May 28th, 2026
TO: Mayor and City Council Members, City of Huntington Beach
RE: Comment on the Revisions to the Draft 6th Cycle Housing Element Update.
Orange County United Way (OCUW) writes today to comment on the Revisions to the Draft 6th Cycle Housing Element Update. We appreciate the opportunity to provide comments regarding the proposed revisions to the City’s Housing Element.
Orange County continues to face an unprecedented housing affordability and homelessness crisis. The shortage of housing options at all income levels, particularly affordable and permanent supportive housing, continues to place increasing pressure on working families, seniors, young adults, and individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Huntington Beach plays a critical role in addressing this regional challenge. As you may know, housing affordability is a persistently growing challenge throughout Orange County as home and rent prices continue to climb. Due to these rising costs, more than 1 in 3 households (34%) fall below the Real Cost Measure.
Because of this, we encourage the city to adopt a Housing Element that meaningfully expands on housing opportunities for current and future residents. Specifically, we support efforts that:
• Increase housing capacity through implementable rezoning strategies; • Encourage the development of multifamily and mixed-use housing near jobs, transportation, and services;
• Expand opportunities for affordable and permanent supportive housing development; and • Provide clear implementation timelines and accountability measures to ensure housing goals are achieved.
The lack of affordable housing is cited as the primary reason for homelessness, adding more affordable housing will prevent community members from experiencing homelessness. We specially celebrate Oasis Apartments and your continued investment on the Navigation Center.
Thank you for your support of these developments. I want to encourage you to continue to support initiatives that will increase the opportunities for people to end their homelessness. We are grateful to you for your willingness to improve the lives of those in-need in our community.
With gratitude,
Susan B. Parks
President & CEO
SUPPLEMENTAL COMMUNICATION - Meeting Date: 6/2/2026 Item No. 14 (26-482)