City of Gonzales
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: March 6, 2023
FROM: Taven Kinison Brown, Community Development Director THROUGH: Trevin W. Barber, City Manager
SUBJECT: Establish an Ad Hoc Committee of the City Council Related to Discussions with DR Horton
RECOMMENDATION
Establish a City Council “Housing Development Ad Hoc Committee — DR Horton” with the appointment of two members from the City Council.
BACKGROUND
On February 9, 2023, City staff and DR Horton discussed draft deal points regarding the development of the land associated with the project formerly known as Rincon Village. The purpose of the discussions was exploratory in nature and allowed both parties to conduct their due diligence and discuss/negotiate conceptual deal points for a future development agreement. While details are still under discussion, the preliminary conceptual development would likely include housing, parks, open space, and space for school facilities. Let the reader note that nothing has been determined as of this publishing. The next step is to continue ongoing efforts to work with a housing developer with the involvement of members of the Council.
The purpose of an Ad Hoc Committee on this subject would be to enable Council Members to participate in an official capacity in preliminary negotiations with DR Horton until the parties produce a draft development agreement. A draft development agreement would include possible details on the development plans for the project area formerly known as Rincon village. The Committee may also provide preliminary input on matters related to development, such as neighborhood design, financing, and affordable housing. The term of the committee would be established until the culmination of a new AGENDA
ITEM
8 development agreement, per a performance schedule that is to be developed. The Ad Hoc Committee may be joined by staff, including the City Manager and, various department directors and consultants.
How the Recommendation Supports the Vision
Gonzales will continue to be a safe, clean, family-friendly community, diverse in its heritage, and committed to working collaboratively to preserve and retain its small-town charm.
Explain: An Ad Hoc Committee will allow the applicant, City staff, and representatives of the Council to work collaboratively and develop more certainty and trust between all parties in matters relative to much needed new housing for the Gonzales community.
Explain how the Recommendation Directly Implements the Mission The City Council and Staff of the City of Gonzales will realize our Vision by providing the leadership, commitment, and resources necessary to provide excellent services that enhance the quality of life of our diverse community. X Yes ___ No ___ N/A
Explain: Establishing an Ad Hoc Committee in these matters demonstrates City leadership and commitment of resources to these matters so important to the quality of life in our community.
City services will be delivered in a cost-effective, respectful, and friendly manner to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents and the promotion of business, recreational, housing and employment opportunities in an environmentally sustainable manner. X Yes ___ No ___ N/A Explain: An Ad Hoc Committee is a very measured and utilitarian approach to determining the best interests of all parties in this matter. With our success in these communication efforts and the eventual construction and execution of well-balanced new neighborhoods consistent with the City’s general plan and housing policies, the safety and well-being of the residents and the promotion of business, recreational, housing and employment opportunities in an environmentally sustainable manner will be realized.
Strong fiscal policies allow us to provide appropriate infrastructure for:
• Public Safety X Yes No N/A
• Housing X Yes No N/A
• Recreation X Yes No N/A
• Environment X Yes No N/A
• Education X Yes No N/A
Explain: See Vision explanation above.
ALTERNATIVES
Amend or modify staff recommendation.
BUDGET IMPACT
The assignment of an AD Hoc Committee should not affect the budget. The work of the Ad Hoc Committee though, could and should lead to efficiencies in staff and council deliberation times, thereby reducing staff expenses and meeting times.
RECOMMENDATION
Establish a City Council “Housing Development Ad Hoc Committee — DR Horton” with the appointment of two members from the City Council.