% of very-low or low-income units, or less than 10% of moderate income units, shall be subject to 75% of the fee;
(B) Projects proposing between 5% and 10% of very-low or low-income units, or between 10% and 20% of moderate-income units, shall be subject to 50% of the fee;
(C) Projects proposing between 10% and 15% of very-low-income or low-income units, or between 20% and 25% of moderateincome units, shall be subject to 25% of the fee. (iii) Projects not proposing any affordable housing units shall be subject to 100% of the in-lieu fee.
(2) Amount of Fee. The amount of the in-lieu fee shall be set by resolution of the City Council.
(3) Timing of Payment. The fee required by this section shall be paid before issuance of a certificate of occupancy or final inspection. (4) Basis for Fee. The fee shall be calculated according to the results of a Cityinitiated development fee study, and shall be increased periodically according to the Consumer Price Index or similar time-based escalator. There is a reasonable relationship to requiring properties that could otherwise include affordable residential units to offset the lack of affordable units in each project with the fee because the fee serves the important public purpose of facilitating affordable housing.
(5) Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Fees paid to fulfill the requirements of this chapter shall be placed in the City's Affordable Housing Trust Fund. The funds shall be used exclusively for projects that have a minimum of 60% of the dwelling units affordable to low-and moderate-income households, with at least 30% of the units available to low-income households. Only tax-exempt nonprofit corporations seeking to create or to preserve the housing in the city shall be eligible to apply to the Council for funding. The funds may, at the discretion of the Council, be used for pre-development costs, land or air rights acquisition, administrative costs, gap financing, or to lower the interest rate of construction loans or permanent financing. In a project that includes marketrate units, trust fund monies shall only be provided to assist in the acquisition or construction of those units affordable to lower- and moderate-income households.
(d) Affordable Housing Regulatory Agreement. A legally binding agreement, in a form approved by the City Attorney, shall be executed and recorded against the property to ensure that the property complies with all of the requirements of state law and of this article, including, but not limited to, the requirement that affordable units be deed-restricted in accordance with state law requirements. If affordable units are not subject to a durational requirement imposed by state law, then such affordable units must be deed restricted for a period of not less than 35 years. The property owner shall record the regulatory agreement prior to recording any final map for the property, or prior to the issuance of any building permit for the project, whichever comes first. The regulatory agreement shall bind all future owners and successors in interests of the project.
Figure 1 City of Artesia Mixed -Use Overlay, Map A
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 9G.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: Legislative Platform for Calendar Year 2026
FROM: Carmen Zambrano, Management Analyst
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Melissa Burke, Deputy City Manager
HongDao Nguyen, City Attorney
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the Legislative Platform for Calendar Year 2026.
BACKGROUND:
The City of Artesia Legislative Platform aims to outline and formalize the City Council's policy positions on various State and Federal legislative matters. By adopting this platform annually, City Staff can effectively advocate for the City's interests at the Federal, State, and County levels, reducing the need for the Council to respond to legislative issues on a case-by-case basis throughout the year.
Each calendar year, City Staff presents the Legislative Platform outlining the City's position on key legislative issues to the Legislative Committee for discussion and recommendation. The Legislative Platform will then be presented to the City Council for review and adoption. The Legislative Committee met on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 to discuss and recommend approval of the 2026 Legislative Platform.
ANALYSIS:
If the Legislative Platform is approved, when legislation aligns with the platform, City Staff will draft position letters for the Mayor’s signature to be submitted on the City Council's behalf. If a bill is not covered by the platform, further direction from the Legislative Committee and/or the City Council is required and would be required before any action was taken. A summary of all issued letters will be included in regular legislative updates to the Council. If any future legislation comes about outside the platform’s scope, the matter will be brought to the City Council for direction.
The Legislative Platform is divided into the following categories:
1. Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability
2. Community Engagement, Recreation, and Culture
3. Equity and Inclusion
4. Fiscal Stability and Resources
5. Homelessness
6. Housing and Land Use
7. Local Control and Governance
8. Public Safety
9. Transportation and Transit
10. Workforce and Economic Development
The specific positions within these categories can be viewed in the attached Legislative Platform. The priorities for each category are presented in general terms to accommodate a wide range of legislative proposals.
The Legislative Platform does not restrict individual Council Members from expressing personal support for or opposition to any legislative initiative. However, Council Members should clearly state that their views are personal and not representative of the Council or the City.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact to the General Fund for approving the 2026 Legislative Platform.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the Legislative Platform for Calendar Year 2026.
Attachments
Artesia Legislative Platform 2026.pdf
City of Artesia
2026
Legislative Platform
Table of Contents
Table of Contents.......................................................................................................................................... 1 Purpose ......................................................................................................................................................... 1 Implementation ............................................................................................................................................ 2 Letters of Support or Opposition.............................................................................................................. 2 Position Categories................................................................................................................................... 2 Legislative Platform....................................................................................................................................... 2
1. Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability....................................................................... 3
2. Community Engagement, Recreation, and Culture .......................................................................... 3
3. Equity and Inclusion.......................................................................................................................... 4
4. Fiscal Stability and Resources........................................................................................................... 4
5. Homelessness.................................................................................................................................... 4
6. Housing and Land Use....................................................................................................................... 5
7. Local Control and Governance.......................................................................................................... 5
8. Public Safety...................................................................................................................................... 6
9. Transportation and Transit ............................................................................................................... 6
10. Workforce and Economic Development........................................................................................... 7 Purpose
The City of Artesia Legislative Platform aims to outline and formalize the City Council's policy positions on various State and Federal legislative matters. By adopting this platform annually, City Staff can effectively advocate for the City's interests at the Federal, State, and County levels, reducing the need for the Council to respond to legislative issues on a case-by-case basis throughout the year.
Implementation
Each year, City Staff presents the Legislative Platform to the City Council for review and adoption, outlining the City’s stance on key legislative issues. The Mayor and Council are kept informed about legislative and policy matters that could significantly affect municipal services.
When legislation aligns with the Legislative Platform, City Staff drafts position letters for the Mayor’s approval. If a bill is not covered by the platform, further direction from the Council is required.
The Mayor and City Council may collaborate with partner organizations on legislative matters.
However, on occasion, the City may not support a position taken by a partner. In these instances, City staff will use the principles and values outlined in this Legislative Platform to guide the City’s position.
Letters of Support or Opposition
Position letters consistent with the adopted platform can be signed by the Mayor without full Council review. If the Mayor declines to sign, the Vice Mayor may step in. If neither signs, the matter is placed on the Council agenda for discussion. A summary of all issued letters is included in regular legislative updates to the Council. For legislation outside the platform’s scope, the Council will review it at a future meeting.
Position Categories
• Support: Indicates the City favors the legislation.
• Support if Amended: Indicates support if specified changes are made. • Oppose: Indicates the City opposes the legislation.
• Oppose Unless Amended: Indicates opposition unless specified changes are made. • Neutral: Indicates no position or withdrawal of a previous stance due to legislative changes.
• Watch: Indicates the City is monitoring the legislation and may adopt a position later if needed.
The Legislative Platform does not restrict individual Councilmembers from expressing personal support for or opposition to any legislative initiative. However, Councilmembers should clearly state that their views are personal and not representative of the Council or the City.
Legislative Platform
The Legislative Platform outlines the City Council’s official stance, remaining in effect until updated. The priorities are presented in general terms to accommodate a wide range of legislative proposals. Advocacy efforts by Staff or Councilmembers should be consistent with the Platform's adopted position. The Legislative Platform is divided into the following sections:
1. Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability
2. Community Engagement, Recreation, and Culture
3. Equity and Inclusion
4. Fiscal Stability and Resources
5. Homelessness
6. Housing and Land Use
7. Local Control and Governance
8. Public Safety
9. Transportation and Transit
10. Workforce and Economic Development
1. Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability
a. Advocate for grants that enhance renewable energy projects, expand urban forestry, and develop EV infrastructure.
b. Support efforts to provide funding for critical climate adaptation measures, including wildfire mitigation and water conservation.
c. Support policies that promote CEQA reforms that ensure responsible development while safeguarding environmental protection.
d. Support policies that enhance air quality, reduce greenhouse gases, and advance zero-emissions technology with community involvement.
e. Support legislation that encourages investments in modernizing city facilities and equipment to meet sustainability goals.
f. Support initiatives that educate residents and advance environmental justice programs.
2. Community Engagement, Recreation, and Culture
a. Advocate for financial support to enhance the Artesia Botanical Garden and sustain its operations.
b. Promote investment in upgrading and expanding the Albert O. Little Community Center and Recreation and Park facilities.
c. Endorse measures that improve access to Federal, State, and County recreation programs through prioritized funding.
d. Oppose policies that restrict or diminish funding for parks, green spaces, and urban greening initiatives essential for local governments.
e. Support revitalization and expansion of public green spaces and readiness for community-focused infrastructure projects.
f. Advocate for inclusive programming that actively engages seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities within the community.
g. Encourage development of recreation, sports, and outdoor education programs to enhance residents' quality of life.
h. Back initiatives to strengthen and expand local library services to better serve the community.
i. Support funding opportunities for youth and senior recreation programs, including event reimbursements.
j. Promote the development of adaptive programs designed to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities.
k. Support legislation that offers grants or other funding to foster art and cultural programming.
3. Equity and Inclusion
a. Advocate for policies and funding that ensure all residents have fair and equitable access to City programs and services.
b. Support statewide and regional initiatives aimed at reducing disparities in healthcare, technology access, and public health outcomes for the community. c. Encourage state funding formulas that prioritize resources for disadvantaged and underserved populations.
d. Promote the expansion of broadband access and technological resources in underserved urban and rural areas.
e. Advocate for increased state investment in local public health programs to address equity gaps effectively.
f. Collaborate with local schools and nonprofits to enhance educational success and career opportunities for youth.
g. Endorse funding and policies that empower the City and its partners to engage with residents on issues of prejudice, discrimination, and social justice, fostering inclusion, understanding, and opportunity for all.
4. Fiscal Stability and Resources
a. Oppose state measures that diminish or redirect local revenues, including property, sales, and transient occupancy taxes.
b. Advocate for redirecting State and Federal tax revenues to benefit the City of Artesia. c. Oppose policies that undermine local authority over governance, taxation, revenue generation, or administration.
d. Support full funding of state-mandated programs to prevent undue financial strain on local budgets.
e. Promote initiatives that strengthen fiscal stability and enhance local budgetary resources.
f. Support legislation aimed at improving the cost-efficiency of contracted services utilized by the City.
g. Advocate for policies that empower local governments to develop additional revenue sources.
h. Support legislation fostering the regulated cannabis retail industry to generate sustainable revenue for the City.
5. Homelessness
a. Advocate for local initiatives that address homelessness through targeted support and resources.
b. Support the allocation of permanent state budget funding for homelessness prevention, supportive housing, and mental health services. c. Support policies and program that foster collaborative, flexible solutions among cities, counties, and the state to address homelessness effectively. d. Support policies that promote and improve access to mental health treatment and rehabilitative care.
e. Support efforts to affirm housing as a right, ensuring affordability, security, and protection from harassment or discrimination.
f. Support policies that will increase Federal and State funding to combat and prevent homelessness in Los Angeles County.
g. Endorse funding and policies that enhance discharge planning and expand re-entry housing programs to reduce homelessness among inmates, parolees, and probationers in Los Angeles County.
6. Housing and Land Use
a. Oppose efforts that reduce local authority in land-use planning and development decisions, while advocating for policies that maintain local control over housing governance.
b. Support funding and technical assistance that enable cities to meet housing needs effectively, ensuring alignment with local priorities and without fostering competition between developments.
c. Advocate for policies that increase access to affordable housing through equitable subsidies, reducing barriers to development and promoting a balanced approach to housing and infrastructure.
d. Support initiatives that help cities balance housing mandates with the capacity for infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and public services, ensuring comprehensive development.
e. Promote policies that streamline permitting processes while preserving necessary local oversight and flexibility in decision-making.
f. Support programs that provide rental assistance to tenants and property owners during emergencies, ensuring housing stability.
g. Advocate for legislation that fosters mixed-income housing and homeownership opportunities, enhancing community inclusivity.
h. Oppose policies that limit local discretion over parking management in housing and mixed-use developments, maintaining the authority of local governments in these matters.
7. Local Control and Governance
a. Support legislation that safeguards the transparency and intellectual property of City information.
b. Advocate for local jurisdictional powers to manage property use in ways that protect community health, safety, and welfare.
c. Support policies that empower cities to govern based on their unique needs and challenges.
d. Encourage efforts to limit state mandates that do not align with local priorities or requirements.
e. Oppose state overreach and support preserving local authority in governance and decision-making.
f. Advocate for legislation that provides cities with the flexibility to innovate and address local issues effectively.
g. Oppose Federal and State mandates that impose unfunded or underfunded requirements on cities, ensuring that local governments are adequately supported for implementation.
8. Public Safety
a. Support initiatives that enhance public safety across the City, including effective law enforcement and emergency services.
b. Advocate for investment in local public safety, covering fire protection, emergency preparedness, and law enforcement training.
c. Promote funding or reimbursement for municipal public safety services to ensure adequate resources for local agencies.
d. Support legislation that supports effective law enforcement and oppose measures that may hinder public safety efforts.
e. Support policies that promote programs that focus on gang and violence prevention, as well as initiatives for at-risk youth, after-school, and summer programs that foster positive development.
f. Support policies aimed at preventing and addressing retail crime and improving enforcement.
g. Advocate for resources that enhance emergency preparedness and response capabilities.
h. Support efforts to address issues like graffiti, damage to public and private property, and illegal substance sales.
i. Support policies that promote the development of integrated public safety communication systems between local, state, federal, fire, and emergency medical services.
j. Support legislation that provides funding for emergency planning, training, and response efforts, focusing on disaster preparedness, mitigation, and recovery.
9. Transportation and Transit
a. Support funding for local and regional transportation systems to enhance mobility and economic growth.
b. Advocate for transportation solutions that improve safety, mobility, and economic development.
c. Support state investment in public transit, active transportation, and safer streets initiatives.
d. Support policies and programs that encourage alignment of regional transit systems with long-term funding for transportation infrastructure. e. Support legislation that ensures cities have a role in state-led transportation projects impacting local roads and communities.
f. Support the Southeast Gateway Line and address first- and last-mile connectivity to strengthen public transit.
g. Advocate for funding of the Southeast Gateway Line to create jobs and boost regional transit.
h. Oppose policies or programs conflicting with corridor revitalization or mobility enhancement projects.
i. Support legislation that promotes funding and resources to help cities transition to zero-emission fleets and clean energy technologies.
j. Support tax incentives for public transit users to encourage alternatives to personal vehicle use.
10. Workforce and Economic Development
a. Support efforts to revitalize local economies, support small businesses, and develop a skilled workforce through funding and resources.
b. Advocate for investments in workforce development, small business grants, and economic recovery initiatives targeted at cities.
c. Support partnerships with cities to provide affordable housing for essential workers, including teachers, first responders, and healthcare professionals. d. Promote funding for programs that revitalize downtowns affected by economic shifts and remote work trends.
e. Support efforts to revitalize Artesia’s downtown while preserving the city’s identity, culture, and character.
f. Advocate for funding and financing programs that attract new development. g. Oppose efforts that shift parking, zoning, or development guidelines away from local control.
h. Oppose policies that create barriers for new businesses, hindering workforce and economic development.
i. Support legislation that provides funding and resources for small business startups and workforce development initiatives.
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 9H.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: First Amendment to Agreement With Complete Paperless Solutions, LLC.
FROM: Leslie Nacionales-Tafoya, Management Analyst
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Melissa Burke, Deputy City Manager
Jamie Murguia, Finance Manager
HongDao Nguyen, City Attorney
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that City Council approve, and authorize the City Manager to execute, the First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Complete Paperless Solutions, LLC to extend the the term to June 30, 2026 and increase the total compensation to an amount not to exceed $170,000 over the two year period.
BACKGROUND:
On March 11, 2024, the City Council approved a Surplus Spending Plan that allocated funds for several key projects. Among those projects was the Document Preservation Project, which aims to increase accessibly, efficiency and transparency within all City operations. On April 4, 2024, City Council approved a Professional Services Agreement ("Agreement") with Complete Paperless Solutions, LLC (CPS) for the purchase and implementation of Laserfiche Document Management Software and document preservation services. The Agreement scope included providing citywide technological solutions for document storage, records management, and public document dissemination. Since then, CPS has provided the acquisition of the Laserfische Document Management Software and all licensing and subscription services. They also began the process of document preservation and were able to complete the first phase of digitization for the City Clerk's Office, Human Resources, Finance and Community Development Departments.
ANALYSIS:
During the document preservation process, staff determined more documents needed to be scanned than were originally estimated. During the FY 2025-26 Budget process, additional funds were appropriated in the City Clerk, Administrative Services, and Community Development departments' respective budgets for document preservation services and for the annual subscription services of the Laserfiche Document Management Software. The total funds appropriated for the Document Preservation Program in FY 2025-26 are $95,000 across the three departments. The original Professional Services Agreement had authorized $75,000 for the project, and it was all expended in FY 2024-25. Staff is proposing a First Amendment to the Agreement to increase the total compensation of the contract to ensure the contract value matches the budgeted value in the FY 2025-26 Budgeted amount. Below is a table of the total compensation of both the original Agreement and what is recommended in the First Amendment.
Service FY 2024-2025 FY 2025-2026
Laserfiche
Subscription
Software and
Services
$17,595 $19,980
Data Storage
Services $6,300
Professional
Services
$14,000 N/A
Document
Preservation
Services
$43,405 $68,720
Total $75,000 $95,000
Total Contract $170,000 FISCAL IMPACT:
Staff is proposing to realign the funds already budgeted to ensure funds are available for each category of service. There will be no impact to the General Fund related to approving the First Amendment because the funds were already budgeted in the FY 2025-26 Budget.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
Staff recommends that City Council approve, and authorize the City Manager to execute, the First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Complete Paperless Solutions, LLC to extend the the term to June 30, 2026 and increase the total compensation to an amount not to exceed $170,000 over the two year period.
Attachments
First Amendment to Professional Service...omplete Paperless Solutions, LLC.pdf Complete Paperless Solutions 2024.pdf
!"#$%"#$ & #!' ##"#$ (& ) &(#
&$*+,# -
.#
/0
!"#$%"#$ 12
34536378459945:3;5:<=>9?@3A6B=6>CDCEFA>=47A35G3345:3H85>9?I653J8=K:36384=?536 #(# #% &*
#0L
M12*$%L&"N+# #)*N# +#
,&+O
&$
PQQLR/# #
$*( # #(# #% &*
#
0L&$
O+ *$ 12RL
M*$%L&$
O+ *$ * #
&"#
"#
.&++#.
-#+M #(# #% &# #
$*
#0)*
#
R1
S
CTUIV633W345TX:3Y=6583J345363784595:=5Z365=84IV633W345?96Y69?3JJ894=[\36]8Z3J 7=537I^68[_FCDC`/0!' ##"#$ 12R
CTC@86J5IW347W345TX:3Y=6583J49G73J86359=W3475:3IV633W345593a53475:3536W =475984Z63=J35:3595=[Z9W^34J=5894B47365:3IV633W345T
b
cTUTX36WT\3Z5894cTUTC0# "19?5:3IV633W3458J:363A>=W347378485J3458635>59 63=7=J?9[[9GJd
0# # "&(
!' ##"#$
*++e#( &"!N
+fPghgiP &jO$#khPghgl/0!"#$%#%
# "12PO$+#
#* +
# # "
$* #%*
N &-
%#%# #
$R#L
M
*++*-# #O$
+* # *+&N
&$F=5
85JJ9[378JZ635894F596343G5:8JIV633W345=B59W=58Z=[[>?9649W9635:=45G9KCm=7785894=[943n >3=6536WJTH94JB[5=45J:=[[Z9W^[3535:3\36]8Z3JG85:845:3536W9?5:8JIV633W345=47J:=[[ W335=4>95:363J5=A[8J:37JZ:37B[3J=4773=7[843JTX:3Y=6583JW=>FA>WB5B=[FG685534 .&$
#$ P#o #$% # # "&(
!' ##"#$
($#.#
* M &.&"N+# # #,# -
.#
R1
cTCH9W^34J=5894T\3Z5894cTcTU0H9W^34
*
&$19?5:3IV633W3458J=W347378485J
3458635>5963=7=J?9[[9GJd
0L&$
O+ *$
*++ #.#
-#.&"N#$
*
&$P
$.+O%
$'*O &
p#% #
"eO
#"#$
P(& *++
\36]8Z3J63473637B47365:8JIV633W345=55:36=53JJ35?965:84qa:8A85rHr=55=Z:37:36359=47 84Z96^96=537:36384A>63?3634Z3TX:3595=[Z9W^34J=5894J:=[[4953aZ337s43tB47637\3]345> X:9BJ=47<9[[=6JKuUvDFDDDmG85:9B5G685534=^^69]=[9?5:3H85>H9B4Z8[96H85>w=4=V36=J =^^[8Z=A[3Tqa56=x96yW=>A3=B5:968z37F=J73JZ68A37A3[9GF=478?=B5:968z37FG8[[A3 Z9W^34J=537=55:36=53J=47W=4436J35?965:845:8JIV633W345TX:3H85>w=4=V36G8[[:=]3 *O &
M &*NN &-#{o *|& }~
$h&( # & *+.&"N#$
*
&$R1
cTc{o
e
0L1H9W^34J=5894T0{o
e
LL&"N#$
*
&$P1
# #eM*"#$%#%
$
#$
# M*$% #N+*.#%~
#* *.#%0{o
e
LL&"N#$
*
&$/#-
#%
#e O* MPghgl2R1
cT`3W=8484VY69]8J894J9?IV633W345TqaZ3^5=J95:36G8J3J^3Z8?8Z=[[>J35?965:84 5:8J@86J5IW347W345F5:363W=8484V^69]8J894J9?5:3IV633W345J:=[[63W=8484?B[[?96Z3=47 3??3Z5T
!"#$% &"'!$("")"*+ ", !&'
&%' -."/,."/ 0
-1%""."/ 0/ !&'2!,$304
"5%+$%367689
:3;<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<:3;<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< -5"=-($=0' >$.&"?+//
@& 3A$/$1"%B&*"C%"'&,"/ 04$="'
DEEFGEH :3;<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
$.";
& =";
>"//&4"%-=,"%" "
@& 3@="%I
DJJKLMFNOGELPLKQH
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
:"' :"' RS%&"1"%TTC
@& 3- 0%/"3
UVWXX
Y
Z
[\]^_]`abcbde
/ !""("/ !$ !&'-1%""."/ &'%"/"f",#+%'+$/ 0"* &0/g9h96 !"%$ "'.$35"&/*%"$'", 0%%",+*","$*!3"$%$ !" &."04$//+$='04 f$%"=&*"/'"#$3."/ ' 5+ $/3&/*%"$'"'!$==/0 ")*"", !"@0/'+."%C%&*"/,") -==i%5$/@0/'+."%' T0'-/"="'j &("%'&,"j
%$/1"
@0+/ &"'9
!
"#$%
$
#&
%'
()*+,(),+,-
.
#
#$
/
(+0
1$
$%
2
()+345
.$ 6%#1
#$%
(0+(-+*
7$#
2(*+(,+
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 9I.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: Large Event Facility Use Permit for Dinesh Shah to Hold a Holi Festival on Saturday, March 8, 2026 at Artesia Park
FROM: Edith Guerra, Parks and Recreation Manager
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Melissa Burke, Deputy City Manager
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council approve the issuance of a Large Event Facility Use Permit to Dinesh Shah to hold a Holi Festival on Saturday, March 8, 2026, at Artesia Park according to the conditions set forth in the staff report.
BACKGROUND:
The City Council adopted Resolution No. 25-3064, approving amended Facility Use Regulations (Regulations) and Facility Use Fee Schedule in 2025. Exhibit C and D of the Facility Use Regulations stipulates that large event Facility Use Permits require the approval of the City Council for issuance of a Permit. Exhibit C and D of the Regulations also stipulate that a $1,500 refundable security deposit (see Section VII.A.11.b. - Security Deposit Fee) and liability insurance bond in the minimum amount of $5,000,000 with the City of Artesia ("City") named as additional insured, must be on file with the Parks and Recreation Department ("Department") at least fourteen (14) days prior to the Festival/Carnival/Circus equipment entering the Facilities.
ANALYSIS:
The Department received a Facility Use Application from Mr. Dinesh Shah on November 3, 2025 to hold a Holi Festival at Artesia Park at the Picnic Shelter and Green-space area fronting the Clarkdale Parking Lot on Sunday, March 8, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., which includes the set-up and clean-up time. Staff received the final details for the event from the applicant on January 27, 2026. Staff accepted the application fee of $50 and facility use deposit of $1,500, and is recommending the Council approve the application.
If the Large Event Facility Use Permit is approved, the following conditions will be applied to the applicant in accordance with Exhibit D of the Regulations:
1. The applicant is responsible to provide an operational plan including set up, clean up, event schedule, points of contact during the event, and a site plan at least one month prior to the event.
2. The applicant is responsible for paying all costs associated with the event, including facility use fees, staffing, insurance, and set-up/clean up. Event costs include the following:
a. Application Processing Fee: $50
b. Security Deposit (refundable): $1,500
c. Facility Use Fees: $495.00
d. Staffing: 2 Recreation Staff for 1 hour: $116.00
e. Staffing: 2 Maintenance Staff for 6 hours: $696.00
3. The applicant is responsible for providing event liability insurance with a minimum policy amount of $5,000,000 naming the City, its officers, employees and volunteers as additionally insured. The certificate of insurance must be received and approved by the City no less than 14 days prior to the event.
4. The event venue will be limited to the grass area fronting the Clarkdale Avenue Parking Lot and the Picnic Shelter at Artesia Park.
5. The event is limited to 400 people as indicated on the Facility Use Application filled out by the applicant.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The collection of the facility use fees would result in revenue to offset park maintenance resulting from the use of the facilities. All other costs associated with the event will be the responsibility of the applicant and there would be no negative impact to the City's General Fund.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
Staff recommends the City Council approve the issuance of a Large Event Facility Use Permit to Dinesh Shah to hold a Holi Festival on Saturday, March 8, 2026, at Artesia Park according to the conditions set forth in the staff report.
Attachments
Artesia - Facility Use Regulations Exhibits C-D.pdf
Facility Use Application- Dinesh Shah- 3-8-26.pdf
C-1
EXHIBIT C
CITY OF ARTESIA
LARGE EVENT FACILITY USE PERMITS AND ADDITIONAL FEES
LARGE GROUPS AND SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
A. Facility Uses involving large groups exceeding three hundred (300) Persons gathered for a common purpose or requiring sound amplification require large event Facility Use Permits, Use Fees (see Exhibit A ² Facility Use Fee Schedule), additional fees as outlined in Exhibit D²Large Event Facility Use Permits and Additional Fees, and the approval of the City Council.
B. Plot plans/maps shall accompany large event Facility Use Applications for Uses involving sound amplification, tents, booths, bleachers, special equipment, or large groups exceeding three hundred (300) Persons.
D-1
EXHIBIT D
CITY OF ARTESIA
LARGE EVENT FACILITY USE PERMITS AND ADDITIONAL FEES
FESTIVALS, CARNIVALS AND CIRCUSES
A. Festival, Carnival and Circus large event Facility Use Permits shall be applied for in the manner set forth in the City¶s Facility Use Regulations and require the approval of the City Council. All rules and regulations established by the City shall be followed in conducting said Festival, Carnival, or Circus.
B. A one thousand five hundred dollar ($1,500) refundable cash security deposit (see Section VII.A.11.b. ± Security Deposit Fee) and liability insurance bond in the minimum amount of five million dollars ($5,000,000) with the City of Artesia named as additional LQVXUHGPXVWEHRQILOHZLWKWKH'HSDUWPHQWDWOHDVWIRXUWHHQ
GD\VSULRUWRWKH
Festival/Carnival/Circus equipment entering the Facilities.
C. Festivals, Carnivals, or Circuses, for which the large event Facility Use Permittee¶s employees are used to set up or operate, are required to show evidence of workers¶ compensation insurance.
D. The large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall file a plot plan/map of the physical arrangements of the Festival/Carnival/Circus (i.e., location of tents, canopies, temporary membrane structures, stages, seating, portable toilets, etc.) with the Department. The ratio of the number of portable toilets to the projected number of Festival/Carnival/Circus participants shall comply with applicable State Health Department and Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. The Department must approve the plot plan/map prior to approval of the large event Facility Use Permit for the Festival/Carnival/Circus. The large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall adhere to the approved plot plan/map.
E. The large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall file an operation plan with the Department. The operation plan shall describe the set up operations and clean up operations, including the time periods allowed for each, who and how many persons will be involved, and arrangements for trash and debris containment and removal. The Department must approve the operation plan prior to approval of the large event Facility Use Permit for the Festival/Carnival/Circus. The large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall adhere to the approved operation plan.
F. The large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall file a program itinerary with the Department. The program itinerary shall include the timing of events to occur, information on plans to ensure occupancy/participant attendance, and crowd control plans for before, during, and after the event. The Department must approve the program itinerary prior to approval of the large event Facility Use Permit for the Festival/Carnival/Circus. The large event Facility Use D-2
Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall adhere to the approved program itinerary.
G. The large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall file a parking, traffic control, and circulation plan with the Department. The Department must approve the plan prior to approval of the large event Facility Use Permit for the Festival/Carnival/Circus. The large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall adhere to the approved parking, traffic control, and circulation plan.
H. The large event Facility Use Permittee shall submit to the City, at least fourteen (14) days prior to the Festival/Carnival/Circus opening, the name, address, and phone numbers of the Festival/Carnival/Circus¶ management.
I. Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall submit a list of Festival/Carnival/Circus personnel to the Department at least fourteen (14) days prior to the Festival/Carnival/Circus equipment entering the City. The Department must have the names and phone numbers of Festival/Carnival/Circus representatives who can be UHDFKHGWZHQW\IRXU
KRXUVDGD\
J. Festival/Carnival/Circus personnel, who will be working at least two (2) weeks prior to the Festival/Carnival opening, shall complete and file investigation cards with the Sheriff¶s Department. These cards may be obtained from the Department.
K. The large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall obtain all applicable electrical and safety permits from the City¶s Building and Safety Department. Inspections will be made by appointment only between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
L. It is the responsibility of the large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management to observe, obey, and comply with all applicable City, County, State, and Federal laws, these Facility Use rules and regulations, and any special rules and regulations governing Festivals, Carnivals or Circuses.
M. It is the responsibility of the large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management to observe, obey, and comply with all applicable noise and sound limitations imposed by the large event Facility Use Permit in order to ensure that disturbance to surrounding residents is minimized.
N. It is the responsibility of the large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management to observe, obey, and comply with all applicable standards in the operation of elevators and/or portable amusement rides (including bungee jumping) during the Festival/Carnival/Circus, including, but not limited to, California Code of Regulations, title 8, chapter 4, subchapter 6, California Code of Regulations, title 8, article 35, sections 3900 to 3920, and California Labor Code sections 7901 to 7906. Further, the large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management shall be responsible for obtaining all necessary permits for the operation of elevators and/or portable amusement rides from the D-3
Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) Elevator, Ride and Tramway Unit.
O. It is the responsibility of the large event Facility Use Permittee and Festival/Carnival/Circus management to observe, obey, and comply with all applicable minimum safety standards in the care and conduct of animals used in the Festival/Carnival/Circus as promulgated by the United States Department of Agriculture and the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care & Control, and/or contained in the Los Angeles County Codes pertaining to animal care and control.
P. The large event Facility Use Permittee shall be responsible for police patrol during the set-up, operation, and tear down of the Festival/Carnival/Circus. The large event Facility Use Permittee shall contact the Sheriff¶s Department and be financially responsible for the officers. The Sheriff¶s Department shall specify the number of Sheriff¶s Deputies required.
Q. The large event Facility Use Permittee shall be responsible for any City Staff costs for setting up, monitoring, and taking down the event Facilities. The actual costs will be determined following the Festival/Carnival/Circus, and the amount paid will be deducted from the cash security deposit, resulting in either a refund to the large event Facility Use Permittee or a balance due to the City.
R. The Department shall conduct an inspection of the grounds prior to the Festival/Carnival/Circus equipment entering Artesia Park and immediately after the Festival/Carnival/Circus equipment leaves the Park.
S. No Festival/Carnival/Circus or any activities related thereto will be permitted on the turf area of Artesia Park without prior consent from the City.
T. Festival/Carnival/Circus equipment shall not be permitted on the Facilities prior to the date and time approved by the Manager.
U. The large event Facility Use Permittee shall be responsible for any non-operation hours fees and any additional Staff Overtime Fees.
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 10A.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT: Introduction of an Ordnance to Establish Temporary Outdoor Lighting Regulations FROM: Steven Valdez, Planning Manager
Paul Bollier, Community Development Director
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Melissa Burke, Deputy City Manager
HongDao Nguyen, City Attorney
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
That the City Council, by motion:
1. Introduce and waive full reading of Ordinance 26-981, Amending Title 9, Chapter 2 (Zoning) of title 9 (planning and zoning) of the Artesia Municipal Code related to temporary outdoor lighting; and
2. Find That That This Action Is Exempt From the Requirements of the CEQA Pursuant to Sections 15378(b)(5), and 15061(b)(3).
BACKGROUND:
Article 12.5 of Title 9 of the Artesia Municipal Code (AMC) currently regulates temporary outdoor lighting only in the City of Artesia's ("City") commercial and industrial zones. Residential zones are not presently subject to comparable standards, which has resulted in increasing instances of temporary holiday and decorative lighting remaining installed long after seasonal periods have ended.
These installations are often not maintained, sag over time, contain burned-out bulbs, and are not designed for permanent outdoor use. When left in place year-round, they create visual clutter and a deteriorated appearance that is inconsistent with the City’s residential quality and neighborhood maintenance standards.
The City has also observed that temporary lighting is increasingly being used as a substitute for permanent exterior lighting such as porch lights, garage lights, and walkway fixtures. Unlike manufactured exterior lighting, temporary lighting is not designed to provide safe, downward-directed illumination and can result in darkened walkways, glare, and reduced visibility.
For these reasons, the City has initiated this ordinance to establish clear, consistent, enforceable lighting standards for residential neighborhoods.
PROJECT SUMMARY
The City is proposing a Zoning Ordinance text amendment to extend its existing temporary outdoor lighting regulations to residential zoning districts. The ordinance would add Section 9-2.1250 to the AMC to regulate glare, light trespass, placement, and the duration of temporary outdoor lighting in order to protect neighborhood character, property values, and public safety.
The proposed ordinance adds Section 9-2.1250 to Title 9 of the AMC and establishes:
Performance standards to prevent glare and light trespass; Limits on wattage, placement, and the orientation of outdoor lighting; Exemptions for limited holiday and seasonal lighting;
Prohibitions on searchlights, lasers, and flashing lights; Requirements for shielding and directional control; and Standards for safety lighting in multi-family residential developments.
The ordinance applies to all residential zones and will be administered and enforced by the Community Development Director.
ANALYSIS:
The regulations pertaining to temporary lighting are being created to prevent visual blight, glare, and unsafe conditions. The ordinance advances neighborhood stability, and safety in conformance with the General Plan as analyzed below.
Neighborhood Aesthetics
Pursuant to the General Plan, the City's residential neighborhoods are intended to maintain a cohesive, orderly, and well-maintained appearance. Temporary holiday lighting that remains in place long after a celebrated holiday period frequently becomes dilapidated, misaligned, and visually cluttered, creating the appearance of neglect.
These conditions detract from the City’s image, and are inconsistent with the orderly neighborhood character that residents, business owners, and potential homeowners expect. Properties that display permanent temporary lighting can appear unmaintained or abandoned, discouraging new residential and business investment.
As proposed, the ordinance allows reasonable seasonal lighting while preventing it from becoming a de facto permanent exterior lighting system, thereby preserving neighborhood aesthetics and property values. Thus, the proposed ordinance promotes and advances Community Policy LU 2.2 and 2.3 of the General Plan.
Pedestrian Safety
Temporary lighting is not designed to function as the primary site illumination. When used in place of manufactured exterior lighting, it often fails to properly or wholly illuminate walkways, driveways, and building entries. This creates uneven lighting, and reduced nighttime visibility for residents and visitors.
The ordinance reinforces the use of properly designed, downward-directed lighting and ensures that multi-family residential developments provide adequate safety lighting in all parking areas, walkways, and building entrances.
Traffic Safety
Unshielded and upward-directed temporary lighting can produce glare and visual distraction for drivers, particularly when it shines toward streets and intersections. This increases the risk of driver disorientation and vehicle collisions in residential areas with subpar-quality lighting.
The ordinance directly addresses this risk by prohibiting lighting that causes disabling glare or shines toward roadways and by requiring shielding and directional control.
GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY:
The ordinance is consistent with the Artesia General Plan, including Community Policies LU 2.1 and LU 2.2, which promote the protection of residential neighborhoods, high standards of property maintenance, and overall quality of life.
By regulating temporary lighting to prevent visual blight, glare, and unsafe conditions, the ordinance advances neighborhood stability, safety, and long-term residential investment.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS:
The ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the following reasons:
It is not a CEQA “project” under Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5) because it is a regulatory action that does not result in a physical change to the environment; and
It qualifies for the Common Sense Exemption under Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that it will not result in any significant environmental effects.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING:
At the January 20, 2026 Planning Commission Meeting, after receiving public testimony and deliberating, the Planning Commission recommended unanimously (3-0-2) that the City Council approve the proposed Zoning Code Amendment to establish Temporary Outdoor Lighting Regulations (Section 9-2.1250) and Direct staff to File Notice of Exemption (Case No. 2025-32).
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICES:
A Notice of Public Hearing was placed in the January 23, 2026 Los Cerritos Community News, in accordance with Section 9-2.2301 of the Artesia Municipal Code.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the City Council, by motion:
1. Introduce and waive full reading of Ordinance 26-981, Amending Title 9, Chapter 2 (Zoning) of title 9 (planning and zoning) of the Artesia Municipal Code regarding temporary outdoor lighting; and
2. Find That That This Action Is Exempt From the Requirements of the CEQA Pursuant to Sections 15378(b)(5), and 15061(b)(3).
Attachments
Ordinance 26-981.pdf
PC Resolution 2026-04P
ORDINANCE NO.26-981
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ARTESIA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING SECTION
9-2.1250 TO TITLE 9 OF THE ARTESIA MUNICIPAL
CODE ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS AND
STANDARDS FOR THE USE OF TEMPORARY
OUTDOOR LIGHTING IN RESIDENTIAL ZONES; AND
DETERMINING THE ORDINANCE TO BE EXEMPT
FROM CEQA
WHEREAS, the City of Artesia (“City”) is authorized under its police power to enact regulations to preserve the public health, safety, and welfare; and WHEREAS, Article 12.5 of Title 9 of the Artesia Municipal Code (“AMC”) currently regulates temporary outdoor lighting in commercial and industrial zones; and
WHEREAS, the City now desires to amend Article 12.5 of Title 9 of the AMC to include regulation of temporary outdoor lighting in residential zones (“Ordinance”); and
WHEREAS, on January 20, 2026, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider the proposed Ordinance, and following receipt of all public testimony, closed the public hearing on that date and adopted Resolution No. 2026-04P, recommending the City Council adopt the Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a duly noticed public hearing on January 23, 2026 at which members of the public were afforded an opportunity to comment on the Ordinance, the recommendations of staff, and other public testimony; and
WHEREAS, all legal preconditions to the adoption of the Ordinance have occurred.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARTESIA DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Recitals. The City Council hereby finds and determines that the Recitals above are true and correct and incorporated herein.
SECTION 2. CEQA. The City Council finds that this Ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because the Ordinance is not a CEQA “project” pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5), which provides that organizational and administrative activities of governments that will not result in physical environmental impacts are not CEQA projects, and here the proposed Ordinance establishes regulations and standards for the use of temporary outdoor lighting in residential zones. Further, the City Council finds that State CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) exempts those activities for which it can be seen with certainty that there is no potential to result in significant environmental effects. The Ordinance has no potential to result in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly, as the Ordinance does not propose nor authorize any action that would have the potential to cause a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly. The City Council directs staff to file a notice of exemption within five days of the adoption of this Ordinance.
SECTION 3. General Plan Consistency. Based on the entire record before the City Council, and all written and oral evidence presented, the City Council hereby finds that the Ordinance is consistent with the City’s adopted General Plan.
The purpose of the proposed Ordinance is to establish regulations and standards for the use of temporary outdoor lighting in residential zones in order to protect residential areas from the effects of potentially incompatible uses and encourage uniformly high standards of residential property maintenance to preserve real estate values and high quality of life, consistent with Community Policies LU 2.1 and 2.2 in the General Plan. Therefore, the Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan.
SECTION 4. Amendment. Section 9-2.1250 is added to Title 9 of the Artesia Municipal Code as set forth below:
Ҥ 9-2.1250 Temporary Outdoor Lighting Regulations in Residential Zones.
(a) Purpose and Intent. It is the purpose of this Chapter to establish regulations and standards which will reduce light pollution generated by, including but not limited to, residential, commercial, and industrial lighting fixtures and devices, minimizes light pollution which has a detrimental effect on the environment and they enjoyment of the night sky, reduce and minimize lighting and lighting practices which cause unnecessary illumination on adjacent properties, correct problems of glare and light trespass, reduce energy use, and comply with the regulations set forth in the California Building Efficiency Standards Code or successor statute. (b) Definitions. The terms and definitions used in this Chapter, are incorporated herein, and shall have the meanings set forth in this Chapter, except as provided as follows:
Abandoned or Vacant Property has the same meaning as defined in Title 5, Chapter 24 of this Code.
Day means calendar day.
Community Development Director includes their designee.
Disabling Glare means glare that: (1) impairs the visibility and creates a potential hazardous situation for either pedestrians or motorists, or (2) precludes or interferes with the operation of nearby business or the provision of activities, programs or services, or enjoyment of the use on nearby property.
Foot-Candle means a unit of light measurement equal to one lumen per square foot.
Glare means the brightness of a light source that causes annoyance, discomfort, or loss in visual performance or visibility to the eye.
Light Trespass means light emitted by a lighting installation, bulb, or other light device which shines beyond the boundaries of the property on which the light is installed.
Lumen means a unit of measurement of light. One lumen equals one footcandle falling onto one square foot of area.
Luminaire means a lighting fixture complete with the light source or lamp, the reflector directing the light, an aperture (with or without a lens), the outer shell or housing for a lamp alignment and protection, an electrical ballast, if required, and connection to a power source.
Nuisance Glare means a glare that: (1) creates an annoyance, discomfort, or hazard; or (2) creates an annoyance, discomfort, or impairs or impedes on a person’s right to peacefully enjoy their property.
Watt means a standard unit of power (energy per unit time), the equivalent of one joule per second.
(c) Exempt Lighting. The following outdoor lighting and lighting fixtures are exempt from this Chapter:
(1) Fossil fuel (e.g. gas or kerosene) lamps;
(2) Temporary holiday or seasonal lights or decorations, for the time period commencing 30 days prior to the holiday, and extending not later than 30 days after the holiday;
(3) Flag lighting of 150 watts or less and which does not cause a nuisance glare as defined herein;
(4) Exposed string or solar outdoor lighting, provided (i) they consist exclusively of white light with a clear bulb, (ii) the installation of such lights shall be limited to the lighting of living landscape features (shrubs and trees), and (iii) all such lighting is installed in accordance with applicable safety regulations, including this Chapter;
(5) Interior lighting, provided that overly bright interior light emitted outdoors from any structure will be subject to control by this Chapter if it is determined by the community development director that the indoor lighting creates light trespass, nuisance glare, or disabling glare. (d) Prohibited Lighting. The following lighting systems are prohibited except as otherwise indicated:
(1) Aerial lasers, “search light” style lights, and flashing lights, unless they are allowed pursuant to another section of this Code.
(2) Lighting fixtures mounted in such a way as to illuminate a roof, or aimed towards a neighboring property line or which causes disabling glare or light trespass, as determined by the community development director . (e) Lighting Plan Required. Except for lighting on an existing single-family residence, the submittal of a lighting plan is required as part of a development application or land use permit or clearance. (f) Performance Standards Applicable to all Zones. The following performance standards are applicable in all zones:
(1) All lights shall be directed, oriented, and shielded to prevent light trespass or glare onto adjacent properties, onto public right-of-way, other public areas, and/or driveway areas.
(2) Lighting shall not be directed toward or seen from any highway, freeway, or public street, alleyway, or other public path in such a manner that would result in disabling glare for drivers
(3) Motion detector lighting fixtures are allowed provided that: (a) there is no light trespass or spillover onto adjacent properties; (b) fixtures are mounted within five [5] feet of an entrance or exit door, garage door, or alcove of a structure; (c) installed no more than eight [8] feet above the ground; and (d) illuminated with a maximum of two light bulbs of no more than 75 watts each.
(4) Exterior lighting shall be turned off during daylight hours—hours between sunrise (dawn) and sunset.
(g) Lighting in Residential Zones. General requirements in all residential zones:
(1) All outdoor lighting shall be installed and operated in conformance with this Chapter, all other applicable provisions of this Code, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, Part 6, and the Uniform Building and Electrical Codes. In the event of any conflicts between this Chapter and any other provision of this Code, the more stringent regulation shall apply.
(2) In multi-family residential dwellings or buildings, lighting for safety and/or security purposes shall be provided at entryways, along walkways, between buildings, and within parking areas.
(h) Administration and Enforcement.
(1) The community development director, or their designee, shall administer and enforce the provisions of this Chapter.
(2) All violations of this Article are punishable as provided in Chapter 1 of Title 5 of this Code.”
SECTION 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days following its adoption.
SECTION 6. Severability. Should any provision of this Ordinance, or its application to any person or circumstance, be determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unlawful, unenforceable or otherwise void, that determination shall have no effect on any other provision of this Ordinance or the application of this Ordinance to any other person or circumstance, and, to that end, the provisions hereof are severable. The City Council of the City of Artesia declares that it would have adopted all the provisions of this Ordinance that remain valid if any provisions of this ordinance are declared invalid.
SECTION 7. Adoption, Certification, and Publication. The City Clerk of the City of Artesia shall certify the passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same, or a summary thereof, to be published and/or posted in the manner required by law.
SECTION 8. Record of Proceedings. The documents and materials associated with this Ordinance that constitute the record of proceedings on which these findings are based are located at 18747 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, California, 90701. The City Clerk is the custodian of the record of proceedings.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the Artesia, California, at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the 12th day of February, 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
______________________________
RENE TREVINO, MAYOR
ATTEST:
__________________________________
JENNIFER ALDERETE, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________________
BEST BEST & KRIEGER, CITY ATTORNEY
CITY OF ARTESIA
PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-04P
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ARTESIA, CALIFORNIA,
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL APPROVE AND
ADOPT AN ORDINANCE ADDING SECTION 9-2.1250
TO TITLE 9 OF THE ARTESIA MUNICIPAL CODE
ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
FOR THE USE OF TEMPORARY OUTDOOR
LIGHTING IN RESIDENTIAL ZONES; AND
DETERMINE THE ORDINANCE TO BE EXEMPT
FROM CEQA
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ARTESIA DOES
HEREBY FIND, ORDER AND RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: The City of Artesia (“City”) is authorized under its police power to enact regulations to preserve the public health, safety, and welfare; and SECTION 2: Article 12.5 of Title 9 of the Artesia Municipal Code (“AMC”) currently regulates temporary outdoor lighting in commercial and industrial zones; and
SECTION 3: The City now desires to amend Article 12.5 of Title 9 of the AMC to include regulation of temporary outdoor lighting in residential zones (“Ordinance”); and
SECTION 4: On January 20, 2026, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider the proposed Ordinance, at which hearing members of the public were afforded an opportunity to comment upon the Ordinance; and
SECTION 5: The Planning Commission recommends that the City Council finds that this Ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because the Ordinance is not a CEQA “project” pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5), which provides that organizational and administrative activities of governments that will not result in physical environmental impacts are not CEQA projects, and here the proposed Ordinance establishes regulations and standards for the use of temporary outdoor lighting in residential zones. Further, the City Council finds that State CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) exempts those activities for which it can be seen with certainty that there is no potential to result in significant environmental effects. The Ordinance has no potential to result in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly, as the Ordinance does not propose nor authorize any action that would have the potential to cause a physical change in the environment, directly or indirectly.
SECTION 6: Based on the entire record before the Planning Commission, and all written and oral evidence presented, the Planning Commission recommends that the City Council finds that the Ordinance is consistent with the City’s adopted General Plan. The purpose of the proposed Ordinance is to establish regulations and standards for the use of temporary outdoor lighting in residential zones in order to protect residential areas from the effects of potentially incompatible uses and encourage uniformly high standards of residential property maintenance to preserve real estate values and high quality of life, consistent with Community Policies LU 2.1 and 2.2 in the General Plan. Therefore, the Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan.
SECTION 7: Based on the findings set forth herein and on all the evidence in the record, the Planning Commission hereby recommends that the City Council introduce and adopt Ordinance No.26-98x, which is attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 8: This Resolution shall become effective upon its adoption. The Community Development Director shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution and shall forward a copy of it to the City Clerk and to the City Council.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 20th day of January, 2026.
ROLL CALL VOTE:
______________________________
VICTOR MANALO, CHAIRPERSON
ATTEST:
__________________________________
JENNIFER ALDERETE, CITY CLERK
AYES: COMMISSIONERS:
NOES: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS:
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: February 9, 2026 ITEM NO: 10B.
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
SUBJECT:
Adoption of the 2021-2029 Housing Element Update, and Making a Determination of Exemption from CEQA Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines FROM: Steven Valdez, Planning Manager
Paul Bollier, Community Development Director
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Melissa Burke, Deputy City Manager
HongDao Nguyen, City Attorney
Abel Avalos, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council take the following actions:
1. Open and conduct a public hearing; and,
2. Adopt City Council Resolution No. 26-3075 approving the 2021-2029 Housing Element update, and making a determination of Exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, and,
3. Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to make minor, non-substantive modifications to the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element as required by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for purposes of State law compliance.
BACKGROUND:
State law requires each city in the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) region to prepare an update to the Housing Element of the General Plan for the 2021-2029 planning period. The City of Artesia ("City") commenced the process of updating its Housing Element in late 2020, and has conducted six previous public meetings on this subject, as detailed below. The City is in regular communication with the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) regarding the adoption of its Housing Element. Additionally, the City has worked and negotiated with HCD on a timeline for the adoption of this Housing Element.
State law requires each city to adopt a General Plan to guide land use and development. Among the various "elements" of the General Plan is the Housing Element, which provides an overarching statement of City policies and programs for maintaining and improving existing housing and accommodating development of new housing to meet the City's assigned share of regional growth.
State law further requires that Housing Elements be updated on a regular schedule. As such, every city in the SCAG region must update its Housing Element for the 2021-2029 planning period. State law also establishes detailed requirements that cities must address in their Housing Elements.
One of the major differences between the Housing Element and other elements of the General Plan is the oversight role of the State. Draft Housing Elements must be submitted to HCD for review, and cities must consider HCD comments in their decision to adopt a Housing Element update. Adopted Housing Elements must also be submitted to HCD for review. A finding by HCD that a Housing Element substantially complies with State law expands a city's eligibility for grant funds and also helps to support the legal validity of land use plans and regulations. Under State law, cities that do not obtain a finding of substantial compliance from HCD may be subject to enforcement actions.
In late 2020, the City began the process of updating the Housing Element. To encourage public involvement, City staff created a dedicated Housing Element webpage (https://www.cityofartesia.us/445/Housing-Element-Update2021-2029) which included background information, frequently asked questions, project schedule, meeting notices and materials, and the draft Housing Element.
Public workshops were conducted on September 30, 2021, by the Planning Commission and on October 11, 2021, by the City Council to review State Housing Element requirements and solicit public comments regarding housing needs, opportunities and constraints in Artesia.
In November 2021, a draft Housing Element was submitted to the HCD for review as required by State law. On December 31, 2021, HCD issued a letter finding that the draft element addresses many statutory requirements; however, revisions would be necessary to comply with State Housing Element Law. On March 14, 2022, another draft of the Housing Element was adopted, and then submitted to HCD for review on March 23, 2022. After review and analysis by HCD, another letter was sent to the City on May 20, 2022 noting deficiencies in the draft.
The contract Planners addressing the Housing Element changed hands at the end of 2022. In 2023 and 2024 the City faced challenges collecting the required data and submitted portions of the Housing Element for informal preliminary review rather than a full document (key sections received by HCD on 08/29/2023; 04/07/2024 and10/21/2024). After several rounds of review in this manner, an additional Preliminary Informal Review was provided by HCD on May 7, 2024.
The City continued additional rounds of informal review comments from HCD and submitted the revised Housing Element to HCD on June 13, 2025, October 6, 2025, December 15, 2025, and January 28, 2026. In 2025, the City entered into a Stipulated Judgment with the Attorney Generals Office to ensure completion of the Housing Element. The City is on track to meet the required timelines established in the Stipulated Judgment. The version submitted to HCD on January 28, 2026 was reviewed and recommended for approval by the Planning Commission on January 20, 2026 and is before the Council for adoption. As of the writing of this staff report, formal comments from HCD have not yet been received. While staff and our consultant team believe all items of concern for HCD have been addressed in this version and are hoping to receive a notice of substantial completion, as part of the recommendation, the Council is requested to provide the City Manager the authority to revise the Housing Element to address any minor non-substantive changes in response to HCD's requests, without needing to return to Council for adoption.
As discussed in the analysis below, the revised draft Housing Element includes several programs that contemplate amendments to the Zoning Ordinance or other land use regulations to comply with State mandates. These Zoning Amendments, which include updates to the Design Review Process and the incorporation of objective standards, will be processed over the next four months in compliance with the City's Stipulated Judgment. In summary, the following edits to the Housing Element before the Council this evening were made in response to HCD comments provided on and after December 23, 2025:
Expanded Small Sites/Lot Consolidation analysis (pp. 161-164) Created new Vacant Sites table to show updated minimum density and income-level distribution for housing units (Table H-62, p. 245)
Added more cross-referencing fields to figure and table references for improved electronic navigation (throughout)
Added heading formats for improved electronic navigation using the Word navigation pane. This also populated the Table of Contents with additional headings and page references.
Removed selected heading numbering throughout because the subheading numbering was not consistent throughout the document, and the automated numbering process became corrupted.
LEGAL NOTICE REQUIREMENTS:
Notice of this meeting was published in the Los Cerritos Community News on January 23, 2026, and posted on the City’s website on January 27, 2026.
ANALYSIS:
The Housing Element establishes City policies and programs intended to address the housing needs of current and future Artesia residents for the 2021-2029 planning period. The element has been comprehensively updated to reflect recent changes in State laws, current housing conditions and other circumstances. The Housing Element includes the following sections:
Introduction providing an overview of the Housing Element; Housing Needs Assessment analyzing the City's demographic characteristics and housing needs; Resources and Constraints describing the resources and opportunities for addressing housing needs and potential governmental and non-governmental constraints to meeting those needs; Housing Plan presenting the City's goals, policies, program actions and objectives for the 2021-2029 planning period;
Appendix A: Evaluation of the 2013-2021 Housing Element (5th Cycle) programs and accomplishments;
Appendix B: Sites Inventory providing an inventory of sites that could accommodate the City's new housing needs;
Appendix C: Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) to inform land-use and funding policies to further better housing outcomes for people regardless of race, religion, sex, marital status, ancestry, national origin, color, familial, status, disability and all other protected characteristics; Appendix D: Contributing Factors and Meaningful Actions to identify and address fair housing issues and take no action that is materially inconsistent with AFFH; and Appendix E: Public Participation describing opportunities for stakeholders to participate in the preparation of the Housing Element.
The most significant issues addressed in the Housing Element are: 1) whether City plans and regulations comply with State laws regarding housing for persons with special needs; and 2) how the City will accommodate its share of regional housing needs from 2021 through 2029 as determined through the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) process. These issues along with specific actions contained in the Housing Element to address State requirements are summarized below.
Housing for Persons with Special Needs. State law establishes extensive requirements related to City regulation of housing for persons with special needs, including the homeless and persons with disabilities. The Resources and Constraints chapter of the Housing Element contains an analysis of City plans and regulations for a variety of housing types. The analysis concluded that while current City regulations are consistent with many laws regarding special needs housing, some amendments to the Zoning Ordinance are necessary in order to ensure consistency with State law.
The Housing Plan includes program actions calling for amendments City regulations related to emergency shelters, transitional and supportive housing, low barrier navigation centers, reasonable accommodation procedures for persons with disabilities, the definition of family, and residential care facilities to ensure compliance with State law.
Proposed amendments to the Municipal Code addressing these requirements will be subject to additional review and public hearings by the Planning Commission and City Council later this year. No changes to the Municipal Code or zoning regulations are proposed for City Council approval at this time.
Regional Housing Needs Assessment. The Regional Housing Needs Assessment (“RHNA”) is the process established in State law by which future housing needs are determined for each city. On March 4, 2021, SCAG adopted the final RHNA Plan, which assigns Artesia the following housing needs for the 2021-2029 planning period:
2021-2029 Housing Needs by Income Category – Artesia
Very
Low*
Low Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total
312 168 128 461 1,069
*Includes the extremely-low-income category Source: SCAG, 2021 The RHNA allocation identifies the amount of additional housing a jurisdiction would need in order to have enough housing at all price levels to fully accommodate its assigned share of the region’s housing need during the 8-year planning period while eliminating existing problems like overcrowding and over payment for all existing households.
The RHNA is a planning requirement based upon housing need, not a construction quota or mandate. Jurisdictions are not required to build housing, or issue permits to achieve their RHNA allocations, but the Housing Element must provide an evaluation of potential capacity for additional housing based on land use designations, development regulations, other development constraints (such as infrastructure availability and environmental conditions) and real estate market trends.
The analysis must be prepared at a parcel-specific level of detail and identify properties (or "sites") where additional housing could be built consistent with City regulations.
State law requires the analysis to demonstrate that the City has adequate sites with appropriate zoning to fully accommodate additional housing development commensurate with its RHNA allocation in each income category. If the analysis does not demonstrate that adequate capacity exists to fully accommodate the RHNA, the Housing Element must describe what steps will be taken to increase capacity commensurate with the RHNA - typically through amendments to land use and zoning regulations to facilitate additional housing development. Appendix B of the Housing Element includes a parcel-level analysis of sites where additional housing could be built.
The sites analysis contained in Appendix B shows that current City land use plans and zoning regulations do not provide adequate capacity to accommodate the RHNA allocation in all income categories. However, the City adopted Mixed-Use Overlay (MUO) regulations to facilitate the required housing production. The site inventory has a total capacity of 3,675 units, well above the 1,069 units required by RHNA.
RHNA Capacity Analysis
LowerIncome
Capacity
ModerateIncome
Capacity
Above
ModerateIncome
Capacity
Total
Capacity
RHNA 480 128 461 1,069
Submitted/Approved Projects 0 0 89 89
Approved ADUs 31 1 14 46
Projected ADUs 27 1 12 40
Subtotal 58 2 115 175
RHNA Shortfall 422 126 346 894
Sites to be rezoned MU-O 1,553 435 1,687 3,675
RHNA Buffer (Surplus) 1,131 309 1,341 2,781
RHNA Buffer (Surplus Percent) 268% 245% 388% 311%
The City elected to utilize Government Code section 65583.2(c)(1) to determine the realistic capacity of a site.
Government Code section 65583.2(c)(1) requires the use of a minimum density requirement. In order to address the very-low-income units, the City elected to require a minimum of 40 du/acre when residential development is included in the MUO.
Explaining Income Categories
Los Angeles County’s affordable housing income categories divide households by percentages of Area Median Income (AMI), set by state/federal agencies, with categories like Extremely Low (≤ 30% AMI), Very Low (≤50% AMI), Low (≤80% AMI), and Moderate (≤120% AMI), determining eligibility for affordable housing Programs.
These categories are based on the AMI, which varies by household size, with 2025 LA County AMI for a 4-person household being $106,600.
Acutely Low Income: Up to 15% of AMI (e.g., ≤$15,990).
Extremely Low Income: Up to 30% of AMI (e.g., ≤$31,980).
Very Low Income: 30% to 50% of AMI (e.g., up to $53,300).
Low Income: 50% to 80% of AMI (e.g., up to $85,280).
Moderate Income: 80% to 120% of AMI (e.g., up to $127,920).
Above Moderate Income: Over 120% of AMI.
The Lower Income Capacity in the table above is inclusive of the following categories: Acutely Low, Extremely Low, Very Low and Low.
ENVIRONMENTAL:
Adoption of the Housing Element update would not approve any development project, zoning amendment, or any other physical change to the environment; therefore, it is covered by the “common sense” exemption (CEQA Guidelines Sec. 15061(b)(3)) which provides that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Subsequent to adoption of the Housing Element, appropriate CEQA analysis will be prepared in connection with proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance described in Housing Element implementation programs.
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
At the January 20, 2026, Meeting of the Planning Commission, after receiving a report from City Staff, conducting a public hearing, and deliberating, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution 2026-06P recommending the City Council adopt the 2021-2029 Housing Element update, and make a determination of Exemption from CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
Staff recommends that the City Council take the following actions:
1. Open and conduct a public hearing; and,
2. Adopt City Council Resolution No. 26-3075 approving the 2021-2029 Housing Element update, and making a determination of Exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines; and,
3. Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to make minor, non-substantive modifications to the City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element as required by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for purposes of State law compliance.
Attachments
Resolution 26-3075.pdf
Resolution 26-3075 Exhibit A.pdf
Summary of Content Changes.pdf
Housing Element Transmittal Memo.pdf
PC Resolution 2026-06P.pdf
1 RESOLUTION NO. 26-3075
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ARTESIA ADOPTING THE 2021-2029 HOUSING ELEMENT
UPDATE TO THE CITY OF ARTESIA GENERAL PLAN,
AND APPROVING FINDINGS PURSUANT TO THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT IN
CONNECTION THEREWITH (CASE NO. 2021-19)
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARTESIA DOES HEREBY FIND, ORDER AND RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: Recitals
1. California Government Code § 65583 et seq. requires that each city prepare an update to the Housing Element of the General Plan on a schedule determined by the State. Pursuant to State law, the City prepared a draft Housing Element update for the 2021-2029 planning period, which contains: (i) an assessment of the City's housing needs and an analysis of the resources and constraints, both governmental and non-governmental, relevant to the meeting of these needs; (ii) an inventory of land suitable and available for residential development and an analysis of the development potential of such sites; (iii) a statement of the community's goals, quantified objectives, and policies relative to the maintenance, preservation, improvement, and development of housing; and (iv) programs that set forth a schedule of actions the local government is undertaking or intends to undertake to implement the policies and achieve the goals and objectives of the Housing Element Update.
2. On September 30, 2021, the Planning Commission conducted a public workshop to receive public comments regarding Housing Element requirements and the community’s housing needs, resources, opportunities and constraints. A list of housing stakeholders, including fair housing advocates and those representing the interests of lower-income households and persons with disabilities and other special needs, were notified of the workshop and invited to participate.
3. On October 11, 2021 the City Council conducted a public workshop to receive public comments regarding Housing Element requirements and the community’s housing needs, resources, opportunities and constraints. A list of housing stakeholders, including fair housing advocates and those representing the interests of lower-income households and persons with disabilities and other special needs, were notified of the workshop and invited to participate.
4. Based upon public comments, Planning Commission and City Council comments, guidance from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (“HCD”), and staff analysis, the City prepared a draft 2021-2029 Housing Element, which was submitted to HCD for review on November 3, 2021. 2 5. On December 31, 2021 HCD issued a letter to the City finding that the draft Housing Element addressed many statutory requirements; however, revisions would be necessary to comply with State Housing Element Law.
6. In response to HCD’s comments, a revised draft Housing Element was prepared incorporating revisions to address each HCD comment pursuant to Government Code § 65585.
7. On January 20, 2022, the Artesia Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing to consider the proposed 2021-2029 Housing Element, and following receipt and consideration of the staff report, staff presentation, and public comments, closed the public hearing and adopted Planning Commission Resolution No. 2022-02P, making findings and recommending that the City Council adopt the 2021-2029 Housing Element.
8. On March 14, 2022, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing to consider the proposed City of Artesia 2021-2029 Housing Element, and following receipt and consideration of the staff report, staff presentation, and all written and oral public comments, closed the public hearing.
9. Based upon public comments, Planning Commission and City Council comments, guidance from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (“HCD”), and staff analysis, the City prepared a draft 2021-2029 Housing Element, which was submitted to HCD for review on March 14, 2022.
10. On May 20, 2022, HCD issued a letter to the City finding that the draft Housing Element addressed many statutory requirements; however, revisions would still be necessary to comply with the State Housing Element Law.
11. The contract Planners responsible for the Housing Element changed hands at the end of 2023. Since then, portions of the Housing Element were submitted for informal preliminary review (key sections received to HCD on August 29, 2023; April 7, 2024 and October 21, 2024). After several rounds of review in this manner, an additional Preliminary Informal Review was provided by HCD on May 7, 2024.
12. The City Council considered a revised Housing Element on June 9, 2025, which was submitted to HCD on June 13, 2025.
13. On August 1, 2025, HCD issued a letter to the City finding that the draft Housing Element addressed many statutory requirements; however, revisions would still be necessary to comply with the State Housing Element Law.
14. On October 6, 2025, following communications between the City and HCD in response to the August 1, 2025, letter, the City revised the Housing Element and forwards it to HCD.
3 15. On November 21, 2025, HCD issued a letter to the City, finding that the draft Housing Element addressed many statutory requirements; however, revisions would still be necessary to comply with State Housing Element Law.
16. On December 11, 2025, following additional discussions between the City and HCD, the City sends an informal draft of the Housing Element to HCD.
17. On December 23, 2025, HCD provides informal comments.
18. On December 29, 2025, the City sends the revised Housing Element to HCD.
19. On January 29, 2026, following additional meetings and discussions with HCD and City Staff, the City prepares the latest draft Housing Element that addresses HCD comments and forwards it to HCD.
SECTION 2: Based upon all evidence in the record, including the facts contained in this Resolution, the staff report, the City of Artesia 2021-2029 Housing Element, public comments received before and during the hearing, and other components of the legislative record, the City Council hereby finds as follows:
1. Government Code Section 65588 provides for the adoption of a Housing Element as part of the General Plan of each municipality, and said element shall be updated pursuant to State requirements.
2. The City Council has reviewed the comments from HCD in its final official letter of November 21, 2025 and finds that the draft Housing Element has been revised to address each HCD comment. The City Council finds that with the proposed revisions, the 2021-2029 Housing Element substantially complies with the requirements of State law.
3. The City of Artesia 2021-2029 Housing Element was prepared in accordance with California Housing Element laws, including, but not limited to, Sections 65302 and 65580 through 65589.8 of the Government Code, and has been reviewed by HCD, as required by the California Government Code, as further described below:
4. The City of Artesia 2021-2029 Housing Element is consistent with the other elements of the City’s General Plan 2030.
5. The housing goals, policies and programs listed in the City of Artesia 2021- 2029 Housing Element are appropriate for the City and will contribute to the attainment of State housing goals.
6. The City of Artesia 2021-2029 Housing Element is consistent with the City’s history, future, goals and long-term objectives.
7. The City of Artesia 2021-2029 Housing Element is consistent with City goals and objectives that support the arrangement of land uses so that they 4 preserve community identity and are orderly, efficient, healthful and convenient to the public and aesthetically pleasing.
8. The adoption of the City of Artesia 2021-2029 Housing Element will aid the City’s efforts to assist in the development of housing for all members of the community.
9. The adopted Ordinance No. 26-980, allows residential uses, including residential projects with at least 20 percent or more units affordable to lower income households through a by right process per Government Code Section 65583.2, Subdivisions (c), (h), and (i), on sites identified in Appendix B of the 2021-2029 Housing Element as Opportunity Sites/Parcels which have been rezoned Mixed Use Overlay to allow only residential or mixed use projects. For this purpose, “by-right” means that the City shall not require a Conditional Use Permit, Planned Unit Development Permit or other discretionary review or approval that would constitute a “project” for purposes of Division 13 (commencing with Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code.
10. For the foregoing reasons, the adoption of the City of Artesia 2021-2029 Housing Element is in the public interest.
SECTION 3: Pursuant to Government Code Section 65583(g)(2), and based upon all evidence as listed below, the existing uses on the sites identified in the site inventory to accommodate the lower-income Regional Housing Needs Assessment (“RHNA”) are likely to be discontinued during the planning period, and therefore do not constitute an impediment to additional residential development during the period covered by the housing element.
1. Zoning is appropriate to accommodate low- and very low- income RHNA.
2. Parcel size and density are appropriate to accommodate the needed residential units.
3. Realistic development capacity is sufficient based on utilizing minimum densities.
4. Parcels within the Sites Inventory had more valuable land than the structures on them (Improvement Land Ratio).
5. In order to facilitate the scale required to clear a site for new construction, the Mixed-Use Overlay Zoning (“MUO”) was adopted by the City Council on June 9, 2025, and later amended on January 26, 2026, in order to use the higher densities afforded by the MUO; low-income residential must be included.
6. Full commercial development is not permitted while utilizing the MU-O. 5 7. The MU-O facilitates development ministerially with objective design review and acts as zoning.
8. The MUO offers increased densities in exchange for an increase in affordable housing units.
9. The proposed housing plan affirmatively furthers fair housing (“AFFH”) through requiring and incentivizing lower income units with access to proximity to jobs and transit.
10. The City shall require a minimum density to address the principles articulated in Clovis v. Martinez and to act as Substantial Evidence towards AFFH.
11. The Housing Plan is in line with proposed developments with regards to density and mixed use, complemented by local and regional trends.
12. The majority of the existing structures within the City were built between 1950 and 1979, creating ample room for revitalization and illustrating that current densities offered do not cover the cost of redevelopment.
SECTION 4: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) (Public Res. Code, § 21000 et seq.) and the State CEQA Guidelines (14 CCR § 15000 et seq.), the City is the lead agency for the 2021-2029 Housing Element Update and has determined that the Housing Element update is covered by the common sense CEQA exemption (CEQA Guidelines § 15061[b][3]) which provides that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Since no development project or other physical change to the environment would be approved by the adoption of the Housing Element, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that Housing Element adoption may have a significant effect on the environment and therefore is not subject to CEQA. Any proposed future amendments to City zoning regulations and the General Plan Land Use Element pursuant to State housing law, as well as future housing development projects, will be subject to additional review and appropriate documentation pursuant to CEQA. Furthermore, separate from adoption of the Housing Element, appropriate CEQA analysis was prepared in connection with the adoption of the Mixed-Use Overlay Ordinance. The custodian of records is the City Clerk, and the records of this proceeding can be found at City Hall, located at 18747 Clarkdale Ave, Artesia, CA 90701.
SECTION 5: Based on all the evidence in the record and the findings contained in Sections 1 through 4 of this Resolution, the City Council hereby adopts the City of Artesia 2021-2029 Housing Element; and directs City staff to transmit the adopted Housing Element to HCD for review. The City Manager is further directed to make any clerical or technical revisions to the Housing Element as may be necessary to obtain a finding of substantial compliance from HCD.
6 SECTION 6: The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 9
th day of February 2026.
Rene Trevino, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jennifer Alderete, City Clerk
APPROVED TO FORM:
___________________________________
BEST BEST & KRIEGER, CITY ATTORNEY
I, Jennifer Alderete, City Clerk of the City of Artesia, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was adopted at the Regular City Council Meeting held on the 9th day of February 2026, by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
EXHIBIT A
2021-2029 Housing Element
CITY OF
ARTESIA
2021-2029
Housing
Element
[date]
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - ii
City Council Resolution No. XX-XXXX
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - i
Contents
Introduction 1
Purpose and Content 1
Housing Element Update Process 1
State Planning Requirements 1
Housing Sub-Element Organization 2
Citizen Participation 2
Housing Needs Assessment 3
Population Trends and Characteristics 3
Employment Trends 4
Household Characteristics 5
Household Size 5
Housing Characteristics 6
Special Needs Groups 12
Extremely-Low-Income Household Needs 24
Future Housing Needs 29
Fair Housing Assessment 30
Resources and Constraints on Housing Production 39
Resources 39
Governmental Constraints 40
Non-Governmental Constraints 98
Housing Plan 104
Introduction 104
Housing Goals, Policies and Actions 104
Quantified Objectives 132
Appendix A: Evaluation of the Prior Housing Element 135 Overview 135
Appendix B: Residential Land Inventory 143
Introduction 143
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - ii
Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) 143
Methodology for the Sites Inventory Analysis 146
Development Capacity Analysis 148
Nonvacant Sites 150
Mixed Use Overlay (MU-O) 151
Code and Process Updates 160
Public Services Infrastructure Availability or Constraints 160 Small Sites Lot Consolidation 162
Local Development Trends 169
Regional Policy Trends, Land Use Actions 195
State Laws to Facilitate Housing at Higher Densities 196 Regional Example of High-Density Feasibility 197
Opportunity Areas 201
Appendix C: Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing 248
Introduction 248
Fair Housing Assessment 249
Segregation and Integration 256
Proposed Policies, Programs and Actions to Address Disproportionate Housing Needs 317 Outreach 318
Fair Housing Analysis, Including Local Knowledge, Geography, and Other Relevant Factors 320 Sites Inventory Analysis 323
Appendix D: Contributing Factors and Meaningful Actions to Further Fair Housing 336 Appendix E: Public Participation Summary 342
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - iii
Tables
Table H-1. Population Trends – Artesia vs. SCAG Region 3 Table H-2. Population by Age and Gender – Artesia 4
Table H-3. Employment by Industry – Artesia 4
Table H-4. Employment by Occupation – Artesia 5
Table H-5. Household Size by Tenure – Artesia 6
Table H-6. Housing Type – Artesia vs. SCAG Region 6
Table H-7. Housing Tenure – Artesia vs. SCAG Region 7
Table H-8. Housing Tenure by Age of Householder – Artesia 7 Table H-9. Vacant Housing Units by Type – Artesia vs. SCAG Region 8 Table H-10. Housing Units by Age – Artesia vs. SCAG Region 8 Table H-11. Median Existing Homes Sales Prices 2000-2018 – Artesia vs. SCAG Region 9 Table H-12. Monthly Owner Costs for Mortgage Holders – Artesia vs. SCAG Region 9 Table H-13. Percentage of Income Spent on Rent – Artesia 10 Table H-14. Overpayment by Tenure and Income Category – Artesia 11 Table H-15. Overcrowding by Tenure – Artesia vs. SCAG Region 12 Table H-16. Elderly Households by Income and Tenure – City of Artesia 13 Table H-17. Large Households by Tenure Size, City of Artesia 15 Table H-18. Female Headed Households – Artesia 16
Table H-19. Poverty Status for Female Headed Households – Artesia 17 Table H-20. Disabilities by Type – Artesia 18
Table H-21. Disabilities by Type for Seniors – Artesia vs. SCAG Region 19 Table H-22. Disabilities by Employment Status – Artesia 19 Table H-23. Artesia Residents with Developmental Disabilities Served by Harbor Regional Center 20 Table H-24. Farmworkers - Artesia 24
Table H-25. Extremely-Low-Income Households - Artesia 25 Table H-26. Housing Cost Burden 25
Table H-27. 2021-2029 Regional Housing Needs, Artesia 29 Table H-28. General Plan Residential Land Use Categories 41 Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - iv
Table H-29. Permitted Residential Uses by Zoning District 42 Table H-30. Residential Development Standards 44
Table H-31. Development Standards – Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan 48 Table H-32. Residential Parking Requirements in Artesia Boulevard Specific Plan 49 Table H-33. Residential Zoning Districts Housing Types Permitted by Zoning District 55 Table H-34. Typical Process Outline for a Residential Project: 57 Table H-35. Typical Processing Procedures by Project Type 59 Table H-36. Timelines for Permit Procedures 61
Table H-37. Comparative Development Fee Summary 67
Table H-38. Residential/Development Fees for the City of Artesia and Cities in the Region 69 Table H-39. Cumulative Development Fees: Residential Development 71 Table H-40. Street Classifications and Level of Service Standards 74 Table H-41. Residential Parking Requirements 75
Table H-42. Development Standards, M-1 Zone 84
Table H-43. 2021-2029 Quantified Objectives 133
Table H-44. Program Accomplishments 2013-2021 136
Table H-45. RHNA Fair Share Housing Need Allocation 145 Table H-46. Constructed Projects 145
Table H-47. RHNA Capacity Analysis 146
Table H-48. Lot Consolidation – Recent Projects 163
Table H-49. Artesia Downtown Specific Plan – Development Standards 170 Table H-50. Examples of High-Density Residential Projects in the Region 195 Table H-51. Regional Market Conditions, Illustrating Residential Build Out 198 Table H-52. Current Projects in Artesia 198
Table H-53. Representative Projects on Non-Vacant Sites in Artesia and Region 200 Area 1: 205
Table H-54. Opportunity Areas, SubAreas, Sites, and Potential Consolidated Sites 205 Table H-55. Area 2: Opportunity Areas, SubAreas, Sites, and Potential Consolidated Sites 212 Table H-56. Area 3: Opportunity Areas, SubAreas, Sites, and Potential Consolidated Sites 217 Table H-57. Area 4: Opportunity Areas, SubAreas, Sites, and Potential Consolidated Sites 222 Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - v
Table H-58. Area 5: Opportunity Areas, SubAreas, Sites, and Potential Consolidated Sites 226 Table H-59. Area 6: Opportunity Areas, SubAreas, Sites, and Potential Consolidated Sites 231 Table H-60. Area 7: Opportunity Areas, SubAreas, Sites, and Potential Consolidated Sites 234 Table H-61. Area 8: Opportunity Areas, SubAreas, Sites, and Potential Consolidated Sites 239 Table H-62. Area 9: Opportunity Areas, SubAreas, Sites, and Potential Consolidated Sites 244 Table H-63. Vacant Parcels 246
Table H-64. Compliance with State Fair Housing Laws 251 Table H-65. Racial/Ethnic Dissimilarity Index 257
Table H-66. Racial/Ethnic Composition of Artesia, 2020 and 2010 258 Table H-67. Regional Comparison in Household Income Categories 263 Table H-68. Age of Disabled Persons Served by Harbor Regional Center 271 Table H-69. Disabilities by Category - Persons Served by Harbor Regional Center 271 Table H-70. Poverty Levels for Disabled and Non-Disabled Population in City of Artesia 272 Table H-71. HUD Opportunity Indicators by Population Group 280 Table H-72. Domains and List of Indicators for Opportunity Maps 282 Table H-73. Extremely Low-Income Households 296
Table H-74. Income by Cost Burden (Renters Only) 297
Table H-75. Income by Cost Burden (Owners) 297
Table H-76. Cost Burden – Regional Comparison (Renters and Owners Combined) 297 Table H-77. Percentage of Households with Housing Problems 308 Table H-78. Housing Problems by Tenure 308
Table H-79. Housing Units by Age – Artesia 309
Table H-80. 2023 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count - SPA 7 313 Table H-81. 2023 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count - Los Angeles Continuum of Care, Countywide 314
Table H-82. Summary of Opportunity Sites - Affordable Units by Census Tract 323 Table H-83. Sites Inventory by Tract Area and AFFH Variables 325 Table H-84. Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Programs and Strategies 334 Table H-85. AFFH Policies and Actions 337
Table H-86. State-Recommended AFFH Strategies 339
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - vi
Table H-87. Housing Element Stakeholder List 345
Figures
Figure H - 1 Population with a Disability - Artesia 18
Figure H - 2 Racial Characteristics - Artesia 35
Figure H - 3 Poverty Status – Artesia 36
Figure H - 4 Population with a Disability – Artesia 37
Figure H - 5 TCAC/HCD Opportunity Map – Artesia 38
Figure H - 6 Pioneer Specific Plan 45
Figure H - 7 Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan 47 Figure H - 8 Housing Opportunity Overlay and Former Mixed Use Overlay Boundaries 51 Figure H - 9 Height Limits within the Mixed-Use Overlay 53 Figure H - 10 Potential ADU Expansion Areas 81
Figure H - 11 RHNA Allocation for Artesia 6th Cycle Housing Element 144 Figure H - 12 Artesia Mixed-Use Overlay 153
Figure H - 13 Artesia Mixed-Use Overlay Zones and Opportunity Sites 154 Figure H - 14 Realistic Capacity Calculations 156
Figure H - 15 SCAG Pre-Certified Local Housing Data 167 Figure H - 16 Opportunity Sites, Age of Structure by Year Built 168 Figure H - 17 Artesia Downtown Specific Plan Land Use Diagram 169 Figure H - 18 Opportunity Areas 202
Figure H - 19 Housing Element Opportunity Sites 203
Figure H - 20 Opportunity Area 1: Pioneer Boulevard North of SR 91 Freeway 204 Figure H - 21 Opportunity Area 2: Gridley-Artesia Blvd. 211 Figure H - 22 Opportunity Area 3: Roseton Avenue-Artesia Boulevard 216 Figure H - 23 Opportunity Area 4: Pioneer Boulevard South of Freeway 221 Figure H - 24 Opportunity Area 5: Pioneer Boulevard North of 183rd Road 225 Figure H - 25 Opportunity Area 6: Gridley South 230
Figure H - 26 Opportunity Area 7: Pioneer Boulevard South of 183rd Street 233 Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - vii
Figure H - 27 Opportunity Area 8: South Street 238
Figure H - 28 Opportunity Area 9: South Street East 243 Figure H - 29 Racial Demographics (2018, Block Group) 260 Figure H - 30 Racial/Ethnic Concentrated Areas of Population (2018, Block Group) 261 Figure H - 31 Subregional Racial Ethnic Majority Tracts 262 Figure H - 32 Low to Moderate Income Population (HUD) – Block Groups 264 Figure H - 33 Median Income (ACS, 2015-2019) – Block Group 266 Figure H - 34 Population with a Disability – Geographic Distribution 268 Figure H - 35 Disabilities by Type - Artesia 272
Figure H - 36 Percent of Children in Female Householder, No Spouse/Partner Present Households (ACS, 2015-2019) – Tract 278
Figure H - 37 TCAC Opportunity Areas – Composite Scores 283 Figure H - 38 Geography TCAC Opportunity Map 2022 – Economic Score (Tract) 285 Figure H - 39 Geography TCAC Opportunity Map 2022 – Education Score (Tract) 287 Figure H - 40 Geography TCAC Opportunity Map 2022- Environmental Score (Tract) 289 Figure H - 41 Jobs Proximity Index (HUD, 2014-2017) – Block Group 291 Figure H - 42 SCAG High Quality Transit Area 292
Figure H - 43 Bus Routes in Artesia, from the City of Artesia Active Transportation Plan 293 Figure H - 44 Overpaying Owners (ACS, 2010-2014) – Tract 299 Figure H - 45 Overpaying Owners (ACS, 2015-2019) – Tract 300 Figure H - 46 Overpaying Renters (ACS, 2010-2014) – Tract 301 Figure H - 47 Overpaying Renters (ACS, 2015-2019) – Tract 302 Figure H - 48 Overcrowded Households 303
Figure H - 49 Concentration of Overcrowded Households (CHHS) - Tract 305 Figure H - 50 Substandard Housing – Regional Comparison 309 Figure H - 51 2023 Homeless Count - Artesia 311
Figure H - 52 Estimated Overall Displacement Risk (UCB, Urban Displacement Project) 316 Figure H - 53 Redlining Map, ca. 1930 321
Figure H - 54 Sites Inventory and Census Tracts 324
Figure H - 55 City Website FAQ Page 346
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - viii
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 1
Introduction
Purpose and Content
The City of Artesia’s Housing Sub-Element is the component of the City’s General Plan that addresses housing needs and opportunities for present and future Artesia residents for the 8-year period from October 2021 through October 2029. The Housing Sub-Element provides the primary policy guidance for local decision-making related to housing. The Housing Sub-Element of the General Plan is the only General Plan Element that requires review and certification by the State of California.
The Housing Sub-Element provides a detailed analysis of Artesia’s demographic, economic, and housing characteristics as required by State law. The Sub-Element also provides a comprehensive evaluation of the City’s progress in implementing the past policy and action programs related to housing production, preservation, conservation, and rehabilitation. Based upon the community’s housing needs, available resources, constraints, opportunities and past performance, the Housing Sub-Element identifies goals, policies, actions, and objectives that address the housing needs of present and future Artesians.
Housing Element Update Process
The California Legislature has identified the attainment of a decent home and suitable living environment for every Californian as the State’s main housing goal. Recognizing the important role that local governments play in pursuit of this goal; the Legislature has mandated that all cities and counties prepare a Housing Element as part of their comprehensive General Plan (California Government Code §65580 et seq.).
State law requires each jurisdiction in the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) region to update its Housing Element for the 2021-2029 planning period.
State Planning Requirements
The Housing Element is one of the General Plan elements mandated by State law. The Housing Element must include “an identification and analysis of existing and projected housing needs and a statement of goals, policies, quantified objectives, and scheduled program actions for the preservation, improvement, and development of housing.” The Housing Element addresses the provision of housing for all economic segments of the population and persons with special needs.
This Housing Sub-Element is one component of the City’s overall long-range planning strategy. The General Plan must contain an integrated, consistent set of goals and policies. The Housing SubElement is affected by policies contained in other elements of the General Plan. For example, the Land Use Sub-Element designates land for residential development and indicates the type, location and density of the residential development permitted in the City. Within this framework, the Housing SubElement identifies goals, policies, actions, and objectives for the planning period that directly Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 2
addresses the housing needs of Artesia’s existing and future residents. The policies contained within other elements of the General Plan affect many aspects of life that residents enjoy – the amount and variety of open space, the preservation of natural, historic, and cultural resources, the permitted noise levels in residential areas and the safety of the residents in the event of a natural or human-caused disaster.
The Housing Sub-Element policies must be consistent with policies identified in other Elements of the General Plan. The Housing Sub-Element has been reviewed for consistency with the City’s other General Plan Elements. The policies and programs in this Sub-Element reflect the policy direction contained in other parts of the General Plan. As portions of the General Plan are amended in the future, this Housing Sub-Element will be reviewed to ensure that internal consistency is maintained.
Housing Sub-Element Organization
This Housing Sub-Element is organized into four chapters:
1. Introduction – Explains the purpose, process, and contents of the Housing Sub-Element.
2. Housing Needs Assessment – Describes the demographic and housing characteristics of Artesia and analyzes the city’s current and projected housing needs, including an assessment of fair housing,
3. Resources and Constraints Analysis – Analyzes potential governmental and non-governmental constraints to the provision of housing for all economic segments of the community and persons with special needs.
4. Housing Plan – Details policies, programs, and actions the City of Artesia will carry out over the planning period to address the City’s housing needs and goals.
Supporting background material is included in the following appendices:
Appendix A: Evaluation of the Prior Housing Element
Appendix B: Residential Land Inventory
Appendix C: Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing
Appendix D: Contributing Factors and Meaningful Actions Appendix E: Public Participation Summary
Citizen Participation
During preparation of this Housing Sub-Element, the City sought input on the concerns and ideas of community members and housing stakeholder groups through community outreach activities. Details regarding outreach activities and how community input has been addressed, including how community input will be solicited and received throughout the implementation period, are provided in Appendix E.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 3
Housing Needs Assessment
An accurate assessment of existing and future housing needs in the City of Artesia is the basis for establishing goals, policies, actions, and objectives in the Housing Element. This section presents demographic, economic, and housing factors that influence the demand for and availability of housing.
Population Trends and Characteristics
Historical, Existing, and Forecast Growth
As indicated in Table H-1, Artesia had a 2020 population of approximately 16,490 including 613 living in group quarters according to the California Department of Finance. Over the 2000-2020 period Artesia’s population growth was negligible compared to 0.7% for the region as a whole.
Table H-1. Population Trends – Artesia vs. SCAG Region
Age Composition
As shown in Table H-2, recent Census estimates reported that the population of Artesia is 48.3% male and 51.7% female. The share of the population of Artesia under 18 years of age is 21%, which is lower than the regional share of 23.4%. Artesia's seniors (65 and above) make up 14.8% of the population, which is higher than the regional share of 13%.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 4
Table H-2. Population by Age and Gender – Artesia
Employment Trends
Artesia is surrounded by industry, and larger cities in Los Angeles County. Artesia has 7,698 workers living within its borders who work across 13 major industrial sectors. Table H-3 shows recent employment estimates for Artesia residents. The most prevalent industry is Education & Social Services, with 25% of employees and the most prevalent industry is Retail trade with about 11% of the total.
Table H-3. Employment by Industry – Artesia
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 5
Table H-4 indicates that the most prevalent occupational category in Artesia is Management, in which 35% of employees work, while the second-most prevalent type of work is in Sales, which employs about 24% of Artesia residents.
Table H-4. Employment by Occupation – Artesia
Household Characteristics
By definition, a “household” consists of all the people occupying a dwelling unit, whether or not they are related. A single person living in an apartment is a household, just as a couple with two children and an unrelated tenant living in the same dwelling unit is considered a household.
Household Size
Table H-5 illustrates the range of household sizes in Artesia for owners, renters, and overall. The most commonly occurring household size is two people (23.5%) and the second-most commonly occurring household is three people (20.6%). Artesia has a lower share of single-person households than the SCAG region overall (13.6% vs. 23.4%) and a lower share of 7+ person households than the SCAG region overall (2% vs. 3.1%).
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 6
Table H-5. Household Size by Tenure – Artesia
Housing Characteristics
This section summarizes the current housing characteristics and prevailing market conditions in Artesia.
Housing Type
Table H-6 shows recent estimates of the housing stock in Artesia. The most prevalent housing type in Artesia is single-family detached with about 72% of all units, which is significantly higher than for the SCAG region as a whole. Single-family attached units represent about 8% of Artesia’s housing units.
The average household size is about 3.5 persons.
Table H-6. Housing Type – Artesia vs. SCAG Region
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 7
Tenure
Housing security can depend heavily on housing tenure, i.e., whether homes are owned or rented.
According to recent Census estimates, about 53% of Artesia's housing stock was renter-occupied as compared to about 48% for the SCAG region overall (Table H-7).
Table H-7. Housing Tenure – Artesia vs. SCAG Region
As shown in Table H-8 below, older residents over age 55 are more likely to be homeowners.
Table H-8. Housing Tenure by Age of Householder – Artesia Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 8
Vacancy Rates
Recent Census estimates reported that vacant units for rent were the most common type of vacancy in Artesia while seasonal vacancies were most common in the region as a whole (Table H-9).
Table H-9. Vacant Housing Units by Type – Artesia vs. SCAG Region Housing Age and Condition
Table H-10 shows recent Census data regarding the age of the City’s housing stock compared to the SCAG region as a whole. Age can be an indicator of general housing stock conditions and a factor in determining the need for rehabilitation. Without proper maintenance, housing units deteriorate over time. The older the units, the more likely they will need major repairs. Additionally, older housing units may not be built to current building codes including fire safety standards.
In general, housing that is 30+ years old may need minor repairs. Housing units over 50 years old are more likely to need major repairs. In Artesia, most housing units were built between 1950 and 1970 and are more than 50 years old.
Table H-10. Housing Units by Age – Artesia vs. SCAG Region Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 9
Based on the observations of City building inspectors and code enforcement staff, it is estimated that about 10% of housing units need minor repairs while 2% to 3% may need more substantial rehabilitation. Generally, housing in the northern portion of the city is more likely to require maintenance and repairs.
Housing Costs and Rents
a. Existing and New Home Price Trends
Between 2000 and 2018, median home sales prices in Artesia increased 165% while prices in the SCAG region increased 151%. 2018 median home sales prices in Artesia were $480,000 and the highest experienced since 2000 was $499,000 in 2007 (Table H-11).
Table H-11. Median Existing Homes Sales Prices 2000-2018 – Artesia vs. SCAG Region Table H-12. Monthly Owner Costs for Mortgage Holders – Artesia vs. SCAG Region The most common mortgage payment in Artesia as well as the region as a whole is $2,000-$3,000 per month (Table H-12).
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 10
b. Rental Costs
About 61% of Artesia's spend 30% percent or more of gross income on housing cost, compared to 55% in the SCAG region (Table H-13). Additionally, about 33% of Artesia renters spend 50% or more of gross income on housing cost, compared to 29% in the SCAG region. According to recent Census data, median rent in the city was estimated to be approximately $1,508 per month.
Table H-13. Percentage of Income Spent on Rent – Artesia c. Overpayment
Overpayment refers to households that pay more than 30 percent of their gross income for housing.
High housing costs can cause a household to spend a disproportionate percentage of its income on housing and lead to other problems, including overcrowding and a deterioration of housing stock because costs associated with maintenance must be sacrificed for more immediate expenses (i.e., food, clothing, medical care, and utilities).
Recent estimates of overpayment by income category in Artesia based upon 2014-2018 Census data are shown in Table H-14. This table shows that households in the lowest income categories typically experience higher rates of cost burden.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 11
Table H-14. Overpayment by Tenure and Income Category – Artesia Source: HUD CHAS, 2014-2018. “HAMFI” refers to Housing Urban Development Area Median Family Income d. Overcrowding
Overcrowding is defined as a housing unit having more than one person per room, not including bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways. Effects of overcrowding include strain on public facilities and services and accelerated deterioration of the housing stock.
According to recent Census estimates, about 6% of owner-occupied households and 25% of renteroccupied households in Artesia had more than 1.0 occupants per room, while 1% of owner-occupied households and 5% of renter-occupied households were severely overcrowded with more than 1.5 occupants per room.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 12
Table H-15. Overcrowding by Tenure – Artesia vs. SCAG Region Special Needs Groups
Certain groups may experience more difficulty in finding decent, affordable housing due to special circumstances, including the elderly, large families (5 or more persons), female-headed households, persons with disabilities, homeless persons, and farm workers.
Elderly Persons
Federal housing data define a household type as “elderly family” if it consists of two persons with either or both persons aged 62 and over. The special housing needs of the elderly are an important concern since many retired persons are likely to be on fixed incomes. In addition, the elderly may have special needs related to housing construction and location. Elderly persons may require ramps, handrails, lower cabinets and counters to allow greater access and mobility, or special security devices for self-protection. Due to limited mobility, the elderly also typically desire access to services and amenities such as medical offices, shopping, and public transit.
Recent HUD data reported that approximately 30% of Artesia’s elderly households had extremely low incomes (i.e., less than 30% of median income) compared to 24% in the SCAG region as a whole, and an additional 17% of Artesia senior households had very-low incomes between 30% and 50% of median income. Seniors who rent may also be at greater risk for housing challenges than those who own due to income differences between these groups.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 13
Table H-16. Elderly Households by Income and Tenure – City of Artesia Between 2010 and 2020, the over 65 age group experienced the largest increase in the share of total Artesia population, growing from 11.6% to 16.3% which is higher than the regional (Los Angeles County) share of 15.7%. Of the senior (over 65) population, 15% live alone and 36% live with relatives. (US Census – ACS and Demographic & Housing Estimates – 2023). a. Existing Resources
In the City of Artesia, there are two licensed assisted living facilities:
(California Department of Social Services 2025)
• Narra Tree Inc./IBEX Home (6 beds)
▪ 18918 Ibex Avenue
• The Oasis (6 beds)
▪ 17923 Horst Avenue
In addition, there are currently four senior housing facilities located within the City:
• The Christian Home for the Aged
• Windsor Palms (formerly Twin Palms Care Center)
• Founder’s House of Hope
• New Man Horizons
The City of Artesia’s website provides information, including contact information for the area senior service providers, including Food and Health Services, the Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department, and alternative transportation services.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 14
b. Gaps in Resources (Needs)
Between 2000 and 2018, the 55-64 age group experienced a significant increase in the share of total Artesia population, growing from 8.4% to 11.9% of the City’s population (Census, ACS 2000 & 2018). This would support the conclusion that the senior population will continue to gradually increase as a percentage of total City population. Therefore, it is anticipated that senior services should be expanded depending on resource and funding capacity during the 2021-2029 planning period (6th Housing Element Cycle.
Given that approximately 47% of the City’s senior population is considered very low or extremely low income, the limited supply of rental or for-sale housing, which is affordable to this population is a critical need.
c. Proposed Polices, Programs and Actions to Help Address Gaps For the 2021-2029 planning period, the following policies and programs are included herein to address senior population needs:
• Policy HE 1.2: Increase the extremely low, very low- and moderate-income housing stock. ▪ Action 1.2a: Maximize external funding resources.
▪ Action 1.2d: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
▪ Action 1.2e: Housing for lower income households.
▪ Action 1.3a: Mixed Use Overlay Zone
▪ Action 1.4a: Expedited process for Special Needs housing. ▪ Action 1.4b: Technical assistance for Special Needs housing. ▪ Action 1.4c: Variety of housing types.
• Policy HE 2.1: Maintain and improve housing stock.
▪ Action 2.1a: Mobile Home Park/Manufactured Home Zoning District ▪ Action 2.1b: No net loss and replacement of affordable housing units. ▪ Action 2.2a: Code Enforcement actions.
• Policy HE 3.1: Identify properties within the City that are suitable for housing development. ▪ Action 3.1a: Land Inventory for Infill Housing Opportunities. ▪ Action 3.1b: Transit Oriented Development (TOD).
• Policy HE 4.1: Provide fair housing services to residents and ensure that all are aware of their rights and responsibilities regarding housing.
▪ Action 4.1a: Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) ▪ Action 4.3a: Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 15
• Policy HE 5.2: Provide efficient development permit processing. ▪ Action 5.2c: Remove Constraints to Housing Entitlement and Construction.
Funding: The Housing Element goals, policies and actions involve primarily revisions to ordinances, proactively providing information to residents and increasing permit processing efficiencies. Such actions will be funded primarily through the General Fund, supported as feasible and available, by planning grants.
Large Households
Large households (5 or more persons) typically require dwellings with more bedrooms. These households report a higher cost burden and a higher percentage of housing problems. This is especially true for renter households because multi-family units are typically smaller than single-family homes. Table H-17 shows that according to recent Census estimates approximately 20% of owner households and 24% of renter households in Artesia had five or more persons. This compares to the Los Angeles County large household percentages of 16% owner households and 13% renter households.
Table H-17. Large Households by Tenure Size, City of Artesia Number of Persons in Unit Owner Occupied Renter Occupied Total Five 306 328 634
Six 105 181 286
Seven or More 27 63 90
Total Households 2,173 2,421 4,594
Percent of Total Households 20.2% 23.6% 22.0%
Source: US Census, 2014-2018 ACS
This represents approximately 3.4% of the total housing stock. a. Existing Resources
The City’s housing stock includes 1,360 homes (apartments and rental units) with 4 or more bedrooms. (Census.gov – ACS 2023).
b. Gaps in Resources (Needs)
The housing stock with 4 or more bedrooms represents only 3.4% of total units. However, 21% of the households (owners + renters) in the City of Artesia are considered large households (5 or more persons).
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 16
c. Proposed Policies, Programs and Actions to Help Address Gaps The following policies and actions items for the 2021-2029 planning period are most applicable to increasing housing stock to accommodate large households:
• Policy HE 1.2: Increase the extremely low, very low- and moderate-income housing stock. ▪ Action 1.2a: Maximize External Funding Resources.
▪ Action 1.2e: Housing for Lower Income Households.
▪ Action 1.4c: Variety of Housing Types.
• Policy HE 2.1: Maintain and improve housing stock.
▪ Action 2.1a: Mobile Home Park/Manufactured Home Zoning District ▪ Action 2.1b: No net loss and replacement of affordable housing units. ▪ Action 2.2a: Code Enforcement.
• Policy HE 5.2: Provide efficient development permit processing. ▪ Action 5.2c: Remove Constraints to Housing Entitlement and Construction.
Funding: The Housing Element goals, policies and actions involve primarily revisions to ordinances, proactively providing information to residents and increasing permit processing efficiencies. Such actions will be funded primarily through the General Fund, supported as feasible and available, by planning grants.
Female-Headed/Single Parent Households
Female-headed and single-parent households are included as a special needs group because of their typically lower rate of homeownership, lower incomes, and higher poverty rates. Table H-18 shows recent Census estimates for female-headed households in Artesia. Approximately 17% of households in Artesia are female-headed (compared to 14% in the SCAG region), 6% are female-headed with children (compared to 7% in the SCAG region), and 1% are female-headed with children under 6 (compared to 1% in the SCAG region).
Table H-18. Female Headed Households – Artesia
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 17
About 5% of all Artesia households are experiencing poverty, compared to 8% percent of households in the SCAG region as a whole, and approximately 11% of Artesia households below the poverty line were female headed as demonstrated in Table H-19. In 2018, the poverty threshold for a family of 2 adults and 2 children was $25,465/year.
Table H-19. Poverty Status for Female Headed Households – Artesia Given that the percentage of female-headed households below the poverty level is equivalent to the citywide population – 5%, the policies and action items included herein for extremely low-income households would also apply to female-headed/single parent households in this income category.
Persons with Disabilities
Access and affordability are two major housing needs of persons with disabilities. Access is particularly important for those with physical disabilities, and they may require specially designed housing.
California Administrative Code Title 24 sets forth housing access and adaptability requirements for persons with disabilities. These regulations apply to public buildings (e.g., offices, stores, hotels), employee housing, factory-built housing, and new apartment buildings containing five or more dwelling units. The regulations also require that features such as ramps, doorways, and restrooms be designed to enable free access to persons with a disability. These standards are not required in new single-family residential construction and are incorporated into the City’s Building Code.
In addition to State and local laws assisting person with disabilities, there are also Federal Laws. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is a federally established inclusion of accessible development standards, and it establishes clear and comprehensive restrictions on discrimination based on disability. The ADA requirements also create expectations that reasonable accommodation be provided, which can include waivers from existing design standards in order for people with a disability to have equal access to their homes and work environments. The ADA mandates apply to all public agencies and guarantees access to all programs, services and activities provided by a public agency.
Approximately 10 to 20% of Artesia’s population reported one or more disabilities in the most recent U.S. Census American Community Survey (Figure H - 1).
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 18
Figure H - 1 Population with a Disability - Artesia
The most common types of disabilities for Artesia residents were ambulatory, independent living and cognitive.
Table H-20. Disabilities by Type – Artesia
In Artesia, the most commonly occurring disability among seniors 65 and older was an ambulatory disability, experienced by 27.7% of Artesia's seniors and 22.9% of seniors in the SCAG region.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 19
Table H-21. Disabilities by Type for Seniors – Artesia vs. SCAG Region About 32% of Artesia residents with a disability are in the labor force as demonstrated in Table H-22.
Table H-22. Disabilities by Employment Status – Artesia The US Census does not compile data for developmental disabilities; however, the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) maintains data for the number of persons served by the network of regional centers. The Harbor Regional Center serves the residents of the City of Artesia, along with the surrounding cities. Recent DDS statistics for persons with developmental disabilities living in Artesia are shown below.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 20
Table H-23. Artesia Residents with Developmental Disabilities Served by Harbor Regional Center a. Existing Resources
The City currently maintains a policy of “reasonable accommodation” and abides by all state, federal and local reasonable accommodation laws.
Artesia is served by the Los Angeles County Aging and Disabilities Department. Contact information for the local service area is provided on the City’s website.
Artesia provides a Dial-A-Ride service that provides local trips for seniors and disabled persons. DialA-Ride registration, schedules and routes are listed on the City’s website. b. Gaps in Resources (Needs)
• The City currently does not have formal procedures for processing reasonable accommodation requests for persons with disabilities. The City currently handles such requests on a case-by-case basis through an administrative review process when possible. • The City’s current ordinances do not include ministerial provisions for group homes or procedures for removing or reducing parking count requirements for special needs populations.
c. Proposed Policies, Programs and Actions to Help Address Gaps • Policy HE 1.2: Increase the extremely-low-, very-low-, low- and moderate-income housing stock.
▪ Action 1.3a: Mixed Use Overlay (MUO). The new MUO zone will require that affordable units “comply with federal and state requirements to build units accessible to people with developmental disabilities;” that homes built within the MUO zone include “a variety of housing types;” and that “properties accommodating senior residents or people with disability may apply for a reasonable accommodation procedure to remove parking count requirements.” Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 21
▪ Action 1.4a: Expedited Processing for Special Needs Housing. ▪ Action 1.4b: Technical Assistance for Special Needs Housing Development. This Action commits the City to continue assisting developers proposing special needs housing in applying for federal and state funding, processing development code amendments in order to comply with State standards (e.g., group homes); ensuring that development applications for residential and commercial permits are reviewed for compliance with ADA/accessibility standards; and that older buildings are updated to current accessibility standards when possible. ▪ Action 1.4c: Variety of Housing Types. Code updates to support State expectations include permitting Transitional and Supportive Housing to be permitted subject to the same standards and procedures as apply to other residential uses of the same type in the same zone. (Gov. Code, § 65583, subd.(a)(5)). ▪ Action 1.4e: Reasonable Accommodation. These actions include amending zoning laws and other land use regulations when necessary to afford persons with disabilities an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling. Flyers explaining the reasonable accommodation process will be posted in City Hall, on the City’s website, and at the City’s recreational center by October 2025, as well as periodically included with utility bills mailed to residents of the City. To further minimize constraints to persons with disabilities, the City will update regulations for residential care facilities in conformance with current State law by October 2025. A Reasonable Accommodation Procedure will also be written to document existing procedures and adding a process for senior citizens and people experiencing disability to waive parking standards based on residents that do not utilize vehicles. • Policy HE 4.1: Provide fair housing services to residents and ensure that all are aware of their rights and responsibilities regarding housing.
▪ Action 4.1b: Definition of Family (amend Zoning Code to define “family” consistent with state law).
• Policy HE 5.2: Provide efficient development permit processing. ▪ Action 5.2c: Remove Constraints to Housing Entitlement and Construction.
Funding: In addition to General Fund commitments for code amendments and reasonable accommodation procedures, the City will seek funds from available grant programs, including CDBG allocations to support these efforts.
Homelessness
The most recent enumeration of homeless persons in the Greater Los Angeles area, including the City of Artesia, was conducted by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) in 2020. Artesia is part of LAHSA’s East Los Angeles Service Planning Area (SPA 7). LAHSA’s most recent point-in-time Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 22
survey report estimated that there were 4,586 homeless persons in SPA 7 and 24 homeless persons in Artesia. Of the 24 homeless persons, 16 were determined to be unsheltered and the remaining were sheltered in temporary dwellings (cars, vans, and makeshift shelters).
Certain groups may experience more difficulty in finding decent, affordable housing due to special circumstances, including the elderly, large families (5 or more persons), female-headed households, persons with disabilities, homeless persons, and farm workers. a. Existing Resources For People Who Are Experiencing Homelessness Homeless persons are currently referred to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), social service programs in the nearby cities of Long Beach and Los Angeles, and service providers within SPA 7.
The following non-profit service providers serve homeless persons within SPA-7 (shelters and shelter referrals), per Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority/Homeless Access Centers:
• American Family Housing (Families)
• Jovenes, Inc. (youth – host home referrals)
• PATH (families)
• The Whole Child (families and pregnant adults)
As a member of the Gateway Cities Council of Governments (COG), the City also participates in the Gateway region’s Homeless Initiative.” This Initiative has developed a plan with specific steps to reduce and end homelessness: “The Roadmap to Ending Homelessness (2021-2026).” The Roadmap includes additional resources, including shelters within the Gateway region. These include:
• Kingdom Causes Bellflower (support resources to those at risk of homelessness) • Whittier First Day (help for homeless persons and at-risk individuals toward self-sufficiency) • Whittier Navigation Center
• New Hope Bellflower Shelter
• Salvation Army Bell Shelter
• Century Village at Cabrillo-Long Beach
The City also collaborates with Los Angeles County in “Encampment Resolution Effort - Pathway Home.” This effort takes actions to move unsheltered persons into low-barrier temporary, transitional and permanent housing.
b. Gaps in Resources (Needs)
There are currently no homeless shelters or homeless service centers in Artesia, and the City relies solely on referrals. Shelters and homeless services providers are not located in close proximity (with 1-2 miles) to the City.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 23
c. Proposed Policies, Programs and Actions to Help Address Gaps • Policy HE 1.3: Encourage mixed-use (residential/commercial) development in existing commercial areas.
▪ Action 1.3a: Mixed Use Overlay: AB 101 (2019) added a requirement that low barrier navigation centers meeting specified standards be allowed by-right in areas zoned for mixed use and in non-residential zones permitting multi-family uses pursuant to Government Code §65660 et seq.
The MUO will accommodate a variety of housing types, including Single Room Occupancy (in accordance with Government Code Section 65583 and 65583.2), emergency shelters, employee housing, transitional housing, supportive housing, and low barrier navigation centers. • Policy HE 1.4: Provide housing opportunities for special needs groups (elderly, female head of households, persons with disabilities, homeless, and large households). ▪ Action 1.4a: Expedited Processing for Special Needs Housing ▪ Action 1.4b: Technical Assistance for Special Needs Housing Development ▪ Action 1.4c: Variety of Housing Types (Currently allowed only in the M-1 zone subject to the same standards as emergency shelters. However, shelters will also be permitted in the Mixed-Use Overlay)
▪ Action 1.4d: Emergency Shelters and Low Barrier Navigation Centers.
The Municipal Code only allows emergency shelters by-right in the M-1 zone. Code updates will include:
• Ensure parking standards are not more intense than commercial and residential uses in the same zone.
• Code clean-up to remove any conditional entitlement procedure for Emergency Shelters. • The addition of emergency shelters to the permitted uses in the Mixed-Use Overlay. • AB 101 (2019) added a requirement that low barrier navigation centers meeting specified standards be allowed by-right in areas zoned for mixed use and in non-residential zones permitting multi-family uses pursuant to Government Code §65660 et seq. The Development Code will be updated including adding low-barrier navigation centers to the mixed-use overlay.
• Policy HE 4.2: Support local, non-profit agencies near Artesia that serve the homeless. ▪ Action 4.2a Coordination with Homeless Service Providers • Policy HE 5.2: Provide efficient development permit processing. ▪ Action 5.2c: Remove Constraints to Housing Entitlement and Construction.
Funding: Referral activities, code amendments and collaboration on regional homeless initiatives (e.g., Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, Gateway Cities’ “Roadmap to Ending Homelessness,” and Pathway Home are funded through the General Fund. Should the City receive development application(s) from a homeless services provider, the City will participate in related grant applications, bond revenue, and/or state tax credit programs.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 24
Farm Workers
Farm workers are defined as persons whose primary incomes are earned through permanent or seasonal agricultural work. Across the state, farm workers generally receive wages that are considerably lower than other jobs and may struggle to find decent and affordable housing.
According to recent Census estimates, no Artesia residents reported being employed in farming, fishing, and forestry occupations.
Table H-24. Farmworkers - Artesia
Should farmworker housing needs be identified, the needs of this population will be addressed by the Housing Programs and Actions that for Extremely Low-Income households and Workforce Housing.
Extremely-Low-Income Household Needs
Extremely low-income (ELI) households are defined as households with incomes less than 30 percent of median. In the City of Artesia, this equates for 17.8% of households earning less than $19,112 per year (SCAG Atlas – Artesia 2022). The needs of ELI households may overlap with other categories of special needs such as persons with disabilities, the elderly and the homeless. California Health and Safety Code §65583 (c)(2) states that the Housing Element shall contain programs which "assist in the development of adequate housing to meet the needs of extremely low-, low- and moderate-income households." In addition, existing programs should either be expanded, or new programs added to specifically assist in the development of a variety of housing types to meet the housing needs of ELI households.
Existing ELI Needs
HUD’s Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) dataset provides information on existing ELI households in Artesia. Table H-25 shows the distribution of ELI households by race/ethnicity and tenure. The race/ethnicity with the highest share of ELI households in Artesia is Hispanic (19.7% compared to 17.7% of total population). Renters are much more likely than homeowners to have extremely-low incomes (23% for renters vs. 13% for owners).
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 25
Table H-25. Extremely-Low-Income Households - Artesia
Table H-26. Housing Cost Burden
Housing Cost Burden Overview Owner Renter Total
Cost Burden <=30% 1,525 1,039 2,564
Cost Burden >30% to <=50% 465 470 935
Cost Burden >50% 360 555 915
Cost Burden not available 15 4 19
Total 2,355 2,060 4,415
HUD CHAS 2012-2016, based on ACS.
As indicated in Table H-26, over 40% of Artesia households are cost burdened (spending over 30% of household income on housing or severely cost burdened (spending over 50% of household income on housing). Extremely low-income households are much more likely to experience a severe housing cost burden than any other income group.
Projected ELI Needs
Based on a formula utilized by the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the City anticipates a need to assist 156 ELI households for the 2021-2029 planning period below is the formula for determining ELI households:
• Formula: Divide the current very-low income RHNA construction need by one-half. • Artesia: 312 very-low RHNA construction need.
• Calculation: 312 / 2 = 156 ELI Households
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 26
a. Existing Resources
Current resources to address the needs of extremely low-income households are limited. For example, the Housing Choice Voucher program which offered rental assistance to 176 households from 2013 to 2021 in the City of Artesia.
Due to the overlapping needs of homeless and extremely low-income individuals and households, the City participates in several collaborative efforts and referral programs, as described in the Homelessness chapter of this Element.
As required by State law and City ordinances, Artesia offers incentives for the construction of affordable housing, including housing to accommodate extremely low-income households. These incentives include density bonuses and reduction/modification of development standards. b. Gaps in Resources (Needs)
Housing entitlements and production in the City of Artesia has not met the needs of extremely lowincome households. For example, the Annual Housing Progress Report for calendar year 2023 identifies 6 housing entitlements and 11 housing building permits. All units were identified as “Above Moderate Income.”
Outside of affordability incentives, the City does not currently have the financial resources to attract or subsidize (i.e., bridge the affordability gap) the production of housing to address the needs of extremely low-income households.
c. Proposed Policies, Programs and Actions to Help Address Gaps The City will provide regulatory incentives to the development of housing for ELI households, such as expediting the approval, permitting process, and waiving city-imposed development fees. These incentives would encourage and facilitate housing for Extremely Low-Income persons and illustrate the City's commitment to facilitating the construction of housing for these households. • Policy HE 1.2: Increase the extremely-low-, very-low-, low- and moderate-income housing stock.
The City will monitor available County, SCAG, State, and Federal funds and pursue funds based on the City’s eligibility. Participation in SCAG will supplement City goals and actions in this regard.
These resources will be utilized to improve and conserve housing stock by funding rehabilitation programs for ownership, rental, and mobile home parks.
▪ Action 1.2a: Maximize External Funding Resources
▪ Action 1.2d: Accessory Dwelling Units
ADUs provide an opportunity to produce housing that is affordable to extremely lowincome households while maintaining the character of single-family neighborhoods. The City amended ADU regulations in 2020 consistent with State law. The City will review annually for changes to State law and update City ADU regulations as necessary to ensure consistency with current law.
To support the construction of additional ADUs, the City will:
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 27
o Commit to creating and implementing a system to monitor the affordability level of new ADUs.
o Create standard plans so that locals may reduce the cost of construction by having approved plans ready to implement.
o Generate handouts and online materials to support ADU Construction o ADUs that provide rentals with long-term affordability covenants for very-low and lowincome housing units shall have City fees waived. o Covenants shall be in place for 35 years.
▪ Action 1.2e: Housing for Lower-Income Households
The largest barrier to quality of life is access to affordable housing, especially for those households that have extremely low income. The following programs are expected to be the most effective in accommodating and incentivizing housing for extremely low-income households.
o The Mixed-Use Overlay will permit Single Room Occupancy (SRO) units. The MUO allows for density incentives for including lower income units and the area in which they may be permitted is spread through the majority of the commercial corridors within the City which facilitates development near transit options and access to high resource areas.
o Rezone for a shortfall pursuant to Gov Code 65583.2 h) and i), The extremely low-income units are presumed to be placed on the same properties identified to accommodate the emergency shelters and very low-income housing units as these properties are over one-half acre and can accommodate 50 or more units. o By right definition consistent with 65583.2(h) and (i): Allow residential use by right for housing developments in which at least 20 percent of the units are affordable to lower income households.
o Minimum Density of 16 or 20 units per acre; and
o Minimum site capacity of 16 units; and
o at least 50 percent of the lower-income need must be accommodated on sites designated for residential use only OR on sites zoned for mixed uses that accommodate all of the very low and low-income housing need, if those sites:
o allow 100 percent residential use AND require residential use. o occupy 50 percent of the total floor area of a mixed-use project. • Policy HE 1.3: Encourage mixed-use (residential/commercial) development in existing commercial areas.
▪ Action 1.3a: Mixed Use Overlay
This rezoning effort will include actions to facilitate socially and economically inclusive housing through incentives.
o Support lower income and special needs households by incentivizing their inclusion.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 28
o Increase the opportunities for a variety of housing types to be implemented. o New patterns for more socially and economically inclusive housing that reduce segregated living patterns to work towards truly integrated and balanced living patterns.
o Increases in MUO density will be in addition to any State Required Density Bonus. This provision will also allow for developments that surpass the height limits in the MUO. o Ministerial approvals for Multifamily Housing providing at least 40% low-income housing, and
1. Any project ministerial from CEQA
2. Properties with 100% low or very low-income units.
• Policy HE 1.4: Provide housing opportunities for special needs groups (elderly, female head of households, persons with disabilities, homeless, and large households). ▪ Action 1.4a: Expedited Processing for Special Needs Housing This Action commits the City to continue to expedite processing for housing development projects for the special needs groups, such as seniors, large families, extremely-low-income households, and persons with disabilities, giving highest priority to rental units with more than 3 bedrooms.
▪ Action 1.4b: Technical Assistance for Special Needs Housing Development • Policy HE 4.3: Provide rental assistance to low-income households. ▪ Action 4.3a: Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
The City will continue to assist eligible low-income households receiving Section 8 rental assistance through the County Housing Authority. Information on the Section 8 program will be made available at City Hall and announced on the City website. The City will aspire to increase the number of vouchers by 10 more units a year.
The City shall also create a newsletter to offer to manage an eligibility list, this may help achieve our goal of achieving ten or more Housing Choice recipients within the community. • Policy HE 5.2: Provide efficient development permit processing. ▪ Action 5.2c: Remove constraints to housing entitlement and construction including deferral of fees until financing is in place for low-income and senior housing projects.
Funding:
▪ Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program (PLHA) Grant: The City receives a share of the state PLHA grant. The City’s share is allocated to the Gateway Cities Affordable Housing Trust which aggregates these funds to assist persons experiencing or at risk of homelessness with investments that increase the supply of housing to households with incomes of 60 percent or less of Area Median Income. ▪ General Fund
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 29
▪ Grant opportunities, as available. State resources have been consolidated into the “Multifamily Finance Super NOFA” through HCD> The “Super NOFA” a one-stop resource to affordable housing developers, including the Multifamily Housing Program, Infill Infrastructure Grant, Veterans Housing and Homeless Prevention Program, and Farmworker Housing Grant.
Future Housing Needs
The Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) is a key tool for local governments to plan for anticipated growth. The RHNA quantifies the anticipated need for housing within each jurisdiction for the 2021 to 2029 period, also referred to as the “6th cycle” in reference to the six RHNA cycles that have occurred since the comprehensive revision of State Housing Element law in 1980. Communities then determine how they will address this need through the process of updating the Housing Elements of their General Plans.
The 2021-2029 RHNA Plan was adopted by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) in March 2021. The need for housing is determined by the forecasted growth in households in a community as well as existing needs such as overpayment and overcrowding. The housing need for new households is adjusted to maintain a desirable level of vacancy to promote housing choice and mobility. An adjustment is also made to account for units expected to be lost due to demolition, natural disaster, or conversion to non-housing uses. Total housing need is then distributed among four income categories on the basis of the county’s income distribution, with adjustments to avoid an over-concentration of lower-income households in any community. Additional detail regarding SCAG’s methodology used to prepare the RHNA can be reviewed on SCAG’s website at https://scag.ca.gov/rhna.
Artesia’s assigned share of regional housing need during the 2021-2029 planning period is 1,069 units. This need is distributed by income category as shown in Table H-27.
Table H-27. 2021-2029 Regional Housing Needs, Artesia
Very Low* Low Moderate Above Moderate Total
312 168 128 461 1,069
*Per State law, half of the very-low units are assumed to be in the extremely-low category.
Source: SCAG 2021
It should be noted that SCAG did not identify growth needs for the extremely-low-income category in the adopted RHNA. As provided in Assembly Bill (AB) 2634 of 2006, jurisdictions may determine their extremely-low-income need as one-half the need in the very-low category.
The inventory of land to accommodate the RHNA allocation is discussed in the Resources and Opportunities section.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 30
Fair Housing Assessment
Under State law, “affirmatively furthering fair housing” means “taking meaningful actions, in addition to combating discrimination, which overcome patterns of segregation and foster inclusive communities free from barriers that restrict access to opportunity based on protected characteristics.” There are three parts to this requirement:
1. Include a Program that Affirmatively Furthers Fair Housing and Promotes Housing Opportunities throughout the Community for Protected Classes (applies to housing elements beginning January 1, 2019). The full Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing analysis and recommendations are included as Appendix C.
2. Conduct an Assessment of Fair Housing that includes a summary of fair housing issues, an analysis of available federal, state, and local data and local knowledge to identify, and an assessment of the contributing factors for the fair housing issues.
3. Prepare the Housing Element Land Inventory and Identification of Sites through the Lens of Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing.
The Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) analysis in Appendix C examines geographic and demographic data regarding fair housing, including enforcement programs, racial and ethnic segregation and integration, poverty, persons with disabilities, and access to opportunity as identified by the TCAC/HCD Opportunity Areas maps, cost burden, disproportionate housing needs, overcrowding, substandard housing conditions, homelessness, and displacement.
Assisted Housing at Risk of Conversion
The Housing Element is required to identify any publicly assisted low-income rental units that are at risk of losing their affordability restrictions within the ten-year period from 2021 to 2031. This information is used in establishing programs and quantified objectives for preserving the affordability of such housing. According to the California Housing Partnership Corporation, there are currently no publicly assisted lower-income rental units in Artesia. In addition, there are no locally-funded affordable units at risk of conversion.
AB 686 Compliance.
In compliance with AB 686, the City has completed the following fair housing/AFFH outreach and analyses and included meaningful actions to address gaps in fair housing needs.
As discussed in Appendices C, D, and E, the City held a series of public meetings during the Housing Element update, including the fair housing assessment, in an effort to include all demographic segments of the community and persons with special needs. Each meeting was publicized on the City’s website, published in local newspapers, and meeting notices were also sent directly to persons and organizations with interest and/or expertise in affordable housing and supportive services.
Interested parties had the opportunity to interact with City staff throughout the Housing Element update process and provide direct feedback regarding fair housing issues.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 31
The City also created a dedicated web page for the Housing Element update (https://caartesia2.civicplus.com/258/General-Plan-Update) and provided opportunities for interested persons to participate in public meetings remotely, which made it possible for those with disabilities limiting their travel to participate in the Housing Element update process regardless of their ability to physically attend the meetings.
Enforcement
The AFFH includes a discussion of existing conditions for the enforcement of fair housing regulations, including federal, state, county and local (City of Artesia) enforcement programs. As noted in the discussion the City is supported in addressing fair housing complaints and issues by the Housing Rights Center, either by direct contact from Artesia residents or upon referral by the City. Proposed policies, programs and actions to ensure proactive implementation of fair housing laws include Policy HE 1.4 and Action HE 1.4e (Reasonable Accommodation), which commit the City to adopt a Reasonable Accommodation Procedure, and to designate an appropriate, technically skilled staff member as the City’s reasonable accommodation/ADA coordinator. The City has also committed to enforcement actions to preserve the existing housing stock (Policies HE 2.1 and 2.2, and Action 2.2a), and to expand awareness in the community of fair housing resources (Policy HE 4.1 and Action HE
4.1a).
Segregation and Integration.
Segregation and integration based on race and ethnicity. The percentage of non-white population is relatively uniform throughout the city and is similar to the adjacent cities, with the Asian population consisting of the largest racial composition, at approximately 42% of the population. However, there is evidence of some moderate segregation among the Asian and Hispanic population, with neighborhoods located north of Artesia Boulevard having a population that is over 50% Hispanic, while the remainder of the city has larger Asian population.
Segregation and integration based on poverty. Recent Census estimates regarding poverty status of households in Artesia are shown in Figure H-2. As seen in this map, the poverty rate in the city ranges from less than 10% in some areas of the city and between 10% and 20% in other areas, which is similar to the surrounding cities. Somewhat higher poverty rates are found in the northern portion of the city, which is also located near the SR-91 freeway. However, the moderate racial/ethnic concentration noted above does not correlate significantly with concentrations of poverty. There is no observable concentration of Low-Moderate Income Census Block Groups, nor are there racial or ethnic concentrations of affluence.
Analysis of available data also concluded that there a somewhat higher concentration of disabled persons living south of Artesia Boulevard (10%-20%), than north of Artesia Boulevard. However, this variable is not considered a significant concentration of disabled persons.
In order to address any potential segregation/integration issues, the following Policies and Actions are included herein: Policy HE 4.1 and Action 4.1a (providing fair housing services to residents); Policy HE 4.3 and Action 4.3a (providing rental assistance to low income residents); Policy HE 5.2 and Actions Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 32
HE 1.2d and 1.2e (increasing the extremely low, very low, low- and moderate income housing stock); and Policy HE 1.3 and Action 1.3a (encouraging mixed us development in existing commercial areas, with incentives for the production of higher density, lower-income housing).
Segregation and Integration based on disability. The incidence of disabilities in Artesia is similar to the surrounding areas. As shown in Figure C-1 , the percentage of residents reporting a disability range from less than 10% in the northern portion of the city to between 10% and 20% in other areas.
This map does not indicate a substantial concentration of persons with disabilities. The AFFH identified 9.1% of the disabled population as having incomes under the poverty level, as compared to 7.1% of the non-disabled population (AFFH, Table C-6). Specific policies and actions to address the fair housing needs of this population include Policy HE 1.4 (providing housing for special needs groups) and Actions HE 1.4a (expedited processing for special needs housing) and 1.4b (assistance for special needs housing development); Policy HE 1.2 (increase the extremely-low-, very-low-, lowand moderate-income housing stock) and Actions 1.2d (accessory dwelling units) and 1.2e (housing for lower income households); Action 1.4c (variety of housing types); Action 3.1b (transit-oriented development); Action 4.1b (definition of family); and Action 5.2c (removing constraints to housing entitlement and construction).
Segregation and integration based on familial status. Single parent households and especially femaleheaded households with children require particular focus in providing fair housing due to their higher need for affordable housing, accessible day care, health care, and other supportive services.
Approximately 20% of households in Artesia are single female-headed households with children, which is significantly lower than Los Angeles County, at 29.2%. The census tracts north of Artesia Boulevard and south of 183rd Street have 20-40% female-headed households (see AFFH, Figure C-8).
Large households (five people or more) constitute a larger percentage of Artesia households than the Los Angels County region overall (24.7% vs. 16% in Los Angeles County, per SCAG Local Profiles, LA County 2023).
The Policies and Actions noted above that address segregation and integration based on poverty and disability will encourage production of a range of accessible and affordable housing types and sizes, and support access to fair housing services for all residents.
Access to Opportunities
Access to opportunities are place-based characteristics used to measure links to critical life outcomes.
These measurements usually highlight ways to improve life for low-income communities, as well as increasing access and mobility to “high resource” neighborhoods. Disparities in access to opportunities include access to economics, education, environmental, and transportation opportunities.
According to the 2020 California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC) Opportunity Area Map (Figure C-9), the northern portion of Artesia is within the “Low Resource” area while the other portions of the city are characterized with the “High Resource” designation. These designations are determined by index Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 33
scores for a variety of educational, environmental, and economic indicators, such as employment and proximity to jobs, access to effective educational opportunities for children and adults, concentration of poverty, and levels of environmental pollutants, among others. The low resource area correlates with higher poverty rates but lower disability rates.
Disparities in access to opportunities are prevalent in Urban Los Angels County, of which Artesia is a part, particularly for Black, Hispanic and persons living below the federal poverty line (see AFFH, Table D-6). Although access to opportunities by disadvantaged groups in Artesia are similar to surrounding communities, gaps have been identified in economic, environmental and transportation scores (TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps – AFFH Figures C-13, C-14, C-15).
Specific Actions to address these disparities include: Action HE 3.1b (transit-oriented development); Action HE 1.3a (Mixed Use Overlay zone); Action HE 1.2c (City’s participation in regional, collaborative solutions through the Gateway Cities Council of Governments); and Action HE 1.4c (variety of housing types); and Action 5.2c (reducing constraints to housing production, including application requirements, development fees and approval procedures).
Disproportionate Housing Needs
When a protected class faces significant differences in access to housing in comparison to other members of the community, then there are disproportionate housing needs. Housing burdens include factors such as overcrowding, substandard housing conditions, and homelessness and risk of displacement, as well as the demographic and income factors noted above.
The AFFH has identified that gaps that are most significant within the extremely low-income population, which represents 17.8% of the City’s households. The lower income population is most prevalent among renter households, at 23%, with 57.5 of the renter population spending over 30% of their gross income on housing.
Policies and Actions to address disproportionate housing needs include:
Addressing Cost Burden:
• Policy HE 1.2 Increase the extremely-low, very-low, low- and moderate-income housing stock.
▪ Action 1.2e Housing for Lower Income Households.
• Policy HE 4.3 Provide rental assistance to low-income households. ▪ Action 4.3a Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
Addressing Overcrowding:
• Action 1.4c Variety of Housing Types
▪ Action 4.1b Update to Definition of Family
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 34
Addressing Substandard Housing:
• Policy HE 2.1 Maintain and improve existing housing stock, such as protecting manufactured housing.
• Policy HE 2.2 Continue to enforce the City’s Municipal Code to preserve existing housing stock.
▪ Action 2.2a Code Enforcement actions, including pre-sale inspections.
Addressing Homelessness:
▪ Action 1.4d Emergency shelters and low-barrier navigation center. ▪ Action 4.2a Coordination with Homeless Service Providers Addressing Displacement:
▪ Action 2.1a Mobile Home Park/Manufactured Home Zoning District ▪ Action 2.1b No Net Loss and Replacement of Housing Units Conclusion
This analysis shows that although the northern portion of Artesia has somewhat higher poverty rates and lower opportunity than the southern parts of the city, it does not appear to show patterns of racial segregation or substantial concentrations of poverty or persons with disabilities.
The Housing Plan includes several policies and actions to encourage and facilitate fair housing opportunities and integration for all households, including households of all races/ethnicities, income status, disability, family size, or status. Policy HE 4.1 and Action HE 4.1a in the Housing Plan describes actions the City will take to affirmatively further fair housing and address proactively any issues of housing discrimination that may arise.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 35
Source: California Department of Housing and Community Development, AFFH Data Viewer, 2021 Note: For purposes of this analysis, the Hispanic category is included within the Total Non-White Population Figure H - 2 Racial Characteristics - Artesia
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 36
Figure H - 3 Poverty Status – Artesia
Source: California Department of Housing and Community Development, AFFH Data Viewer, 2021 Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 37
Figure H - 4 Population with a Disability – Artesia
Source: California Department of Housing and Community Development, AFFH Data Viewer, 2021 Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 38
Figure H - 5 TCAC/HCD Opportunity Map – Artesia
Source: California Department of Housing and Community Development, AFFH Data Viewer, 2021 Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 39
Resources and Constraints on Housing Production
California Government Code §65583(a)(5) requires “an analysis of potential and actual governmental constraints upon the maintenance, improvement, or development of housing for all income levels, including land use controls, building codes and their enforcement, site improvements, fees and other exactions required of developers, and local processing and permit procedures…” This subsection of the Housing Element reviews governmental and nongovernmental processes and requirements as potential constraint to housing. Actual or potential constraints can affect the development of new housing or the maintenance of existing units for all income levels. Governmental and non-governmental constraints in Artesia are similar to those in other jurisdictions in the region and are discussed below. One of the most significant constraints to housing in Artesia is the limited amount of available land and, as elsewhere in the Los Angeles County region, the high cost of land.
The State explicitly declared a state of emergency with regards to the production of sufficient housing.
With this crisis in mind, the City has reviewed City standards and codes to identify potential constraints on housing, increase the ease and potential of development, and to affirmatively further fair housing.
Some potential constraints were identified, and programs have been prepared to address them, as discussed below. Some potential programs have also been implemented to help stimulate housing development to address the needs of populations at risk of exclusion from the housing market.
The following analysis is comprised of three primary sections:
1. Resources
2. Governmental Constraints
3. Other Pertinent Ordinances
4. Non-Governmental Constraints
Resources
Availability of Land
Section 65583(a)(3) of the Government Code requires Housing Elements to provide an inventory of land suitable for residential development, including vacant sites and sites having potential for redevelopment, and an analysis of the relationship of zoning and public facilities and services to these sites. A detailed analysis of vacant land and underutilized parcels with potential for intensification and/or reuse is provided in Appendix B, which shows that the land inventory is sufficient to accommodate the City’s RHNA allocation for the planning period in all income categories. The sites are divided between Opportunity Areas and are defined as Opportunity Sites. There are currently no known service or infrastructure limitations that would preclude the level of development described in the RHNA.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 40
The proposed Opportunity Sites to accommodate RHNA were chosen to increase access to public transit, increased value for development potential (primarily with density increases and options), and to create housing that will meet the needs of members of the community.
Financial and Administrative Resources
The City participates in a consortium with the County of Los Angeles and 12 other cities known as the Los Angeles County Urban County Program. The Urban County Program receives CDBG and HOME funding on a formula as is from the U.S. government. Funds are distributed by the County of Los Angeles to individual jurisdictions. The City is working with SCAG to identify and implement a strategy to implement these resources.
CDBG funds can be used for the following activities:
• Acquisition
• Rehabilitation
• Home Buyer Assistance
• Economic Development
• Homeless Assistance
• Public Services
• Public Improvements
• Rent Subsidies
HOME funds can be used for the following activities:
• New Construction
• Acquisition
• Rehabilitation
• Home Buyer Assistance
• Rental Assistance
Governmental Constraints
Governmental constraints can limit the supply of housing in the region, making it difficult to meet the demand for housing. Governmental constraints can include policies, standards, requirements, or actions imposed by the various levels of government upon land use and development. These constraints may include land use controls, growth management measures, building codes, fees and processing, and permit procedures.
Land Use Controls
Land use controls take a number of forms that affect the development of housing. These controls include General Plan policies, zoning designations (and the resulting use restrictions, development Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 41
standards, and permit processing requirements), development fees and local growth management programs.
General Plan
Each city and county is required by State Law to have a General Plan, which establishes policy guidelines for development. The General Plan is the foundation of all land use controls in a jurisdiction.
The Land Use Element of the General Plan identifies the location, distribution, and density of the land uses within the City. General Plan residential densities are expressed as dwelling units per acre. The Artesia General Plan identifies four land use designations that provide for residential uses, as shown in Table H-28.
Table H-28. General Plan Residential Land Use Categories Designation Description Density Standard
Low Density Residential Primarily single-family detached units 7 du/ac High Density Residential Typically includes multifamily units as either rental or ownership real estate 30 du/ac
City Center Mixed Use
An overlay to facilitate a variety of housing
types and the potential for more
commercial space.
Maximum density: 70 du/acre
Pioneer Boulevard Commercial
Integrated, mixed-use commercial and
residential development (a developer
could choose between these standards
and those of the MUO).
30 du/ac
Source: City of Artesia Land Use Element, 2021
Housing affordability is generally related to density, and State law establishes “default densities” that are assumed to be necessary to facilitate production of lower-income housing. For small cities like Artesia in metropolitan areas, a density of at least 30 units per acre is considered suitable for lowerincome housing. Most of Artesia’s General Plan land use designations allow densities at this default density.
Zoning Code
The Zoning Code is a component of the City’s Municipal Code and is one of the primary tools for implementing the General Plan. The Zoning Code establishes allowable uses, development standards, and approval procedures for different zoning districts. As in many cities, standardized zoning regulations have been established for various residential districts (such as single-family residential or multi-family residential) while “specific plans” have been adopted for areas where customized standards address special characteristics in a limited geographic area. The Mixed-Use Overlay shall also be implemented, which will offer new opportunities to build mixed uses and at higher densities. Where an overlay and a specific plan overlap, the standards of either may be utilized unless the site is subject to additional State boundaries (i.e., properties with carryover and previously identified sites).
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 42
Zoning Districts
Table H-29 summarizes the permitted residential uses in each zone where residential use is allowed.
The A-1 (Agriculture-Single Family Residential), R-1 (Single-Family Residential), M-R (Multiple Family Residential), and M-D-R (Medium Density Residential) zones are the primary residential zones. Singlefamily uses are permitted in all of these zones, while multi-family developments are permitted in the M-R zone. Attached duplexes are permitted in the M-D-R zone while condominiums are permitted in the C-O (Condominium) zone.
The M-R Zoning District allows two family residential development, as does MDR. In the Artesia Municipal Code, a Duplex has the same meaning as Two-family dwellings. The review process for the development for both is the same.
Table H-29. Permitted Residential Uses by Zoning District Use A-1 R-1 M-R M-D-R C-O
Single Family Detached4 P P P P --
Congregate Living Health Facilities3
-- -- -- -- --
Two and Three Family Dwellings -- -- P -- --
Apartment Houses -- -- P -- --
Homes for the Aged and Rest Homes -- -- CUP -- --
Attached Duplexes -- -- -- P --
Condominiums -- -- -- -- P
Mobile home park -- -- -- -- --
Notes:
1. P=Principal Use Permitted
2. CUP=Permitted with a Conditional Use Permit
3. Congregate living population density and spacing restrictions are to be removed as well as the Conditional Use Permit process.
4. Manufactured homes are permitted as a single-family detached dwellings or ADUs.
Source: City of Artesia Municipal Code Title 9, Chapter 2, 2021.
Development standards for residential districts are shown in Table H-30. The A-1, R-1, and M-D-R residential zones require development to be built no higher than 2 stories or 30 feet while the M-R zone permits development to be built no higher than 2 stories or 35 feet. After dialogue with the State, the City has decided to pursue the pro-housing stance of allowing another story in the M-R Zoning District, so that three stories can be constructed. Furthermore, M-D-R and M-R will not have lot coverage requirements, and setbacks and height limits will be the framework for how much can be constructed. These code changes are based on State suggestions to create a more housing-friendly zoning code, and these alterations will be addressed through Action HE 5.2c Remove Constraints. In addition, as shown in Appendix B, there are only 6 vacant M-R parcels totaling just over one acre Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 43
remaining in the City. Most future residential development is expected to occur in other zoning districts where higher densities and taller buildings are permitted, such as the Mixed-Use Overlay.
Single-family detached units with 5 or more bedrooms currently require a conditional use permit granted by the Planning Commission through a public hearing process and must satisfy the following conditions:
• The lot or parcel is adequate in size to accommodate a dwelling with 5 or more bedrooms and still provide open space, landscaping, and other outdoor amenities as required by this chapter.
• The mass and scale of the dwelling unit is harmonious with the character of the neighborhood and with the existing development pattern on abutting lots or parcels. • The proposed physical orientation of the dwelling unit on the lot or parcel is appropriate for the shape of the lot, the location of outdoor living areas, and the placement and orientation of surrounding homes and structures.
• The dwelling is designed for only single-family use.
Based on dialogues with the State and taking a pro-housing stance, the City of Artesia shall remove restrictions on the amount of permitted bedrooms in a single-family home before a CUP is required.
Removing the requirements for a CUP based on room quantity may increase access to the development of lower income housing and housing for large families. This proposal will be accomplished through Action HE 5.2c, Remove Constraints.
The creation of the Mixed-Use Overlay will generate new housing and commercial opportunities throughout the City with higher densities opportunities to spur development.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 44
Table H-30. Residential Development Standards
Standards
Zoning Districts
Agriculture-Single
Family Residential
(A-1)
Single Family
Residential
(R-1)
Medium Density
Residential
(M-D-R)
Multiple
Residential
(M-R)
Condominium
(C-O)
Minimum Lot area 10,000 sf 6,000 sf 3,800 sf 5,000 sf 60,000 sf Maximum dwelling
units
1 unit/lot 1 unit/lot 2 units/lot 1 du/ 1,800 sf 1 du/3,000 sf Maximum density 4.4 du/ac1 7.3 du/ac1 23 du/ac2 24.2 du/ac3 14.52 du/ac3 Maximum height 2 stories/30 feet 2 stories/30 feet 3 Stories 2 3 Stories -- Maximum lot
coverage
50% 50% 50% 50% N/A N/A
Minimum lot width 50 ft 50 ft 45 ft 50 ft 100 ft
Minimum front yard 20 ft 20 ft 14 ft 15 ft 15 ft
Minimum interior side
yard
10 % of lot width,
not less than 3 ft in
width and need
not exceed 5 ft
10 % of lot width,
not less than 3 ft in
width and need
not exceed 5 ft
5 ft 5 ft 5 ft
Minimum rear yard 15 ft 5 ft 16 ft 5 ft 15 ft
Sf = square feet; Ft = feet
1. Maximum density based on minimum lot area required.
2. Maximum density based on a maximum of 2 dwelling units on a lot with the minimum lot area required.
3. Maximum density based on the minimum lot area required per dwelling unit.
Multifamily will now permit 3 story height limits, and lot coverage will be removed—lot setbacks and height limits will restrict development in place of lot coverage and current height requirements. These changes result from dialogue with HCD and assuming a pro-housing stance in Artesia.
Source: City of Artesia Municipal Code Title 9, Chapter 2 Specific Plans
Specific plans are authorized by State law (Government Code §65450, et seq.) and typically replace many of the general standards that apply to conventional zoning districts. Sites that are subject to a Specific Plan and the Mixed-Use Overlay may develop with either set of development standards, unless the sites are incorporating housing. If a site is to develop housing it must utilize the MUO density and required unit count by income. Developments that propose residential uses shall incorporate the units by income group identified in the Sites Inventory/Appendix B. Artesia has adopted several specific plans that allow residential uses:
• Artesia LIVE Specific Plan, adopted in 2016, is intended to facilitate development of a 7- story mixed-use project located on a 0.82-acre site at the southeast corner of Pioneer Boulevard and 176th Street. This specific plan allows 54 residential condominiums (approximately 67 units/acre), hotel rooms, and commercial space. The site could also be developed with MUO standards.
• Pioneer Specific Plan. This project includes commercial development and senior housing and is fully developed. This Plan allows for some fully residential development and some commercially focused. The proposed housing in the current cycle is outside of this Specific Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 45
Plan; however, a developer could still utilize MUO standards if a site was redeveloped.
Application of the Specific Plan is elective and not required. The image below is extracted from the specific plan and illustrates the location of residential units (Figure H-6). • Artesia Downtown Specific Plan. The Artesia Downtown Specific Plan was adopted in 2025 to create a higher-density urban core centered around the intersection of Artesia Boulevard and Pioneer Boulevard. It sets forth development standards with a minimum residential density of 70 du/acre. Figure H - 17 and Error! Reference source not found. beginning on page 169 below show the general layout of the specific plan area, and Table H-49 on page 170 shows the development standards.
Figure H - 6 Pioneer Specific Plan
Source: Pioneer Specific Plan, City of Artesia
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 46
• Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan: This specific plan is intended to facilitate the revitalization of a 21-acre area along Artesia Boulevard between Gridley Road and Pioneer Boulevard that was historically composed of industrial and commercial uses. The plan allows mixed-use and residential development in three of its four quadrants. Quadrants 1 and 4 allow residential uses at densities up to 10 du/ac while Quadrant 3 allows residential uses at densities up to 30 du/ac. Table H-30 summarizes development standards for the quadrants permitting residential uses within the Specific Plan. Stand-alone residential developments are permitted in all quadrants where residential use is allowed. Application of the Specific Plan is elective, and therein not a barrier to housing development as other development options are available—maximum density applies to that specific plan not the MUO. Figure H-7 illustrates the Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan location, Table H31 and Table H-32 summarize development standards for the Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 47
Figure H - 7 Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 48
Table H-31. Development Standards – Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan Standards
Quadrant
1 3 4
Maximum Height 2 stories/ 35 ft. 3 stories/ 45 ft. 2 stories/ 35 ft.
Maximum Density 10 du/ac 30 du/ac 10 du/ac
Minimum Unit Sizes
Live/Work – 400 sq. ft.
One Bedroom – 600 sq. ft.
Two Bedrooms – 750 sq. ft.
Three Bedrooms – 1,000 sq. ft.
Street Setbacks 5 ft. minimum1
Interior property line not abutting
residentially zoned property No minimum
Interior property line abutting
residentially zoned property
10’-0” landscaped with trees – building setback2
8’-0” landscaped with trees – parking lot setback
Open Space Requirements Minimum Usable Common Open Space - 150 sq. ft./unit Minimum Private Outdoor Space - 50 sq. ft./unit
Notes:
1. Sf = square feet; Ft = feet
2. Where the building fronts the street along its side and/or front property lines, the first 20’ in height of a structure shall be set back a minimum of 5’ from the side and/or front property line. The building shall step back at a minimum of 15’ from the adjacent side and/or front property line at a height above 20’.
3. Where a building abuts or adjoins residentially zoned property along its side and/or rear property lines, the first 20’ in height of a structure shall be set back a minimum of 10’ from the side and/or rear property line. The building shall step back a minimum of 20’ from the adjacent side/or rear property line at a height above 20’. The building shall step back a minimum of 30’ from the adjacent side/or rear property line at a height above 35’.
Source: Artesia Boulevard Specific Plan, 2021
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 49
Table H-32. Residential Parking Requirements in Artesia Boulevard Specific Plan Type of Residential
Development No. of Bedrooms Required Parking Spaces Comments Two-Family and Multifamily Residential Uses
2-family, 3-family, and
apartments
1 bedroom
1 space for one bedroom
unit, 2 enclosed parking
spaces per dwelling unit
-
3 bedrooms 2 ½ enclosed parking
spaces per dwelling unit -
4 bedrooms 3 enclosed parking spaces
per dwelling unit -
>4 bedrooms
2 enclosed parking spaces
per dwelling unit plus ½
space per bedroom in
each unit exceeding 2
bedrooms
Plus 1 guest parking space for 4 or
more units with 1 additional space
for every 3 units after the 4th unit
M-D-R zone -
1 space for one bedroom
unit, 2 spaces for 4 2 or
more less bedrooms, 3
spaces for more than 4
bedrooms.
-
Artesia Boulevard Corridor
Specific Plan Area - 2 per unit4 Plus 0.25 guest parking spaces per unit4 Source: City of Artesia, Municipal Code, Section 9.2.113
1. The term “enclosed” means the parking space is enclosed in a garage.
2. The term “paved” means the parking space is not enclosed but is comprised of a paved pad located in front of the garage and designed so that an automobile can be parked on it, provided that the distance between the garage and the public right-of-way is at least 20 feet.
3. For dwellings with 5 or greater bedrooms, the number of indicated parking spaces shall be provided, or the number of off-street parking spaces specified in the conditional use permit issued for the development pursuant to Section 9-2.2804(d).
4. Tandem parking is permitted in the Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan area.
Note: Standards as of 10/15/2021
Housing Opportunity Overlay Zone
In 2019 the City adopted a Housing Opportunity Overlay (HOO) Zone to facilitate the development of affordable multi-family housing, enable the City to meet its housing goals, and ensure that affordable housing developments will be compatible with surrounding land uses. The HOO encompasses 70 parcels totaling approximately 19 acres. The HOO creates the option for higher-density development consistent with the overlay district as an alternative to the underlying zoning, which is single-family or multi-family residential. This overlay is an alternative to the underlying zoning, however if residential is proposed the site must use the MUO with the minimum density and required units by income. When constructing residential uses, the MUO governs.
Projects meeting the standards of the Overlay may be permitted by-right subject to an administrative review process. At least 20% of units in each project must be reserved for households earning no greater than 80% of area median income adjusted for family size, and units must be sold or rented at Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 50
an affordable housing cost or affordable rent, as those terms are defined in Sections 50052.5 and 50053 of the California Health and Safety Code. If the units are rental units, the affordable units shall be deed-restricted for a period of not less than 55 years. For-sale units must be sold in accordance with California Government Code Section 65915.
Figure H - 8below illustrates the location of the Housing Opportunity Overlay Zone, and the former boundaries of the original vision of the Mixed-Use Overlay. The HOO, if under the Mixed Use Overlay, shall be required to utilize the MUO if residential is proposed as a minimum density is required.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 51
Figure H - 8 Housing Opportunity Overlay and Former Mixed Use Overlay Boundaries Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 52
Mixed Use Overlay Zone (MU-O)
In July 2025, the City enacted a Mixed-Use Overlay Zone along the primary downtown corridors of Pioneer Boulevard and Artesia Boulevard to encourage mixed-use development within the City.
Mixed-use development is intended to increase the supply of affordable housing in the city while promoting pedestrian and multi-model access. The MU-O has three overlay zones; which determine the permitted heights and set forth minimum required residential densities. The MU-O enables a formbased density bonus, which allows an increase in height if minimum affordable units are included.
Figure H-9 illustrates the three zones that determine the base and bonus heights.
Importantly, where an Opportunity Site is identified within the MU-O, a developer must construct housing according to the assigned income levels for that site, or pay an in-lieu fee to support the City’s requirement to provide affordable housing.
The three zones within the MUO have the following maximum residential heights and minimum densities (See Figure H-7):
1. Where maximum allowable building height is three stories, maximum density is 70 dwelling units per acre minimum; Artesia Density Bonus height shall be four stories.
2. Where maximum allowable building height is four stories, maximum density is 70 dwelling units per acre minimum; and Artesia Density Bonus height shall be five stories.
3. Where maximum allowable building height is five stories, maximum density is 100 dwelling units per acre minimum. Artesia Density Bonus height shall be six stories.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 53
Figure H - 9 Height Limits within the Mixed-Use Overlay Source: Mixed Use Overlay, City of Artesia
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 54
Local Processing and Permit Procedures
Two ways in which Cities might restrict housing is through permitting procedures and time delays.
The time it takes to review and approve a project within Artesia varies based on the size and complexity of the proposed project. The difference in approval timing in example: a new single-family development that is on a parcel of land zoned Single-Family Residential and that meets the requirements of that zoning district will be processed quicker than a proposed project that needs to achieve a rezone and full environmental review.
The City of Artesia’s 5th Cycle Housing Element had several programs that either called for or could apply to the need for a Ministerial Review Approval Process, several Programs within the current 6th Cycle Housing Element require or benefit from the ministerial process. Upon review of current City development processes, it was determined that a clarified ministerial process was needed—further detail below.
Permitted Housing Type by Residential Zoning Districts
A variety of housing types are permitted in multiple residential zoning districts within the City. The local residential housing stock is primarily single-family homes, however there is also medium, high density, and recent mixed use residential development within the community. The historic pattern of low-density land use and growing interest in mixed use development will be supported by the MixedUse Overlay (MU-O). The MUO will be implemented with the goal of protecting the historic pattern of low-density residential land use in single-family residential areas while also generating new opportunities for residential space within the City primarily on commercial areas along primary arterials. In complement to these development goals, there are existing developments within the City illustrating an increase in density and use diversity (additional information in Site Inventory). The fact that there is current development of mixed-use housing and the proposed increases in density within the MUO creates an opportunity for new development under the permitted zoning densities that is not inconsistent with the nature, condition and development of adjacent uses, buildings, or structures.
Table H-33 illustrates what residential types are permitted per residential district; residential development will also be permitted in commercial areas by way of the Mixed-Use Overlay.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 55
Table H-33. Residential Zoning Districts Housing Types Permitted by Zoning District Zoning District
Agriculture-Single
Family Residence
(A-1)
Single Family
Residence
(R-1)
Medium Density
Residential
(M-D-R)
Condominium
(C-O)
Multiple
Residential
(M-R)
1 DU P P P NP P
2-4 DU NP P P P P
5+ DU NP NP P P P P
Residential Care
Facility < 6P
P P P P P
Residential Care
Facility > 6P
P P P P P
Emergency Shelter NP NP NP NP NP
Manufactured
Homes
P P P NP P
Mobile-Home Parks NP NP NP NP NP
Transitional
Housing
P P P P P
Supportive Housing P P P P P
Accessory DU P P P P P
P = Permitted
CUP = Conditional Use Permit
NP = Not Permitted
Source: City of Artesia Zoning Code
Through review of State law, some housing types that were subject to a Conditional Use Permit shall now be permitted by right. This is an action to affirmatively further fair housing for populations that may face barriers to housing access, these uses include all State mandated shared housing (from workforce housing to transitional housing) and shelters. Additionally, large families or shared housing of five or more rooms/people face issues with accessing housing, and with this in mind, the City is also removing the CUP process for homes of five or more bedrooms.
Permit Process
The procedures for processing and permitting can be a considerable constraint to the production and improvement of local housing. Some of the constraints that are often associated with permitting can include lengthy processing time, unclear permitting procedures, layered reviews, multiple discretionary review requirements, excessive review time frames, costly conditions of approval, completeness of the development application submittal, responsiveness of developers to staff comments and requests for information, level of environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act, requirement of rezoning or general plan amendment, or application Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 56
subject to public hearing before the City’s Planning Commission or City Council. The complexity and time of these processes can have an increased impact on the cost and financial risk of development and lead to uncertainty in the development of the project.
Three levels of decision-making bodies govern the review process for residential developments in Artesia: Administrative staff review, the Planning Commission, and City Council. Ministerial review shall be reviewed in compliance with State law with a reduced time frame and design review. All projects except a Single-Family Home and Ministerial Projects must receive Design Review and approval by the Planning Commission.
Due to the Housing Accountability Act, local agencies are severely restricted in restricting affordable housing for low and moderate-income households, housing that complies with objective standards, and effectively restricts a local government entity to deny or condition a project to achieve lower density. To support these goals the Mixed-Use Overlay shall implement Objective Design Standards to facilitate development. The City of Artesia follows the Housing Accountability Act provisions with the review of housing development projects.
As part of the implementation of the Housing Accountability Act, Action HE 1.2b Compliance with State Density Bonus Law, commits to annual review of processes and compliance with ministerial processes and to edit the City’s Municipal Code in the entitlement review procedures section to add provisions of the law to restrict the ability of a local agency to deny, render infeasible, or condition housing development projects.
All potential process applicants may request a pre-application meeting. On weekdays, staff covers the front counter to answer questions on demand (when possible) for any City related Planning needs.
After the lunch break, applicants may schedule an informational or pre-application meeting and this can be accommodated, generally, within a couple of days. A formal complete application is required of any process. From the time of application, staff reviews compliance and completion of submitted documentation, and then staff either provides an incomplete letter, an approval, or assistance with guiding the next steps in the process. Next steps may include design review and approval by the commission, and also City Council if the structure is large enough. In addition to these processes, there are also development options that allow for ministerial approval.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 57
Table H-34. Typical Process Outline for a Residential Project:
Housing Project Process Procedure
Optional: Pre-development meeting, over the counter staff feedback Application is submitted to the City
Utilizing the application, a City staff person composes a Project Description Staff requests clarifications and/or additional information Once an applicant has applied with the City, the Application package is shared within the City and with the applicable County review entities, such as the Building and Fire Department City staff person collects all inhouse comments and composes an Incomplete Letter, then sends the Letter to the Applicant
City staff person available to address any comments or questions before resubmittal City staff reviews second review with revisions based on Incomplete Letter City states Application is “complete” and sends Letter of Completeness to the Applicant City staff helps manage and initiate Design Review, General Plan or Zoning Code changes if necessary for the proposed development, or process approval for Ministerial approval City staff issues notification to the Applicant what technical studies are needed for Staff review, including environmental documentation
City contracts an Initial Study (if necessary)
City conducts tribal consultation (if necessary)
City receives environmental documentation determining the impacts of a proposed development (often infill development is exempt or a Mitigated Negative Declaration) City arranges with State and public review of Mitigated Negative Declaration City compiles and responds to all comments pertaining to environmental documentation City implements the final Mitigated Negative Declaration, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program City schedules Planning Commission Public Hearing
City prepares Staff Report, Conditions of Approval, and Resolutions for CEQA document City hosts Public Hearing, presents Staff Report, with Recommendations, Conditions of Approval Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 58
Development Review
Three levels of decision-making bodies govern the review process for residential developments in Artesia: Administrative staff review, the Planning Commission, and City Council. Ministerial review shall be reviewed in compliance with State law with a reduced time frame and design review. a. Administrative Review:
New single-family home construction and remodels may be approved administratively without design review.
Multi-Family properties, including Mixed Use:
Planning Commission Design Review is required of any structure or alteration that is not on a singlefamily home. • Design Review is applied concurrently with application for development and typically can be reviewed by the Planning Commission within 4 weeks.
Planning Commission and City Council Design review is required of any structure or alteration that is not on a single-family home for multi-family residential that is over 35 feet in height and/or 20,000 square feet.
• Design Review is applied for concurrently with application for development, and typically can be reviewed by the Planning Commission within 4 weeks. City Council can usually be scheduled within two to four weeks after the Commission hearing. b. Ministerial Review:
Projects will be processed ministerially in compliance with objective guidelines.
The City has chosen to create a paradigm shift in how projects are reviewed to address the Housing Crisis. The new Mixed Use Overlay shall offer an ample list of options for increased ministerial review, through Action HE 5.2d Ministerial Design Review Process and the adoption of the Mixed Use Overlay.
This will create ample opportunity for development to affirmatively further fair housing access. Some of the projects that will now be able to be reviewed ministerially include the following:
1. Four or fewer residential units: moderate, low, very low income.
2. Multifamily Housing providing at least 40% low-income housing.
3. Any project exempt from CEQA review.
4. Inclusion of a variety of housing types: Single Room Occupancy (in accordance with Government Code Section 65583 and 65583.2), emergency shelters, employee housing, and transitional housing, supportive housing, multi-family.
5. Properties with 100% low or very low-income units.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 59
6. Properties accommodating senior residents or people disability may apply for a reasonable accommodation procedure to remove parking count requirements.
7. State mandated projects such as Code 65583.2 h) and i), c)
8. Mixed Use developments that include affordable housing
9. Single room occupancy residential facilities
10. Emergency shelters
11. Transitional housing
12. Supportive housing
c. Single-Family and Multiple-Family Housing Development Process Time Comparison The entitlement process for single-family homes and tenant improvements can be processed in 30 days or receive an incomplete letter within that time. This assumes that the residential project is proposed in a zone that allows residential uses, and the project meets the minimum development and site standards set forth in the Artesia Municipal Code. No public hearing is required.
Multi-family projects can take 30 days (ministerial) to up to 12 weeks if City Council Design Review is required. The City Council Design Review is required for structures over 35 feet, or 20,000 square feet.
The City does allow for simultaneous review of entitlements, when possible, to help reduce review time on proposed projects. As is required through the Permit Streamlining Act, City staff ensures that non-legislative proposals are heard at the Planning Commission within 60 days of receipt of an application being deemed complete.
Table H-35. Typical Processing Procedures by Project Type Typical Approval
Requirements
One SingleFamily Unit Subdivision Muti-family Multifamily - Over 35 feet, or 20,000 Sf
Residential
Ministerial
Approval
Approval Process Ministerial Commission/
Design Review
Council
Commission
/Design
Review
Commission/Design
Review
Council/Design
Review
Ministerial
Estimated Total
Processing Time
30 days 4-6 Months 30 days 60 days 30 days
Note: A 30-day conceptual approval time is assuming a complete application and documents such as site plans that are compliant.
Review of Constraints: Permit Process
The residential permit process can be a barrier to developing affordable housing. With this in mind, and due to the housing crisis and to make a meaningful action to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing, Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 60
the City has clarified the residential ministerial review process, committed to making objective design standards, and increased the options of types of homes that can be reviewed ministerially.
Residential Ministerial review is only applicable to housing addressing the needs of certain populations or State determined applicability. Projects that seek to implement streamlined approval will have different requirements for submission than discretionary projects, with regard to Planning Department submissions. Projects seeking ministerial review must determine eligibility, submit a preapplication, and a final application.
The State of California specifically suggested certain actions to address the Housing Crisis. State specific suggestions to improve access to housing include:
Improved processing and permit procedures:
• Streamline design review process and prepare clear, objective guidelines. • Adopt ministerial permit procedures for multifamily, transitional housing, and supportive housing in multifamily zones.
• Establish ministerial procedures for multifamily uses in areas zoned for multifamily uses. • Increase the use of ministerial processing for a variety of housing types. • Improved development process for housing:
• Reduce, waive, or modify certain development standards to promote affordable housing development.
• Adopt ministerial permit procedures for multifamily, transitional housing, and supportive housing in multifamily zones.
To affirmatively further fair housing and to remove constraints on the production of housing, the City shall review the following Ministerially:
1. Four or fewer residential units: moderate, low, very low income
2. Multifamily Housing providing at least 40% low-income housing.
3. Any project ministerial from CEQA
4. Inclusion of a variety of housing types: Single Room Occupancy (in accordance with Government Code Section 65583 and 65583.2), emergency shelters, employee housing, and transitional housing, supportive housing, multi-family
5. Properties with 100% low or very low-income units.
6. Properties accommodating senior residents or people disability may apply for a reasonable accommodation procedure to remove parking count requirements.
7. State mandated projects such as Code 65583.2 h) and i), c) A site developed below the potential residential density of a site may be a constraint with access to housing, especially with regard to lower income housing options. Within the City of Artesia, minimum development densities are not enforced. With the implementation of the Mixed-Use Overlay, if residential is constructed then the minimum density permitted in the Zoning District shall be implemented and if the site is a very low, low income or a site that was previously identified than State Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 61
mandated densities and use by right shall be implemented. These expectations are intended as a way to remove Constraints on the production of certain housing types. a. City of Artesia Design Review, Variances, and Conditional Use Permits More complex projects requiring a variance, zone change, or conditional use permit require a higher level of review and thus have a longer processing timeline. The entitlement process for discretionary permits, a zone change, general plan amendment, tract map, and conditional use permit application typically require 4 to 12 months to receive final approval. Zone changes and general plan amendments are first heard by the Planning Commission, then the City Council. For the majority of these cases, the Planning Commission will review the item and render a decision within 90 days of application submittal. Typical project processing time-frames are provided in Table H-36, below.
Table H-36. Timelines for Permit Procedures
Type of Approval, Permit, or Review Typical Processing Time Ministerial Review 30 days
Condition Use Permit 4-6 months
Zoning Amendment (Zone Change) 9-12 months
General Plan Amendment 9-12 months
Site Plan Review 30 days
Design Review 30 days
Subdivision Maps 4-6 months
Variance 1-2 months
Administrative Variance 1 month
Environmental Impact Report 1 year or more
These dates are estimates and are intended to define when an applicant would receive a decision about their projects. These time periods begin after a complete application is submitted, and the timeline is elongated when additional information is needed to process the application.
The following is a review of the City of Artesia Design Review, Variances, and Conditional Use Permits. b. Design Review
Currently all development within the City of Artesia, other than the Agricultural-Single-Family Residential (A-1), Single-Family Residential (R-1), or Medium Density Residential (M-D-R) Zones, or the Multiple-Residential (M-R) Zone only if the building or structure is a one family dwelling unit require Design Review by the Planning Commission (AMC § 9-2.2001). Additionally, AMC § 9-2.2007 requires that structures that are more than 35’ in height or 20,000 square feet in area also receive design approval by City Council.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 62
AMC § 9-2.2005 Criteria for Approval of Design Review Applications. (a) The design and layout of the proposed development or structures is consistent with the City's general plan, any applicable specific plan, any applicable design guidelines, and the development standards set forth in this chapter;
(b) The design of the structures, including the layout, size, shape, mass, height, architectural elements, and other design factors are appropriate to the size and shape of the lot and are compatible and harmonious with the uses and structures on adjacent properties; (c) The design of the project will provide a desirable environment for its occupants, the visiting public, and its neighbors through good aesthetic use of high-quality building materials, design elements, colors, textures, and landscape features; and (d) The building materials and design features are of a quality and type that will remain aesthetically appealing over time without necessitating frequent and unrealistic maintenance or replacement.
Note: Underlined text highlights wording that may be subjective.
To affirmatively further fair housing and to permit sufficient density to generate affordable housing, the City has implemented in the Mixed-Use Overlay that includes a ministerial review option to create a streamlined objective review process for developments including affordable housing. One would either develop under current development conditions or include affordable housing and increase the ease of review and approval. See the Mixed-Use Overlay information in the Sites Inventory section.
Review of Constraints: Design Review Process
The criteria for Design Review within the City has multiple subjective criteria, and this can pose a barrier to development at times. This is why ministerial development review is not held to subjective criteria. With this in mind, and due to the housing crisis and to make a meaningful action to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing, the City has clarified the Residential Ministerial review process, committed to making Objective Design Standards, and increased the options of types of homes that can be reviewed ministerially. Projects that incorporate affordable housing are incentivized by offering objective review and increased densities.
The City shall update the Design Review Process to remove subjective standards as required criteria and provide more objective design standards. Action HE 5.2c Remove Constraints to Housing Entitlement and Construction will address updating the design review process to not require subjective standards and to clarify objective standards. c. Variances
If an applicant proposes to develop in a way that deviates substantially from established development requirements of the City, such as the Zoning Code, a request and approval of a Variance is required.
In the City of Artesia there are Variances and Administrative Variances. Variances offer deviations from Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 63
development standards (such as lot coverage and building height), not from use restrictions established within the Zoning Code.
The Variance process requires a request to be heard and approved by the Planning Commission and the process typically takes two months. An Administrative Variance can typically be completed within a month.
Variance Code Requirements
AMC § 9-2.1705 Variances.
(a) Planning Commission Action. Except as otherwise provided in Subsection (d) of this section, the Planning Commission shall hear and decide all applications for a variance to the provisions of this chapter and shall hold a duly noticed public hearing on each such application. (b) Required Findings. In granting a variance, the Planning Commission, the City Council on appeal, or the Planning Director (as authorized by Subsection (d) below), must make the following findings:
(1) There are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the property that do not apply generally to other properties in the same vicinity and zone; and
(2) The variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of substantial property rights possessed by owners of other properties in the same vicinity and zone, but which is denied the owner of the subject property; and
(3) The granting of the variance will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity; and (4) The grant of this variance does not constitute a special privilege to the applicant. (c) Conditions. In granting a variance, the Planning Commission, the City Council on appeal, or the Planning Director (Administrative Variance), may impose reasonable conditions to mitigate the impacts of the variance.
(d) Administrative Variances.
(1) Criteria. Review and approval for the following administrative variance requests shall be made by the Director of Planning, based on the findings contained in Subsection (b) of this section and any additional findings required by this subsection, except that if the development project will otherwise require review by the Planning Commission, the Planning Director may refer the request for the administrative variance to the Planning Commission in conjunction with the other project approval:
(A) Satellite antennas. The restrictions contained in Section 9-2.903 governing satellite antenna locations and dimensions may be modified in order for the applicant to attain reasonable television or radio reception on the subject property.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 64
(B) Side yard setbacks in R-1 Single-Family Residential Zone. The minimum setback for a side yard in the Single-Family Residential Zone (R-1) may be decreased for the construction of a detached garage provided said garage is a minimum of six feet from the primary structure, the detached garage does not project into the front yard, and all other criteria specified in Section 9-2.2805 are satisfied.
(C) Rear yard setbacks in the R-1 Single-Family Residential Zone. The minimum setback for a rear yard in the Single-Family Residential Zone (R-1) may be decreased to allow a detached garage to be located in the required rear yard provided all other criteria specified in Section 9-2.2805 are satisfied. (2) Procedures. An applicant for an administrative variance shall file an application and pay an application fee in the amount set forth by resolution of the City Council. Prior to rendering a decision on the application, the Director shall provide written notice to owners of property that is contiguous to the property that is the subject of the application. The notice shall contain a description of the type and location of the requested administrative variance and the anticipated decision date and shall allow 10 days to submit comments to the City. Upon the passage of such 10-day period, the Director of Planning may render a decision. Any decision of the Planning Director may be appealed to the Planning Commission by any person within 10 days after notice of the decision has been provided to the applicant.
Review of Constraints: Variance Process
Variances are intended to be the exception, not a readily available option, to manage property design.
The City’s process is not a constraint, and the State mandate allows certain affordable development to request concessions of development standards that would address potential constraints on housing production in this regard.
d. Conditional Use Permit (CUP)
The purpose and intent of the CUP is to ensure that those uses which are not permitted by right are located, planned, and used in such a manner as not to be detrimental to the abutting properties and to the community as a whole. Appeals to a commission vote are taken to City Council. AMC § 9-2.1704 sets forth the following findings for approving a CUP:
(1) The proposed conditional use is not in substantial conflict with the General Plan; (2) The proposed conditional use will not adversely affect health, safety, and general welfare; (3) The site for the proposed conditional use is adequate in size and shape to accommodate the yards, walls, fences, parking and loading facilities, landscaping, and other development features set forth in this chapter or as required as a condition in order to integrate such use with the uses in the neighborhood; and
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 65
(4) The site for the proposed conditional use is served by highways and streets adequate in width and improved as necessary to carry the kind and quantity of traffic such use will generate.
The conditions imposed by the Commission for a conditional use permit may involve any pertinent factor affecting the establishment, operation, and maintenance of the requested use, including, but not limited to:
(1) Special yards, open spaces, and buffer areas;
(2) Fences and walls;
(3) Parking facilities, including vehicular ingress and egress and the surfacing of parking areas and driveways to specified standards;
(4) Street and highway dedications and improvements, including sidewalks, curbs, and gutters; (5) Water supply and fire protection in accordance with the provisions of Article 1, Chapter 2, Title 4 of this Code;
(6) Landscaping and the maintenance of the grounds;
(7) The regulation of nuisance factors, such as noise, vibration, smoke, dust, dirt, odors, gases, noxious matter, heat, glare, electro-magnetic disturbances, and radiation; (8) The regulation of operating hours for activities affecting normal neighborhood schedules and functions;
(9) The regulation of signs, including outdoor advertising; (10) A specified validation period limiting the time in which the development may begin; (11) Provisions for a bond or other surety that the proposed conditional use will be removed on or before a specified date;
(12) A site plan indicating all details and data as set forth in this chapter, subject to the provisions of Article 20 of this chapter; and
(13) Such other conditions as will make possible the development of the proposed conditional use in an orderly and efficient manner and in general accord with all of the elements of the General Plan and the intent and purposes of this chapter.
Review of Constraints: Conditional Use Permit Process
The Conditional Use Permit is intended to define what projects may fit in the community, but with carefully co-planned development. The goal of a CUP is to have City influence with Development.
With this regard there is not a constraint on development, however it is important to note that certain developments cannot be subject to a CUP. In cases where ministerial review is established by State law (i.e., SB-35, AB 2011, etc.), State-mandated housing types such as worker housing to shelters, or be local Code options, housing projects to not receive subjective findings of any entitlement (including conditional use permits) or subjective criteria to the project.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 66
Appeals
In general, any potential issues that arise during the development review process are addressed and resolved during the review stage. Sometimes, however, there is community or applicant pushback to a land use action decision, and these actions by the Director/staff or Commission can be appealed to the City Council review level. The applicant or the public can appeal a project to the City Council after the Planning Commission hearing is complete. Any action of the Planning Director or Planning Commission approving or denying a design review application may be appealed by any person to the Planning Commission or City Council. The procedure to file includes an application from the party concerned, and once applied for, a hearing is set for the applicable review body.
Building Permits
Once a project has been reviewed and approved by the City, the applicant moves on to working with building permits. Like many smaller jurisdictions in Los Angeles County, permitting is processed through Los Angeles County. The building permit process is mostly straightforward and requires the filing of an application, payment of required fees, and commencement of work. The City has not received comments that the review process is too slow, and since the process is managed by the same entity for multiple cities in the region, the review process is not considered an undue constraint.
Furthermore, the goal of a building permit review is to ensure safety and the longevity of structures within the community.
For permit processing, plan check, and inspection services the City contracts with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. This contract helps ensure compliance with the applicable Los Angeles County Building Codes and helps guarantee all City and County needs are met for proposed development. The City of Artesia complies with the building code regulations set forth by the State of California and the County of Los Angeles, including the Building Code, Residential Code, Electrical Code, Mechanical Code, Plumbing Code, Fire Code, and Green Building Code. The City has not adopted any local amendments further amending such codes. Compliance with the State and County codes ensures that public health and safety are preserved.
The City of Artesia has adopted the 2021 International Building Code and 2021 California Building Code (CBC) with the Los Angeles County Amendments, which establishes the minimum standards for new construction. Based on the law of the State, the City can implement higher standards but cannot implement standards that are less stringent than the CBC. The City has not adopted above the minimum standards of the CBC and County Amendments.
Fees/Exactions and Improvement Requirements
Exorbitant development fees can be costly to developers, increase the cost of housing, and potentially create a housing barrier. However, development fees can also be an important part of making sure that adequate services are provided to create a safe community. The development of housing can create short- and long-term costs on a City, for example the cost of providing planning services and inspections. These fees assist in accommodating the orderly development of new housing and Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 67
population growth. The fees have not been found to act as a constraint to the development of housing in Artesia.
Various development and permit fees are charged by the City and other agencies to cover administrative processing costs associated with development. These fees ensure quality development and the provision of adequate public services, and are based on the type, size, and potential impacts on various services and infrastructures. However, because these fees are often passed down to renters and homeowners in the rent/purchase price of the unit, they affect the affordability of housing.
Artesia’s building permit, permit plan check, and inspection services are provided by the County of Los Angeles’ Building and Safety Department, which also provides the same services for some other cities in the area. General development fees are also administered by agencies outside of City limits.
For example, the local school district and sanitation districts impose additional fees, and the City has no control over these costs. The fee for the School District is assessed by its own agency and determines whether expanded facilities are necessary to accommodate more children in the school district.
The City of Artesia’s development fees are illustrated in Table H-37. A scenario example for a structure over 1,500 square feet: a single-family home may have development fees of approximately $64,910 and a 6-unit multi-family home would have fees around $280.000. The collection of fees contributes to the cost of a project, and therein the cost of development is passed on to potential buyers and renters.
Table H-37. Comparative Development Fee Summary
Fee Category Fee Amount
Planning and
Application Fees Single-Family Multi-Family ADU (1,000 sf) New House <=1500
sq ft $802 N/A N/A
New House >1500
sq ft $1,045 N/A N/A
New building
<=5000 sq ft N/A $641 N/A
New building >
5000 sq ft N/A $858 N/A
ADU Building Permit
Only <= 400 sq ft. N/A N/A $243
ADU Building Permit
Only > 400 sq ft. N/A N/A $364
ADU Permit N/A N/A $1,336
Design Review N/A $2,587 N/A
Budling Plan Check
and Permit $27,764 $68,713 $9,255
Conditional Use
Permits $3,377 N/A N/A
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 68
Fee Category Fee Amount
Variance1 $3,377 $3,377 $3,377
Tentative/Final
Parcel or Tract Map2
$3,650 $3,650 N/A
General Plan
Amendment3
$4,094 $4,094 N/A
Zone Change4 $3,766 $3,766 N/A
CEQA compliance5:
Categorical
Exemption N/A $237 N/A
Negative
Declaration N/A $2,429 N/A
Mitigated Negative
Declaration N/A $3,340 N/A
EIR N/A Actual Cost N/A
Impact Fees6
Public Facilities $5,495 $4,087 $2,912 - $3,627
Traffic $3,020 $2,024 $1,601 - $1,993
Storm Drains $548 $159 $290 - $362
Parks & Recreation $12,052 $8965 $$6,388 - $7,954
Community Center $7,231 $5,378 $3,832 - $4,772
School Fee $5.17 per square foot $5.17 per square foot $5.17 per square foot Water Connection
Fees
Water Purveyor
Agency Referral
Water Purveyor
Agency Referral
Water Purveyor
Agency Referral
Sewer Connection
Fees
L.A. County Sanitation
District Agency Referral
L.A. County Sanitation
District Agency Referral
L.A. County Sanitation
District Agency Referral
Fire Impact Fees
L.A. County Fire
Agency Referral
L.A. County Fire
Agency Referral
L.A. County Fire
Agency Referral
General Plan
Update Fee 1% of planning fees 1% of planning fees 1% of planning fees 1 Applicable in rare cases where an applicant seeks a waiver from the Code because of hardship. 2 Applies typically when a project involves a condominium, or a large parcel is subdivided. Typical projects don’t involve subdivisions.
3 Applicable only if a residential use is not consistent with the general plan necessitating amendment to the land use designation. Typical residential developments occur on sites that allow residential uses. 4 Same as footnote #4.
5 Negative Declarations or Mitigated Negative Declarations would be triggered only for multi-family projects on sites greater than five acres. Most projects occupy lots that are less than five acres in area. 6 No impact fees for ADUs less than 750 sq. ft. And impact fees for ADUs over 750 sq. ft. are charged proportionally in relation to the square footage of the primary unit. The listed approximate fees for ADUs are based on the average size of singlefamily units in the City and ADUs that range 800 to 1000 sq. ft.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 69
Table H-38 identifies hypothetical fees that would be collected for a new typical single-family house and multi-family unit. The fees charged by the City are typical of the region and comparable in price with surrounding communities. The residential fees are combined with Building and Safety Plan Check/Permit fees.
Table H-38. Residential/Development Fees for the City of Artesia and Cities in the Region Application
Types Cities in the Region
Artesia Bellflower La Mirada La Palma Lakewood7 Norwalk Cerritos Development
Review for
Single Unit
Dwelling
$802 -
$1,045 $873 $292 $342 $2,242
$1200 $1,545 -
$1,996
Multi-Unit
Development
$3,228-
3,445
$1,960-
3,949
$3,729 $5,303 $6,507 per
unit
$4,695 $6,054 -
$10,157
ADU (exempt) $243-
$364 $310 $292 $342 $3,715 $380 $
ADU $1,336 $310 $292 $342 $4,543 $380 $
Tentative
Parcel/Tract Map $3,350 $2,440/ $3,004 $4,498 $3,784-5,205 $2,180 $4,000
plus
$110
per lot
$4,157
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 70
Application
Types Cities in the Region
Artesia Bellflower La Mirada La Palma Lakewood7 Norwalk Cerritos Variance $3,377 $2,904 $3,013
$3,908 first
15 hours
plus $228
per hour
for any time
over 15.
$975 $1,045-
$3,200 $3,459
Conditional Use
Permit $3,377 $3,680 $3,013
$3,022 first
10 hours
plus $228
per hour
for
additional
time
$775 $4,520 $2,967
CEQA Review –
Exempt
$237 $135 $295 $944 Not listed $610 $190
CEQA Review –
Negative
Declaration
$2,229 $2,527 $2,552 Not stated Actual cost
plus $600 $1,420
$3,780
$4,993
prepared
by
consultant
plus actual
cost
CEQA Review –
Mitigated
Negative
Declaration
$3,340 $2,680 $3,442 Actual Cost Actual Cost
plus $600 $1,420 $7,184 plus actual cost
CEQA Review –
EIR
Actual
Cost
Actual
Cost with
initial
$5,408
deposit
Actual
hourly cost
+
consultant
fee $5,000
deposit
Actual Cost Actual
cost
$11,659
plus actual
cost
The City of Artesia’s fees are comparable to those in the region. Sources: City of Artesia, City of Cerritos (2017/2023), Bellflower (2020), La Mirada (2024), La Palma (2025), Lakewood (2021), Norwalk (2016).
Developers can often see any fee as a significant constraints to the development of affordable housing. For developments of affordable housing projects, the financing generally includes some form of state or federal assistance, and these programs set the cost of the final rents to guarantee the target population is included and to cover the cost of the rents. Due to financial assistance for the developer and renters, fees often cannot and do not increase the rents. Even though the various fees account for a significant portion of the development cost, the fees that are collected are needed to pay for necessities like infrastructure and to help reduce the potential negative impacts of new development.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 71
Table H-39 shows permit processing fees and development impact fees for a 1,500 square foot residence with a 400 square foot garage and a 7,200 square feet 6-unit apartment building, respectively.
Table H-39. Cumulative Development Fees: Residential Development Item Amount
Single-Family Residence
Site Plan Review $1,045
Building Plan Check/Permit $27,764
Public Facilities $5,495
Traffic $3,020
Storm Drain $548
Parks and Recreation $12,052
Community Facilities $7,231
School $7,755
Total fees per unit $64,910
Typical estimated overall cost of development of a single-family dwelling $617,500 Estimated proportion of fee cost to overall development cost 10.5% 6-Unit Apartment Building
Site Plan Review $858
Design Review $2,587
Categorical Exemption $237
Building Plan Check/Permit $68,713
Public Facilities $24,522
Traffic $12,144
Storm Drain $954
Parks and Recreation $53,790
Community Facilities $32,268
School $37,224
Total fees per 6-unit development $233,297
Total fees per unit $38,883
Typical estimated overall cost of development per unit $280,000 Estimated proportion of fee cost to overall development cost 14% As these fees are at or below 15% of overall development costs, development fees are not currently a constraint to the development of new housing.
Since development still continues within the City of Artesia, there does not appear to be a major constraint in the current fee structure, shown in Table H-39. The estimated fees compared to the overall development cost per square foot of a residential structure do not create an undue burden.
When reviewing regional fees Artesia is in the median range in fee price.
Printed copies of development applications and fee sheets are available at City Hall. All development fees are also available on the City’s website:
• https://www.cityofartesia.us/DocumentCenter/View/6359/Planning-and-Engineering-FeeSchedule-Effective-71222-Edited-by-Mel-3623 Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 72
The City has identified that the development fees charged by the City are a small part of the overall cost of development, such as the cost of land; however, these fees can become a burden to developing low-cost housing. Through the Housing Department of California’s information on the Housing Element, there are two funding mechanisms that can be of particular benefit to reducing financial impacts on proposed development. One of the proposed reduction to the development of housing constraints is to mitigate school impact fees for senior housing and/or to defer fees until financing is in place for affordable housing developments. While the City does not control the amount of school impact fees, it can influence when those fees are paid. Therefore, the City shall commit to facilitating low income and senior housing development by offering a program to defer fees until financing is in place for projects that incorporate 50% of the development with low-income units (Action HE 5.2c Remove Constraints).
On-/Off-Site Improvement Requirements
On/Off-Site improvements are City standard requirements for infrastructure or site design requirements for proposed development. On/Off-Site improvement costs in Cities can include developing streets, sidewalks, water and sewer, drainage, curbs and gutters, street signs, parkway deductions, utility easements, and landscaping. These requirements can create major costs for proposed development at times.
Improvement requirements for residential development within Artesia are applied on a case-by-case basis, based on existing conditions, and these are usually implemented by way of conditions of approval (COA). The City of Artesia maintains high engineering standards that regulate construction standards for curbs, gutters, sidewalks, streets, and details such as the width and grade permitted for a site and driveway.
Ways in which on/off-site improvements can be a barrier to housing production include excess subdivision requirements, ingress/egress standards, grading requirements, and creating exclusive standards that restrict a variety of housing types.
• Subdivision Level Improvements: Greenfield subdivisions often require a large number of costly site improvements such as curb, gutter, and sidewalk construction. Artesia is a builtout City with very few vacant parcels of land, and most of the parcels of land that may develop would not be large enough for major subdivisions. With the built-out environment most development projects do not require a significant amount of site improvements. If a brand-new subdivision was built within the community, full street width dedication and construction/widening of sidewalks where needed is required. Since the city is fullydeveloped, most subdivision requirements are existing and only need to be upgraded if determined to be substandard.
• Grading: Grading is often the costliest site improvement when developing, however Artesia is mostly level and does not require significant grading. • Ingress/Egress: Ingress/egress requirements are generally only needed to be improved enough to create sufficient and safe access to existing parcels, often the existing curb cuts are sufficient, and only internal upgrades are required—this would depend the project and existing conditions around the project. Off-street improvements such as ingress and egress Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 73
improvements and parkways are not significant impact to the development of the project— as they are often already built and needed for public safety, and they are standard expectations of development in any city.
• Variety of Housing Types: The City will implement programs to permit types of housing currently not clearly defined within the Zoning Code (Action HE 1.4c - Variety of Housing Types). Furthermore, the City’s housing stock is primarily single-family homes, and since the City is fully developed, there are often few if any on/off-site improvements required for remodels and new construction. General single-family home development does not require major off-site improvements and often, there are also no off-site fees related to construction of new infrastructure. Multifamily residential also does not face any moratoria, or prohibitions against multi-family housing that would inhibit new housing or remodels.
The built-up nature of the City reduces the need for major developments like putting in streets. The requirements for off-site improvements related to multifamily developments are not overly or unnecessarily restrictive, and more accessible than in a community with a less developed urban fabric.
In summary, the required on/off-site improvements are necessary as they provide adequate infrastructure and public facilities to support housing development, and on/off-site improvements have not been determined to be a constraint to the development of affordable housing, and the City has received no complaints about these costs. Artesia’s Municipal Code provisions for streets, sidewalks, water, sewers, electricity, and public utilities apply to all developments within the City and do not unduly constrain housing supply and/or affordability but rather ensure that public health and safety is preserved by providing adequate infrastructure and public facilities that support housing development. Artesia’s development requirements are also not considered a constraint as they are less burdensome than in less developed jurisdictions with more vacant land, where existing infrastructure and improvements are limited or do not exist at all. The City will continue to review the general development standards such as street width, parking lanes, and sidewalks. a. Street Standards
Table H-40 shows street classifications and level of service standards as stated in the Circulation Element of the City’s General Plan. These standards are similar to other cities in the area and do not pose an unreasonable constraint to housing development.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 74
Table H-40. Street Classifications and Level of Service Standards b. Parking Requirements
Excessive parking standards that are not reflective of actual parking demand can pose a significant constraint to housing development by increasing development costs and reducing the potential land available for project amenities or additional units. Therefore, the housing element should include an analysis of the jurisdiction’s parking standards by zone. The analysis should examine whether parking standards impede a developer’s ability to achieve maximum densities, and if there are provisions in place to provide parking reductions where less need is demonstrated, particularly for persons with disabilities, the elderly, affordable housing, and infill and transit-oriented development. In addition, the jurisdiction should verify that the density bonus ordinance complies with parking requirements per Government Code Section 65915.
Table H-41 summarizes the City’s residential parking requirements. Based on the units recently constructed or entitled, the City has not found the parking requirements to unduly impact the cost and supply of housing, nor the ability for projects to achieve maximum densities. A reduction in required parking for a multi-family development may be approved through the provisions of State density bonus law.
Based on dialogues with the State and through taking a pro-housing stance, the City has decided to pursue the reduction of some parking standards as an attempt to remove constraints on housing. To verify that the density bonus ordinance complies with parking requirements per Government Code Section 65915 and to implement pro-housing parking changes, the City shall implement Action HE
5.2c Remove Constraints, with the intent to reduce the cost burden on development for studio and one bedroom units, parking standards shall be reduced to one parking space per unit, furthermore covered parking will no longer be required for multi-family development. The cost of providing parking can be an impediment to the cost of housing. Furthermore, the City is supporting local development that may help reduce the amount of vehicles miles traveled (with increased density of residential and commercial space) by the local community.
Action HE 5.2c, Remove Constraints, shall allow tandem parking in residential developments.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 75
Table H-41. Residential Parking Requirements
Type of Residential
Development
Width of Lot
50 ft. or greater More than 25 ft. –
Less than 50 ft. 25 ft. or less
Single Family Residential
Single family, 1 bedroom 2 enclosed1 1 parking
spaces
2 enclosed 1 parking
spaces
1 enclosed parking space
Single family, 2 bedrooms 2 enclosed parking spaces 2 enclosed parking spaces 1 enclosed plus 1 paved2space
Single family, 3 bedrooms
2 enclosed parking spaces
plus 1 paved space in
front of the garage
2 enclosed parking spaces
plus 1 paved space in
front of the garage
1 enclosed
plus 1 paved space
Single family, 4 bedrooms
(New Residence)
3 enclosed parking spaces
plus 1 paved space in
front of the garage
2 enclosed parking spaces
plus 2 paved spaces in
front of the garage
2 enclosed parking spaces
plus 1 paved space in
front of the garage
Single family, 5 bedrooms
3 enclosed parking spaces
plus 2 paved spaces in
front of the garage
3 enclosed parking spaces
plus 2 paved spaces in
front of the garage
2 enclosed parking spaces
plus 2 paved spaces in
front of the garage
Single family, 6 bedrooms
3 enclosed parking spaces
plus 3 paved spaces in
front of the garage
3 enclosed parking spaces
plus 3 paved spaces in
front of the garage
(minimum)
2 enclosed parking spaces
plus 2 paved spaces in
front of the garage
(minimum)
Single family, 7 bedrooms
4 enclosed parking spaces
plus 3 paved spaces in
front of the garage
3 enclosed parking spaces
plus 3 paved spaces in
front of the garage
(minimum)
2 enclosed parking spaces
plus 2 paved spaces in
front of the garage
(minimum)
Single family, 8 bedrooms
4 enclosed parking spaces
plus 4 paved spaces in
front of the garage
3 enclosed parking spaces
plus 3 paved spaces in
front of the garage
(minimum)
2 enclosed parking spaces
plus 2 paved spaces in
front of the garage
(minimum)
Type of Residential
Development No. of Bedrooms Required Parking Spaces Comments Two-Family and Multiple Family Residential Uses
Studio, 1-family, 2-family, 3-
family, and apartments 0-1 bedrooms 1 parking spaces per dwelling unit - 2 bedroom 1.5 parking spaces per
dwelling unit -
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 76
Based on review of parking standards for constraints, and in conjunction with suggestions of the State, the City will reduce the parking requirements for studios and one bedrooms from one enclosed space to 1 parking space (Action 5.2 – Remove Constraints). The enclosed parking requirement will also be removed from multi-family residential.
c. Residential Height
Limitations on height can constrain a development’s ability to achieve maximum densities, especially in culmination with other development controls. Limiting building height to two stories or less in multifamily districts is a common example of development standards that can constrain achieving maximum densities. Based on this information, height limits will be raised to at least three stories in multi-family residential areas and all districts within the Mixed-Use Overlay. The increase in residential density in multifamily property zone(s) shall be implemented by way of the completion of the MixedUse Overlay.
Type of Residential
Development No. of Bedrooms Required Parking Spaces Comments 3 bedrooms 2 parking spaces per
dwelling unit -
4 bedrooms 3 parking spaces per
dwelling unit -
>4 bedrooms
2 parking spaces per
dwelling unit plus ½ space
per bedroom in each unit
exceeding 2 bedrooms
Plus 1 guest parking space
for 4 or more units with 1
additional space for every
3 units after the 4th unit
M-D-R zone -
2 spaces for 4 or less
bedrooms, 3 spaces for
more than 4 bedrooms
-
Artesia Boulevard Corridor
Specific Plan Area - 2 per unit4 Plus 0.25 guest parking spaces per unit4 Source: City of Artesia, Municipal Code, Section 9.2.113 Notes:
1. The term “enclosed” means the parking space is enclosed in a garage and shall be required of singlefamily homes.
2. The term “paved” means the parking space is not enclosed but is comprised of a paved pad located in front of the garage and designed so that an automobile can be parked on it, provided that the distance between the garage and the public right-of-way is at least 20 feet.
3. For dwellings with 5 or greater bedrooms, the number of indicated parking spaces shall be provided, or the number of off-street parking spaces specified in the conditional use permit issued for the development pursuant to Section 9-2.2804(d).
4. Tandem parking is permitted in the Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan area.
5. Studios and one bedrooms will require one parking spot, and no longer require enclosed parking Note: Standards as of 10/15/2021
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 77
Transparency in the Development Process
The City’s website provides resources to help developers and homeowners prepare and complete residential development and home improvements. The Community Development Division webpage provides applications for planning actions and generally needed building permit applications.
The State has mandated transparency requirements and content requirements of a City website as per Government Code Section 65940.1(a)(1). While the City Community Development Department does provide some development application materials, the site must be reviewed for compliance with State mandates. The City will review and update the website as necessary to comply with new transparency requirements. Action 5.1a (Informational Manuals and Handouts), Action 5.2a (Development Review Process Handouts), and Action 5.2b (Pre-Application Review with Developers) will be implemented to ensure compliance.
To increase transparency, the following are the links to key planning documents, these links are subject to change and some change annually, such as the fee sheet. • City General Plan: https://ca-artesia2.civicplus.com/258/General-Plan-Update • City Zoning Ordinance (Title 9): https://ecode360.com/AR4900 • Planning Fees: https://www.cityofartesia.us/DocumentCenter/View/7529/Planning-andEngineering-Fee-Schedule-Effective-07-01-23 • Planning Applications and Forms: https://www.cityofartesia.us/223/Applications-Forms Zoning for a Variety of Housing Types
California Government Code §65583 requires the Housing Element to identify adequate sites for a variety of housing types including multi-family rental housing, factory-built/manufactured housing, housing for agricultural employees/employee housing, supportive housing, emergency shelters, single-room occupancy (SROs), Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and transitional housing. The City of Artesia is an inclusive pro-housing community and will update existing permitted uses to include missing housing types by way of Action HE 1.4c.
a. Employee Housing
Any employee housing providing accommodations for six or fewer employees shall be deemed a single-family structure pursuant to California Health and Safey Code Section 17021.5. b. Multi-Family Rental Housing:
The City permits multi-family housing in the Multiple Residential Zone (M-R), Condominium Zone (CO), Artesia Live 1 Specific Plan, Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan, Arkansas Specific Plan and in the newly proposed Mixed Use Overlay (that will cover the majority of the commercial areas within the City). Multi-family development is existing throughout the City. The Mixed-Use Overlay increases the potential maximum building height and substantial new residential uses along the primary arterials of the City.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 78
The City has development standards and permit procedures that encourage and facilitate multifamily housing opportunities. However, the high costs of available land may be a constraint to prospective developers. The proposed increase in density and the potential for mixed use is expected to be a valuable incentive to increase the amount of potential development during the current Housing Element cycle.
c. Factory-Built/Manufactured Housing:
The housing element must demonstrate the jurisdiction's zoning code allows and permits manufactured housing in the same manner and in the same zone as a conventional or stick-built structures are permitted (Government Code Section 65852.3). Specifically, manufactured homes should only be subject to the same development standards that a conventional single-family residential dwelling on the same lot would be subject to, except for architectural requirements for roof overhang, roofing material, and siding material (Government Code Section 65852.3(a)).
Factory-built housing is subject to the same permit process and regulations as stick-built housing in the City of Artesia. The City permits manufactured housing in all residential zoning districts; this would include the potential for a manufactured ADU. Standards such as building setbacks, side and rear yard requirements, standards for enclosures, access, and vehicle parking, aesthetic requirements, and minimum square footage requirements still apply.
The Zoning District Single-Family R-1 specifically states mobile homes may be placed on a lot in the Zone as principle use, the Multiple Residential (M-R), the Mixed Commercial/Single-Family Residential (M-C-R) and Medium Density Residential (M-D-R) Zone permit uses principally permitted in the SingleFamily Residential (R-1) Zone.
Based off of the Housing and Community Development (HCD) Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) Data Viewer there is one Mobile Home Park within the boundaries of Artesia, this community is known as La Belle Chateau and is in the southernmost part of the City of Artesia with access on Pioneer Boulevard.
To pursue the preservation of manufactured housing in the community a new zoning district specifically for manufactured homes shall be created and a rezone will be implemented on projects featuring multiple and primarily manufactured homes. This shall be implemented by way of Action HE
2.1a Manufactured Housing Zoning District.
d. Agricultural Employee Housing:
The housing element must include an analysis of farmworker housing needs (Government Code Section 65583(a)(6)). There are few parcels of land designated as agriculture within the City. The properties that are zoned for agriculture are residential uses– Agriculture Single-Family Residential Zone (A-1). Within the community this zone features residences and a church. Therein, farm work is not a significant industry within the City of Artesia. Commercial agriculture is not permitted in any zoning district. The American Community Survey five-year estimates based on 2021 counts, states there are approximately 14 people in Artesia employed in agriculture. These workers are most likely to have occupations such as landscape maintenance or nursery workers. Given these factors, the City Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 79
will not plan for any farm workers during the 2021-2029 Housing Element Cycle. However, if there is a future need for farm worker housing, the City will comply with all applicable State of California statutes with regard to the Employee Housing Act (California Health and Safety Code §§17021.5- 17021.6).
The housing element should also ensure that local zoning, development standards, and permitting processes comply with Health and Safety Code Sections 17021.5 and 17021.6. Section 17021.5 generally requires employee housing for six or fewer persons to be treated as a single-family structure and residential use. No conditional-use permit, zoning variance, or other zoning clearance shall be required for this type of employee housing that is not required of a family dwelling of the same type in the same zone. Section 17021.6 generally requires that employee housing consisting of no more than 36 beds in group quarters (or 12 units or less) designed for use by a single family or household to be treated as an agricultural use. No conditional-use permit, zoning variance, or other zoning clearance shall be required for this type of employee housing that is not required of any other agricultural activity in the same zone.
To address State law, Action HE 5.2c (Remove Constraints) calls for an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to allow agricultural/employee housing for six or fewer persons by-right in Residential Zoning Districts.
Single Room Occupancies shall be permitted in the Mixed Use Overlay and the multi-family residential district:
e. Single Room Occupancy (SRO)
A single-room occupancy (SRO) units are one-room units intended for occupancy by a single individual, usually between 200 to 350 square feet. They are distinct from a studio or efficiency unit, in that a studio is a one-room unit that must contain a kitchen and bathroom. Although SRO units are not required to have a kitchen or bathroom, many SROs have one or the other. These units provide a valuable source of affordable housing for individuals and can serve as an entry point into the housing market for people who previously experienced homelessness.
The City’s Zoning Code does not currently contain regulations for SROs. The City has committed to adding the use of Single-Room Occupancies to the Mixed-Use Overlay and Multi-family zoning Districts. Placing these types of units within the Overlay creates more access to local amenities as the overlay follows the main arterials of the community. Action HE 1.4c (Variety of Housing Types) includes a Code amendment to establish standards and procedures to facilitate the provision of SROs consistent with State law. The Mixed Use Overlay shall allow SROs by right with a ministerial review. f. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
ADUs serve to augment resources for senior housing, caregivers, household employees, and other low- and moderate-income segments of the population. In recent years, the State Legislature has adopted extensive revisions to ADU law, and the City’s ADU regulations were most recently updated in 2020 to incorporate State law in effect at that time. Action 1.2d in the Housing Plan includes a Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 80
commitment to monitor future changes in ADU law annually, updating City regulations as necessary to ensure consistency with State requirements such as tracking the affordability of units built.
The housing element must demonstrate that the jurisdiction permits an ADU with only ministerial approval and describe the jurisdiction’s local ADU ordinance or whether the jurisdiction defers to Government Code (GC) Section 65852.2(b).
An "accessory dwelling unit (ADU)" is a secondary dwelling unit with complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and generally takes three forms:
• Detached: The unit is separated from the primary residential structure • Attached: The unit is attached to the primary residential structure • Repurposed Existing Space: Space (e.g., master bedroom or garage) within the primary residence is converted into an independent living unit.
An ADU provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and includes permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family dwelling is situated (GC 65852.2(i)(4)).
In compliance with State law, the City of Artesia allows Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU) to be constructed by right on all residential zones including multifamily and mixed-use zoned properties in the City.
In the 2014-2021 Housing Element Cycle, 16 ADUs were built, and since the beginning of the current planning period there have been 49 new ADUs constructed. The construction of ADUs has been the fastest growing source of new housing within Artesia. The City will be committing to implementing more monitoring into the affordability and use of new ADUs, and a new streamline process for proposed ADUs. Action 1.2d in the Housing Plan includes a commitment to monitor future changes in ADU law annually and update City regulations as necessary to ensure consistency with State requirements. Furthermore, the City will take proactive steps in helping foster further ADU development by creating and offering standard plans for potential ADUs (Action HE 1.2d Accessory Dwelling Units). The City of Artesia has potential to expand its ADU program as can be seen in the maps from the Southern California Area Governments Climate Adaptation Framework and Housing Element Parcel (HELPR 2.0) Tool. This mapping tool provides a rudimentary estimate of which parcels have adequate physical space to accommodate a typical detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) only for single-family residential land use. Figure H-30 is an image from the mapping system intended to highlight the potential area for ADU expansion.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 81
Figure H - 10 Potential ADU Expansion Areas
Source: SCAG HELPR 2.0 Housing Element Parcel Tool. Yellow illustrates rudimentary potential area for ADU expansion.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 82
g. Senior Housing:
• Rest homes and homes for older adults are allowed subject to a conditional use permit in the M-R zone. Home for the aged is defined as “any institution, boarding home, or other place for the reception or care of persons over the age of sixty-five (65) years not related to the proprietor by blood or affinity within the second degree and where boarding care is provided for three (3) or more such aged persons.” Rest home is defined as “a home offering or providing lodging, meals, nursing, dietary, or other personal services to convalescents, invalids, or aged persons, excluding surgery or the care of persons with contagious or communicable diseases. Rest home shall include convalescent homes and homes for the aged.”
Because elderly persons require different dwelling characteristics, developments for seniors require a conditional use permit. Project proposals are evaluated for their design and compatibility with the surroundings. For rest homes and homes for the aged, one parking space for every four residents in accordance with the residential capacity of the home as listed on the required license or permit, and one parking space for each employee is required.
There are currently four senior housing facilities located within the City – The Christian Home for the Aged, Windsor Palms (formerly Twin Palms Care Center), Founder’s House of Hope, and New Man Horizons.
The City shall implement parking flexibility standards and deferred fee options for senior housing developments through Action HE 1.4b Technical Assistance for Special Needs Housing Development and Action HE 5.2c Remove Constraints to Housing Entitlement and Construction. h. Extremely Low-Income Units
California Health and Safety Code §65583 (c)(2) states that the Housing Element shall contain programs which "assist in the development of adequate housing to meet the needs of extremely low- , low- and moderate-income households." In addition, existing programs should either be expanded, or new programs added to specifically assist in the development of a variety of housing types to meet the housing needs of Extremely Low-Income (ELI) households.
In order to comply with this section of State law, the City will provide regulatory incentives to the development of ELI households, such as expediting the approval and permitting process, and waiving city-imposed development fees. These incentives would encourage and facilitate housing for Extremely Low-Income persons and illustrate the City's commitment to facilitating the construction of housing for said households. The City will facilitate approval and development of housing for extremely low-income persons by providing incentives in compliance with SB 35, (Action HE 1.2b - Density Bonus Program), and seeking outside sources of funding (Action HE 1.2a – Maximize External Funding Resources). Fees for low income and senior housing may be deferred in Action HE 5.2c (Remove Constraints), of the Programs section of this document. Based on a formula utilized by the Department of Housing and Community Development, the City anticipates a need to assist 156 ELI households. Below is the formula for determining ELI households:
▪ Formula: Divide the current very-low income RHNA construction need by one-half.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 83
▪ Artesia: 312 very-low RHNA construction need.
▪ Calculation: 312 / 2 = 156
▪ ELI Households: 156
The extremely low-income units are presumed to be placed on the same properties identified to accommodate the emergency shelters and very low-income housing units as these properties are over a half-acre and can accommodate 50 or more units. There are 375 very low-income units envisioned, and 156 units needed for the ELI population. The City of Artesia meets the requirement to identify housing opportunities for this population.
i. Supportive Housing Types
Part of the need to zone for a variety of housing types includes the need to facilitate share housing types for sensitive populations. These can include emergency shelters, low barrier navigation centers, transitional and supportive housing, group homes for people that are elderly or developmentally disabled, and more.
j. Emergency shelters
In 2007, the California Legislature passed Senate Bill 2 (SB 2), which required the identification of a zone or zones where emergency shelters are allowed as a permitted use without a conditional use or other discretionary permit. The Housing Element Law requires an analysis of how the need for emergency shelters is met. This analysis includes whether there is a need for the shelters, identification of what zones permit the type of housing, and that the needs of the population can be accessed from those locations. The law does not require that specific sites for emergency shelters or special needs facilities be identified. The identified zone or zones shall include sufficient capacity to accommodate the need for emergency shelters and transitional housing.
Emergency shelter is housing with minimal supportive services for people experiencing homelessness and is limited to occupancy of six months or less. No individual or household may be denied emergency shelter because of an inability to pay. Emergency shelters are permitted by right, without the need for a discretionary action, within the Mixed-Use Overlay and the Light Industrial/Manufacturing (M-1) Zoning District.
To create a land use mechanism to address the need for emergency shelters, the City has committed to permitting shelters in the Mixed-Use Overlay and the M-1 Zone.
Mixed Use Overlay – Emergency Shelter Capacity Analysis Per Government Code Section 65583.(a)(4), every jurisdiction must identify a zone or zones where emergency shelters are allowed as a permitted use without a conditional use or other discretionary permit The Mixed-Use Overlay allows for 100% residential projects for lower income developments and a variety of housing types including shelters, however mixed uses are strongly encouraged. Based on the fact that housing for people experiencing homelessness is often built with Federal and State funding, the analysis for the Mixed-Use Overlay was based on properties that were over one-half-acre in area, and that could support 50 or more units.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 84
Based on these ranges there are 19 properties within the Mixed-Use Overlay that could qualify for funding to construct an emergency shelters (identified the same way as very low-income housing units), and these properties are further defined in the Sites Inventory of the Housing Element. These parcels can be reviewed in the Sites Inventory Appendix B. The Mixed-Use Overlay is oriented around the main arterials of the City, this creates access to a variety transportation types and more access to local amenities such as groceries, libraries, schools, jobs, and transportation hubs for regional needs.
The 19 properties with the new proposed density of the Mixed-Use Overlay could in theory create 6,846 units, 395 of the units are proposed to go to very low-income individuals and 205 to low-income individuals. There are 399 very low-income units envisioned, and 25 needed units for people experiencing homelessness. The City of Artesia meets the requirement to identify housing opportunities for this population.
M-1 Zone
In the M-1 Zone, City zoning regulations allow emergency shelters by-right and there is sufficient capacity and is suitable to accommodate Artesia’s homeless needs. The M-1 Zone currently accommodates small to moderate sized industry as well as limited commercial and service uses.
Parcels in the M-1 Zone are located in close proximity to Pioneer Boulevard, the primary north-south arterial in the City. Norwalk Transit and LA Metro operate bus lines along Pioneer Boulevard, making the M1 Zone accessible by public transit. The M-1 Zone is also located adjacent to commercial areas, providing access to services and employment centers. The M-1 Zone encompasses approximately 28 acres with suitable parcels that could accommodate emergency shelters sufficient to accommodate the City’s existing need through the adaptive reuse of existing buildings.
Table H-42 summarizes the development standards for the M-1 Zone.
Table H-42. Development Standards, M-1 Zone
Development Standard Minimum or Maximum
Lot Area 5,000 sq. ft. minimum
Lot Width 50 ft. minimum
Front Yard Setback No minimum
Side Yard Setback None required, except parcels in a residential zone shall have a minimum 10 ft. side yard setback on the side adjoining the residential zone.
Rear Yard Setback None required, except parcels adjoining a residential or commercial zone shall have a minimum 10 ft. rear yard setback. Building structures and parking areas abutting an alley shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from the alley line.
Building Height 35 ft. maximum
Source: City of Artesia, Municipal Code, Section 9.2.3403, 2021 The emergency shelters are subject to the following development standards and all other provisions of this article applicable to residential uses in the M-1 Zone:
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 85
1. Parking shall be one per four beds or half per bedroom designated for family units with children plus one per staff member.
2. A single emergency shelter, transitional home, and supportive housing for 30 occupants, or a combination of multiple emergency shelters with a combined capacity not to exceed 30 occupants, shall be allowed as a principally permitted use, consistent with Section 65583(a) of the California Government Code and sections amendatory or supplementary thereto. Any other emergency shelter, transitional home and supportive housing shall meet the minimum standards contained in this section and shall be subject to the approval of a conditional use permit.
3. Stays at the facility shall be on a first-come first-served basis with clients only on-site and admitted to the facility between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. during Pacific Daylight Time and 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. during Pacific Standard Time. Clients must vacate the facility by 8:00 a.m. and have no guaranteed bed for the next night.
4. Maximum stay at the facility shall not exceed 120 days in a 365-day period.
5. A minimum of 1 staff member per 15 beds shall be awake and on duty when the facility is open.
6. Bike rack parking shall be provided by the facility.
7. Exterior lighting shall be provided for the entire outdoor area of the site.
8. A waiting area shall be provided which contains a minimum of ten (10) square feet per bed provided at the facility. The waiting area shall be in a location not adjacent to the public right-ofway, shall be visually separated from public view by a minimum six (6) foot tall visually screening mature landscaping or a minimum six (6) foot tall decorative masonry wall, and shall provide consideration for shade and rain provisions.
9. Any outdoor storage, including, but not limited to, items brought on-site by clients for overnight stays, shall be screened from public view. Any outdoor storage areas provided shall be screened from public view by a minimum six (6) foot tall visually screening mature landscaping or a minimum six (6) foot tall decorative masonry wall.
10. Facility improvements shall comply with Title 8 and Title 9 of the City of Artesia Municipal Code, specific to the establishment of dormitories, excluding Section 9-2.1103(a)(3), and shall additionally provide:
(i) A minimum of one (1) toilet for every eight (8) beds per gender. (ii) A minimum of one (1) shower for every eight (8) beds per gender. (iii) Private shower and toilet facility for each area designated for use by individual families.
11. An operational plan shall be provided for review and approval by the Planning and Redevelopment Director, or designee. Plans may be required to address additional specific needs as identified by the Director. The approved operational plan shall remain active throughout the life of the facility. At a minimum, the plan shall contain provisions addressing the topical areas outlined below:
(i) Security and safety, addressing both on- and off-site needs, including provisions to address the separation of male and female areas as well as any family areas within the facility; Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 86
(ii) Loitering control, with specific measures regarding off-site controls to minimize the congregation of clients in the vicinity of the facility during hours that clients are not allowed on-site;
(iii) Management of outdoor areas, including a system for daily admittance and discharge procedures and monitoring of waiting areas with a goal to minimize disruption to nearby land uses;
(iv) Staff training, with objectives to provide adequate knowledge and skills to assist clients in obtaining permanent shelter and income;
(v) Communication and outreach, with objectives to maintain good communication and response to operational issues that may arise from the neighborhood, City staff, or the general public;
(vi) Screening of clients for admittance eligibility, with objectives to provide first service to City residents;
(vii) Counseling programs to be provided with referrals to outside assistance agencies, and provide an annual report on this activity to the City; and (viii) Litter control, with an objective to provide for the timely removal of litter attributable to clients within the vicinity of the facility.
12. The facility may provide the following services in a designated area separate from sleeping areas:
(i) A recreation area either inside or outside the shelter; (ii) A counseling center for a job placement, educational, health care, legal or mental health services;
(iii) Laundry facilities to serve the number of clients at the shelter; (iv) Kitchen for the preparation of meals;
(v) Dining hall;
(vi) Client storage area for the overnight storage of bicycles and personal items; or (vii) Similar services geared to homeless clients.
These standards do not pose an unreasonable constraint on the provision of emergency shelters to meet the City’s needs. As noted in the Housing Needs Assessment, the most recent homeless survey indicated 24 homeless persons in Artesia, which could be fully accommodated by one 30-bed shelter.
AB 139 (2019) modified the allowable parking standards for emergency shelters; therefore, Action HE-1.4d includes a commitment to update City parking standards for emergency shelters consistent with State law. As part of this amendment, the City will conduct a comprehensive review of emergency shelter standards to ensure that they are consistent with current law. • Low Barrier Navigation Centers. AB 101 (2019) established requirements related to local regulation of low barrier navigation centers, which are defined as “Housing First, low- Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 87
barrier, service-enriched shelters focused on moving people into permanent housing that provides temporary living facilities while case managers connect individuals experiencing homelessness to income, public benefits, health services, shelter, and housing.” Low Barrier means best practices to reduce barriers to entry, and may include, but is not limited to:
(1) The presence of partners if it is not a population-specific site, such as for survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault, women, or youth
(2) Accommodation of residents’ pets
(3) The storage of possessions
(4) Privacy, such as partitions around beds in a dormitory setting or in larger rooms containing more than two beds, or private rooms
Low barrier navigation centers meeting specified standards must be allowed by-right in areas zoned for mixed use and in non-residential zones permitting multi-family uses. Action 1.4d in the Housing Plan includes a commitment to amend City regulations for low barrier navigation centers consistent with current State law.
• Transitional and Supportive Housing: Transitional and supportive housing also address the needs of persons who may be homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Transitional housing provides longer-term shelter, typically up to 2 years, while supportive housing may have no occupancy time limit. Entities that operate transitional and supportive housing generally require that residents participate in a structured program to work toward established goals so that they can move on to permanent housing and may include supportive services such as counseling.
State law also requires that transitional and supportive housing be regulated as a residential use that is subject only to the same requirements and procedures as other residential uses of the same type in the same zone. AB 2162 of 2018 (Government Code §65583(c)(3)) further requires that supportive housing development projects meeting specific criteria must be allowed by-right in all zones allowing multi-family development, including mixed-use and non-residential zones.
Municipal Code Sec. 9-2.402 establishes the following definitions:
Supportive housing shall mean housing with no limit on length of stay, that is occupied by the target population, and that is linked to on-site or off-site services that assist the supportive housing resident in retaining the housing, improving his or her health status, and maximizing his or her ability to live and when possible, work in the community.
Transitional housing shall mean buildings configured as rental housing developments but operated under program requirement that call for the termination of assistance and recirculation of the assisted unit to another eligible program recipient at some predetermined future point in time, which shall be no less than six (6) months.
Transitional and supportive housing are currently allowed only in the M-1 zone subject to the same standards and procedures as applied to other residential uses of the same type in the same zone, without a discretionary review. Action 1.4c in the Housing Plan includes a commitment to amend City regulations for transitional and supportive housing consistent with current State law.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 88
• Residential Care Facilities: Residential care facility refers to any family home, group home, or rehabilitation facility that provides non-medical care to persons in need of personal services, protection, supervision, assistance, guidance, or training essential for daily living.
In accordance with State law, residential care homes that serve six or fewer persons (excluding the operator) must be permitted according to the same standards as apply to residential uses of the same type in the same zone.
The Municipal Code currently does not include a definition or regulations for residential care facilities.
The City permits congregate living health facilities serving more than 6 persons or having more than 6 beds for persons who are terminally ill or who are catastrophically and severely disabled in the R-1 and M-R zones subject to a conditional use permit. To accommodate State law and to affirmatively further fair housing, the CUP requirement for congregate living health facilities shall be removed and these uses will also be added to the Mixed-Use Overlay to increase development potential.
Action 1.4e (Reasonable Accommodation) in the Housing Plan includes a commitment to review and update City regulations for residential care facilities as necessary in conformance with current State law, including the removal of a CUP requirements for group homes for 6 or more residents and to expand where group homes are permitted within the community. k. Housing for Persons with Disabilities
Housing element law requires an analysis of government constraints to the development, improvement, and maintenance of housing for people with disabilities. There must also be demonstrated local efforts to remove any constraints identified, and there must be reasonable accommodation procedures for persons with disabilities. These must also be included as programs of the City to create action items to address constraints (Action HE 5.2c - Remove Constraints).
In addition to State and local laws assisting person with disabilities, there are also Federal Laws. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is a federally established inclusion of accessible development standards, and it establishes clear and comprehensive restrictions on discrimination based on disability. The ADA requirements also create expectations that reasonable accommodation be provided, which can include waivers from existing design standards in order for people with a disability to have equal access to their homes and work environments. The ADA mandates apply to all public agencies and guarantees access to all programs, services and activities provided by a public agency.
The ADA states that "no qualified individual with a disability shall, by reason of such disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of a public entity, or be subjected to discrimination by any such entity." While the ADA does not define services, programs, and activities of a public entity, the courts have held that the anti-discrimination provision of the ADA applies to zoning decisions.
Building Codes
The City of Artesia requires that all new residential developments comply with California building standards (Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations) and Federal requirements for accessibility.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 89
New structures in the City are reviewed and approved by Los Angeles County, and their standards are based on the California Building Code that includes accessibility measures.
Procedure to Ensure Reasonable Accommodation
Both the federal Fair Housing Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act impose an affirmative duty on local governments to allow reasonable accommodation (i.e., modifications or exceptions) in their zoning laws and other land use regulations when necessary to afford disabled persons an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling. The building codes adopted by the City incorporate accessibility standards contained in Title 24 of the California Administrative Code.
Compliance with building codes and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may increase the cost of housing production and can also impact the viability of rehabilitation of older properties required to be brought up to current code standards. However, these regulations provide minimum standards necessary to ensure the availability of safe and accessible housing.
The City currently does not have formal procedures for processing reasonable accommodation requests for persons with disabilities. The City handles such requests on a case-by-case basis through an administrative review process when possible. The Housing Plan includes Action 1.4e to develop and implement formal reasonable accommodation procedures.
Both the federal Fair Housing Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act impose an affirmative duty on local governments to allow reasonable accommodation (i.e., modifications or exceptions, I.e., ramps, wider doorways, handrails etc.) in their zoning laws and other land use regulations when necessary to afford disabled persons an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling. Furthermore, the State requires that all cities to maintain a “reasonable accommodation ordinance” to ensure that a city’s zoning and development requirements do not hinder the implementation of housing improvements that aid disabled persons. The building codes adopted by the City incorporate accessibility standards contained in Title 24 of the California Administrative Code.
Through Housing Plan Action 1.4e, the City will implement a reasonable accommodation ordinance to provide exceptions in zoning and land-use regulations for housing or persons with disabilities. The process for the program shall be ministerial with minimal or no processing fee. This program will include four primary components:
1. Request for accommodation must come from an individual with a disability protected under fair housing laws.
2. The request accommodation is necessary to make housing available to a person with a disability protected under fair housing law.
3. The requested accommodation would not impose an undue financial or administrative burden on the City.
4. The requested accommodation would not require a fundamental alteration in the nature of the City's General Plan and Zoning Ordinance.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 90
Permit and Processing Procedures for ADA Alterations
The process for requesting an accessibility retrofitting includes a zone clearance approval from the Planning Division, which takes about two weeks, and a building permit which takes ten working days.
The City’s requirements for building permits and inspections are the same as for other residential projects and are straightforward and not burdensome.
The Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act (Lanterman Act) establishes the rights and responsibilities of persons with developmental disabilities. The Lanterman Act requires the use of property for the care of six or fewer disabled persons to be classified as a residential use and permitted in the residential zones of the City under municipal zoning codes. A state-authorized, certified, or licensed family care home, foster home, or a group home serving six or fewer disabled persons or dependent and neglected children on 24-hour-a-day basis is considered a residential use that is to be permitted in all residential zones. No local agency can impose stricter zoning or building and safety standards on these homes. The City will update the Code to allow these uses in residential districts; this will include the updated State law requiring that there be no population restrictions or requirement of any Conditional Use Permit with regards to group homes. These updates shall be addressed by Action HE 5.2c, Remove Constraints.
State law requires that residential care facilities with six or fewer residents be permitted by-right in residential zones. Therefore, the City of Artesia will remove the requirement for a conditional use permit for the permitting of licensed residential care facilities with six or fewer residents in the residential zone within the City. The City of Artesia does not impose additional zoning, building code, or permitting procedures other than those allowed by State law. Residential care facilities are subject to the same zoning, building code, and permitting procedures that all other housing is subject to in the City. This will be reviewed with Action HE 5.2c Remove Constraints.
The City does not require special permit procedures or requirements that could inhibit the retrofitting of homes for accessibility in compliance with accessibility requirements. Artesia’s zoning regulations do not contain provisions for any separation of use or minimum distance requirements for siting special-needs housing developments. Additionally, no alternate residential parking requirements, including reductions, for people with disabilities have been established.
The ways in which the City will affirmatively further fair housing for persons with disabilities include (Action HE 5.2c - Remove Constraints):
• Remove CUP requirement for a residential care facilities such as group homes, based on State law.
• The City shall permit residential care facilities in all residential zones and not restrict the occupancy of unrelated individuals in residential care facilities. • The City does permit housing for special needs groups, including for individuals with disabilities, without regard to distances between such uses or the number of uses in any part of the City.
• The City will clarify special accommodation procedures.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 91
• The City will ensure that Code Enforcement efforts include connecting special populations to potential aid and resources, such as resources for accessibility and energy savings upgrades. This will support the City goal of preserving existing housing stock and potentially reducing the environmental impact of existing stock through retrofit.
Definition of Family
The definition of “family” may limit access to housing for persons with disabilities when municipalities narrowly define the word, illegally limiting the development of group homes for persons with disabilities, but not for housing similar sized and situated families. The City’s Development Code includes the following definition of family: “A group of persons, whether related or unrelated, who live together in a non-transient and interactive manner, including the joint use of common areas of the premises which they occupy and sharing household activities and responsibilities such as meals, chores, and expenses. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any group of persons required to be considered as a “family” for zoning purposes pursuant to California Health & Safety Code Sections 1267.8, 1566.3, 1568.0831, 1569.85, 11834.23, or any other state law shall be deemed to be a family for purposes of this code.” The Municipal Code defines family as “a person or persons, related by blood, marriage, or adoption, living together as a single housekeeping unit, in a bachelor apartment, or dwelling unit. Family shall also include a group of not more than five persons, including roomers but excluding servants, unrelated by blood, marriage, or adoption, living together as a single housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit.” Action 4.1b in the Housing Plan includes a commitment to amend this definition consistent with current law. The change in definition shall 1) remove zoning code occupancy standards specific to unrelated adults and that 2) complies with fair housing law and other Pertinent Ordinances.
Senate Bill (SB) 35
All cities that have not met their RHNA are required to have project review standards and streamlined approval processes for structures with low-income units. If the City is to have any influence on the design of these ministerially approved structures, there must be general and objective design standards for multi-family zoning district and mixed-use overlay. Simplifying development review and approval procedures is used to reduce the processing time and fees greatly for a developer. The streamlining process and objective design standards will be addressed in Action HE 1.3a (Mixed Use Overlay).
Enacted in 2017, SB 35 added Government Code §65913.4 to the Housing Development Approvals provisions (Government Code §§65913 - 65914.5) to require streamlining of affordable housing development approvals in cities and counties that have insufficient progress toward their Regional Housing Need Allocation (RHNA) goal and/or have not submitted the latest Housing Element Annual Progress Report (APR). The streamlining includes that a city must provide a written process ministerial approval that enables exempting qualifying projects from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 92
SB 35 requires local entities to streamline the approval process by providing a ministerial process through which a project is only reviewed against objective standards. Qualifying projects are considered ministerial and are not subject to a conditional use permit (CUP). This is a voluntary program that a project sponsor may elect to pursue, provided that certain eligibility criteria are met.
Senate Bill 35 can be implemented in a City when the State determines the City has made insufficient housing units to address the need of their lower-income RHNA. In Cities where the State has made this determination SB 35 dictates a streamlined ministerial approval of proposed developments with at least 50% affordability. If the City is also determined to have made insufficient progress towards their moderate-income RHNA, the City must also provide streamlining for developments with at least 10% affordability.
The City has not received any applications or inquiries for SB 35 streamlining. To facilitate any future SB 35 applications or inquiries, the City will create and make available to interested parties an application packet that explains the SB 35 streamlining provisions in Artesia and provides SB 35 eligibility information. A checklist, written procedure, and application shall be created, and the City will make information available to developers that have projects that may be eligible.
Identified Densities and Approval Time-Frames
Government Code section 65583(a)(6) requires an analysis of requests to develop housing at densities below those anticipated in the sites inventory and the length of time between receiving approval for housing development and submittal of an application for building permit. The analysis must also look at local efforts to remove non-governmental constraints that create a gap in the jurisdiction’s ability to meet RHNA by income category with regard to requested built densities and time frames of development.
If the private sector aspires to develop at lower densities than those proposed in the Housing Element a non-governmental constraint to housing development may exist. During the last housing cycle, none of the sites identified within the Housing Element were developed at densities lower than proposed in the Element. As part of tracking development density, Action HE 5.1b Annual Housing Report is proposed to track the number of units built on parcels within the City including in the Sites Inventory and to determine the remaining site capacity by income category. These efforts will ensure that the no net loss provision will be addressed and that the properties with State expected opportunities (i.e., carryover sites and previously identified sites) are tracked and implemented. Furthermore, the sites that are accommodating particular low-income units will have a minimum density requirement based on the case Martinez vs. City of Clovis.
Six months to a year is the typical development process within the City, depending on the number of units. This timeframe includes land clearance, site preparation, plan check, and construction time.
Construction time may sometimes take longer depending on the scale of development. Timing may also be impacted by non-governmental constraints such as market demand changes, financing, and finding contractors to complete all the aspects of a new development.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 93
Affordable Housing Incentives and Density Bonus
Under Government Code §§65915-65918, the State has required that jurisdictions offer density bonuses and development incentives to developers who proposed to construct affordable or senior housing. These bonuses are on a sliding scale where the more affordable units are constructed the better the incentive offered. The State law requires the provision of total units to be affordable to lower- and moderate-income households. A development of more than five units is eligible to receive density bonuses if it meets at least one of the following:
• Very Low-Income Units: Five percent of the total units of the housing development as target units affordable to very low-income households; or
• Low-Income Units: Ten percent of the total units of the housing development as target units affordable to low-income households; or
• Moderate-Income Units: Ten percent of the total units of a newly constructed condominium project or planned development as target units affordable to moderate-income households, provided all the units are offered for purchase; or • Senior Units: A senior citizen housing development of 35 units or more.
Municipal Code §9-2.4301 establishes density bonus regulations. State density bonus law has been amended since the City’s current density bonus ordinance was adopted; therefore, Action 1.2b (Compliance with State Density Bonus Law) is included in the Housing Plan to update City regulations consistent with current State law.
Code Enforcement
Code enforcement in Artesia is both proactive and complaint-based. The city is monitored by code enforcement officers that look for unpermitted additions, construction, and more. If unpermitted activity is identified, the officer establishes contact with the property owner to ensure compliance with the building code is reached. The City also accepts and processes complaints from residents, and the process is similar for when the City identifies unpermitted activities. Code Enforcement also acts as a tool to communicate programs for structural upgrades for reduces impacts or energy savings (such as weatherizing programs). It is a tool to help maintain and preserve existing housing stock, it helps enact AFFH goals through ensuring compliance with accessibility standards and more.
California Health and Safety Code §17980(c)(2) requires local governments to give consideration to the need for housing as expressed in the Housing Element when deciding whether to require vacation of a sub-standard building or to repair as necessary. The enforcement agency is required to give preference to the repair of the building whenever it is economically feasible to do so without having to repair more than 75 percent of the dwelling. A program to review and ensure this is considered in procedure will be created Action HE 2.2a Code Enforcement.
To improve and preserve existing housing stock and to help reduce the environmental impacts of existing housing stock, Code Enforcement Officers will be trained and provided with resources to share with the public about connecting homeowners to programs that can assist them with their homes. These can be sustainability upgrade suggestions to assistance with accessing information on Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 94
local and regional funding resources designed to assist eligible low-income senior and disabled residents who do not have the financial resources to make the required home improvements, when engaged with code enforcement. Furthermore, the City’s Code Enforcement Officers are knowledgeable about CDBG. grants including general eligibility information to aid and benefit lower income households within the community. It is the hope of the City that proactive code enforcement will help maintain the City’s housing stock and reduce the amount of residential units lost due to poor maintenance.
A program the City may participate in is The Franchise Tax Board. The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) operates the Substandard Housing Program, which assists the state and local agencies responsible for addressing unsafe living conditions that violate health and safety codes. Property owners in violation of health and safety code standards are not allowed to make certain deductions on their personal tax returns pursuant to California Revenue & Taxation Code (CR&TC) Sections 17274 and 24436.5. That additional revenue collected by FTB is transferred to the Local Code Enforcement Rehabilitation fund. These funds are then disbursed to the cities and counties that generated the notification of substandard housing to the FTB.
Action HE 2.2a Code Enforcement will review existing Code Enforcement standards and ensure compliance with State law, identify and create information sheets for homeowners to access resources, and shall review the implementation of the FTB.
Energy Conservation
The City of Artesia requires compliance with the current Building Codes, which. require the use of energy efficient appliances and insulation to reduce energy demand stemming from new residential development.
The affordability of housing can be significantly impacted by energy-related housing costs. The State provides standards that mandate energy efficiency requirements of new development; however, cities and utility providers are also essential resources to encourage and facility conservation of energy and to reduce the burden of energy costs on residents.
California Government Code §65583(a)(8) requires “an analysis of opportunities for energy conservation with respect to residential development.” There are three key elements when improving and reviewing energy-wise development, and these include conservation, development, and efforts for green building and sustainable development.
Energy conservation can be improved with the quality of new development through reducing the use of energy-consuming items, or by physically modifying existing buildings and land uses.
In 1974 the Warren-Alquist State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Act created The California Energy Commission. The primary initial task of the Commission was to adopt energy conservation standards for new construction. This was then turned into Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, and this section contains requirements of insulation, glazing, heating and cooling systems, water heaters, swimming pool heaters, and more.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 95
The Commission also established “climate zones,” to facilitate flexible approaches to energy conservation design for the needs of the particular geographic region of the State. The City of Artesia is located in Climate Zone 8, which covers the semi-arid inland valleys. This climate zone is characterized by mild winters, hot summers, desert winds, and abundant sunshine. Due to the warm regional climate conditions, a large percentage of energy used in residences is due to cooling during the warmer months, and with climate change there is an increasing number of days per year where cooling is needed.
While the State does require energy conservation standards, the standards do not ensure that all available potential conservation actions are taken to ensure the most efficient buildings possible.
Additional steps can be taken to reduce heating, cooling, and lighting loads and overall energy consumption. The City, where appropriate and economically feasible, will support and require standards in excess of the minimums required by Title 24.
Energy conservation efforts are not considered a constraint to housing production as they help save costs for potential homeowners and renters while. Also due to the warm climate of Artesia some of the insulation and heating standards are significantly less stringent in Artesia than in other geographical regions of the State.
A key factor in energy use is land use policies and patterns, such as transportation trends. Southern California has historically been built up with a decentralized form of development, often called urban sprawl. This has necessitated the use of a complex network of freeways and surface streets. Due to the decentralized spread of housing and employment, the automobile has come to define the landscape.
While the region is defined by urban sprawl, there are still opportunities to create more walkable and transit-forward environments that help reduce vehicle emissions. To reduce sprawl, more centralized opportunities have to be created. This can be done through concentration of employment opportunities and high-density housing along major transportation corridors. Development of a transportation corridor also helps reduce automobile dependence and increases the convenience of public transportation and therein reduce the amount of fuel consumed for those that can work and shop locally. With this in mind, the City will implement the Mixed-Use Overlay, which will allow for high-density mixed-use properties throughout the City along the primary arterials of the Community— this will incentivize public transit and a more walkable community. Furthermore, there is a regional light rail system scheduled to be built within Artesia, this creates the opportunity for Transit Oriented Development (TOD). The City will create Code Standards for Transit Oriented Developments, and an Overlay to facilitate the use through Action HE 3.1b Transit Oriented Development (TOD).
Conservation Programs
State of California:
Energy Upgrade California®: is a statewide initiative committed to helping Californians be more energy efficient, utilize more sustainable natural resources, reduce demand on the energy grid, and make informed choices about their energy use at home and at work. This program assists with an energy assessment, ideas for improvements, and resources for financing upgrades.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 96
County of Los Angeles:
Home Weatherization Program The program provides financial assistance for utilities for low-income people in Los Angeles County. Service is provided through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LI HEAP), commonly known as HEAP. The Weatherization Program provides free weatherization services to reduce energy consumption. Services include replacement of inefficient refrigerators, electric water heaters, microwaves, and lighting. Additional services include attic insulation, weather-stripping, minor housing repairs, and other related energy conservation measures. Cooling systems are not provided, but assistance with the repair of an existing unit may be available. The program also provides utility bill assistance for low-income residents of Los Angeles County. Applicants must reside where they are applying for utility bill assistance.
The program provides assistance once per year to help low-income households reduce energy consumption and/or help pay energy bills. The total household monthly income must meet Poverty Guidelines for the program. Priority is given to households with older adults, people with disabilities and families with children 6 years and younger. The program does not provide reconnection costs, deposit fees, or emergency assistance; the program will pay current, late or disconnect utility bills. It takes approximately eight to twelve weeks to process an application; incomplete or incorrect application will take additional time to process. The program is divided into three components: the Cash Assistance Payments Program (CAP); the Energy Crisis Intervention Services (ECIS); and the Weatherization Program.
Southern California Edison
Southern California Edison, which provides an electricity service in Artesia, also offers public information and technical assistance to developers and homeowners regarding energy conservation.
The Energy Savings Assistance Program helps income-qualified customers with free appliances and installation of energy efficient refrigerators, air conditioners and more, as well as home efficiency solutions like weatherization.
The Home Energy Efficiency Rebate Program offers financial incentives for installing approved energy upgrades.
The Multifamily Energy Efficiency Rebate Program offers property owners and managers incentives on a broad list of energy efficiency improvements in lighting, HVAC, insulation, and window categories. These improvements are to be used to retrofit existing multifamily properties of two or more units.
The Low-Income Energy Efficiency programs (LIEE), which help qualified homeowners and renters conserve energy and control electricity costs. Eligible customers can receive services from local community agencies and licensed contractors working with Edison. Services include weatherization, efficient lighting and cooling, refrigerator replacement, and energy education.
The California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE) program provides a 15 percent discount reduction on electric bills for low-income customers.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 97
The Family Electric Rate Assistance Program (FERA) provides discounts for families with household incomes slightly exceeding the low-income energy program allowances.
Energy Star Rebates: Owners of existing homes can receive monetary incentives for purchasing Energy-star qualified appliances or making other energy-saving improvements such as installing photovoltaic and solar thermal systems.
Southern California Gas Company
The Southern California Gas Company offers various rebate programs for energy efficient appliances and makes energy efficient kits available to residents at no cost.
Energy Savings Assistance Program: The Southern California Gas Company offers two direct assistance programs to limited income customers: (1) a no-cost weatherization (attic insulation and water heater blankets) and (2) a no-cost furnace repair and replacement service. Renters and homeowners may be eligible (based on income) to receive energy-saving home improvements from an authorized contractor at no cost through the energy Savings Assistance Program. The program may include attic insulation, high-efficiency clothes washer, tankless water heater, high-efficiency furnace replacement (owner-occupied only), thermostatic tub spout, water heater blanket, low-flow faucet aerator, low-flow showerhead, thermostatic shower valve, furnace duct system sealing, a water heater pipe insulation.
Program participant in the State LIEE and CARE programs, helping low-income customers conserve energy and providing them with a discount on their gas bills.
Green Building/Sustainability
Protecting the environment, improving quality of life in general, and promoting buildings and development that are resource conscious and sustainable as possible are standards that the City seeks to achieve. In order to support a greener and more efficient city, a webpage featuring information and resources about green building will be created to support and lead developers in the community to build more sustainably Action HE 1.5b (Sustainable Development Webpage). A City webpage will also be created to educate the community about water wise use of landscaping and to feature design suggestions such as utilizing trees to shade a house. This voluntary green building program and landscape standards shall be used to help residents and businesses implement efficient green development practices. The City will continue to seek ways to improve the impacts of development within the community. To further high standards of water wise development, the City shall complement the information on the website about sustainable landscaping with a grass removal and water was irrigation incentive plan, wherein a homeowner will be encouraged to replace a grass lawn with a waterwise landscape with targeted watering systems, this shall be done with Action HE 1.5b Sustainable Development Webpage.
The City supports energy conservation through land use planning strategies such as higher density housing along transit routes, such as the Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan, the Housing Opportunities Overlay, and the Mixed-Use Overlay.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 98
City Sponsored Environmental Conservation Actions:
• Create a city webpage:
▪ Green building/ sustainable design – suggestions on how to improve efficiency with design and development to offer resources to develop more sustainably. ▪ Water Conservation with Landscape webpage: a resource guide to plan a waterwise garden, utilize efficient watering systems, a grass removal program, and suggestions of how to plant such as hydrozones and shading. ▪ Energy efficiency programs webpage: A page explaining the benefit of upgrading residential energy efficiency, suggestions on how to, and a list of programs and links to resources for efficiency upgrades.
Non-Governmental Constraints
A number of market and non-governmental factors contribute to the cost of housing. These constraints include the availability of land, costs of land, and construction costs for example. The following is a discussion of the non-governmental constraints present within the community that may impact affordable housing development.
Market Constraints
a. Land Cost
The cost of land directly influences the cost of housing. Land prices are determined by a number of factors, most important of which are land availability and permitted development density. As land becomes scarcer, the price of land increases. In terms of development, land prices have a positive correlation with the number of units permitted on each lot. In recent years, land prices have increased significantly in Southern California. There is no “typical” cost of land in Artesia because there is nearly no vacant land and underutilized land price depends on the nature of the improvements on the property.
The costs associated with land comprise both acquisition and the cost of holding land throughout the development period. This can add up to almost half the cost of the final sales price in areas with scarce land resources. A land search through Zillow.com on November 6, 2023, provided one parcel of land for sale at $899,999 for 9,600 square feet. Some factors that affect the cost of land in the community are the size of lots, location, proximity to amenities, availability and proximity to public services, and financing options. Artesia offers dynamic opportunities that create potential synergies for development potential—such as increased density along public transit routes on primary arterials within the MU-O.
b. Construction Costs
Construction costs can be strongly influenced by a variety of factors and have a direct correlation with the cost of housing. Construction costs are primarily determined by the cost of materials and labor.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 99
The cost of construction depends on the type of construction and typically ranges from $150 to $200 or more per square foot or more.
The cost of construction can be impacted by many factors, but the two most foundational to cost determination are the cost and availability of labor and materials. One measure of construction costs is Building Valuation Data from the International Code Council (ICC).
The ICC unit costs are compiled data on structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work, as well as interior finish and standard site preparation. The data is compiled by country and is not reviewed by region. Land costs are not included in valuation. The National Averages in 2020 for costs per square foot of apartment units and single-family homes are:
• Type I or II, Multifamily: $148.82 to $168.94 per sq. ft. • Type V (Wood Frame), Multifamily: $113.88 to $118.57 per sq. ft. • Type V (Wood Frame), One- and Two-Family Dwelling: $123.68 to $131.34 per sq. ft. c. Availability of Financing
Financial structures dictate the potential for development and can have a significant impact on the cost and supply of housing. There are generally two types of capital with regard to the housing market, one is the capital used to prepare and develop the site such that developers may use, and the other is the financing for purchase of real estate by homeowners and investors. Interests rates influenced by the Federal Government can have impacts on construction, purchase, and improvement costs. Higher interest rates increase a homebuyer’s monthly payment and decrease the range of housing that a household can afford. Lower interest rates result in a lower cost and lower payments for the homebuyer. Due to economic inflation, home interest rates have been increased to as high as 8% which has slowed the national real estate market in purchases but has still not curbed the high cost of housing in the Ls Angeles Metro. Housing prices and rents tend to increase in the local region, causing further housing constraints.
Environmental and Infrastructure Constraints
Access to sufficient infrastructure and unique environmental constraints such as topography can have major impacts in the opportunities to construct new housing. Since Artesia is in a fully developed urban region and for the most part lower density residential and commercial, there is sufficient resources to support increased density.
a. Environmental Constraints
The sites inventory analysis was established with environmental constraints in mind. The proposed sites are based on existing and proposed land use designations and densities established in the General Plan Land Use Element. Since the general plan and environmental constraints reviewed, large environmental constraints that could lower potential yield of development (e.g., habitat conservation, flooding, or steep slopes) have already been accounted for in the General Plan Land Use Map, policies, and programs. An environmental constraint identified on a more detailed site review basis Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 100
would be managed as part of the project review process. The City’s capacity to meet its regional share and individual income categories are not constrained by any environmental conditions.
The City of Artesia has identified areas where land development should be carefully controlled. The following hazards may impact future development of residential units in Artesia.
Seismic Hazards
Artesia, like other cities in Southern California, is located in a region of frequent seismic activity. While the City is located in the vicinity of active faults, no known earthquake faults or Alquist-Priolo Special Study Zones are located within the City. Major active fault zones located in the vicinity of the City include the Newport-Inglewood Fault Zone and the Whittier-Elsinore Fault Zone. The NewportInglewood Fault Zone is located approximately five miles southwest of the City. The fault is designated as active with a maximum credible magnitude of 7.0 to 7.5 on the Richter scale. The Whittier-Elsinore Fault Zone is located approximately 8 miles northeast of Artesia. This fault zone has an expected maximum credible magnitude of 6.6 on the Richter scale.
The City of Artesia may be subject to ground shaking in the event of a nearby earthquake. The amount of ground shaking would depend on the proximity of the area to the fault, the depth, the location of the epicenter, the magnitude of the earthquake, and soil type in the area. Alluvial soils, such as those found in Artesia, are especially prone to intense ground shaking.
The City of Artesia is located within an identified liquefaction zone. Liquefaction is caused by a shock or strain from an earthquake and involves the sudden loss of soil strength and cohesion, and the temporary transformation of soil into a fluid mass.
While these geological hazards affect construction requirements, they do not preclude future development as projected during the planning period.
Flooding
The City of Artesia is located in the San Gabriel River alluvial plain. Drainage within the City flows southwest into the San Gabriel River. The entire city is located within the designated Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Zone C (minimal flooding).
The City of Artesia has adopted Floodplain Management requirements as part of Title 8 of the City’s Municipal Code. These standards apply to construction in flood-prone areas and are intended to protect the residents and property in Artesia. Floodplain management techniques mitigate hazards and are not expected to preclude future development as projected during the planning period.
Fire Hazards
The City of Artesia is located in a built-out, urbanized area and, therefore, the most serious fire threat within the City is structure fires rather than wildland fires. Fire hazards within the City may be associated with heavy industrial uses, hazardous materials, and arson. The Los Angeles County Fire Department provides fire protection and paramedic services for the City. There are no fire stations located within the City; however, there are two fire stations (Fire Stations No. 30 and 115) located in surrounding cities that provide immediate fire protection services. Four other fire stations provide Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 101
secondary service to the City. Fire hazards are not expected to preclude future development as projected during the planning period.
Noise
Residential land uses are the most sensitive to noise in Artesia. Principal noise sources in the City are transportation-related, including highways, the Union Pacific Railroad/Los Angeles County MTA rail corridor, and the 91 freeway. Other potential noise sources include stationery industrial, construction, and population noise. Title 5, Chapter 2 of the City’s Municipal Code addresses permissible noise levels. These noise impacts are mitigated through proper building design and construction techniques and are not expected to preclude future development as projected during the planning period.
Climate Change
Artesia will be faced with significant challenges associated with climate change. Some of these challenges will include rising temperatures, changes to precipitation patterns, drought, flooding, air quality impacts from forest fires, heat-related stress, spread of new diseases, and extreme weather, and more. These potential dangers are already being documented in Southern California. Climate Change is expected to reduce Colorado river flows and the consistency of rain in the greater region.
In future Housing Elements, the availability of water should be evaluated to ensure that additional residential units can be supported by existing and planned infrastructure. The availability of water can be a constraint on housing, however that is not currently the case in Artesia. b. Infrastructure Constraints
The City of Artesia is generally a built-out city. Anticipated residential development is either infill of smaller lots or intensification of use, such as larger single-family lots being converted to a higherdensity use. Major infrastructure is available at most locations in the city although developers may need to upgrade service in order to ensure adequate fire flow or sewer capacity. Each of the Opportunity Sites within the Opportunity area are located within urbanized neighborhoods that have existing water, sewer, and dry utilities in place and available for connection. There is sufficient infrastructure to grow into the total potential RHNA allocation.
The 2021-2029 Housing Element is a policy-level document and does not suggest specific site designs and proposals, but the document does attempt to support and influence the potential for housing within the community and housing cycle time frame. Any development within the community may need to install or relocate on- and off-site water, wastewater, storm drain, street, electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications infrastructure to serve the development. Due to the built-out nature of the community and all necessary utilities already existing within the community, utility access is not considered an impediment to the development of housing.
Water and Sewer Service
All sites identified in the site inventory are located within urbanized neighborhoods and are served with water, sewer, and dry utilities available and accessible to accommodate the City’s RHNA Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 102
allocation of 1,302 units. The water service provider for the City of Artesia is the Golden State Water Company (“Golden State”).
According to the latest (2020) Golden State’s Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP), there are reliable supplies to meet the City’s needs even with five consecutive dry year conditions through the year 2045. Water supply portfolio for Golden State contains the following rights and contracts:
o Central Basin adjudicated groundwater.
o Purchased water through the water supply nexus between GSWC, CBMWD, and Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). o Purchased water from the City of Cerritos.
o Emergency interties with the City of Lakewood, the City of Long Beach, the City of Cerritos, GSWC West Orange Service Area, and Norwalk Municipal Water System. o Purchased recycled water from CBMWD through the Central Basin Recycled Water Project (CBRWP).
The UWMP recognizes and anticipates additional mixed-use redevelopment within the City of Artesia, especially along existing commercial corridors such as Pioneer Boulevard and Artesia Boulevard.
Golden State has communicated to the City that it has the capacity to serve the allocation of 1,302 units and more based on its 2021 UWMP. According to Golden State, water usage has declined significantly over the years even though the population has increased. This is due in part to state mandates requiring water providers to implement conservation measures, use of water efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances, continued replacement of water demanding landscaping with drought -tolerant landscaping and increased water recycling efforts.
Like many other cities in the southern California region, which were primarily developed in the 1950s and 1960s, fire flow issues are experienced by all jurisdictions. Current Fire Codes result in the need for water main upgrades or install fire hydrants by developers. The upgrades are always feasible and accomplished. This is the method that has been implemented in many jurisdictions over the years. In addition to upgrades occurring in conjunction with major development, water providers, like Golden State, do have Capital Improvement Programs that over time, will upgrade water mains to meet current standards.
The UWMP is to be updated every 5 years. Golden State has started the process to update the UWMP, which will be completed in 2026. The updated UWMP will further address the anticipated housing development in the region and implement measures that will continue to ensure adequate water supplies.
The City of Artesia owns the local sewer system, which comprises approximately 31 miles of gravity flow sewer pipelines and is maintained by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works Sewer Maintenance Division. The Sewer System Management Plan, (SSMP) adopted by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, on November 7, 2018, manages the consolidated Sewer Maintenance Districts (CSMD) that serve a population of over 2 million people within the County unincorporated area and 37 CSMD cities. The SSMP identifies any deficiencies in the existing mainline sewer system within the City, recommends alternatives to eliminate deficiencies, prioritizes the deficient reaches, Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 103
and provides the City with a basis on which to build a future infrastructure management system. While
2.8 percent of the existing system is identified as being deficient, the sewer system has sufficient treatment and collection capacity to serve the needs of future housing developments, including affordable housing, as required under Government Code Section 65589.7.
Dry Utilities
All Dry utilities are available within City limits, including power (natural gas and electricity), telephone and/or cellular service, cable or satellite television systems, and internet or Wi-Fi service. The City of Artesia service providers include:
• Electricity: Southern California Edison (SCE)
• Internet Service: AT&T, Earthlink, Frontier, and Spectrum • Telephone: DirectTV, Dish, Frontier Verizon, and Spectrum • Television Systems: AT&T/DirectTV, DISH, Frontier, and Spectrum Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 104
Housing Plan
Introduction
This section of the Housing Element describes the City’s housing goals, policies, programs, and objectives for the 2021-2029 Planning Period regarding the maintenance, preservation, and improvement of housing for all Artesians.
The City’s housing goals are organized to address five key areas:
1. Provision of Affordable Housing
2. Conservation and Improvement of the Existing Housing Stock
3. Provision of Adequate Housing Sites
4. Provision of Equal Housing Opportunities
5. Removal of Governmental Constraints
Housing Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HE 1: Provide affordable, decent, and safe housing of all types and costs, for all residents regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, age, source of income, or disability.
Policy HE 1.1
Identify and track advancement in meaningful actions to affirmatively further fair housing.
Action HE 1.1a Track Meaningful Actions
Track advancements in Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing especially with regard to identified meaningful actions. Implementation will facilitate City efforts to address access for special needs households.
Objective: Tracking and improving access to housing
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Project based, ongoing
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Maintained list
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 105
Policy HE 1.2
Increase the extremely-low-, very-low-, low- and moderate-income housing stock.
Action HE 1.2a Maximize External Funding Resources
The City shall monitor available County, SCAG, State, and Federal funds and pursue funds based on the City’s eligibility. Participation in SCAG will supplement City goals and actions in this regard. These resources shall be utilized to improve and conserve housing stock by regularly seeking funding or continuing to fund existing repair and rehabilitation programs for ownership, rental, and mobile home parks. Funding resources may include Community Development Block Grants, HOME, etc. and existing repair and rehabilitation programs for ownership, rental, and mobile home parks.
The City shall commit to making either an in-house rehab program or identify a way for home owners to access funds.
Objective: Funding for affordable housing construction, rehabilitation neighborhood improvements, and rental assistance.
Responsible Agency: Housing Department
Funding Source: County, SCAG, State, HUD, City/ CDBG Funds Time Frame: Monitor and apply for funds and reach out to developers annually.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Apply for two or more funding sources annually.
Action HE 1.2b Compliance with State Density Bonus Law
To encourage affordable housing development, the City currently offers density bonuses and developer incentives in Article 43 of the Municipal Code. To provide further incentives for affordable housing development and to comply with the provisions of State Density Bonus Law, City shall review and revise Article 43 of the Municipal Code as necessary to ensure consistency with State la (Government Code Sections 65915-65918), including an annual review for compliance and updating Code as state law is revised.
Objective: Review and revise Article 43 of the Municipal Code to reflect any changes in State Density Bonus Law annually.
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Annual monitoring for updates
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Maintained list
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 106
Action HE 1.2c Participation in Gateway Cities Council of Governments Continue to support the Gateway Cities Council of Governments’ efforts to develop strategies to increase the sub-region’s housing stock. The programs the City participates in are listed below; there are multiple initiatives with many times lines.
The City of Artesia is involved with the following Gateway Cities COG projects and programs:
1. Transportation:
a. Complete Streets Initiative
b. West Santa Ana Branch (now Southeast Gateway Line)
c. Strategic Transportation Plan
d. I-605 South Corridor
e. SR-91 FWY Expansion
2. Climate and Air Quality
a. Gateway Cities Regional Climate Collaborative
b. Southern California Regional Energy Network
c. Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS)
3. Housing and Homelessness
a. Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS)
b. RHNA
c. Homeless Initiative
4. Economic Development
a. Improve Mobility
b. Air Quality/Economic Balance Infrastructure
c. Job Creation and Economic Revitalization Program
5. Storm Water
a. Gateway Water Management Authority (GWMA)
b. Lower San Gabriel River Watershed Committee (LSGR)
6. Transportation Committee
7. Board of Directors
8. Planning Directors Committee
9. City Managers Steering Committee
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 107
The City will coordinate with COG projects to address Housing and Homelessness, including cosponsoring efforts to establish a streamlined, regional approach to homelessness initiatives. Homeless initiatives will be pursued in coordination with Actions 1.4c (Variety of Housing Types – Shelters and SROs; 1.4d (Emergency Shelters and Low-Barrier Navigation Centers); and 4.2a (Coordination with Homeless Service Providers).
City staff participates on the COG’s Homelessness Technical Advisory Committee (the TAC). The TAC is a working group of city staff that provides technical assistance and recommendations to the subcommittee on Homelessness of the COG and the COG’s Board of Directors. The TAC’s tasks consist primarily of providing program recommendations for developing service delivery to address homelessness. A recent example includes developing a mental health services outreach program targeted towards unhoused individuals. This program was recommended for inclusion in the COG’s operating budget. As a result, the COG has a contract with two mental health service providers that conduct outreach and service coordination to the member cities, which includes Artesia.
Objective: Participation in Gateway Cities COG
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing, projects have different dates and in general are long term regional initiatives.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Attend meetings and expand participation Action HE 1.2d Accessory Dwelling Units
ADUs provide an opportunity to produce potentially affordable housing while maintaining the character of single-family neighborhoods. The City amended ADU regulations in 2024 consistent with State law. The City will review State regulations annually for changes and update City ADU regulations as necessary to ensure consistency with current law.
To support the construction of additional ADUs within the City, the City shall:
• Commit to creating and implementing a system to monitor the affordability level of new ADUs
• Create standard plans so that locals may reduce the cost of plan review and construction by having approved standardized plans ready to implement • Generate handouts and online materials to support ADU Construction • ADUs that provide rentals with long-term affordability covenants for very-low and lowincome housing units shall have City fees waived • Affordability covenants shall be in place for 35 years • Document the affordability of proposed ADU developments Objective: Encourage production of ADUs.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 108
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Code review and outreach materials will be completed and posted online by October 2026 and ongoing throughout the planning period.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Complete all tasks before the 7th Cycle Housing Element Action HE 1.2e Housing for Lower-Income Households
The largest barrier to quality of life is access to affordable housing, especially for those that have extremely low income, very-low income, and low income. The implementation of the MU-O shall facilitate the development of a variety of housing types.
With this in mind, the City shall rezone properties that were identified in the previous Housing Element, properties that are accommodating low and very-low-income groups and implement code and overlay updates to facilitate a variety of housing types including Single Room Occupancies (SROs).
This “rezone” has been accomplished through the passing of the Mixed Use Overlay and through planned Code updates. Additional efforts to support these communities and other protected groups are described in other programs and actions.
1. The Mixed-Use Overlay shall permit SROs. The MUO allows for density incentives for including lower income units and the area in which they may be permitted is spread through the majority of the commercial corridors within the City which facilitates development near transit options and access to high resource areas. SROs shall be permitted by right with ministerial review.
2. Rezone for a shortfall pursuant to Gov Code 65583.2 (h) and (i), ▪ By right definition consistent with 65583.2(h) and (i) ▪ Minimum Density of 16 or 20 units per acre; and
▪ Minimum site capacity of 16 units; and
▪ at least 50 percent of the lower-income (low and very low) need must be accommodated on sites designated for residential use only OR on sites zoned for mixed uses that accommodate all of the very low and low-income housing need, if those sites:
o allow 100 percent residential use, AND
o require residential use to occupy 50 percent of the total floor area of a mixed-use project
3. Rezone to make Prior identified sites available pursuant to government code 65583.2 c) o Allows residential use by right for housing developments in which at least 20 percent of the units are affordable to lower income households
Objective: Housing for lower income households
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 109
Time Frame: Rezone parcels within 1- year of Housing Element adoption(Mixed Use Overlay accommodated these needs); Outreach to developers annually; Ongoing support by City.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Task complete, the Mixed Use Overlay has been implemented.
Policy HE 1.3
Encourage mixed-use (residential/commercial) development in existing commercial areas.
Action HE 1.3a Mixed Use Overlay
To increase housing access and commercial space within the City of Artesia, while also protecting existing single-family homes in the community, the City is creating a Mixed-Use Overlay. This overlay would help facilitate complimentary uses that are currently separated by zoning districts—such as highdensity housing and commercial uses. The new Overlay covers the majority of the City, and in particular all the primary roadways. The Overlay will feature modified development standards to increased density options to help facilitate the goals and needs of the City. The increased density is intended as a catalyst to facilitate and incentivize needed development in a way that will improve quality of life for Artesians. The Overlay shall:
• Create a way to achieve the housing needs of the City • Facilitate more walkable multi-modal conscious development • Facilitate socially and economically inclusive housing through incentives • Support lower income and special needs households by incentivizing their inclusion • Increase the opportunities for a variety of housing types to be implemented • New patterns for more socially and economically inclusive housing that reduces segregated living patterns to work towards truly integrated and balanced living patterns • More jobs and multi-modal access to jobs in high resource areas Mixed Use Overlay Overview:
• The MUO has two base densities wherein a large amount of the city may increase developable height to three stories and a few areas that can now build up to four stories (see Sites Inventory for more details).
• The developable areas are further defined by two additional height density bonus areas identified as the Artesia Density Bonus (further explanation of the bonus below). This Bonus will allow for properties to go to four, five, and six stories depending on their location (see Sites Inventory for more details).
• Affordable Units:
▪ Deed restricted for 35 years
▪ Must comply with federal and state requirements to build units accessible to people with developmental disabilities
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 110
▪ Shall be dispersed throughout the building and be of a similar quality to more market rate units
• AB 101 (2019) added a requirement that low barrier navigation centers meeting specified standards be allowed by-right in areas zoned for mixed use and in non-residential zones permitting multi-family uses pursuant to Government Code §65660 et seq. • Commercial density may be increased 10% if low-income units are included. • The housing will be either owner-occupied or rental multifamily residential uses. • The first floor within the MU-O shall require commercial uses of at least 50% of the first floor, however if a project is entirely low and or very low- income units then the required commercial component may be waived. Commercial uses may also be waived on properties required by State rezone expectations.
• In order to utilize increased development density, residential must be included. • The housing will be either owner-occupied or rental multifamily residential uses. • Clear and objective design guidelines will be prepared and adopted for the MU-O to facilitate speed of review.
• Mixed Use Overlay Density is in addition to any State Required Density Bonus. • Explanatory materials will be prepared and presented on the application and review processes to streamline permit processing.
• In order to affirmatively further fair housing and implement meaningful action to facilitate a more equal community, there shall be ministerial procedures for:
▪ Properties subject to Gov Code 65583.2 h) and i), 65583.2 c). ▪ Four or fewer residential units
▪ Multifamily Housing providing at least 40% low-income housing ▪ Any project ministerial from CEQA
▪ Inclusion of a variety of housing types in the MU-O: Single Room Occupancy (in accordance with Government Code Section 65583 and 65583.2, by right, reviewed ministerially), emergency shelters, employee housing, and transitional housing, supportive housing, multi-family
▪ Properties with 100% low or very low-income units.
▪ Properties accommodating senior residents or people disability may apply for a reasonable accommodation procedure to remove parking count requirements Community Benefit Program
To further incentivize development within the Mixed-Use Overlay to accommodate housing units, a Community Benefit Program (CBP) shall be put into place. The CBP shall encourage development by offering the Artesia Density Bonus as well as requiring a sliding in-lieu fee to support affordable housing from new development within the overlay.
• Artesia Density Bonus: The Artesia Density Bonus shall include an additional incentive to allow developments with at least 40% low-income housing to surpass the height limits Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 111
within the Mixed-Use Overlay. Where affordable units are included, an additional story may be built.
• Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fee: All projects within the mixed-use overlay must include lower income housing units into their proposed development, which they must be deed restricted; alternatively, developers may pay an Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fee. This fee shall be determined by a nexus study to be performed in 2026, and shall be required of commercial or residential projects that do not include affordable housing units.
Rezone Details: Properties that accommodate the lower income shortfall units and properties that were prior identified sites have State-mandated rezone expectations. The Mixed-Use Overlay will accommodate the following State requirements:
1. Rezone for a shortfall pursuant to Gov. Code § 65583.2(h), (i). ▪ By right definition consistent with Gov. Code § § 65583.2(h), (i) ▪ Minimum density of 16 or 20 units per acre; and
▪ Minimum site capacity of 16 units; and
▪ at least 50 percent of the lower-income need must be accommodated on sites designated for residential use only or on sites zoned for mixed uses that accommodate all of the very low and low-income housing need, if those sites:
▪ allow 100 percent residential use, and
▪ require residential use to occupy 50 percent of the total floor area of a mixeduse project.
2. Rezone to make prior identified sites in the 5th Cycle Housing Element available pursuant to Gov.
Code § 65583.2 (c).
▪ Allow residential use by right for housing developments in which at least 20 percent of the units are affordable to lower income households.
Objective: Adopt Mixed Use Overlay Zone regulations
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Completed May 2025
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Maintained list
Action HE 1.3b Utilizing Minimum Densities to Calculate Realistic Capacity of Sites As per Government Code section 65583.2(c)(1), if the jurisdiction has adopted a law, policy, procedure, or other regulation that requires the development of a site to contain at least a certain minimum residential density, the jurisdiction can utilize that minimum density to determine the capacity of a site.
To meet this standard in a zone that allows for multiple uses, the general plan or zoning must require Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 112
the specified minimum number of residential units on the identified sites regardless of overlay zones, zoning allowing nonresidential uses, or other factors potentially impacting the minimum density.
The Artesia Housing Element utilizes minimum density, and therein this program commits to implementing a policy that requires a certain minimum (40 du/acre) residential density as defined in the Sites Inventory. Projects proposed at densities less than 40 du/ac require legislative approval subject to discretionary review.
Objective: Require minimum density for residential development.
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: December 2025
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Ensure residential development maintains minimum density.
Policy HE 1.4
Provide housing opportunities for special needs groups (elderly, female head of households, persons with disabilities, homeless, and large households).
Action HE 1.4a Expedited Processing for Special Needs Housing Continue to expedite processing for housing development projects for the special needs groups, such as seniors, large families, extremely-low-income households, and persons with disabilities, giving highest priority to rental units with more than 3 bedrooms. This goal may be supplemented by the increase in permitted uses in the Mixed-Use Overlay for housing types that may benefit special needs communities.
Objective: Expedited processing
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Implemented, Ongoing
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Document process by end of 2026
Action HE 1.4b Technical Assistance for Special Needs Housing Development Continue to assist developers proposing special needs housing in applying for federal and state funding, by way of reasonable accommodation for technical assistance and accompanying code update (elderly, female head of households, persons with disabilities, homeless, and large households), and development standards for group homes that are flexible and up to date with State standards. The application materials for technical assistance will inquire about the nature of the special needs categories to best accommodate their needs. All Federally and State recognized protected classes shall have access to technical assistance, and seniors and people with developmental disabilities shall be able to implement a special accommodation ministerial procedure to reduce their parking requirements.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 113
Development review for projects for residential and commercial permits are reviewed for ADA required standards as well, so new buildings are accessible, and older buildings are updated when possible.
Objective: Technical assistance, ministerial special accommodation procedures for parking
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: Tax Credit/Bonds; General Fund
Time Frame: Project based, ongoing
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Document process by end of 2026
Action HE 1.4c Variety of Housing Types
Government Code Section 65583 and 65583.2 require the Housing Element to provide for a variety of housing types including multifamily rental housing, factory-built housing, mobile homes, housing for agricultural employees, supportive housing, single-room occupancy units, emergency shelters, and transitional housing. Code updates to support State expectations include:
• Transitional and Supportive Housing. State law requires that transitional and supportive housing be permitted subject to the same standards and procedures as apply to other residential uses of the same type in the same zone. (Gov. Code, § 65583, subd.(a)(5).) • Supportive Housing Use By Right in Multi-family and Mixed Use. AB 2162 amended State law to also require that supportive housing be permitted as a use by-right in zones where multi-family and mixed uses are permitted, including non-residential zones permitting multi-family uses if the proposed housing development meets specified criteria. • Single Room Occupancy. SROs are one-room units intended for occupancy by a single individual. The City will process an amendment the Zoning Ordinance to encourage the provision of SROs consistent with State law. The Mixed-Use Overlay will facilitate the potential land use of SROs by permitting them by right ministerially. They shall also be permitted by-right in multi-family zoning districts, and development standards shall be created.
• Employee Housing. Consistent with the Employee Housing Act (Health and Safety Code Section 17021.5 and 17021.6) agricultural employee housing for six or fewer employees shall be treated as a single-family structure and permitted in the same manner as other dwellings of the same type in the same zone, and employee housing consisting of no more than 12 units or 36 beds shall be permitted in the same manner as other agricultural uses in the same zone.
• Shelters. Currently allowed only in the M-1 zone subject to the same standards as emergency shelters, however shelters will also be permitted in the Mixed-Use Overlay.
Objective: Code amendment to encourage provision of transitional and supportive housing, SROs, and agricultural employee housing
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 114
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Annual review and commitment to alter code for updates compliant with State laws by December 2026
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Implement processes by end of 2026
Action HE 1.4d Emergency Shelters and Low Barrier Navigation Centers Emergency shelters provide temporary housing for persons who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Every jurisdiction must identify a zone or zones where emergency shelters are allowed as a permitted use without a conditional use or other discretionary permit (Gov. Code § 65583.(a)(4)).
The identified zone or zones must include sufficient capacity to accommodate the need for emergency shelter as identified in the housing element, and each jurisdiction must identify a zone or zones to accommodate at least one year-round shelter. Adequate sites can include sites with existing buildings that can be converted to emergency shelters to accommodate the need for emergency shelters.
The City is in compliance with AB 2339 and shall review standards annually to maintain compliance.
The Municipal Code allows emergency shelters by-right in the M-1 zone and in July 2025, added them as a permitted by-right use in the MU-O overlay zone. Code updates include:
• Ensure parking standards are not more intense than commercial and residential uses in the same zone.
• Clean-up to ensure permitted uses in AMC § 9-2.3402, Table 34-1, comply with AB 2339.
AB 101 (2019) added a requirement that low barrier navigation centers meeting specified standards be allowed by-right in areas zoned for mixed use and in non-residential zones permitting multi-family uses pursuant to Government Code §65660 et seq. The MU-O zone added low barrier navigation centers as a permitted by-right use.
Objective: Amend the City Zoning Code to encourage the provision of emergency shelters and low barrier navigation centers, and ensure compliance between State law and the zoning code including parking requirements Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Code amendment by December 2026, annual review.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Document process by end of 2026
Action HE 1.4e Reasonable Accommodation
Both the federal Fair Housing Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act impose an affirmative duty on local governments to allow reasonable accommodation (i.e., modifications or exceptions) in their zoning laws and other land use regulations when necessary to afford persons with disabilities an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling. The City will process an amendment to Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 115
the Municipal Code by October 2026 to establish procedures for review and approval of requests for reasonable accommodation from persons with disabilities consistent with fair housing law. Flyers explaining the reasonable accommodation process will be posted in City Hall, on the City’s website, and at the City’s recreational center by October 2026.
To further minimize constraints to persons with disabilities, the City will update regulations for residential care facilities in conformance with current State law by October 2026.
Flyers about reasonable accommodation will be periodically included with utility bills mailed to residents of the city.
A Reasonable Accommodation Procedure shall be written to document existing procedures, and there will also be a particular process for senior citizens and people experiencing a disability to waive parking standards, as needed and appropriate. The Procedure shall include findings based on objective evidence to deny an application requesting reasonable accommodation.
An appropriate, technically skilled staff member shall be designated as the City’s ADA Coordinator and will manage the City’s compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements of Title IIA of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The designated staff member shall receive training in the compliance process from the Housing Rights Center.
Objective: Provide reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities; update regulations for residential care facilities
Responsible Agency: Planning/Building Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Code amendment by April 2026; ongoing throughout the planning period
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Document process by end of 2026
Action HE 1.4f Provide priority services to affordable housing developments.
The City will ensure that they and partner districts and providers have specific plans and procedures in place to provide priority services to affordable housing developments.
Objective: Removing constraints to affirmatively further fair housing Responsible Agency: Citywide
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Document process by end of 2026
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 116
Policy HE 1.5
Encourage energy conservation in new residential development and rehabilitation or remodeling of existing housing units.
Action HE 1.5a Green Building Practices and Energy Conservation Encourage the use of green building, energy conservation, and sustainable development practices, by enforcing the CALGreen building code and promoting best practices within the Los Angeles County Green Building Program. Additionally, the City will continue to promote energy conservation programs provided by the local utility providers by providing educational handouts online and in City Hall.
Objective: Encourage energy conservation in residential development Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing, handouts and website updates by December 2026 Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Update website by end of 2026
Action HE 1.5b Sustainable Development Webpage
In order to support a greener and more efficient city, a City webpage featuring information and resources about green building and efficient site design to support and lead local residents, businesspeople, and developers to build more sustainably will be added. The webpage shall feature:
• Educational material for the community about water wise use of landscaping and to feature design suggestions such as utilizing trees to shade a house for energy reduction. • Information about replacing a grass lawn with waterwise landscaping will be included in some City publications, including a newsletter. Homeowners will be encouraged to replace a grass lawn with a waterwise landscape with targeted watering systems. • A list of local programs such as weatherization initiatives offered by local utility companies. • The City shall support energy conservation and existing residential structure preservation by disseminating information online and via pamphlets. This will help raise awareness about energy conservation options and ways to reduce water usage.
Objective: Encourage energy conservation in residential development Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Update website by end of 2026
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 117
Goal HE 2: Maintain and Improve the Existing Housing Stock in Artesia.
Policy HE 2.1
Maintain and improve existing housing stock, such as protecting manufactured housing land uses.
Action HE 2.1a Mobile Home Park/Manufactured Home Zoning District The City will implement a mobile home park/manufactured home zoning district to protect existing and any potential multi-unit manufactured housing community from changing land uses. Mobile home parks can provide valuable affordable housing opportunities, and the land use has specifically been identified by the State to require protections and assistance. Manufactured housing parks shall be rezoned to the new Mobile Home Park/Manufactured Home District.
Objective: Encourage and conserve manufactured housing
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing, zone update by end of 2026
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Update code by end of 2026
Action HE 2.1b No Net Loss and Replacement of Housing Units The City Shall implement State laws with regards to replacement of affordable housing units, by requiring the replacement of units affordable to the same or lower income level as a condition of any development on a nonvacant site consistent with those requirements set forth in Density Bonus Law (Government Code section 65915(c)(3)). Replacement requirements shall be required for sites identified in the inventory that currently have residential uses, or within the past five years have had residential uses that have been vacated or demolished, and:
• Were subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of low or very low-income, or • Subject to any other form of rent or price control through a public entity’s valid exercise of its police power, or
• Occupied by low or very low-income households
• To further advance the efforts to improve and conserve existing housing stock, the City shall require replacement of lost housing units, at a one-to-one replacement of any housing units demolished due to public or private action. Additionally, the City Shall enact demolition ordinances governing demolition of housing units and conversions of housing units to other uses (e.g., office or commercial). Replacement units shall be permitted at other locations within the City.
• Please note, until 2025, pursuant to Government Code section 66300(d) (Chapter 654, Statutes of 2019 (SB 330)), an affected city or county shall not approve a housing development project that will require the demolition of residential dwelling units regardless of whether the parcel was listed in the inventory unless a) the project will create Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 118
at least as many residential dwelling units as will be demolished, and b) certain affordability criteria are met. This includes the City of Artesia.
Objective: No Net Loss and Replacement of affordable housing units Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing, zone update by end of 2026
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Document unit changes and maintain no net loss Action HE 2.1c Support Homeownership Resources with Webpage update As part of the webpage updates, there shall be a page of available resources to support a homeownership journey. The information will include pre- and post-purchase homeownership education and counseling to assist people in becoming homeowners and maintaining their homes.
This information will also be mentioned in the City newsletters. The trainings will be administered by the Los Angeles County Neighborhood Housing Services programs.
Objective: Support homeownership
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Update by end of 2026
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Update website by end of 2026
Action HE 2.1d Anti-Displacement Strategies
Analyze and evaluate renter protections, including anti-displacement measures. Where possible, partner with the County to implement anti-displacement measures. Strategies may include but are not limited to housing rehabilitation such as lead-based paint remediation, site acquisition for affordable rental housing opportunities, rent stabilization or tenant relocation assistance ordinance, or new homebuyer assistance programs.
Objective: Anti-displacement strategy identified
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Update by end of 2026; ongoing and at least annual implementation thereafter.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: A strategy identified and implemented by end of 2026 Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 119
Action HE 2.1e Neighborhood Improvements
Allocate funding to pursue residential street improvement, park improvement, and other community facility improvement projects.
Objective: Improve existing neighborhoods
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Update by end of 2026; ongoing and at least annual implementation thereafter.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide, focus on northeastern portion of the City Performance Metric: Implement actions related to illegal dumping and blight with the goal of reducing code enforcement violations. Pursue five improvement projects over eight years
Action HE 2.1f Neighborhood Clean-up Programs
Neighborhood Clean-up Programs. Encourage residents to participate in neighborhood clean-ups, beautification efforts, and community-building activities to foster a sense of ownership and pride in their city. This initiative is both for anti-displacement and implementing a place based strategy.
Objective: Neighborhood Clean-up Programs
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Update by end of 2026; ongoing and at least annual implementation thereafter.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide, focus on northeastern portion of the City Performance Metric: Implement actions related to illegal dumping and blight with the goal of reducing code enforcement violations.
Action HE 2.1g Proactive Illegal Dumping Cleanup Initiative Proactive Illegal Dumping Cleanup Initiative. Expand the deployment of proactive cleanup teams to target areas prone to illegal dumping within Disadvantaged Communities. This initiative is both for Anti-displacement and a place based strategy.
Objective: Illegal Dumping Clean-up Programs
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Update by end of 2026; ongoing and at least annual implementation thereafter.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide, focus on northeastern portion of the City Performance Metric: Implement actions related to illegal dumping and blight with the goal of reducing code enforcement violations and/or complaints by 10 percent during the planning period.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 120
Action HE 2.1h Priority Areas
Compile a list of priority areas to enforce illegal dumping enforcement and vacant property maintenance. This initiative is both for Anti-displacement and a place based strategy.
Objective: Priority Areas Identified
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Update by end of 2026
Geographic Targeting: Citywide, focus on northeastern portion of the City Performance Metric: Specific areas identified by need, including the northwest portion of the City.
Policy HE 2.2
Continue to enforce the City’s Municipal Code to preserve the existing housing stock.
Action HE 2.2a Code Enforcement
The City of Artesia provides Code Enforcement services that preserve the appearance, character and quality of our neighborhoods and our community. This cycle’s Code Enforcement program covers several topics of interest, including:
• The City shall review existing Code Enforcement standards and ensure compliance with State law including Fair Housing Law, identify and create information sheets for homeowners to access resources, and shall review the implementation of the Franchise Tax Board (FTB).
• The City shall coordinate code enforcement with utility companies, housing code inspection, and rehabilitation programs to effectively utilize funding resources, efficiently ensure safe homes, and avoid displacement. As part of this effort, the City shall address California Health and Safety Code §17980(c)(2), which requires local governments to consider the need for housing as expressed in the Housing Element when deciding whether to require vacation of a sub-standard building or to repair as necessary. The enforcement agency is required to give preference to the repair of the building whenever it is economically feasible to do so without having to repair more than 75 percent of the dwelling. This program shall review and ensure this is considered in procedure will be created.
• The City will implement a required presale code inspection process, by enacting occupancy ordinances requiring presale code inspections and compliance before title to a property is transferred to new owners. For the purpose of this program “previous five years” is based on the date the application for development was submitted. • The City still features an addition of the local magazine The Artesian on the City webpage that provides a list of important phone numbers for residents to keep handy for activity that may extend beyond the jurisdiction of Code Enforcement. • Fair housing complaints are addressed directly by the Housing Center, either by direct contact from Artesia residents or upon referral by City Code Enforcement.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 121
Objective: Identify and Prioritize Target Areas for Proactive Code Enforcement consistent with fair housing law
Responsible Agency: Code Enforcement
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing with annual reevaluation, website updates by December 2025 Geographic Targeting: Citywide, focus on northeastern portion of the City Performance Metric: A written plan
Goal HE 3: Provide suitable sites for housing development to accommodate all ranges of housing type, size, location, and price.
Policy HE 3.1
Identify properties within the City that are suitable for housing development.
Action HE 3.1a Land Inventory for Infill Housing Opportunities Maintain an updated land inventory that identifies vacant residential land and underutilized properties suitable for higher-density residential development within the City. This land use and housing database shall be updated annually by the City’s Planning Department in conjunction with the Code Enforcement Department, and will be posted on the City website. This list will be updated and shared as part of the Housing Element. This information will be posted online as part of the Housing Element process.
As part of this process, the City shall create an online searchable inventory of surplus lands and publicize their availability to promote the use of sites for housing affordable to lower-income households.
Objective: Online searchable land inventory
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Annual update, inventory online by 2026
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: A maintained list
Action HE 3.1b Transit Oriented Development (TOD)
The regional transit planning efforts have located a future metro station in Artesia. With the arrival of the metro on the horizon, the City shall implement a TOD by way of the Downtown Specific Plan.
The TOD options shall feature: Reduce parking requirements or establish ministerial procedures to provide an exception for projects serving low-income households and seniors and for transit-oriented development.
Objective: Implement TOD
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 122
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Downtown Specific Plan to be implemented by December 2025 Geographic Targeting: Downtown
Performance Metric: Downtown Specific Plan implemented
Action HE 3.1c Small Lot Consolidation
The City of Artesia’s historic land-use pattern consists of small parcels of less than 0.5 acre. Artesia will accordingly primarily rely on larger or consolidated parcels to facilitate the development of lowerincome housing. Additional information on specific potential lot consolidations is included in Appendix B, beginning on page 201. The following recent residential projects included lot consolidations:
Brandywine: A 30-unit townhome development consolidated a 0.49-acre parcel with a 0.92- acre parcel.
City Ventures: A 59-unit mixed-use project consolidated seven parcels ranging in size from approximately 7,200 square feet to 7,800 square feet together with a larger over an acre parcel.
Builder’s Remedy: A 120-unit project with 24 very low-income units combined with two 0.12-acre parcels, to facilitate 12 units combined with 108 units on an adjacent, larger parcel.
Artesia Square: 157 unit mixed Use project (currently under review) is combining three parcels (0.41, 0.50 and 0.94 acre in size).
To facilitate lot consolidation, the City offers the following incentives to achieve orderly development, improve pedestrian activity, and implement the goals and objectives of the Housing Element:
• Reduction in development standards (i.e., lot size, parking, and open space requirements); • Parking Reduction: Required parking may be reduced subject to finding that adequate parking will be available to serve the subject project; • Alternative Parking: Tandem, shared, and off-site parking options may be allowed, subject to finding that adequate parking will be available to serve the project; and • Deferral of park development impact fees to promote more intense residential and mixed use developments with deed-restricted units on parcels with underutilized uses.
In addition, the City will:
• Annually contact owners of contiguous underutilized sites that would most likely benefit from lot consolidation to develop affordable housing to introduce the idea of parcel consolidation; explaining City regulations and how standards may be modified to make site assembly feasible and the availability of financial or technical assistance.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 123
• Work in partnership with affordable housing developers to develop a priority lot consolidation list (based on identified sites in the site inventory) with the goal of creating a list of “ready to go” development sites that can be shown to potential developers focusing on sites ideally located to meet the criteria for affordable housing grants and financing. • Monitor every two years the number of lower-income (very low-income plus low-income) housing units permitted. If the number of units permitted is not on track to meet the lowerincome RHNA, research and identify additional incentives for lot consolidation, such as additional density bonus, additional height, or reduced parking.
Objective: Encourage and facilitate lot consolidation of smaller parcels to accommodate viable projects at a density of at least 40 dwelling units per acre or higher
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing, seek and apply for funding annually, contact property owners annually, develop priority lot consolidation list by end of 2026, monitor progress toward lower-income RHNA at the end of December 2026 and every two years thereafter.
Geographic Targeting: Opportunity Sites/Parcels
Performance Metric: Develop priority lot consolidation list by end of 2026, Goal HE 4: Continue to provide fair housing choice, equal opportunity, and access for all Artesia citizens, housed and non-housed alike.
Policy HE 4.1
Provide fair housing services to residents and ensure that all are aware of their rights and responsibilities regarding housing.
Action HE 4.1a Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing
“Affirmatively furthering fair housing” means taking meaningful actions, in addition to combating discrimination, that overcome patterns of segregation and foster inclusive communities free from barriers that restrict access to opportunity based on protected characteristics. Specifically, affirmatively furthering fair housing means taking meaningful actions that, taken together, address significant disparities in housing needs and in access to opportunity, replacing segregated living patterns with truly integrated and balanced living patterns, transforming racially and ethnically concentrated areas of poverty into areas of opportunity, and fostering and maintaining compliance with civil rights and fair housing laws. The duty to affirmatively further fair housing extends to all of a public agency's activities and programs relating to housing and community development. • Government Code section 8899.50(b) requires the City to administer its programs and activities relating to housing and community development in a manner to AFFH and take no action that is materially inconsistent with its obligation to affirmatively further fair housing. The City shall publish a policy that to require the City to administer its programs and Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 124
activities relating to housing and community development in a manner to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing and take no action that is materially inconsistent with its obligation to AFFH (Government Code section 8899.50(b)).
• Fair housing services are provided to Artesia residents by the Housing Rights Center. The City will continue to refer housing discrimination and fair housing inquiries and complaints to the Housing Rights Center which provides fair housing education and outreach as well as tenant-landlord resolution and investigates reports of discrimination. The City shall provide information about the Foundation’s services in English and Spanish at City Hall and on the City’s website and cable television station.
• Actions to promote AFFH include the efforts of the rezone/implementation of the MixedUse Overlay, removal of constraints, codifying a verity of housing types. • As part of the AFFH efforts, the City shall foster and maintain compliance with Civil Rights and Fair Housing Laws, the City shall adopt an equal housing ordinance, strengthening partnerships with community organizations and service providers through a biennial meeting and providing dedicated staff for the referral of fair housing complaints. • The efforts to increase AFFH awareness, the City shall add a fair housing web page to the City website to increase access to resources and support. • The City Shall actively pursue their efforts to implement meaningful actions.
Objective: Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Publish AFFH policy by end of 2026
Action HE 4.1b Definition of Family
The City’s Municipal Code currently defines a Family as “a person or persons, related by blood, marriage, or adoption, living together as a single housekeeping unit in a bachelor apartment or dwelling unit. Family shall also include a group of not more than five persons, including roomers but excluding servants, unrelated by blood, marriage, or adoption, living together as a single housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit.” The City will amend the definition of “family” to be consistent with State and federal fair housing laws by December 2026.
Objective: Definition of “family” consistent with fair housing laws Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Code amendment by December 2026
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Update code by end of 2026
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 125
Policy HE 4.2
Support local, non-profit agencies near Artesia that serve the homeless.
Action HE 4.2a Coordination with Homeless Service Providers The City participates in the annual National Point-In-Time Count to identify the general unhoused population.
To support this community, the City has identified two zoning districts (MUO and M1) that can accommodate shelters, generating new options for a variety of supportive housing types - including SROs, increased density to support new housing development, created incentives to help build and fund housing, and reduced code standards to further support development.
The City has implemented new opportunities for multiple types of more accessible housing through the Mixed-Use Overlay and new general code changes.
The City shall participate in the Gateway Cities COG Committee on Homelessness and PATH and shall co-sponsor initiatives which expand regional homeless services and resources.
When individuals in need are identified, City staff such as Code Enforcement or other staff members helps coordinate regional aid. Homeless persons are currently referred to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), social service programs in the nearby cities of Long Beach and Los Angeles, and service providers within SPA 7. Objective: Coordination with agencies and service providers.
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Annually and Ongoing; Code Updates ongoing
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Update code, and document process to help unhoused individuals.
Action HE 4.2b Write a Plan to Combat Homelessness
Write a plan for how to address homelessness within the City.
Objective: Document process.
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: By end of 2026; ongoing and at least annual implementation thereafter.
Geographic Targeting: Citywide, focus on areas such as the train tracks and under the freeway overpasses
Performance Metric: A written plan
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 126
Policy HE 4.3
Provide rental assistance to low-income households.
Action HE 4.3a Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
Continue to assist eligible low-income households receiving Section 8 rental assistance through the County Housing Authority. Information on the Section 8 program will be made available at City Hall and announced on the City website. The goal was 29 Section 8 Vouchers during the 5th Cycle housing element and there were 176 between 2013-2021. Program in effect. The City shall aspire to 10 more units a year.
The City shall also continue to provide referral information to eligible low-income households regarding Section 8 rental assistance through the County Housing Authority. Information on the Section 8 program will be made available at City Hall and on the City website.
The City shall also create a newsletter to assist in publicizing the eligibility list. This may help achieve our goal of achieving ten or more Housing Choice recipients within the community.
Objective: Support the Section 8 Voucher program (the City has no control over the number of vouchers that will be made available to Artesia residents) Responsible Agency: Los Angeles County Housing Authority Funding Source: HUD
Time Frame: Annually; Ongoing
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Increase the availability of units to households eligible for Section 8 vouchers.
Action HE 4.3b Equal Housing Program
The City will adopt an equal housing program to strengthen partnerships with community organizations and service providers. The program shall provide dedicated staff for the referral of fair housing complaints. Staff shall participate in regional meetings and efforts to support AFFH efforts.
Staff shall publicize fair housing programs and services offered to the community by the city and other agencies.
Objective: Support AFFH efforts
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Implement equal housing program
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 127
Policy HE 4.4
Increase Public Outreach.
Action 4.4a Public Outreach
The City of Artesia will implement an ongoing Public Outreach and Engagement Program that is designed to inform the community about housing policies and initiatives, including Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) and new housing options and development. Per Government Code Section 65583(c)(8) for Housing Elements, the City must engage all segments of the community— across every income category. The City will maintain the outreach schedule on housing element implementation with updates to be published on the City website.
As part of this program, the City will:
• Provide background and educational materials on AFFH, including information regarding the City's commitment to address any barriers related to fair housing while supporting those with disproportionate housing needs.
• Share updates on new housing options, planned developments, and progress towards the next Housing Element.
• On the Artesia website, publish accessible and clear information on the goals and implementation of the Housing Element, including how residents can engage in the process.
• Participate in community popup events to share information, gather input, and build awareness of housing programs and policies.
• Create informational, multilingual informational material on fair housing that will be made available at public counters, libraries, post office, and other community locations and on the City’s website.
• Foster an "open for business" and inclusive dynamic with the community of Artesia will enforce transparency, accountability, and collaborative information of housing goals. • The City shall either conduct targeted stakeholder interviews or establish a committee representative of lower-income households in future public outreach efforts. • Research approaches by other cities to prevent displacement and hold a workshop consisting of residents, stakeholders, and members of protected classes to provide recommendations to the City Council.
• Promote active and inclusive community involvement in decision-making and development processes.
The City of Artesia will ensure its continued efforts to expand awareness of fair housing resources, track public feedback, and adjust outreach methods to reach diverse segment of the community, including non-English speaking residents, renters, seniors, and persons with disabilities.
Objective: Support AFFH/Public Outreach
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Annually
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 128
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Facilitate at least one outreach effort related to the annually such as a town hall meeting. Research, community meeting, presentation to City Council, and subsequent adoption of identified resources.
Action 4.4b Public Engagement
To ensure that all economic segments of the community have a voice in housing decisions, the City of Artesia will implement an outreach strategy during the Housing Element cycle and beyond. This approach is designed to reach a broad range of residents, including those with disproportionate housing needs.
• As part of this program, the City will:
• Continue to host hybrid in-person/virtual public meetings with the Planning Commission, allowing greater flexibility and accessibility for residents to participate in housing discussions.
• Establish a Resident and Stakeholder Advisory Committee to provide input on housing needs, proposed sites, and programmatic goals, ensuring a balanced representation of community voices.
• Conduct direct consultations with local service providers and organizations who work with lower-income residents to better understand unmet housing and supportive service needs. • Host study sessions with the Planning Commission and City Council before submitting the Housing Element to the HCD to present proposed sites, analyze alternatives, and integrate community feedback into final decisions.
The City will maintain a record of outreach efforts and adjust strategies based on participation trends, with an emphasis on engagement. Public feedback gathered through these efforts will be summarized and incorporated into the Housing Element and Annual Progress Reports, demonstrating a continued commitment to transparency, inclusion, and compliance with Government Code §65583(c)(8) Objective: Public Engagement Program
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Annually
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Establish a Resident and Stakeholder Advisory Committee Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 129
Goal HE 5: Remove governmental constraints to the development, maintenance, and improvement of the housing stock.
Policy HE 5.1 Provide guidance for decision-making regarding quality, inventory, and conservation of the City’s housing stock.
Action HE 5.1a Informational Manuals and Handouts
To ensure that the public is informed about housing opportunities and supportive programs, the City will implement the following:
• Continue to provide and annually update explanatory manuals and handouts to assist applicants, commissioners, and citizens in understanding regulations and procedures regarding land use and development permits and post zoning regulations on the City website. In addition, to address new transparency laws, development fees and zoning requirements will continue to be posted on the City website. • Continue to provide explanatory manuals and handouts to assist applicants, commissioners, and citizens in understanding regulations and procedures regarding land use and development permits.
• Govt. Code § 65940.1(a)(1) specifies transparency and content requirements for City websites. While the City Community Development Department does provide some development application materials the site must be reviewed for compliance with State mandates. The City will review and update its website to be in compliance with the new transparency requirements.
• Bringing older homes into compliance with current building codes can be costly, and there is government flexibility in building codes to facilitate rehabilitation while maintaining health and safety standards. To encourage rehabilitation, the City shall implement education programs for public officials, contractors, and property owners to ensure public knowledge of flexibility in building codes for rehabilitation (e.g., minor or moderate). The primary resource for this will be through a webpage on the City website. • Add information about green building and fair housing as mentioned in other programs.
Objective: Informational manuals & handouts, website update Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing with annual review and updates, website updates complete by December 2026
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Update by end of 2026
Action HE 5.1b Annual Housing Report
In compliance with State law, the City shall submit annual progress reports to HCD. The reports will describe housing approvals and the City’s progress in implementing the Housing Element policy program.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 130
As part of this annual review, the City shall track the number of units built on parcels including in the City’s sites inventory and to determine the remaining site capacity by income category. The program and City effort will ensure that the no net loss provision will be addressed and will help hold the City accountable if an Opportunity Site in the Housing Opportunity Areas is developed at a density below what is planned.
Objective: Annual Report to HCD
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Annually
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Report annually
Policy HE 5.2
Provide efficient development permit processing.
Action HE 5.2a Development Review Process Handouts
To assist the public in understanding the application and approval process, the City shall continue to distribute “The Development Review Process” handout to applicants. The City shall modify the handout as needed to reflect changes in the application process, timelines, or requirements. The document will also be available online.
Objective: Simplify the development review process through informational handouts
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing, update as necessary
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Update by end of 2026
Action HE 5.2b Pre-Application Coordination with Developers Continue to meet with prospective developers prior to formal submittal of a building permit application. The City will inform the applicant of the City’s requirements as they apply to the proposed development project, review the procedures outlined in the Municipal Code, explore possible alternatives or modification of the project, and identify any necessary technical studies or other required information relating to future entitlement review.
The City offers pre-application meetings over the counter and in person. These are available upon request typically within days.
For large projects, such as substantial housing developments, the City requests applicants participate in the Development Review Commission to garner local citizenry and commission feedback about proposed projects. These commission review meetings can take a few weeks to plan and notice but are available on request.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 131
The City shall actively pursue opportunities with an active outreach program for our pre-application services, with a public newsletter. The meetings are available weekly on request by scheduling time with City Planning Staff. Staff is also engaged in on going outreach for the AFFH, the HE, and to highlight development potential in the community.
Objective: Pre-application meeting with developers, and proactive outreach Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Ongoing, annually, project based
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Advertise the service twice
Action HE 5.2c Remove Constraints to Housing Entitlement and Construction To reduce the time and cost of housing permit processing and encourage construction of affordable housing projects, the City shall review existing development application requirements, approval procedures, and required development fees and if any of these requirements are found to pose an unwarranted constraint to housing development, the City shall amend regulations and/or procedures to eliminate such constraints by October 2025. The following is the list of constraints to be removed:
• Four or fewer unit developments shall be ministerial City wide. • Residential development, including at least 40% of lower income units, shall be ministerially reviewed.
• Projects that are ministerial in CEQA shall be reviewed ministerially. • A reasonable accommodation procedure to reduce parking for seniors and people with disabilities will be created.
• Remove the requirement for CUP for single-family houses with 5 or more bedrooms to be removed. This will help a variety of housing types and large families. • Remove CUP requirement for a residential care facilities such as group homes, based on State law.
• M-R Zoning District height increased from two to three story maximum. • M-R will no longer have lot coverage requirements (site restriction will be defined by height and setbacks only) M-R will no longer have lot coverage requirements (site restriction will be defined by height and setbacks only)
• M-D-R shall have the parking standards changed to allow for one parking space for one bedroom units, 2 parking spaces for a two bedroom, and three for a four bedroom. • Defer City fees until financing is in place for low income and senior housing projects that incorporate 50% of the development with low-income units. • Studio and one-bedroom units, parking standards shall be reduced to one parking space per unit.
• Singel Family Residential—if a one bedroom unit is built, then one parking spot shall be required instead of two.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 132
• Enclosed parking will no longer be required for multi-family development. • Allow tandem parking in residential developments.
• A Manufactured Housing District will be created, and a rezone will be implemented on projects featuring multiple and primarily manufactured homes. • Allow agricultural/employee housing for six or fewer persons by-right in Residential Zoning Districts.
• The City shall permit residential care facilities in all residential zones and not restrict the occupancy of unrelated individuals in residential care facilities. • Update the design review process to remove required subjective standards and create objective standards.
Objective: Removing constraints to affirmatively further fair housing Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: Update Zoning Code, as appropriate, in 2026 Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Finish updates by end of 2026
Action HE 5.2d Ministerial Design Review Process
A ministerial review process shall be implemented to manage both City housing goals and State mandated development potentials. The process will be published online and available at the City to facilitate new housing development.
Objective: Implement Ministerial Process
Responsible Agency: Planning Department
Funding Source: General Fund
Time Frame: December 2025
Geographic Targeting: Citywide
Performance Metric: Implement process by end of 2026
Quantified Objectives
Under section 65583 of the California Government Code, local jurisdictions are required to propose quantified housing objectives and seek to meet them through Housing Element goals, policies, and programs. These objectives are not a restriction on the total amount of units that could be built, but rather a set of aspirational goals based on needs, resources, and constraints.
The 6th Cycle Housing Element Quantified Objectives are illustrated in the table below, for the new construction (new units), rehabilitation (existing units), and conservation/preservation (at-risk units) of Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 133
affordable and special needs housing units and/or households. The aspirational quantified objectives will be based on the Goals, Policies, and Programs sections of this Housing Element. Since the community has had limited development in recent years, the preservation and rehabilitation goals are modest—it is the City’s goal to initiate movement on these goals and improve on outcomes overtime.
The City has established a plan to help facilitate the development of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) including the units not accommodated within the last housing cycle. Through the implementation of a progressive housing stance the City is going to put into place the Mixed-Use Overlay. The goal is that the new density potentials will help spur development. Affordable housing units (deed restricted) are incentivized by the City and State, and their construction will generate units that are preserved/conserved. While there are housing voucher recipients within Artesia, the City does not track individual units, and there are no public housing developments. The preservation/conversation goals are aspirational and tied to strongly established goals of new affordable housing.
Furthermore, Government Code Section 65583.2(g)(3) requires a Program and policy requiring replacement of existing affordable units. This law will assist in the preservation of what affordable units may exist within the community while still allowing new development.
Rehabilitation goals will be met through the City’s Code Enforcement program, which is viewed as a partner in maintaining housing stock and will be implemented through the City of Artesia Housing Rehabilitation Assistance Program. This program will aid eligible homeowners and residents for correction of health and safety items, as well as code violations, and other home repairs and other general or visual improvements located within the City of Artesia. The Program provides this assistance in the form of grants used to finance the cost of necessary repairs that will provide the resident with a decent, safe, sanitary and code compliant home, referred to herein as “housing unit.” Table H-43 below summarizes the quantified objectives for the 2021-2029 planning period.
Construction projection for extremely low income units are based on one half of the units needed for very low income, as determine with RHNA, Carry Oversites, and a buffer.
Table H-43. 2021-2029 Quantified Objectives
Housing by Income Level Objective
Construction
Extremely Low Income 198
Very Low 198
Low 205
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 134
Moderate 163
Above Moderate 564
Total 1,327
Rehabilitation
Extremely Low Income 5
Very Low 5
Low 5
Moderate 5
Above Moderate 0
Total 20
Preservation/Conservation
Extremely Low Income 5
Very Low 5
Low 5
Moderate 5
Above Moderate 0
Total 20
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 135
Appendix A: Evaluation of the Prior Housing Element
Overview
Section 65588(a) of the Government Code requires that jurisdictions evaluate the effectiveness of the existing Housing Element, the appropriateness of goals, objectives and policies, and the progress in implementing programs for the previous planning period. This appendix contains a review the housing goals, policies, and programs of the previous housing element, and evaluates the degree to which these programs have been implemented during the previous planning period. This analysis also includes an assessment of the appropriateness of goals, objectives, and policies. The findings from this evaluation have been instrumental in determining the City’s 2021-2029 Housing Implementation Program.
Table A-1 summarizes the programs contained in the previous Housing Element along with the program objectives, accomplishments, and implications for future policies and actions.
Effectiveness in Meeting Special Housing Needs
As a small city, Artesia has limited resources to directly address special housing needs such as extremely-low-income households, seniors, problems of overpayment and overcrowding, and persons with disabilities. The City utilizes density bonus to incentivize production of affordable and special needs housing, and in partnership with the Los Angeles Urban County CDBG program, the City works to address the housing needs of seniors and persons with disabilities. The City also works to conserve the existing supply of affordable housing for special needs groups that may be at-risk of conversion to market rate during the planning period
Assessment of Goals, Policies, and Programs
State Government Code (GC) Section 65588 requires local government to “…review its housing element as frequently as appropriate to evaluate all of the following: (1) The appropriateness of the housing goals, objectives, and policies in contributing to the attainment of the state housing goal. (2) The effectiveness of the housing element in attainment of the community's housing goals and objectives. (3) The progress of the city, county, or city and county in implementation of the housing element.”
The following table is a review of the City’s progress towards housing goals established in the 2013- 2021 5th Cycle Housing Element Planning Period.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 136
Table H-44. Program Accomplishments 2013-2021
Policy/Progress 2013-2021 Program Objective
(quantified/qualified) Result Evaluation Continue /Modify / Delete Action: Action HE 1.1a
Mortgage Credit
Certificate Program
Timing: Program has
ended.
Responsibility: Housing
Department/LACDA
Continue to promote the County of
Los Angeles Mortgage Credit
Certificate (MCC) Program for firsttime homebuyers through handouts available at City Hall and
announcements in the City’s website
and cable television station (RTA).
There were 955
MCC participants
between 2013-
2021. The program
ended in 2020.
Effective Delete. Program
no longer
available.
Action: Action HE 1.2a
Maximize External
Funding Resources
Timing: Ongoing,
annual depending on the
program
Responsibility: Housing
Department/LACDA
Maximize use of external funding
resources for affordable housing
construction, rehabilitation, and
rental assistance. The City shall
monitor available County, State, and
Federal funds and pursue funds
based on the City’s eligibility.
City has not had the
capacity to manage
this aspirational
goal.
Ineffective Modify. Research
ways to provide
resources for
locals in need.
Action: Action HE 1.2b
Compliance with State
Density Bonus Law
Timing: Review and
revise Article 43 of the
Municipal Code to reflect
recent changes in State
Density Bonus Law
annually Responsibility:
Planning Department
To encourage affordable housing
development, the City currently offers
density bonuses and developer
incentives in Article 43 of the
Municipal Code. To provide further
incentives for affordable housing
development and to comply with the
provisions of State Density Bonus
Law, the City shall review and revise
Article 43 of the Municipal Code. The
City shall commit to annual
monitoring.
Changes complete,
and annual review
Effective Continue
Action: Action HE 1.2c
Participation in Gateway
Cities Council of
Governments
Timing: Ongoing
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Continue to participate in the
Gateway Cities Council of
Governments’ effort to develop
strategies to increase the subregion’s housing stock. Tasks include identifying available financial
resources, modeling housing costs,
and formulating programs that the
sub-region could sponsor to help
overcome some of the constraints to
housing development. Potential
categories of housing assistance
could include programs to help meet
infrastructure needs, impact
predevelopment and feasibility costs,
and undertake redevelopment with
pooled funds.
Ongoing Effective Continue
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 137
Policy/Progress 2013-2021 Program Objective
(quantified/qualified) Result Evaluation Continue /Modify / Delete Action: Action HE 1.2d
Second Units (ADUs)
Timing: Review and
revise Second Unit
Ordinance by January
2015; Implement
monitoring system by
January 2015
Responsibility: Planning
Department
The City understands that second
units (ADUs) are an opportunity to
provide affordable housing while
maintaining the character of singlefamily neighborhoods. The City currently allows second unit housing
on R-1 lots if the unit meets the
requirements of the Second Unit
Ordinance. The City shall review the
Second Unit Ordinance and consider
revisions or incentives to encourage
development of second units. The
City shall develop online outreach
materials to inform residents of the
Second Unit Ordinance. The City will
also implement a monitoring
program that inventories the second
units.
ADUs are now
permitted in
residential zones.
The City shall
develop online
outreach materials
by December 2024
to inform residents
of ADU
opportunities. The
City will review
State law annually
to ensure
compliance.
Effective Continue
Action: Action HE 1.2e
Housing for ExtremelyLow Income Households
Timing: Outreach to
developers on at least an
annual basis; Apply for
or support applications
for funding on an
ongoing basis
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Encourage the development of
housing units for households earning
30 percent or less of the Median
Family Income for Los Angeles
County. Specific emphasis shall be
placed on the provision of family
housing and non-traditional housing
types such as single-room occupancy
units and transitional housing. The
City will encourage development of
housing for extremely-low income
households through a variety of
activities such as outreaching to
housing developers on at least an
annual basis, providing in-kind
technical assistance, providing
expedited processing, identifying
grant and funding opportunities,
applying for or supporting
applications for funding on an
ongoing basis, and/or offering
additional incentives beyond the
density bonus provisions.
The city has
experienced
minimal
development, and
new programs are
to be created in
place of this effort.
Ineffective Modify—replace
with new
inclusionary
housing efforts.
Action: Action HE 1.3a
Mixed Use Overlay
Timing: January 2015
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Adopt a Mixed-Use Overlay to permit
mixed-use development within the
City.
In process. This
overlay has become
the foundation of
the 6th Cycle
Housing Plan and
requires updates.
In process. Continue—scope
and application
has advanced
and changed. A
new program
shall be created
and detail the
updated overlay
requirements.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 138
Policy/Progress 2013-2021 Program Objective
(quantified/qualified) Result Evaluation Continue /Modify / Delete Action: Action HE 1.4a
Expedited Processing for
Special Needs Housing
Timing: Ongoing
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Continue to expedite processing for
housing development projects for
the special needs groups, giving
highest priority to rental units with
more than 3 bedrooms.
Procedures are
available to help
with special needs
housing.
Effective. Continue, review
and upgrade as
needed.
Action: Action HE 1.4b
Technical Assistance for
Special Needs Housing
Development
Timing: Implement
Reasonable
Accommodation
ordinance December
2024
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Continue to assist developers
proposing special needs housing in
applying for federal and state
funding. Special needs households
can encounter a variety barriers;
accordingly the City will work to
reduce these barriers whenever
possible. The City currently works
directly with people experiencing
physical and mental disabilities.
Some procedures
in place, new
ordinance to be
implemented
Effective. Continue.
Action: Action HE 1.4c
Adequate Sites for
Emergency Shelters and
Transitional Housing
Timing: Within 1 year of
Housing Element
adoption, continued
review of state law
Responsibility: Planning
Department
In compliance with SB 2, the City will
analyze and revise the existing
Zoning Ordinance to allow for
emergency shelters, transitional
housing and supportive services to
homeless individuals and families.
The City will comply with the
requirements of the State in the
following manner:
· Provide at least one zoning category
in which emergency shelters can be
located without discretionary
approvals. The subject zoning
category(ies) shall include sites with
sufficient capacity to meet the local
need for emergency shelters. The
City will amend the M-1, or other
suitable zone(s) with sufficient
capacity, to permit emergency
shelters by-right and without a
condition use or other discretionary
permit.
·Ensure the provisions of the Housing
Accountability Act are enforced and
prohibit the denial of emergency
shelter/transitional/supportive
housing facility via discretionary
approvals if it is consistent with
adopted regulatory standards.
In effect, but to be
updated with new
state laws and new
opportunities of the
future Mixed-Use
Overlay.
Effective. Continue and
update.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 139
Policy/Progress 2013-2021 Program Objective
(quantified/qualified) Result Evaluation Continue /Modify / Delete · Evaluate development standards
and regulatory provisions to ensure
that standards encourage rather than
discourage development. · Amend
the Zoning Code to allow
transitional/supportive housing as a
residential use, subject only to those
requirements of other residential
uses in the same zone.
Action: Action HE 1.5a
Green Building Practices
and Energy Conservation
Timing: Ongoing,
handouts and website
updates December 2024
Responsibility: Planning
Department
To encourage the use of green
building, energy conservation, and
sustainable development practices,
by enforcing the CALGreen building
code and promoting best practices
within the Los Angeles County Green
Building Program. Additionally, the
City will continue to promote energy
conservation programs provided by
the local utility providers by
providing educational handouts and
workshops in partnership with those
providers. The City also offers a
green building certification incentive
section of the AMC adopted in 2020.
Title 8, Chapter 11.
Information is
available for
developers to build
more
environmentally
conscious.
Effective. Continue,
update.
Action: Action HE 2.1a
Residential Home
Improvement Program
Timing: Annually
Responsibility:
Economic Development
Continue to offer interest-free loans
to eligible low-income owner
occupied, single-family, detached
residences within the limits of the
northeast area of the City. The City
will distribute and make information
available to homeowners regarding
program eligibility, funding uses and
assistance, and counseling at City
Hall and on the City’s website. The
goal was 10 households.
Program was not
feasible.
Ineffective Delete
Action: Action HE 2.1b
Outreach to Spanish
Speaking Residents
Timing: Ongoing
Responsibility: Housing
Department/LACDA
Continue to implement the outreach
program in Spanish to inform
Spanish-speaking residents of the
low interest, deferred payment loans
available for home repairs.
Spanish speakers in
City hall and
available for public
events.
Effective. Delete—program
ended
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 140
Policy/Progress 2013-2021 Program Objective
(quantified/qualified) Result Evaluation Continue /Modify / Delete Action: Action HE 2.3a
Priority Code
Enforcement
Timing: Ongoing.
Responsibility: Code
Enforcement
Continue to utilize the Artesia
Housing Conditions Survey as the
basis for identifying target areas
within the city that require priority
attention by the Code Enforcement
Department. Subsequent to target
area identification, prioritize the areas
for proactive code enforcement
programs.
Program in effect.
Code Enforcement
is trained on Fair
Housing issues and
offer resources to
homeowners
affected by code
enforcement.
Effective. Continue.
Action: Action HE 3.1a
Land Inventory
Timing: Annual update
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Maintain an updated land inventory
that identifies vacant residential land
and underutilized properties suitable
for higher density residential
development within the City. This
land use and housing database shall
be updated and enlarged annually by
the City’s Planning Department in
conjunction with the Code
Enforcement Department.
List available and
updated due to the
new Housing
Element.
Effective. Continue,
update.
Action: Action HE 3.1b
Provide for Adequate
Sites for Housing
Development
Timing: Rezone parcels
within 1- year of Housing
Element adoption
Responsibility: Planning
Department
To provide for adequate sites to
accommodate the City’s remaining
very-low and low income growth
need of 76 dwelling units (52 of
which shall be on sites designated
exclusively for residential use), the
City shall re-zone a minimum of 3.8
acres of land to permit owneroccupied and rental single family and multifamily development by right
with a minimum net density of 20
du/ac. A minimum of 2.6 acres of the
rezoned land shall allow exclusively
by right residential development to
accommodate at least 50 percent of
the City’s very-low- and low-income
growth need. The very-low- and lowincome housing need shall be accommodated on sites with
densities and development standards
that permit at minimum of 16 units
per site.
Program to be
addressed with the
proposed Housing
Opportunity
Overlay Zone.
Effective
Ordinance
adopted in
2019.
Continue.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 141
Policy/Progress 2013-2021 Program Objective
(quantified/qualified) Result Evaluation Continue /Modify / Delete Action: Action HE 4.1a
Fair Housing Referrals
Timing: Ongoing
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Continue to refer inquiries related to
housing discrimination and fair
housing practices to the Fair Housing
Foundation. The Fair Housing
Foundation provides fair housing
education and outreach as well as
tenant-landlord resolution and
investigates reports of discrimination.
The City shall provide information
about the Foundation’s services in
English, Spanish, and other
languages, as found necessary, at
City Hall and on the City’s website
and cable television station.
Program is in effect
indefinitely.
Effective. Continue.
Action: Action HE 4.2a
Coordination with
Homeless Service
Providers
Timing: Ongoing
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Continue to coordinate efforts with
appropriate agencies and
organizations addressing homeless
issues such as the Gateway Cities
COG Committee on Homelessness
and PATH.
Program in effect. Effective. Continue.
Action: Action HE 4.3a
Section 8 Housing
Choice Vouchers
Timing: Annual
Responsibility: Los
Angeles County Housing
Authority
Continue to assist eligible lowincome households receiving Section 8 rental assistance through the
County Housing Authority.
Information on the Section 8 program
will be made available at City Hall
and announced on the City website.
The goal was 29 Section 8 Vouchers
during the 5th Cycle housing element
and there were 176 between 2013-
2021.
Program in effect.
The City shall aspire
to 10 more units a
year.
Effective. Continue.
Action: Action HE 5.1a
Informational
Manuals/Handouts
Timing: Ongoing
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Continue to provide explanatory
manuals and handouts to assist
applicants, commissioners, and
citizens in understanding regulations
and procedures regarding land use
and development permits.
Program in effect. Effective. Continue.
Action: Action HE 5.1b
Annual Housing Report
Timing: Annually
Responsibility: Planning
Department
In compliance with State Law, the City
shall submit an annual housing report
to HCD. The report should describe
changes to the City’s housing stock
and the progress in implementing
the Housing Element policy program.
Annual Housing
Reports submitted
to HCD annually.
Effective. Continue.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 142
Policy/Progress 2013-2021 Program Objective
(quantified/qualified) Result Evaluation Continue /Modify / Delete Action: Action HE 5.2a
Development Review
Process Handouts
Timing: Ongoing,
update as necessary
Responsibility: Planning
Department
To assist the public in understanding
the application and approval process,
the City shall continue to distribute
“The Development Review Process”
handout to applicants. The City shall
modify the handout as needed to
reflect changes in the application
process, timelines, or requirements.
Document
available.
Effective. Continue.
Action: Action HE 5.2b
Pre-Application
Coordination with
Developers
Timing: Ongoing,
project based
Responsibility: Planning
Department
Continue to meet with prospective
developers prior to formal submittal
of a building permit application. The
City will inform the applicant of the
City’s requirements as they apply to
the proposed development project,
review the procedures outlined in the
Municipal Code, explore possible
alternatives or modification of the
project, and identify any necessary
technical studies or other required
information relating to future
entitlement review.
Pro-application
meetings are
available and will
now be proactively
outreach.
Effective. Modify, create
proactive
outreach plan.
Action: Action HE 5.2c
Expedited Processing
and Fee Waivers
Timing: Review and
revise process and fees,
as appropriate, by
January 2015
Responsibility: Planning
Department
To encourage construction of
affordable housing projects, the City
shall review the existing development
application, approval process, and
required development fees. If the
development approval process
and/or fees are found to be a
constraint to affordable housing
development, the City shall establish
expedited processing procedures
and/or fee waivers.
City reviewed fees
and standards at
the time and found
no issue. New
programs will
address new
concepts of
change.
Effective Continue,
update.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 143
Appendix B: Residential Land Inventory
Introduction
California boasts advantages of climate, natural beauty, diversity, and social vitality. These advantages, combined with a history of low-density land use and a steady increase in demand, has created a lack of affordable housing and a large rise in homelessness, which illustrates extreme inequalities. The lack of equal access to housing has become a fundamental threat to the future and quality of life for Californians.
To address these issues, the State of California has implemented proactive measures to increase housing opportunities. Part of this effort has been requiring cities to document how increased residential space may be created, by way of the Housing Element of the General Plan.
The California Government Code requires that the Housing Element include an "inventory of land suitable for residential development, including vacant sites and sites having the potential for redevelopment” (California Government Code §65583(a)(3)). The Housing Element must include an analysis of existing zoning and infrastructure available for the sites identified for the land inventory to illustrate that development of housing during the planning time period is feasible. By way of identifying sites for potential housing, the City must demonstrate that it has sufficient land area and development potential to accommodate its fair share of the region’s housing need for the 2021-2029 Housing Element cycle.
In addition to accommodating housing at different economic levels, the City must also make a proactive effort to accommodate the needs of special needs communities. The housing sites chosen must be identified throughout the community in a manner that affirmatively furthers fair housing opportunities (Government Code Section 65583(c)(10)). This process is known as Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH), and in other words it is taking meaningful actions that, taken together, address significant disparities in housing needs and in access to opportunity, replacing segregated living patterns with truly integrated and balanced living patterns, transforming racially and ethnically concentrated areas of poverty into areas of opportunity, and fostering and maintaining compliance with civil rights and fair housing laws. The duty to affirmatively further fair housing extends to all public agencies.
Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA)
The number of housing units needed by area/jurisdiction is known as the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). These housing unit counts are further divided into housing needed per income group. The Southern California Area of Governments (SCAG) is the regional government entity that identifies the number of units needed to be constructed to accommodate housing needs in each member City. The determination is based on four primary planning factors:
1. The number of housing units needed to accommodate future population and employment growth.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 144
2. The number of units needed to allow for the desired level of vacancies and the replacement of housing units normally demolished.
3. The number of very-low, low, moderate, and above moderate-income households needed in the community.
4. Other factors related to a subregional job-to-housing balance, tenure, and other factors unique to each community.
The four income categories included in the RHNA are:
• Very Low Income: 0-50% of Area Median Income
• Low Income: 50-80% of Area Median Income
• Moderate Income: 80-120% of Area Median Income
• Above Moderate Income: 120% or more of Area Median Income Table H-45 shows the RHNA allocation for the City of Artesia’s 6th Cycle Housing Element:
Figure H - 11 RHNA Allocation for Artesia 6th Cycle Housing Element Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 145
Table H-45. RHNA Fair Share Housing Need Allocation
Very LowIncome Low-Income ModerateIncome
Above
ModerateIncomeTotal
New Housing Units 312 168 128 461 1,069
Capacity to Accommodate RHNA
California law does not require cities to build housing, but it does require local jurisdictions to facilitate the development of housing. The following is an overview of Artesia’s approach to address its 2021- 2029 RHNA.
• Constructed Projects. Approved and constructed residential development projects can be credited toward the 2021-2029 RHNA. Since RHNA uses July 1, 2021, as the baseline for growth projections for the 2021-2029 Housing Element planning period, the jurisdiction may claim units approved and proposed that are anticipated to be completed after that date but before 2029. The recently-approved Pioneer Place, an 83 unit mixed use project and the recently submitted Artesia Square 157 unit mixed-use project are not included as it is not certain if they will be completed by 2029.
Table H-46. Constructed Projects
Project Name Zoning
Max
Allowable
Density
Max Units
Allowed
(Based on Lot
Size)
Units
Achieved Income Category
Brandywine
(11504 Artesia Blvd) ABCSP 30
43 (Lot Size
62,380 SF,
1.43 acres)
30 Above Moderate
City Ventures
(11700-28 Arkansas
St)
M-1 to
Arkansas
Specific Plan
30 92
(Lot Size
133,282.88 SF,
3 acres)
59 Above Moderate
• ADU Projections. Since 2017, the State legislature has passed a series of laws that significantly increase the potential for the development of ADUs and Junior ADUs (JADUs) by removing development barriers, allowing ADUs through ministerial permits, and requiring jurisdictions to include programs in their housing element that incentivize ADU development.
The City’s existing Multiple Family Residential zone has additional potential for multiple-family projects as significant parcels within the zoning district are developed only with single-family Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 146
residences and duplexes. However, this Housing Element does not analyze the capacity as the potential development opportunity is not significant. Similarly, the Housing Element does not separately analyze the housing potential within the Artesia Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan, because a number of sites discussed in the Opportunity Areas are located within that Specific Plan, which is overlain by the MU-O.
Table H-47. RHNA Capacity Analysis
LowerIncome
Capacity
ModerateIncome Capacity
Above
ModerateIncome
Capacity
Total
Capacity
RHNA 480 128 461 1,069
Submitted/Approved Projects 0 0 89 89
Approved ADUs 31 1 14 46
Projected ADUs 27 1 12 40
Subtotal 58 2 115 175
RHNA Shortfall 422 126 346 894
Unit Capacity on MU-O Rezoned Sites 1,553 435 1,687 3,675 RHNA Buffer (Surplus) 1,131 309 1,341 2,781
RHNA Buffer (Surplus Percent) 268% 245% 388% 311%
Methodology for the Sites Inventory Analysis
The California Government Code requires that the Housing Element include an "inventory of land suitable for residential development, including vacant sites and sites having the potential for redevelopment” (California Government Code §65583(a)(3)).
In order to accommodate the new residential development, the City is implementing the Mixed-Use Overlay (MUO). The Housing Element has used properties within the MUO as the basis for the Sites Inventory. The Sites Inventory was divided into Opportunity Areas and Opportunity Subareas to better describe the current land uses and what could be achieved with the proposed new overlay. Individual parcels, designated as “Opportunity Sites,” are identified within Opportunity Areas. The Mixed-Use Overlay greatly expands the City’s capacity for new housing in mixed-use settings at densities that make dedicated lower-income units feasible. The Overlay also creates ample room for development that surpasses the required unit count of the Regional Housing Needs Assessment. Artesia is dedicated to creating an inclusive and accessible home for our residents. The identified Opportunity Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 147
Sites are primarily underutilized (non-vacant) sites with potential for additional residential development or redevelopment (see Improvement Land Ratio discussion on page 148 below).
Zoning Appropriate to Accommodate Low- and Very Low- Income RHNA (Government Code section 65583.2(c)(3)).
California housing law allows jurisdictions to use higher density as a proxy for lower income affordability, as long as certain statutory requirements are met. Parcels must be zoned to allow sufficient density to accommodate the economies of scale needed to produce affordable housing. To make this determination, the statute allows the jurisdiction to either demonstrate that the zoning allows a specific density set forth in the statute (default density) or to provide an analysis demonstrating the appropriateness of the zoned densities of the site identified to accommodate the lower RHNA. For a jurisdiction in a metropolitan county, allowing sites with at least 30 units per acre are considered potentially appropriate for lower income households.
Due to review and analysis of existing conditions and the City’s goal to focus development along our primary roadways, the City is proposing a higher minimum density than the State Statute of 30 dwelling units per acre. To facilitate development at scales large enough to accommodate very lowincome units the City has committed to a minimum of 70 dwelling units per acre within the Mixed-Use Overlay.
Size and Income Unit Density of Site
To achieve financial feasibility, many assisted housing developments using state or federal resources are between 50 to 150 units. Parcels that are too small may not support the number of units necessary to be competitive and to access scarce funding resources. Parcels that are large may require very large projects, which may lead to an overconcentration of affordable housing in one location or may add cost to a project by requiring a developer to purchase more land than is needed or render a project ineligible for funding. If the size of the site is smaller than 0.5 acre or larger than 10 acres, the sites may prove infeasible for development, (Government Code section 65583.2(c)(2)(A), (B), and (C)).
Within the Mixed-Use Overlay, sites were sorted by the number of potential residential units at the minimum density and lot size. Contiguous parcels of less than 0.5 acres were identified as possible sites for lower-income units involving lot consolidation when after consolidation, the size of the site would be larger than 0.5 acre.
Mixed Use Overlay (MU-O).
The core benefit of the Mixed-Use Overlay is an increase in density and height to facilitate the reimagining of City sites to generate more housing. The proposed overlay increases the potential building height for the zone and facilitates additional height if affordable units are included, and these heights are stackable with State development mandates. The MU-O requires a minimum of 40 dwelling units per acre.
General Plan Housing Element.
The MUO requires a minimum density to address housing needs, including low income housing requirements. The Housing Element of the General Plan requires that sites that are identified as Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 148
Opportunity Sites be developed at the MU-O minimum density and require the units be income identified in the Residential Land Inventory.
Requests to Develop Below Minimum Density.
On Opportunity Sites the minimum 40 du/ac density is required for ministerially-reviewed projects; projects proposed at densities less than 40 du/ac require legislative approval and are thus subject to discretionary review, including CEQA environmental review and City design review.
Development Capacity Analysis
Government Code Section 65583.2(c) requires, as part of the analysis of available sites, a local government to calculate the projected residential development capacity of the sites identified in the housing element that can realistically be achieved. The housing element must describe the methodology used to make this calculation. Jurisdictions have two options to make this calculation, either use minimum densities or utilize adjustment factors (substantial supporting evidence for why a site may develop). The City has utilized the minimum density option to identify sites appropriate for residential development by income need.
Utilizing minimum densities to calculate realistic capacity of sites.
Govt. Code § 65583.2(c)(1) states that where a jurisdiction has adopted a law, policy, procedure, or other regulation that requires the development of a site to contain at least a certain minimum residential density, the jurisdiction can utilize that minimum density to determine the capacity of a site.
After careful analysis of the sites available in the Mixed Use Overlay the minimum density has been increased in order to accommodate the development of low and very low-income housing units.
These needs have generated a minimum density of 70 dwelling units per acre within the Mixed-Use Overlay. The MUO Program will commit to affirmatively further fair housing by requiring a minimum residential density.
This 6th Cycle Housing Element shall act as the land use regulation to require an Opportunity Site to utilize a minimum density of 40 du/acre to be eligible for ministerial (by-right) approval. Projects proposed at densities less than 40 du/ac on Opportunity Sites are not permissible by-right, and are subject to discretionary review, including CEQA compliance and design review.
Improvement Land Ratio (ILR).
Of the properties within the Mixed-Use Overlay, data from the Los Angeles County Assessor was utilized to divide the value of the land by the value of what was constructed on the land. Sites where the land was more valuable than what was built on it were elected as potential Sites Inventory sites. If the property has a low building-to-land value ratio, it is likely that building has not improved and deterioration may be occurring to the structure, including to the façade, decline of the roof, and equipment and services (e.g., space and heating, ductwork, electrical work, etc.). All sites that had improvements equal to the value of the land were removed from the proposed Opportunity Sites. Any site that had an Improvement Land Ratio over 1.0 was removed, and any site that has land more valuable than the improvements is considered a potential Opportunity Site.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 149
Residential-Commercial Mixed-Use Development.
The Mixed-Use Overlay will create a large increase in potential residential area and density to facilitate the economies of scale required to redevelop a site and include more affordable units. Within the Mixed-Use Overlay, in order to include housing at least 40 dwelling units per acre shall be required and of those units there shall be affordability requirements as laid out by the Sites Inventory.
The potential increase in height and commercial and residential density and included with the required income-based units, the City has laid groundwork for innovative and exciting new projects.
While commercial or mixed-use projects are an elective choice, the increased density and height are only for projects including both uses. However, development proposals on any of the Opportunity Sites/Parcels within any of the nine Opportunity Areas must be developed with residential uses at a minimum density of 40 du/ac or mixed-use where nonresidential uses cannot exceed 50 percent of the total usable floor area of buildings. The cost to prepare a previously developed site necessitates development of scale large enough to cover the cost, the economy of scale available requires housing.
The goal of the City is to be more commercial for a positive tax base and increased residential to meet our regional need.
Fully residential projects are permitted within the Mixed-Use Overlay. Sites zoned for residential uses may apply the height and density of the MUO and stand-alone residential is permitted in all zones in the MUO when the development is 100% lower income or on sites with State expectations from previous Housing Elements.
Potential for Full Commercial Development.
The City has had the benefit of mixed-use development within recent years, as shared in the Nonvacant Sites section communicated in more detail below. This illustrates that there is potential for development. Recent developer proposed projects have been of larger scales along primary roadways, as is the goal of the Mixed-Use Overlay. All the proposed projects have included housing in their proposals. The need, desire, and development interest exists for residential development. The primary way to achieve the scale needed to clear a developed site for redevelopment would necessitate the use of the Mixed-Use Overlay within the City. Full commercial development is an option, except on parcels identified as Opportunity Sites/Parcels, but the cost without an increase of density is unlikely.
Overlays.
Affordable housing or zoning overlays are a zoning tool that allows jurisdictions to modify existing zoning to allow for or require certain types of residential development, or development at certain densities, on a parcel without modifying the standards of the underlying zoning district. Usually, they have specific requirements and conditions (e.g., a percentage of the development must be deedrestricted as affordable to lower income households for a specific number of years) that must be met in order for a developer to take advantage of the overlay. These are often combined with incentives to encourage developers to utilize the overlay. Jurisdictions use overlays to help promote a specific type of development, and to increase densities without having to go through a rezoning procedure Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 150
on the actual parcel and can be more useful when issues such as density and affordable housing become contentious. Artesia has implemented the Mixed-Use Overlay to accommodate these needs.
To ensure the overlay is considered zoning and not just a development incentive, the overlay has accommodated the following:
• There is no additional discretionary action needed above what is required in the base zone (i.e., a conditional use permit or other review) for a developer to take advantage of overlay. If the proposed development within the Mixed-Use Overlay includes affordable housing at set percentages than a ministerial process is available, and no discretionary review is required fully commercial, or market rate would require discretionary review. Projects proposing densities less than 40 dwelling units per acre require legislative action and are subject to discretionary review.
• Development standards are consistent with those needed to allow for the density allowed under the overlay. The Mixed-Use Overlay requires 40 dwellings units per acre which surpasses the State mandate.
• The developer can access State Density Bonus Law in addition to using the densities allowed in the overlay. The Mixed-Use Overlay is intended to be a stacking option, so that the potential State unit density bonus may be added to the Mixed-Use Overlay totals. • The Overlay does have conditions to require the affordability of units and to achieve increased density. The increased density and new mixed-use options are intended to be the primary tool to facilitate development. Since Minimum Density was implemented to determine realistic capacity affordable units are required.
Nonvacant Sites
Local governments with limited vacant land resources or with infill and reuse goals may rely on the potential for new residential development on nonvacant sites, including underutilized sites, to accommodate their RHNA.
Local governments can meet other important community objectives to preserve open space or agricultural resources, as well as assist in meeting greenhouse gas emission-reduction goals, by adopting policies to maximize existing land resources and by promoting more compact development patterns or reuse of existing buildings.
• Description of the nonvacant site (Government Code Section 65583.2(b)) The site inventory must describe the specific existing use on the site, such as a surplus school site, auto shop, restaurant, single family residence, nursery, etc. Additional details, such as whether the use is discontinued, land to value information, and age and condition of the structure, are useful for demonstrating the potential for the site to be redeveloped within the planning period. Site descriptions are included in the second part of the Sites Inventory. • Reliance on nonvacant sites to accommodate more than 50 percent of the RHNA for lower income households (Government Code Section 65583.2(g)(2)) Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 151
The majority of the sites identified within the Sites Inventory are nonvacant, as is consistent with a nearly entirely built-out municipality. Due to State law this level of nonvacant site’s existing use is presumed to impede additional residential development, unless the housing element describes findings based on substantial evidence that the use will likely be discontinued during the planning period.
Per State law as part of the resolution to adopt the Housing Element, will state that the uses on nonvacant sites identified in the inventory to accommodate the RHNA for lower income is likely to be discontinued during the planning period and the factors used to make that determination. • Nonvacant site analysis methodology (Government Code section 65583.2(g)(1)) Nonvacant site analysis methodology requires review and description of existing uses, development trends, market conditions, and Available Regulatory Incentives. • Existing Uses. Existing Uses are reviewed in more detail in the following section. • Development Trends. The inventory analysis should describe development and/or redevelopment trends in the community as it relates to nonvacant sites. There are several projects within the City illustrating both reuse and mixed-use development, as can be reviewed here.
• Market Conditions. The region is in a housing crisis, and projects that have been developed in the region highlights that 100% potential residential units are achieved. • Available Regulatory Incentives. The Mixed-Use Overlay was implemented to generate a tool to facilitate the economies of scale needed to create more affordable housing development.
Mixed Use Overlay (MU-O)
An “overlay zone” is a regulatory tool that superimposes a new zoning “district” on an underlying zone.
Overlay zones are typically used to promote a particular type of development, to protect characteristics unique to a defined area, to add development standards and/or establish design criteria.
The State has mandated specific residential unit counts to be constructed in every community in the State. This mandate has created a need to generate a large increase in housing while also trying to preserve the character and quality of life of the City.
To further increase housing access and commercial space within the City of Artesia, while also protecting existing single-family homes in the community, the City has enacted a Mixed-Use Overlay (see Figure B-3). This overlay would help facilitate complimentary uses that are currently separated by zoning districts—such as high-density housing and commercial space.
The most beneficial tool for development in the Overlay is to provide a path through to development without subjective design review. If affordable components are included in development, then development may be applied through the application of the Ministerial Review.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 152
The goal of the overlay is that the potential increase in density will incentivize development to achieve the housing needs of the City. Aspects of the proposed Overlay will include:
• Facilitate socially and economically inclusive housing development by way of increased density along primary roadways within the community. This shall help with access to transportation options, increase proximity to jobs, and generate mandated housing while protecting the majority of the housing already within the community. • The housing will be either owner-occupied or rental multifamily residential uses. • The MU-O will also be utilized to accommodate a variety of housing types, including Single Room Occupancy and the various types of supportive housing (group homes, transitional housing, shelters, etc.).
• Minimum residential densities
Mixed Use Overlay Buildout Potential
Implementation of the MU-O zone has the potential to increase the total nonresidential building square footage by 7,907,810 square feet. The overlay zone potential building area was based on eighty percent (80%) lot coverage multiplied by the maximum number of stories in a zone. For estimation purposes, stories were assumed to be uniform in height.
There are currently 1,086 total residential units (single-family and multiple-family) located in the Overlay Zone. Application of the MU-O zone could result in the minimum development of 9,266 total new residential units (before any density bonuses). The minimum 40 du/ac density for residential development under the Mixed-Use Overlay zone shall be met and shall be subject to the affordability requirements or the payment of in-lieu fees. Densities less than 40 du/ac require legislative action subject to discretionary review, including CEQA compliance and design review. The Opportunity Sites proposed for the Housing Element are a subset of the Mixed-Use Overlay.
There are 569 parcels designated with the MU-O zone, totaling approximately 232 acres. The parcels are spread throughout the City to accommodate fair housing access to as many as possible. The Mixed-Use Overlay is an elective development process, however if any residential uses are proposed within the overlay, then they are subject to affordability requirements or the payment of in-lieu fees.
Furthermore, any new nonresidential construction on any of the Opportunity Sites will only be permitted if it is part of a mixed-use residential project.
Figure H - 12 below shows the MU-O boundary. Figure H - 13 below shows the three MU-O zones and the Opportunity Sites, with respective maximum residential heights and minimum densities. (Note:
Figure H - 13 is replicated as Figure H - 19 in the Housing Element Opportunity Site discussion below.)
1. Where the maximum allowable building height is three stories, the minimum density is 40 dwelling units per acre, and the maximum density is 100 dwelling units per acre;
2. Where the maximum allowable building height is four stories, the minimum density is 40 and the maximum density is 100 dwelling units per acre; and
3. Where the maximum allowable building height is five stories, the minimum density is 40 and the maximum density is 100 dwelling units per acre.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 153
Figure H - 12 Artesia Mixed-Use Overlay
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 154
Figure H - 13 Artesia Mixed-Use Overlay Zones and Opportunity Sites Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 155
Demonstrating Realistic Capacity of the Mixed-Use Overlay As discussed previously, the mixed-use overlay sets a minimum residential density of 40 du/acre, maximum residential densities of 70-100 du/acre, within stepped building heights from 3 to 6 stories, depending on the overlay zone. Overlay Zone 1 permits the greatest development intensity of five stories, with six stories available under the Artesia Density Bonus. Overlay Zone 2 permits an intermediate intensity of four stories, with five stories available under the Artesia Density Bonus, and Overlay Zone 3 permits a moderate intensity of three stories with four stories available under the Artesia Density Bonus.
A simplified calculation shows that 40 units per acre is obtainable within these potential building volumes, and thus demonstrates the realistic capacity of the opportunity sites within the mixed-use overlay. 80% of the net lot area was used to represent the potential building footprint of each lot. The building footprint was then multiplied by the potential number of stories to obtain the hypothetical maximum building floor area in square feet. This total was then divided by 2000 ft.² to obtain a hypothetical potential number of units within that building volume, allowing for non-habitable floor area, such as corridors, stairwells, elevators shafts, etc., and assuming that individual units would range in size from 800 ft2to 1200 ft2. The number of units was then divided by the gross lot area in acres to obtain the resulting residential density. These achievable densities average a hypothetical 93 units per acre for the 318 Opportunity Sites. Accordingly, 40 units per acre is a reasonable minimum density for the mixed-use overlay. Figure H - 14 below provides an example of the calculation.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 156
See the accompanying Mixed-Use Overlay Excel™ workbook (on file at the City of Artesia Planning Department) for the number of hypothetical units per each mixed-use overlay parcel.
Notably, recent entitlement applications for mixed-use and multifamily residential developments have typically exceeded 70 units per acre.
REALISTIC CAPACITY CALCULATION
NLA = Net Lot area, ft2
BF = Building footprint, ft2
BFA = Total building floor area, ft2
NS = Number of stories
NU = Estimated Number of units
GLA = Gross Lot Area, acres
(NLA x 0.8) = BF
BF x NS = BFA
BFA/2000 = NU
NU/GLA = Projected Residential Density, du/acre.
EXAMPLE:
AIN 7011-005-006, Overlay Zone 1
5 stories permitted by right, 6 stories with Artesia Density Bonus Net Lot Area: 2,675 ft2
Gross Lot Area: 0.06 acre
Without Artesia Density Bonus:
(2,675 x 0.8) = 2,140
2,140 x 5 = 10,700
10,700/2000 = 6
6/0.06 = 98 du/acre
With Artesia Density Bonus
(2,675 x 0.8) = 2,140
2,140 x 6 = 12,840
12,840/2000 = 6.42
6.42/0.06 = 107 du/acre
Figure H - 14 Realistic Capacity Calculations
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 157
Mixed Use Overlay: Community Benefit Housing Program
To further incentivize development within the Mixed-Use Overlay to accommodate housing units, a Community Benefit Housing Program (CBP) shall be put into place (Action 1.3a). The CBP shall encourage development by offering the Artesia Density Bonus as well as a fee per square foot of new construction within the overlay.
Artesia Density Bonus
The Artesia Density Bonus shall allow for developments to surpass the height limits within the Mixed-Use Overlay. The base height permitted in the Mixed-Use Overlay is four, five, and six stories. Figure B-4 illustrates where additional density may be added—blue illustrates where structures would go up to four stories, orange shall allow up to five stories tall, and the area in pink could go up to six stories tall. The potential to build above the base heights of the overlay are in exchange for additional affordable housing units that are deed restricted. Action 1.3a will define the exchange rate of units for density. The Artesia Density Bonus is a stacking bonus with State density bonus options.
The overlay zones also illustrate where the Artesia Density Bonus permits an additional story (illustrated in Figure B-4, above):
1. Where maximum allowable building height is three stories, maximum allowable building height with the Artesia Density Bonus shall be four stories;
2. Where maximum allowable building height is four stories, maximum allowable building height with the Artesia Density Bonus shall be five stories; and
3. Where maximum allowable building height is five stories, maximum allowable building height with the Artesia Density Bonus shall be six stories.
Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fee
All residential projects within the mixed-use overlay must include deed restricted affordable units or pay for the Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fee. This fee shall be charged per square foot of any residential project consisting of five or more units that does not include affordable housing units.
Action 1.3a will define the fee per square foot for properties that do not include affordable housing (moderate- and lower-income groups).
Mixed Use Overlay Incentivization Best Practices
The HCD Sites Inventory Guidebook suggests a list of concepts that have successfully been utilized to increase the residential capacity of an area and to facilitate development on identified sites. The Mixed-Use Overlay has achieved the following suggested actions:
• Up-zone existing neighborhoods in areas of opportunity or in high quality neighborhood transit areas at appropriate densities to facilitate development of housing. The Overlay increases density with multi-modal access and a metro transit stop planned to facilitate transit-oriented development.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 158
• Increase maximum allowable residential densities in existing residential, commercial, and mixed-use zones and modify development standards, such as height limitations to ensure maximum density can be achieved. All of these suggestions were achieved in the Overlay. • Establish minimum densities — Designate minimum densities of development to ensure that existing available land is not underutilized. Minimum densities have been established. • Allow and encourage mixed-use zoning — Permit housing in certain nonresidential zones either as part of a mixed-use project or as a standalone residential use. The purpose of the Overlay is to facilitate mixed-use.
• Rezone underutilized land from nonresidential to residential to expand the supply of available residential land. The Mixed-Use Overlay shall act as the rezone to both support City housing goals and State rezone expectations for previously identified sites and carry over sites.
• Institute flexible zoning — Allow various residential uses within existing non-residential zones without requiring rezoning or conditional approvals. If affordable housing is included, the ministerial review process can be utilized, which would facilitate development without subjective scrutiny.
• Redevelop and/or recycle underutilized existing land to more intensive uses. The Overlay achieves this goal.
• Convert obsolete, older public/institutional/commercial/industrial buildings to residential use through adaptive reuse and/or historic preservation. The MU-O is an elective use over several industrial sites due to proximity to major roadways and potential for lot consolidation or general reenvisioning of mixed uses. Industrial uses may not be combined with residential uses, but the zoning will not restrict the elective use of the MU-O. • Allow and promote small and irregular-size lot development. Site inclusion in the MU-O were based on proximity to primary roadways to facilitate new ways of interacting with the local land resources beyond single parcels regardless of individual lot sizes. • Consolidate lots — Facilitate combining small lots into larger lots to accommodate higherdensity development. The City has existing processes to consolidate lots. • Increase height limitations — At a minimum, allow three stories in multifamily zones. The overlay allows increases in heights.
• Increase Floor Area Ratios — Allow for larger buildings on smaller lots and/or more units per lot by reducing the floor area ratio (total lot area divided by the total building area).
The proposed MUO increases potential buildable area.
• Facilitate development by encouraging staff outreach to owners of potential sites and affordable housing developers to discuss needs and constraints in the jurisdiction. This is planned through Policy HE 5.1, Action HE 5.1a, Informational Manuals and Handouts. • Adopt incentives such as a super density bonus or by- right approval for housing that meets community objectives, such as housing near transit, affordability, housing that meets the needs of special populations, etc. The Overlay provides an ample list of projects that may be revied with objective standards if the project meets affordability goals.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 159
Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing in the Mixed-Use Overlay The City of Artesia has taken a pro-housing stance in code updates and procedure updates to facilitate access to new housing options within the community. To best meet the needs of all of our citizens regardless of ability, background or income, the City utilized the best practices to accommodate lower income housing as per the California Department of Housing and Community Development. With the best practices in mind and the desire to increase the commercial tax base and to preserve existing single family residential areas, generating access to multi-modal transportation, access to jobs, health care and more, the City has focused proposed increases along primary roadways through incentivized mixed-use development.
The location of the Opportunity Sites may be reviewed in the Sites Inventory #2, and it should be noted that sites are not concentrated but rather spread out through the city with unit affordability levels spread throughout the city as well. The practices below were utilized in establishing unit location and spread.
1. Best Practices to accommodate lower income categories. The California Department of Housing and Community Development has also provided a list of best practices for identifying sites to accommodate the lower income categories in the RHNA which were taken into account when planning the OAs. These best practices are illustrated and ranked on maps created by the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC). This map shows that the majority of Artesia is within a High or Highest Resource area, while the part of the city to the North of Artesia Boulevard is considered Moderate Resource—however even though the area is “moderate” it is within a half mile of transportation options to access more resource rich parts of the Community.
The best practices for identifying lower income developments are as follows:
• Proximity to transit.
• Access to high performing schools and jobs.
• Access to amenities, such as parks and services.
• Access to health care facilities and grocery stores.
• Locational scoring criteria for Low-income Housing Tax Credit (TCAC) Program funding. • Proximity to available infrastructure and utilities.
• Sites that do not require environmental mitigation.
• Presence of development streamlining process, environmental exemptions, and other development incentives (i.e., the new Mixed-Use Overlay).
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 160
Code and Process Updates
The 6th Cycle Housing Element generated a shift in how Housing Elements are utilized and reviewed.
Through deep analysis, code changes have been implemented to remove barriers for development.
These code changes can be reviewed in the Constraints section and Contributing Factors and Meaningful Actions section. They can also be seen in the creation of new tools to generate feasibility for residential development, such as the Mixed-Use Overlay. The key factor that the MU-O generates is a way to surpass objective design review by including required numbers of affordable units and specific types of housing.
Public Services Infrastructure Availability or Constraints All sites identified in the site inventory are located within urbanized neighborhoods and are served with water, sewer, and dry utilities available and accessible to accommodate the City’s RHNA allocation of 1,302 units. The water service provider for the City of Artesia is the Golden State Water Company (“Golden State”). According to the latest (2020) Golden State’s Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP), there are reliable supplies to meet the City’s needs even with five consecutive dry year conditions through the year 2045. Water supply portfolio for Golden State contains the following rights and contracts:
• Central Basin adjudicated groundwater.
• Purchased water through the water supply nexus between GSWC, CBMWD, and Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). • Purchased water from the City of Cerritos.
• Emergency interties with the City of Lakewood, the City of Long Beach, the City of Cerritos, GSWC West Orange Service Area, and Norwalk Municipal Water System. • Purchased recycled water from CBMWD through the Central Basin Recycled Water Project (CBRWP).
The UWMP recognizes and anticipates additional mixed-use redevelopment within the City of Artesia, especially along existing commercial corridors such as Pioneer Boulevard and Artesia Boulevard.
Golden State has communicated to the City that it has the capacity to serve the allocation of 1,302 units and more based on its 2021 UWMP. According to Golden State, water usage has declined significantly over the years even though the population has increased. This is due in part to state mandates requiring water providers to implement conservation measures, use of water efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances, continued replacement of water demanding landscaping with drought -tolerant landscaping and increased water recycling efforts.
Like many other cities in the southern California region, which were primarily developed in the 1950s and 1960s, fire flow issues are experienced by all jurisdictions. Current Fire Codes result in the need for water main upgrades or install fire hydrants by developers. The upgrades are always feasible and accomplished. This is the method that has been implemented in many jurisdictions over the years. In addition to upgrades occurring in conjunction with major development, water providers, like Golden Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 161
State, do have Capital Improvement Programs that over time will upgrade water mains to meet current standards.
The UWMP is to be updated every 5 years. Golden State has started the process to update the UWMP, which will be completed in 2026. The updated UWMP will further address the anticipated housing development in the region and implement measures that will continue to ensure adequate water supplies.
The City of Artesia owns the local sewer system consisting of approximately 31 miles of gravity flow sewer pipelines that is maintained by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works Sewer Maintenance Division. The Sewer System Management Plan, (SSMP) adopted by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, on November 7, 2018, manages the consolidated Sewer Maintenance Districts (CSMD) that serve a population of over 2 million people within the County unincorporated area and 37 CSMD cities. The SSMP identifies any deficiencies in the existing mainline sewer system within the City, recommends alternatives to eliminate deficiencies, prioritizes the deficient reaches, and provides the City with a basis on which to build a future infrastructure management system. While
2.8 percent of the existing system is identified as being deficient, the sewer system has sufficient treatment and collection capacity to serve the needs of future housing developments, including affordable housing, as required under Government Code Section 65589.7. Through Policy HE, 1.1, Action 1.4f, the City will ensure that the City and partner districts and providers have specified plans and procedures in place to provide priority services to affordable housing developments.
Dry utilities, including power (natural gas and electricity), telephone and/or cellular service, cable or satellite television systems, and internet or Wi-Fi service are available to all areas within the City.
Service providers are as follows:
• Power: Southern California Edison (SCE)
• Gas: SoCalGas
• Water: Golden State Water Co, L.A. County Water, Liberty Utilities, Norwalk Water • Internet Service, Phone, Cable: DirecTV, Dish, Frontier, Spectrum, Verizon, AT&T • Television Systems: AT&T/DirectTV, DISH, Frontier, and Spectrum • Solid waste and recycling services: CR&R
The 2021-2029 Housing Element is a policy-level document, and as such, does not include any sitespecific development designs or proposals. However, the Housing Element does include policies and programs that would facilitate the production of future housing development. Future development proposals would be required to install or relocate, as applicable, on-site, and off-site water, wastewater, storm drain, street, electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications infrastructure to serve the development. Additionally, any fire flow issues that may be encountered would be accommodated through infrastructure upgrades by the developer and the fact that new development and major remodels generally requires the installation of fire sprinklers. As such, infrastructure availability is not considered to be an impediment to implementation of housing element policies and programs or housing development in the City during the planning period.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 162
Small Sites Lot Consolidation
A parcel smaller than 0.5 acre is considered inadequate to accommodate housing affordable to lower income households, unless a city or county demonstrates that development of housing affordable to lower income households on smaller sites is realistic or feasible – in other words, that such development has occurred in the City and continues to be proposed. There is no evidence of any affordable housing project in the City that has been developed on sub-0.5-acre lots. Many lots in the City are less than 0.5 acre in area; within the Mixed-Use Overlay area, there are only three vacant Opportunity Site parcels that exceed 0.5 acre (AINs 7035-005-048, 0.64 acre; 7035-005-050, 1.06 acres; and 7039-024-010 (0.73 acre).
There are, however, 45 developed Opportunity Sites in the MU-O that are larger than 0.5 acre, averaging one acre in area with an average 0.43 ILR. Thirty-five of these lots were developed before 1980, making those structures more than 45 years old and potentially at the end of their useful life.
The low ILR values also indicate that there is a strong potential for redevelopment of these parcels.
Still, consolidating small sites must be a strategy for affordable housing development. Table H-48 below shows recent examples of lot consolidation in Artesia that resulted in residential projects. These consolidations took place after developers had achieved successful negotiations to purchase the lots from separate property owners, and then approached the City with development entitlement applications.
Potential groupings of parcels (sites) are proposed within each of nine Opportunity Areas, based on acreage, potential number of units, location and ownership (see the Opportunity Site discussions beginning on 201 below). There are 53 potential consolidated sites in Opportunity Areas 1-8; the lots in Area 9 have potential to be developed individually (see Table H-54 through Table H-62). Generally, and whenever possible, each consolidated site in the Opportunity Areas is at least 0.5-acre in area and can accommodate at least 20 units. The number of parcels in each potential site varies. This is consistent with the lot consolidation patterns and approvals that are historically occurring in the City and neighboring cities. Like past and current projects that have completed lot consolidations or will be going through lot consolidations, the majority of the sites in the inventory are envisioned to be mixed-use or completely residential with affordable components.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 163
Table H-48. Lot Consolidation – Recent Projects
Project Name Proposed
Land Use Zoning
Max
Allowable
Density
Max Units
Allowed
(Based on Lot
Size)
Units
Density
Achieved
(du/acre)
% Max
Units
Achieved
Income
Cat.
1 Brandywine
11504 Artesia
Blvd.
Consolidated 3
parcels into 1.
(CONSTRUCTED)
Medium
Density ABCSP 30
43 (Lot Size
62,380 SF,
1.43 acres)
30 21
du/acre 70% AM
City Ventures
11700-28
Arkansas St.
Consolidated 5
parcels into 1.
(CONSTRUCTED)
Medium
Density
residential
and
commercial
M-1 to
Arkansas
Specific
Plan
30 92
(133,283 SF,
3.06 acres)
59 19
du/acre 64%+ AM
Artesia Place
11709 Artesia
Blvd.
(WITHDRAWN)
Medium
Density
residential
and
commercial
ABCSP
Amendment to
allow
residential
uses
30 100
(145,055 SF,
4.98 acres)
128 24
du/acre 100%+ AM, LI
1 AM: Above moderate; LI: Lower-Income
Using the examples in Table H-48 above, the following discussion compares successful lot consolidation in Artesia with estimated potential consolidation of adjacent underdeveloped properties.
Brandywine. The 30-unit Brandywine condominium project, constructed in 2023-2024, consolidated three parcels comprising 0.27 acre, 0.29 acre, and 0.44 acre. This market-rate project is located on the south side of Artesia Boulevard, between Gridley Road on the west and Roseton Avenue on the east. The East-West Ice Palace lies on the west side of the project, and single-family homes lie to the southwest. To the south are the playfields and school buildings of the Luther Burbank Elementary School. A three-parcel vacant lot (a former plant nursery) lies on the east. The latter parcels are in Opportunity Sub-Area 2.2, shown on Figure H - 21 on page 211 below (AINs 7035-005-048, 7035- 005-049, and 7035-005-050). When developed as a single parcel, their combined acreage (2.6 acres) could support at least 104 units at 40 du/acre, complementing the Brandywine condominiums. New residential development in this area would complement existing residential uses and would benefit from the nearby recreational and educational facilities. Parcel details and income distributions are shown in Table H-55 on page 212 below.
Housing Sub-Element
Artesia General Plan H - 164
City Ventures. The 59-unit City Ventures mixed commercial-townhome project, constructed in 2024- 25, located on Arkansas Street between Alburtis Avenue and Pioneer Boulevard, consolidated five lots into one three-acre parcel (individual parcel information is no longer available on the Los Angeles County Assessor’s parcel viewer). Single-family homes and the John H. Niemes Elementary School campus lie to the west and south. To the north and east are several aging industrial and commercial uses. These latter uses are within Opportunity Areas 1.1 and 1.2, shown on Figure H - 20 on page 204 below. All lots in Opportunity sub-Area 1.2 are adjacent to City Ventures and could consolidate into a