Taft City Council
August 19, 2025

TAFT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY

JOINT REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2025

CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER
209 E. KERN ST., TAFT, CA 93268
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City of Taft Council Meetings are being held in-person with full capacity seating and are livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/CityofTaft. Public comment can be made in person and also can be received per the following:
• Written comments may be dropped off in the drop box in front of City Hall. • Comments may be emailed to the City Clerk at [email protected]. • Made by phone to the City Clerk’s office at (661) 763-1222. • Public comments will be accepted up until 5:00 PM the day of the meeting. • Any comments received will be read into the record.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ REGULAR MEETING 6:00 P.M.

Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation
Roll Call: Mayor Noerr
Mayor Pro Tem Bryant
Councilmember Krier
Councilmember Waldrop
Councilmember Chavira

1. PUBLIC HEARING - GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2023-01 – 6TH CYCLE HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (2023 – 2031) AND NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
Recommendation –
Motion to adopt a resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT APPROVING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2023-01 TO ADOPT THE 6TH CYCLE HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (2023-2031) and find that the project is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth in section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA guidelines.

2. CITIZEN REQUESTS/PUBLIC COMMENTS

COMMENTS ARE TO BE RECEIVED AS STATED IN ABOVE POLICY

THIS IS THE TIME AND PLACE FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL ON MATTERS WITHIN ITS JURISDICTION. STATE LAW PROHIBITS THE COUNCIL FROM ADDRESSING ANY ISSUE NOT PREVIOUSLY INCLUDED ON THE AGENDA. COUNCIL MAY RECEIVE COMMENT AND SET THE MATTER FOR A SUBSEQUENT MEETING. PLEASE LIMIT COMMENTS TO FIVE MINUTES.

3. COUNCIL STATEMENTS (NON-ACTION)

4. PLANNING COMMISSION REPORTS

5. DEPARTMENT REPORTS

6. CITY MANAGER STATEMENTS

7. CITY ATTORNEY STATEMENTS
City of Taft Council/Successor Agency Meeting
Agenda
August 19, 2025

8. FUTURE AGENDA REQUESTS
****************************************************************************************************** CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS 9-12
All items listed on the Consent Calendar shall be considered routine and will be enacted by one roll call vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a member of the City Council requests specific items to be removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action. Any item removed from the Consent Calendar will be considered after the regular business items. Are there any items on the consent calendar that any member of the public would like to comment on?

9. MINUTES
August 05, 2025 Regular
Recommendation – Approve as submitted.

10. PAYMENT OF BILLS
Warrant # 080125A Check No. 200610-200618 $ 43,453.55
Warrant # 080125 Check No. 200619-200654 $ 92,711.27
Warrant # 080825 Check No. 2200655-200658 $ 4,410.13
Recommendation – Approve payment of the bills.

11. PURCHASE OF USED VEHICLE FOR PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Recommendation – Motion to authorize the City Manager or his designee to purchase a used truck for the Public Works Department for a total cost not to exceed twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) and authorize the City Manager or Designee to execute all documents and find that the activity is not a project per the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth in Section 15060(c)(3) and Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines.

12. APPROVING A RESOLUTION FOR CALIFORNIA STATE OF GOOD REPAIR PROGRAM FOR FY 2025- 2026 FOR USE AND APPLICATION OF $16,632 FOR TRANSIT PROJECTS.

Recommendation – Motion to adopt a resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT APPROVING THE PROPOSED TRANSIT PROJECT LIST FOR THE FY 2025 – 2026 CALIFORNIA SENATE BILL 1-STATE OF GOOD REPAIR PROGRAM and find that the activity is not a project per the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth in Section 15060(c)(3) and Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines.
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CLOSED SESSION
A. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to paragraph 2 or 3 of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9 (d) – one (1) potential case

ADJOURNMENT
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, a disability-related modification or accommodation, agenda materials in an City of Taft Council/Successor Agency Meeting
Agenda
August 19, 2025

alternative format, or auxiliary aids to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of the City Clerk at (661) 763-1222 or [email protected] as soon as possible. Providing at least 72 hours’ notice will help ensure that reasonable arrangements can be made.

AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I, Faith Melton, declare as follows:

That I am the Deputy City Clerk for the City of Taft; that an agenda was posted on a public information bulletin board located near the door of the Civic Center Council Chamber on August 14, 2025 at ________ a.m./p.m., pursuant to 1987 Brown Act Requirements.

I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed August 14, 2025, at Taft, California.

Signature ___________ _________
City of Taft Agenda Report
DATE: AUGUST 19, 2025
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
AGENDA MATTER:

GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2023-01 – 6TH CYCLE HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (2023 – 2031) AND NOTICE OF EXEMPTION

SUMMARY STATEMENT
A final draft Housing Element for the 2023 to 2031 planning period has been prepared as an update to the prior approved Housing Element for 2015 to 2023. The update has been developed through extensive community outreach and engagement, including surveys, public meetings, stakeholder interviews, and workshops. The update analyzes future housing needs, identifies adequate sites to accommodate the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation, and outlines programs to achieve Housing goals and objectives. The update demonstrates compliance with the City’s General Plan and has received a notice of substantial compliance from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, indicating its readiness for final adoption by the City Council.

PROJECT ANALYSIS
The Housing Element is one of nine required elements of the Taft General Plan. The Housing Element addresses accommodating housing production, housing conservation, affordable housing, and special needs in the community. A final draft Housing Element for the 2023 to 2031 planning period has been prepared as an update to the prior approved Housing Element for 2015 to 2023. The final draft Housing Element analyzes future housing needs, provides adequate sites for accommodating the City’s forecasted growth and allotted Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) of 508 residential units, analyzes government and other constraints, assesses affirmatively furthering fair housing, and identifies programs to achieve Housing goals and objectives.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT
State housing law requires local governments to make a diligent effort to achieve public participation of all economic segments of the community through the housing element update process (California Government Code Section 65583(c)(9). The City of Taft developed a comprehensive community outreach and engagement strategy to receive community feedback throughout the housing element update process. The City of Taft’s outreach and engagement for the Housing Element Update process began in February 2024 and consisted of the methods, metrics, and outcomes as described below:
• Webpage: The City’s Housing Element webpage was regularly updated with project materials and available in both English and Spanish.

Council Agenda Report
August 19, 2025

• Community Survey: A community survey was open from February 23 through April 30, 2024, available online and in-person at City Hall, and provided in English and Spanish.

The City received 235 survey responses.
• Public Meetings: City Staff presented components of the Housing Element Update to Planning Commission, City Council, and at weekly community gatherings including the Chamber of Commerce “Sit n Sip.”
• Stakeholder Engagement: City Staff created an extensive list of community stakeholders to engage through focus groups or one-on-one interviews. Invitations to participate were emailed and mailed to 42 stakeholders. The City held 4 focus group meetings virtually on March 18, 2024 (Market Rate Developers and Affordable Housing Developers) and April 4, 2024 (Social and Special Interests and Community At-Large). • Community Workshops: City Staff facilitated 3 community workshops. Two community workshops were held prior to the public review draft, on March 14, 2024, and March 21, 2024. Both workshops were held at the Taft Transit Center. Presentation materials were provided in English and Spanish. Six community members participated in Workshop #1 and 15 participated in Workshop #2. A third community workshop was held during the update process to share the status and progress and receive additional feedback.

Workshop #3 was held on December 12, 2024, at the Taft Transit Center. Approximately 20 community members participated.
• Other Outreach and Engagement Efforts: City Staff presented information on the Housing Element to a class of high school seniors in the Taft Oil Technology Academy at Taft Union High School on March 14, 2024.
• Public Comment Periods: Public Review Draft #1 of the Housing Element Update was published and distributed for a 30-day Public Review Period from June 12, 2024, to July 12, 2024, pursuant to Assembly Bill 215. The City received one comment letter from faith in the Valley. Public Review Draft #2 was published and distributed for a 7-Day Public Review Period from February 13, 2025, to February 21, 2025. The City received 1 comment letter from Faith in the Valley. Public Review Draft #3 was published and distributed for a 7-Day Public Review Period from May 1, 2025, to May 8, 2025. The City received 2 comment letters from the NEEDS Center. Public Review Draft #4 was published and distributed for a 7-Day Public Review Period from June 12, 2025, to June 18, 2025. No comments were received.

Key takeaways and ways that input was incorporated into the Housing Element are described in Chapter 4. Community Outreach and Engagement of the Housing Element Update.

REGIONAL HOUSING NEEDS ALLOCATION
Housing Element Law mandates that each jurisdiction adequately plan for housing to meet the needs of its community. The California Department of Housing and Development (HCD) determines the number of housing units needed at various affordability levels in each region of California, known as the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). HCD allocates the region’s share of statewide housing need to Councils of Governments (COG) based on Department of Finance (DOF) population projections and regional population forecasts used in preparing regional transportation plans. Kern Council of Governments (COG) acts in its capacity as the state designated Regional Planning Agency for the Kern County region and has the responsibility of developing the state mandated RHNA Plan.

Council Agenda Report
August 19, 2025

On August 18, 2022, HCD approved Kern COG’s 6th Cycle RHNA Plan that was adopted by their board on July 21, 2022 (Corrected on January 9, 2023). The allocated housing needs for the City of Taft for the planning period of June 2023 through December 2031 are shown in Table 1 by income category based on the Area Median Income (AMI). During this Housing Element planning cycle, 2023 to 2031, Taft has been allocated through RHNA, 111 lower income units, 109 moderate income units, and 284 above moderate-income units, for a total of 504 units. In addition this allocation, the City is required by Assembly Bill 2634 to project the needs of extremely low income households (0-30% AMI) based on Census income distribution or assume 50% of very low-income units required by RHNA. The City opted for the 50% assumption; therefore, 34 out of 68 are presumed to be extremely low income which increases the RHNA from 504 to 538 units. This is reflected in Table 1.

Table 1. City of Taft 6th Cycle RHNA Allocation, 2023 – 2031 Affordability Category Housing Need Allocation
Count Percent
Extremely Low (0-30% AMI)* 34 6.7%
Very Low (31-50% AMI) 34 6.7%
Low (51-80% AMI) 43 8.5%
Moderate (81-120% AMI) 109 21.6%
Above Moderate (>120% AMI) 284 56.3%
Total 538 100.0%
Source: Kern Council of Governments, 6th Cycle RHNA Plan, January 9, 2023 *Extremely low income housing need determined pursuant to Government Code Section 65583(a)(1);
Assumed to be half of the very low income RHNA

ADEQUATE SITES INVENTORY
A City’s share of RHNA can be met through the implementation of a variety of strategies (e.g., available and appropriately zoned land, units built since the beginning of baseline RHNA period, and non-residential zoned sites that can be rezoned for residential use). Due to Taft’s abundance of undeveloped land within city limits, Taft’s primary method for meeting RHNA requirements is through the identification of available vacant sites that are suitable and appropriately zoned. State Housing Law (Government Code Section 65583(a)(3)) requires local governments to prepare an inventory of land suitable for residential development.

The City’s Sites Inventory is detailed in Chapter 6 of the Housing Element. There are a total of 336 lower income units identified in the Site Inventory, providing the City with a surplus of 246 lower income units. There is also a surplus of 1,183 moderate income units and 2,665 above moderate-income units that can be developed in Taft. Most sites within the inventory are either vacant or underutilized (i.e., currently used for parking). New residential development is expected to occur primarily on the city’s fringe. No rezoning is required to meet RHNA numbers. This more than accommodates the RHNA 504 units, plus the 34 extremely low-income units.

AFFIRMATIVELY FURTHERING FAIR HOUSING
Assembly Bill 686 (AB 686) was signed into law in 2018 (codified in Government Code Section 65583) with the purpose of establishing an independent state mandate that expands Council Agenda Report
August 19, 2025

the duty of all California’s public agencies to affirmatively further fair housing (AFFH). AB 686 creates housing element requirements related to AFFH including an assessment of fair housing practices, an analysis of the relationship between available sites and areas of high or low resources, and concrete actions and programs to affirmatively further fair housing.

The City’s AFFH analysis is detailed in Chapter 8 of the Housing Element Update. The analysis involved assessing fair housing components like outreach capacity and enforcement, segregation and integration patterns, poverty concentration, disparities in access to opportunity, and disproportionate housing needs. Based on the findings, the Housing Element identifies strategies and actions to address affirmatively further fair housing by 1) enhancing housing mobility strategies, 2) encouraging development of new affordable housing in high resource areas, 3) improving place-based strategies to encourage community conservation and revitalization including preservation of existing affordable housing, and 4) protecting existing residents from displacement. The strategies and actions are incorporated into the Housing Programs.

HOUSING ELEMENT PROGRAMS
Sections 65588(a) and (e) of the Government Code provide that each community shall review its housing element as frequently as appropriate, but at least once every eight (8) years, to evaluate the appropriateness of the housing goals, objectives, and policies, the effectiveness of the Housing Element in attainment of those goals and objectives, progress in implementation of the Housing Element, and effectiveness of the Housing Element regarding special needs groups.

The City of Taft’s 5th Cycle (2015- 2023) Housing Element adopted 19 programs to encourage new residential development, rehabilitate structures in need, provide housing assistance, update ordinances and general plan sections, encourage in-fill development, to address the need for emergency shelters, and provide fair housing for all, including special needs groups.

An Assessment of the established programs and addressing their appropriateness and effectiveness is provided in Chapter 3 of the Housing Element Update.

Chapter 9 of the Housing Element Update describes the Housing Programs for 2023-2031.

The Housing Element Update carries over at least 7 programs from the previous Housing Element, including programs related to Housing Rehabilitation (Funding and Assistance, Public Information), Code Enforcement (Demolitions), Fair Housing (Assistance and Support, Information), Housing Development (Self-Help/Infill Lots), and Senior Housing Projects. Overall, the Housing Element Update includes 52 programs organized across 10 distinct areas: Adequate Sites, Housing Rehabilitation, Homeownership Opportunities, Rental Assistance and Tenant Protections, Removal of Constraints, Accessory Dwelling Units, Fair Housing Services, Homelessness Prevention, Housing Production, Streamlining, and Incentives, and Central and West Taft Neighborhood Revitalization.

GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY
California Government Code Section 65583(c)(8) requires housing elements to describe how consistency with the general plan will be achieved and maintained. Additionally, Government Code Section 65300.5 requires that general plans be internally consistent, meaning that the housing element, as an element of the general plan, shall be consistent with other elements of the general plan.

Council Agenda Report
August 19, 2025

The City completed a comprehensive update to the General Plan that was adopted on June 22, 2010, excluding the Housing Element, with a subsequent amendment in 2017. The General Plan update complies with California Government Code 65302.1, which requires cities and counties to include data, analysis, comprehensive goals, policies, and feasible implementation strategies to improve air quality. The City also adopted a Climate Action Plan on April 18, 2017.

In 2022, the City adopted a new Downtown Taft Specific Plan with land use and development standards consistent with the updated General Plan elements. In addition, subsequent amendments to the housing element or other general plan elements will trigger a review of the entire general plan, such as land-use provisions, to ensure internal consistency is maintained during the planning period.

In preparing the 2023-2031 Housing Element, the City reviewed goals and policies in the various elements of the General Plan. The Housing Element is generally consistent with the General Plan, including goals and policies to encourage infill development, provide multifamily and mixed-use housing, promote rehabilitation, and increase energy efficiency.

Additionally, no amendments to the planned land use are proposed as part of the 2023-2031 Housing Element. Program 9.n of the Housing Element Update further ensures that consistency between the Housing Element and General Plan is maintained throughout the planning period.

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
The City submitted a draft copy of the Housing Element for HCD review on September 5, 2024 and a revised draft copy of the Housing Element for HCD review on March 14, 2025 and June 19, 2025. HCD subsequently provided the City with required revisions on November 27, 2024 and May 9, 2025. After the June 19, 2025 submittal, the City received notice from HCD on June 27, 2025 that the revised draft element meets the statutory requirements and will substantially comply with State Housing Element Law (Government Code Section 65580 et. seq.) when it is adopted, submitted to, and approved by HCD in accordance with Government Code Section 65585. Upon approval by City Council, the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update (2023-2031) and adopting resolution will be submitted to HCD for final review and approval.

PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
At their August 6, 2025, meeting, the Taft Planning Commission passed a resolution recommending that the Taft City Council consider and approve General Plan Amendment No. 2023-01 and the accompanied Notice of Exemption.

PUBLIC INPUT RECEIVED
During the August 6, 2025, Planning Commission meeting, public input was received during the public hearing. The public input on the housing element centered on the experiences of the homeless and low-income residents in Taft. Several individuals spoke, including Danny Rodella, Jerry Casto, Cindy Bret Schneider, and Sandra Pope Joy.

The key points raised were:
• The need for solutions for the urgent housing crisis and ensuring the needs of all residents are met.

Council Agenda Report
August 19, 2025

• The desire for the unhoused to be included in discussions about their future and to have access to basic needs like public restrooms.
• The importance of addressing the lack of shelter, water, food, and mental health resources for the unhoused community.
• A summary of requests, including better communication between city workers and the unhoused, and providing access to basic human needs and a safe place for belongings.

The commissioners acknowledged the concerns and assured the speakers that their voices were heard, noting that some of the issues would need to be addressed at the City Council level. Below is a summary of how the Housing Element Update addresses key points raised:

1. Solutions for the housing crisis and meeting the needs of all residents The Housing Element acknowledges the need to provide housing for all income levels through its "Housing Programs" chapter. It outlines a strategy to meet the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for 2023-2031, with quantified objectives for extremely low, very low, low, moderate, and above-moderate income households. • Housing Production: The element includes a program to encourage the acquisition and development of sites for a total of 22 new affordable and moderate-income units.

It also outlines goals for developing thousands of additional units on large lot properties to serve lower, moderate, and above-moderate-income housing needs. • Housing Rehabilitation and Code Enforcement: The element includes an ongoing program to encourage the rehabilitation of housing units to preserve affordable housing stock in older neighborhoods, particularly Central and West Taft. It also plans to limit demolitions to maintain existing housing.
• Homeownership: The element will seek new funding for the First-Time Home Buyer program to assist new homeowners.

2. Inclusion of the unhoused in discussions and access to basic needs The Housing Element details community outreach and engagement efforts, which included a community survey, public meetings, and stakeholder engagement. This process led to the identification of public comments and community needs, such as the need for a shelter for homeless people and a solution to the homeless crisis. The element also mentions a new program aimed at "place-based strategies for community revitalization" for Central Taft, which will pursue neighborhood improvements or community initiatives every other year based on community input.

Additionally, Program 5.r. Public Participation specifically addresses public input regarding the inclusion of unhoused residents in discussions. This program commits the City to:
• Hold biannual public meetings to report out and take input on the state of housing in Taft, including homelessness.
• Conduct targeted outreach and partner with community organizations that represent lower-income and special needs households to help share information.

Council Agenda Report
August 19, 2025

• Utilize a translator to ensure materials are available in Spanish and that translation services are available at meetings, and also to reach "hard-to-reach households" who may not have access to the internet or traditional media.

3. Addressing the lack of shelter, water, food, and mental health resources The Housing Element identifies people experiencing homelessness as a special needs group.

It notes that a significant number of people in Taft are "functionally homeless," moving between temporary shelters or with friends and family.
• Shelter and Transportation: The element states that the nearest homeless shelter is over 30 miles away in Bakersfield, and the cost and difficulty of transportation are common concerns for this population. The City's zoning ordinance does permit emergency shelters in specific districts.
• Resources and Support: The element acknowledges that the Mission at Kern County conducts monthly outreach in Taft to provide services and resources to those seeking shelter or support. Additionally, the Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance (GBLA) provides services to unhoused individuals to help them obtain disability benefits. • Mental Health: The element notes that GBLA's services may include resolving issues related to mental health.

4. Better communication and a safe place for belongings The element addresses communication through several programs aimed at making information more accessible. Program 5.r. Public Participation, as detailed above, is a core component of this effort.
• Communication with Residents: The element includes programs to update and make housing information brochures, including those for rehabilitation and code enforcement, available in hard copy at City Hall and electronically on the City's website and social media. It also plans to create a handout that defines substandard housing and explains how tenants can report violations. • Safe Place for Belongings: The element does not explicitly mention a "safe place for belongings." However, the discussion of emergency shelters and the community survey feedback about the need for a solution to the homelessness crisis are relevant.

The Element’s emphasis on community revitalization and support for people experiencing homelessness aims to address the broader context of these concerns

GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT FINDINGS
An amendment to the general plan shall not be approved unless all of the following findings are made pursuant to Taft Municipal Code Section 6-2-3: General Plan Amendment:

1. The proposed amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, policies and programs of the general plan, or with the general plan as revised by the proposed amendment, and will not result in any internal inconsistencies within the general plan; and Council Agenda Report
August 19, 2025

In preparing the 6th Cycle (2023-2031) Housing Element, the City reviewed goals and policies in the various elements of the General Plan. The Housing Element is generally consistent with the General Plan, including goals and policies to encourage infill development, provide multi-family and mixed-use housing, promote rehabilitation, and increase energy efficiency. Additionally, no amendments to the planned land use are proposed as part of the 2023-2031 Housing Element. Program 9.n of the Housing Element Update further ensures that consistency between the Housing Element and General Plan is maintained throughout the planning period. Therefore, General Plan Amendment No. 2023- 01 is consistent with the goals, objectives, policies, and programs of the General Plan, and will not result in any internal inconsistencies within the General Plan.

2. The proposed amendment will not adversely affect the public health, safety, or general welfare; and
General Plan Amendment No. 2023-01, adopting the 6th Cycle (2023-2031) Housing Element, would not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare of the community.

Amending the General Plan in accordance with the Housing Element and state housing laws serves the community by properly planning for the City’s housing needs.

3. The proposed amendment is consistent with the purposes and intent of this title, unless such amendment proposes to change, supplement, or alter any part of this title, whereas said amendment must be consistent with all applicable sections, including these findings; and
General Plan Amendment No. 2023-01, adopting the 6th Cycle (2023-2031) Housing Element, is consistent with the purposes and intent of this title. The amendment does not propose to change, supplement, or alter any part of this title.

4. The potential environmental impacts of the proposed amendment are insignificant, have been mitigated, or there are overriding considerations that outweigh the potential impacts.

General Plan Amendment No. 2023-01, adopting the 6th Cycle (2023-2031) Housing Element, is a “common sense” exemption under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because the project involves policies, programs, and actions to meet the City’s RHNA allocation that would not have the potential to cause a significant physical effect on the environment. The proposed Housing Element Update creates a plan for achieving its RHNA and affirmatively furthering fair housing goals through the identification of suitable sites for development and identifies programs and actions that could remove constraints and promote housing development. The potential environmental impacts of the proposed amendment are insignificant.

CEQA
Updating the Housing Element is state-mandated, which is a policy document that is required to be incorporated into the City’s General Plan. The purpose of the Housing Element is to identify current and projected housing needs; show locations where housing can be built; and set goals, policies, and create programs to meet the community’s housing needs. The foundation of the Housing Element is the RHNA, which is 504 units, and the City through its Sites Inventory has identified sufficient sites with adequate development capacity to exceed Council Agenda Report
August 19, 2025

RHNA with existing land use regulations and zoning designations, including pipeline projects, ADU projections, and build out of vacant and underutilized sites.

The designation of land for residential development occurs in the Land Use Element of the City’s General Plan and the proposed Housing Element does not include any programs that would change the existing use designation. The proposed Housing Element does include changes to the Zoning Ordinance to bring it into conformance with State Law, but the proposed changes would not alter existing development potential of the city as expressed in the General Plan.

General Plan Amendment No. 2023-01, adopting the 6th Cycle (2023-2031) Housing Element, is a “common sense” exemption under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because the project involves policies, programs, and actions to meet the City’s RHNA allocation that would not have the potential to cause a significant physical effect on the environment. The proposed Housing Element Update creates a plan for achieving its RHNA and affirmatively furthering fair housing goals through the identification of suitable sites for development and identifies programs and actions that could remove constraints and promote housing development.

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Motion to adopt a resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT APPROVING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2023-01 TO ADOPT THE 6TH CYCLE HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (2023-2031) and find that the project is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth in section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA guidelines.

IMPACT ON BUDGET (Y/N): No
ATTACHMENT (Y/N): Yes, Resolution and 6th Cycle Housing Element Update (2023-2031)
PREPARED BY: City Clerk
REVIEWED BY:

CITY CLERK FINANCE DIRECTOR CITY MANAGER
RESOLUTION NO. 4313-25

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT
APPROVING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2023-01 TO ADOPT
THE 6TH CYCLE HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (2023-2031) AND

FIND THAT THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM THE REQUIREMENTS

OF THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) AS
SET FORTH IN SECTION 15061(B)(3) OF THE CEQA GUIDELINES WHEREAS, State of California Housing Element law was enacted in 1969 and requires jurisdictions to prepare and adopt a Housing Element as part of its respective General Plan; and, WHERAS, the purpose of the Housing Element is to identify the community's housing needs, to state the community’s goals and objectives with regard to housing production, rehabilitation, and conservation to meet those needs, and to define the policies and programs that the community will implement to achieve the stated goals and objectives; and, WHEREAS, the Housing Element is one of nine state mandated elements that every general plan must contain; and,
WHERAS, the City of Taft initiated General Plan Amendment 2023-01, proposing to incorporate the Housing Element 6th Cycle Update (2023-2031) as part of the City of Taft General Plan (Adopted June 2010; Amended April 2017); and, WHEREAS, this is a city-wide housing program; and,
WHEREAS, during the preparation of the Housing Element 6th Cycle Update (2023- 2031), the City solicited public input in numerous ways including a project webpage, community survey, public meetings, stakeholder engagement, community workshops, and public review; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning and Development Services Department prepared a notice of exemption for consideration; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to review this proposal and recommended approval of the Housing Element 6th Cycle Update (2023-2031); and,
WHEREAS, the Housing Element Update was sent to the Department of Housing and Community Development for review and upon completion of review, it was determined that the document substantially complies with State Housing Element Law and further modifications would not be required.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Taft:

Resolution No.4313-25
August 19, 2025

SECTION 1. The City Council hereby makes the following General Plan Amendment findings as outlined in the staff report:

1. The proposed amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, policies and programs of the general plan, or with the general plan as revised by the proposed amendment, and will not result in any internal inconsistencies within the general plan; and

2. The proposed amendment will not adversely affect the public health, safety, or general welfare; and

3. The proposed amendment is consistent with the purposes and intent of this title, and does not propose to change, supplement, or alter any part of this title; and

4. The potential environmental impacts of the proposed amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines (“common sense exemption”).

SECTION 2. The City Council hereby approves General Plan Amendment No. 2023-01, adopting the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update (2023-2031) and finding that the project is exempt from the requirements of CEQA as set forth in CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(B)(3).

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED on this 19th day of August, 2025.

ATTEST: ____________________________
Dave Noerr, Mayor
____________________________
Faith Melton
Deputy City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA }
COUNTY OF KERN } SS
CITY OF TAFT }
I, Faith Melton, Deputy City Clerk of the City of Taft, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly introduced and adopted at a regular meeting thereof held on the 19th day of August 2025, by the following vote:

AYES: Council Members:

NOES: Council Members:

ABSENT: Council Members:

ABSTAIN: Council Members:
____________________________
Faith Melton
Deputy City Clerk

CITY OF TAFT
HOUSING ELEMENT 2023 – 2031
Adopted [DATE]
Resolution [#]

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 2

TABLE OF CONTENT
1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................. 14

1.1 Purpose of the Element .............................................................................................................. 14

1.2 Legislative Authority.................................................................................................................. 14

1.2.1 State Policy ......................................................................................................................... 14

1.2.2 State Intent .......................................................................................................................... 15

1.2.3 State Housing Element Guidelines ..................................................................................... 15

1.3 General Plan and Housing Element Consistency....................................................................... 16

1.4 Methodology .............................................................................................................................. 16

1.5 Organization of the Housing Element........................................................................................ 17 2 REGIONAL HOUSING NEED ALLOCATION PLAN.................................................................................. 19

2.1 Regional Housing Needs Allocation.......................................................................................... 19 3 REVIEW AND REVISION OF PREVIOUS ELEMENT................................................................................ 21

3.1 Review of Previous Element Guidelines.................................................................................... 21

3.2 Effectiveness of the Element/Results......................................................................................... 22

3.2.1 Housing Production ............................................................................................................ 22

3.2.2 No Net Loss and Adequate Sites ........................................................................................ 22

3.2.3 Assessment of 2015-2023 Goals, Objectives, and Programs ............................................. 22

3.3 Progress in Implementation........................................................................................................ 28

3.3.1 Cumulative Effectiveness of Programs to Address Special Housing Needs...................... 28 4 COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT................................................................................... 30

4.1 Meaningful Outreach and Engagement Considerations............................................................. 30

4.2 Summary of Efforts and Input.................................................................................................... 31

4.2.1 Webpage ............................................................................................................................. 31

4.2.2 Community Survey ............................................................................................................. 31

4.2.3 Public Meetings .................................................................................................................. 33

4.2.4 Stakeholder Engagement .................................................................................................... 33

4.2.5 Community Workshops...................................................................................................... 38

4.2.6 Other Outreach and Engagement Efforts............................................................................ 40

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 3

4.2.7 Public Comment.................................................................................................................. 41 5 HOUSING NEEDS ASSESSMENT .......................................................................................................... 43

5.1 Regional Housing – An Overview of Taft’s Housing Market ................................................... 43

5.2 Demographic Characteristics ..................................................................................................... 44

5.2.1 Population Growth Trends.................................................................................................. 44

5.2.2 Age Composition ................................................................................................................ 46

5.2.3 Race and Ethnicity .............................................................................................................. 47

5.3 Employment Characteristics ...................................................................................................... 49

5.3.1 Employment Trends............................................................................................................ 49

5.3.2 Employment by Industry..................................................................................................... 51

5.3.3 Major Regional Employers................................................................................................. 52

5.3.4 Major Local Employers ...................................................................................................... 53

5.4 Household Characteristics.......................................................................................................... 54

5.4.1 Number of Households....................................................................................................... 54

5.4.2 Size of Households ............................................................................................................. 54

5.4.3 Persons in Group Quarters.................................................................................................. 55

5.4.4 Household Composition...................................................................................................... 55

5.4.5 Tenure ................................................................................................................................. 56

5.4.6 Household Income .............................................................................................................. 57

5.5 Housing Stock Characteristics ................................................................................................... 60

5.5.1 Age of Housing Stock......................................................................................................... 60

5.5.2 Housing Conditions/Units in Need of Repair of Replacement........................................... 62

5.5.3 Housing Costs..................................................................................................................... 66

5.5.4 Housing Units in Structure.................................................................................................. 73

5.5.5 Vacancy Rate ...................................................................................................................... 74

5.5.6 Overpayment for Housing................................................................................................... 76

5.5.7 Overcrowding ..................................................................................................................... 78

5.5.8 Assisted Housing Developments at Risk of Conversion .................................................... 81

5.6 Special Needs Households......................................................................................................... 83

5.6.1 Extremely Low-Income Households .................................................................................. 84

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 4

5.6.2 Farmworkers....................................................................................................................... 86

5.6.3 People with Disabilities ...................................................................................................... 89

5.6.4 Senior Households.............................................................................................................. 93

5.6.5 Female Headed Households................................................................................................ 97

5.6.6 Large Households ............................................................................................................. 101

5.6.7 People Experiencing Homelessness.................................................................................. 103

5.7 Future Housing Needs.............................................................................................................. 108 6 SITES INVENTORY AND RESOURCE ASSESSMENT............................................................................. 109

6.1 Sites Inventory.......................................................................................................................... 109

6.1.1 Regional Housing Needs Allocation................................................................................. 109

6.1.2 Adequate Site Selection Methodology.............................................................................. 109

6.1.3 Availability of Adequate Sites.......................................................................................... 116

6.1.4 Sites Inventory .................................................................................................................. 122

6.2 Environmental Constraints....................................................................................................... 141

6.2.1 Agriculture and Forest Resources..................................................................................... 141

6.2.2 Williamson Act ................................................................................................................. 141

6.2.3 Steep Slopes...................................................................................................................... 141

6.2.4 Geologic Hazards.............................................................................................................. 142

6.2.5 Flooding ............................................................................................................................ 142

6.2.6 Wildfire Hazards............................................................................................................... 143

6.2.7 Biological Resources ........................................................................................................ 143

6.2.8 Hazardous Sites................................................................................................................. 144

6.3 Adequate Infrastructure............................................................................................................ 147

6.3.1 Public Land ....................................................................................................................... 147

6.3.2 Roadway System............................................................................................................... 149

6.3.3 Public Transportation........................................................................................................ 150

6.3.4 Sewer System.................................................................................................................... 150

6.3.5 Water System.................................................................................................................... 151

6.3.6 Stormwater System........................................................................................................... 151

6.3.7 Senate Bill 1087................................................................................................................ 152

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 5

6.4 Other Known Constraints......................................................................................................... 152

6.5 Opportunities for Energy Conservation ................................................................................... 154

6.5.1 CalGreen Standards and Practices.................................................................................... 154

6.5.2 Building Codes.................................................................................................................. 155

6.5.3 Housing Element Programs .............................................................................................. 155

6.5.4 Energy Efficiency Incentives............................................................................................ 155

6.5.5 Incentives for Lower Income Households........................................................................ 156

6.6 Financial and Administrative Resources.................................................................................. 157

6.6.1 Funding History ................................................................................................................ 161 7 ANALYSIS OF CONSTRAINTS ............................................................................................................. 163

7.1 Governmental Constraints........................................................................................................ 163

7.1.1 General Plan...................................................................................................................... 163

7.1.2 Zoning Ordinance ............................................................................................................. 165

7.1.3 Building Code and Enforcement....................................................................................... 197

7.1.4 On- and Off-Site Improvement Standards........................................................................ 198

7.1.5 Processing and Permitting Procedures.............................................................................. 200

7.1.6 Fees and Exactions............................................................................................................ 211

7.1.7 Housing for Persons with Disabilities .............................................................................. 217

7.2 Non-Governmental Constraints................................................................................................ 222

7.2.1 Land Constraints............................................................................................................... 222

7.2.1 Construction and Labor Costs........................................................................................... 224

7.2.2 The Availability Of Financing.......................................................................................... 227

7.3 Summary of Constraints........................................................................................................... 232 8 AFFIRMATIVELY FURTHERING FAIR HOUSING.................................................................................. 234

8.1 Purpose and Introduction ......................................................................................................... 234

8.2 Fair Housing Assessment Methodology .................................................................................. 234

8.2.1 Geography......................................................................................................................... 235

8.2.2 Data Sources ..................................................................................................................... 235

8.3 Assessment of Fair Housing..................................................................................................... 237

8.3.1 Fair Housing Enforcement and Outreach Capacity .......................................................... 237

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 6

8.3.2 Segregation and Integration .............................................................................................. 243

8.3.3 Racially and Ethnically Concentrated Areas of Poverty and Racially Concentrated Areas of Affluence ......................................................................................................................................... 273

8.3.4 Disparities in Access to Opportunities.............................................................................. 284

8.3.5 Disproportionate Housing Needs...................................................................................... 313

8.3.6 Sites Inventory .................................................................................................................. 346

8.4 Meaningful Actions to Address Fair Housing Issues............................................................... 351 9 GOALS, POLICIES, OBJECTIVES, & PROGRAMS ................................................................................. 355

9.1 Appropriateness of Policies, Goals, and Objectives ................................................................ 355

9.2 Housing Programs.................................................................................................................... 358

9.2.1 Program Descriptions........................................................................................................ 375 10 QUANTIFIED OBJECTIVES (BY INCOME GROUPS)......................................................................... 404 11 APPENDIX A: Community Survey.................................................................................................. 405 12 APPENDIX B: Community Workshop............................................................................................ 406 13 APPENDIX C: Public comments..................................................................................................... 407

TABLE OF TABLES
Table 2-1 Housing Need Distribution by Jurisdiction, Kern County, Taft, 2023-2031 ........................... 19 Table 2-2 Housing Need Distribution, Taft, 5th Cycle vs. 6th Cycle RHNA ............................................ 20 Table 2-3 Housing Need Allocation, Taft, 2023-2031 ............................................................................. 20 Table 3-1 5th Cycle RHNA Housing Production, Taft, 2015-2023 .......................................................... 22 Table 3-2 Effectiveness of Programs to Address Special Housing Needs ............................................... 29 Table 5-1 Population Growth, Kern County, Taft, South Taft, Taft Heights, Ford City CDP 1990-2020 ................................................................................................................................................................... 44 Table 5-2 Persons per Square Mile, Taft, South Taft, Taft Heights, Ford City, 2000-2020 .................... 45 Table 5-3 Population by Age, Taft, 2000-2020 ........................................................................................ 46 Table 5-4 Population by Age Group, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 ............................................. 47 Table 5-5 Racial Composition, Taft, 1990-2020 ...................................................................................... 48 Table 5-6 Population by Race, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 ....................................................... 48 Table 5-7 Employment Status, Taft, Kern County, California, 2022 ....................................................... 49 Table 5-8 Place of Work, Taft, 2022 ........................................................................................................ 49

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 7
Table 5-9 Travel Time to Work, Taft, 2022 ............................................................................................. 50 Table 5-10 Families by Supplemental Security Income and Cash Public Assistance, Taft, 2022 ........... 51 Table 5-11 Employment by Industry, Taft, Kern County, 2022............................................................... 52 Table 5-12 Major Employers in Kern County, 2024 ................................................................................ 53 Table 5-13 Top 10 Employers in City of Taft, 2023, 2014 ...................................................................... 54 Table 5-14 Household Type, Taft, 2020................................................................................................... 55 Table 5-15 Household by Type, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020..................................................... 56 Table 5-16 Housing Tenure Trend, Taft, 2000-2020................................................................................ 57 Table 5-17 Median Household Income by Tenure, Taft, Kern County, California, 2022........................ 58 Table 5-18 Median Household Income, Taft, Kern County, California, 2000-2022................................ 58 Table 5-19 Income Range by Affordability Category, Kern County, 2023 ............................................. 60 Table 5-20 Years Structure Built, Taft, 2022 ........................................................................................... 61 Table 5-21 Years Structure Built, Kern County, 2022 ............................................................................. 61 Table 5-22 Completed Housing Permits and Demolitions....................................................................... 62 Table 5-23 Housing Problems by Tenure, Kern County, Taft, 2018........................................................ 63 Table 5-24 Housing Condition Survey, Taft Target Area, 2007 .............................................................. 63 Table 5-25 Housing Condition Survey, Non-Target Area, 2007.............................................................. 64 Table 5-26 Housing Affordability, Taft, 2023.......................................................................................... 66 Table 5-27 Median Contract Rent, Taft, Kern County, California, 2000-2022........................................ 69 Table 5-28 Current Rental Listings, Taft and Adjacent Neighborhoods, April 2024............................... 70 Table 5-29 Gross Rent as a Percentage of Household Income, Taft, Kern County, 2022 ....................... 71 Table 5-30 Median Monthly Housing Costs, Taft, Kern County, California, 2010-2022........................ 71 Table 5-31 Median Monthly Housing Costs as a Percentage of Household Income, Taft, 2010-2022 ... 72 Table 5-32 Monthly Electricity Costs, Taft, 2022 .................................................................................... 72 Table 5-33 Monthly Gas Costs, Taft, 2022............................................................................................... 73 Table 5-34 Annual Water and Sewer Costs, Taft, 2022 ........................................................................... 73 Table 5-35 Units in Structure, Taft, 2010, 2018....................................................................................... 74 Table 5-36 Occupancy Status, Taft, 1990-2020 ....................................................................................... 75 Table 5-37 Vacancy Rates by Tenure, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 ........................................... 76 Table 5-38 Households Overpaying, More Than 30% of Income, by Area Median Income, Taft, 2018 77

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 8
Table 5-39 Households Overpaying, More Than 30% of Income, by Area Median Income, Kern County, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................... 77 Table 5-40 Households Overpaying, More Than 50% of Income, by Area Median Income................... 78 Table 5-41 Occupants per Room by Tenure, Taft, 2012, 2022 ................................................................ 79 Table 5-42 Occupants per Room by Race/Ethnicity, Taft, 2022.............................................................. 80 Table 5-43 Occupants per Room by Tenure, Kern County, 2012, 2022 .................................................. 81 Table 5-44 Summary of Assisted Housing Units, Taft, 2024................................................................... 81 Table 5-45 Summary of Special Needs Groups, Taft, 2022 ..................................................................... 84 Table 5-46 HUD Area Median Family Income by Tenure, Taft, 2018 .................................................... 84 Table 5-47 Extremely Low-Income Households with Housing Problems, Taft, Kern County, 2018...... 85 Table 5-48 Disability Characteristics by Age, Taft, 2022 ........................................................................ 89 Table 5-49 Disability Characteristics by Age, Taft, 2022 ........................................................................ 89 Table 5-50 Disability Characteristics by Age, Kern County, 2022 .......................................................... 90 Table 5-51 Disability Characteristics by Age, Kern County, 2022 .......................................................... 90 Table 5-52 Developmental Disabilities by Zip Code and Residence Type .............................................. 91 Table 5-53 Senior Population by Age Group, Taft, 2010, 2020............................................................... 93 Table 5-54: Tenure by Age of Householder, Taft, 2020........................................................................... 93 Table 5-55: Median Household Income by Age, Taft, Kern County, 2022 ............................................. 94 Table 5-56: Poverty Status by Age, Taft, 2022 ........................................................................................ 94 Table 5-57: Senior Households by Household Type, Taft, 2022 ............................................................. 95 Table 5-58 Tenure by Household Type, Taft, 2022.................................................................................. 97 Table 5-59 Tenure by Household Type, Kern County, 2022 ................................................................... 98 Table 5-60 Female Households by Type, Taft, Kern County, 2022......................................................... 99 Table 5-61 Male- and Female-Headed Households by Poverty Status, Taft, 2022.................................. 99 Table 5-62 Tenure by Household Size, Taft, 2022................................................................................. 101 Table 5-63 Number of Bedrooms by Tenure, Taft, 2022 ....................................................................... 102 Table 5-64 Unsheltered Point In Time Count by Jurisdiction, 2024 ...................................................... 104 Table 5-65 Race and Ethnicity of Homeless Populations, Kern County, 2023...................................... 104 Table 5-66: Housing Inventory Count Report, Kern County, 2022 ....................................................... 106 Table 5-67 Population Growth Trends, Kern County, Taft, 2000-2046................................................. 108

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 9
Table 6-1 RHNA for 8-Year Planning Period, Taft, 2023-2031 ............................................................ 109 Table 6-2 Development Trends in the Past 10 Years, Wasco, 2012 - 2022 ........................................... 112 Table 6-3 Adjusted RHNA, Taft, 2023-2031 ......................................................................................... 117 Table 6-4 Current ADU Rental Listings, Kern County, April 2024....................................................... 118 Table 6-5 6th Cycle ADU by Income Category for RHNA, Taft........................................................... 119 Table 6-6 Home Prices in Sandy Creek Estate Sold within 36 Months of April 2024 .......................... 120 Table 6-7 Regional Housing Needs Allocation, Taft, 6th Cycle Housing Element ................................ 122 Table 6-8 Realistic Development Potential of Non-Vacant Sites.......................................................... 122 Table 6-9 Residential Unit Capacity of Vacant Lands ........................................................................... 124 Table 6-10 Suitability Analysis of Lower Income Adequate Sites: Re-identification ........................... 128 Table 6-11 Suitability Analysis of Lower Income Adequate Sites: Lot Size Requirement ................... 129 Table 6-12 Suitability Analysis of Lower Income Adequate Sites: Infrastructure Requirements ......... 130 Table 6-13 6th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory – Infill Lots ..................................................... 135 Table 6-14 6th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory – Downtown Taft Specific Plan...................... 137 Table 6-15 6th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory – Large Lot Properties .................................... 140 Table 6-16 6th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory – Capacity Summary....................................... 140 Table 6-17 Sites Inventory - City-Owned Properties ............................................................................. 148 Table 6-18 Funding Programs ................................................................................................................ 158 Table 7-1: Residential Uses Permitted within Zone Districts................................................................. 167 Table 7-2 Taft Zoning Ordinance Residential Development Standards................................................. 182 Table 7-3 Permitted Density by Zone District........................................................................................ 183 Table 7-4 Parking Requirements by Residential Use, Taft Municipal Code, Chapter 14 ...................... 185 Table 7-5 Parking Requirements by Residential Use, Downtown Taft Specific Plan............................ 186 Table 7-6: Timelines for Permit Procedures........................................................................................... 211 Table 7-7 Typical Processing Procedures by Project Type .................................................................... 211 Table 7-8 City of Taft Permit Processing and Planning Fees, 2023....................................................... 213 Table 7-9 City of Taft Sewer Capacity and Connection Fees, 2023 ...................................................... 215 Table 7-10 City of Taft Building Permit Fees, 2023 .............................................................................. 216 Table 7-11 City of Taft Building Plan Review Fees, 2023..................................................................... 216 Table 7-12 Total Fees Required to Pull Building Permit (Example)...................................................... 216

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 10
Table 7-13: New Home Communities Sale, Size, and Price Per Square Foot, Kern County, 2024....... 226 Table 7-14: Home Loan Purpose and Home Loan Type, City of Taft, 2022 ......................................... 229 Table 7-15: Home Loan Type and Application Action, City of Taft, 2022 ........................................... 229 Table 7-16: Home Loan Purpose and Application Action, City of Taft, 2022....................................... 230 Table 7-17: Primary Reasons for Loan Denial, City of Taft, 2022 ........................................................ 230 Table 7-18: Home Purchase Loan and Action–- County and City Comparison..................................... 230 Table 8-1: Domains and List of Indicators for Opportunity Maps......................................................... 236 Table 8-2: FHEO Filed Title VII Cases, Kern County, 2006 - Present.................................................. 238 Table 8-3 Racial Demographics, Taft, Greater Taft (West), Ford City, South Taft 2020...................... 244 Table 8-4 Predominant Population, Taft, 2021....................................................................................... 245 Table 8-5 Median Household Income, Taft, 2022.................................................................................. 253 Table 8-6 Poverty Status, Taft, 2014 versus 2021.................................................................................. 253 Table 8-7 Percentage of Children in Female-headed Households, Taft, 2021 ....................................... 262 Table 8-8 Percentage of Married-Couple Families, Taft, 2021 .............................................................. 262 Table 8-9 Disability Characteristics, Taft, 2021..................................................................................... 267 Table 8-10 Segregation and Integration: Summary of Findings............................................................. 271 Table 8-11 Mean Salary by Occupation, Kern County........................................................................... 295 Table 8-12 Location of Major Employers, Taft, 2023............................................................................ 297 Table 8-13 Disparities in Access to Opportunities: Summary of Findings............................................ 311 Table 8-14 Overpayment by Tenure, Taft, 2014 .................................................................................... 315 Table 8-15 Occupants Per Room, Taft, 2021 ......................................................................................... 322 Table 8-16 Substandard Housing Problems, Kern County, 2021........................................................... 327 Table 8-17 Substandard Housing Problems, Taft, 2021 ......................................................................... 328 Table 8-18 Age of Structure by Location, Taft, 2021............................................................................. 328 Table 8-19 Variables Associated with Displacement ............................................................................. 334 Table 8-20 Demographics and Housing Variables, Taft, 2022 .............................................................. 335 Table 8-21 Assessment of Variables Associated with Displacement, Taft, 2022 .................................. 341 Table 8-22 Disproportionate Housing Needs: Summary of Findings .................................................... 345 Table 8-23 RHNA Units by Census Tract within Taft ........................................................................... 347 Table 8-24 Fair Housing Issues, Contributing Factors, and Meaningful Actions.................................. 352

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 11
Table 9-1 City of Taft Housing Programs Summary.............................................................................. 359 Table 10-1 8-Year Quantified Objectives ––2023 through 2031 ........................................................... 404

TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure 5-1 Population Growth Trend, Taft, 2010-2022............................................................................ 45 Figure 5-2 Employment Trends, Taft, 2010-2022.................................................................................... 51 Figure 5-3 Housing Tenure, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 ........................................................... 57 Figure 5-4 Household Income Trends, Taft, 2010, 2022.......................................................................... 59 Figure 5-5 City of Taft 2007 Housing Conditions Survey Target Area ................................................... 65 Figure 5-6 Median Home Prices, Taft, Kern County, California, 2010-2022 .......................................... 67 Figure 5-7 Home Prices, Taft, 2022.......................................................................................................... 67 Figure 5-8 Median Contract Rent, Taft, Kern County, California, 2010-2022 ........................................ 69 Figure 5-9 Occupancy Status, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 ........................................................ 75 Figure 6-1 Pipeline Project: Sandy Creek Estates .................................................................................. 121 Figure 6-2 Taft 6th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory .................................................................. 132 Figure 6-3 Categorization of Adequate Sites.......................................................................................... 133 Figure 6-4 Government Properties Suitable for Development ............................................................... 134 Figure 6-5 FEMA Flood Hazard Map, Taft, 2024.................................................................................. 145 Figure 6-6 Wetlands Map, Taft, 2023.................................................................................................... 146 Figure 7-1 Vacant/Underutilized Parcels that Permits Emergency Shelters, Taft, 2024........................ 173 Figure 8-1 Percent of Total Non-White Population, Kern County, 2020............................................... 246 Figure 8-2 Predominant Populations, Kern County, 2020...................................................................... 247 Figure 8-3 Neighborhood Segregation, Kern County, 2019................................................................... 248 Figure 8-4 Percent of Total Non-White Population, Taft, 2020 ............................................................. 249 Figure 8-5 Predominant Populations, Taft, 2020.................................................................................... 250 Figure 8-6 Neighborhood Segregation, Taft, 2019................................................................................. 251 Figure 8-7 Median Household Income, Kern County, 2019 .................................................................. 255 Figure 8-8 Low-to-Moderate Income Populations, Kern County, 2019................................................. 256 Figure 8-9 Median Household Income, Taft, 2019................................................................................. 257 Figure 8-10 Low-to-Moderate Income Populations, Taft, 2019............................................................. 258

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 12
Figure 8-11 Poverty Status, Taft, 2014................................................................................................... 259 Figure 8-12 Poverty Status, Taft, 2021................................................................................................... 260 Figure 8-13 Female-headed Households with Children, Kern County, 2021......................................... 263 Figure 8-14 Female-headed Households with Children, Taft, 2021....................................................... 264 Figure 8-15 Married Couple Households with Children, Taft, 2021...................................................... 265 Figure 8-16 Percent of Population with a Disability, Kern County, 2021.............................................. 268 Figure 8-17 Percent of Population with a Disability, Taft, 2021............................................................ 269 Figure 8-18 R/ECAP Areas, Kern County 2022..................................................................................... 275 Figure 8-19 Poverty Status, Kern County, 2021..................................................................................... 276 Figure 8-20 Areas of High Segregation and Poverty, Kern County, 2023 ............................................. 277 Figure 8-21 R/ECAP Areas, Taft, 2022.................................................................................................. 278 Figure 8-22 Poverty Status, Taft, 2021................................................................................................... 279 Figure 8-23 Areas of High Segregation and Poverty, Taft, 2023 ........................................................... 280 Figure 8-24 RCAAs, Kern County, 2019 ............................................................................................... 282 Figure 8-25 RCAAs, Taft, 2019 ............................................................................................................. 283 Figure 8-26 Kern Transit System Map ................................................................................................... 287 Figure 8-27 National Walkability Index, Kern County .......................................................................... 288 Figure 8-28 Access to Transit Within a Quarter Mile, Taft.................................................................... 289 Figure 8-29 National Walkability Index, Taft ........................................................................................ 290 Figure 8-30 TCAC Opportunity Map-Education, Kern County, 2023................................................... 293 Figure 8-31 TCAC Opportunity Map-Education, Taft, 2023................................................................. 294 Figure 8-32 TCAC Opportunity Map-Economic, Kern County............................................................. 299 Figure 8-33 TCAC Opportunity Map-Economic, Taft, 2023................................................................. 300 Figure 8-34 Jobs Proximity Index, Taft, 2017........................................................................................ 301 Figure 8-35 CalEnviroScreen 4.0 Percentile Scores, Kern County ........................................................ 305 Figure 8-36 TCAC Opportunity Map-Environment, Kern County, 2023 .............................................. 306 Figure 8-37 CalEnviroScreen 4.0 Percentile Scores, Taft, 2021 ............................................................ 307 Figure 8-38 TCAC Opportunity Map-Environment, Taft, 2023 ............................................................ 308 Figure 8-39 Overpayment by Homeowners, Kern County, 2021........................................................... 317 Figure 8-40 Overpayment by Renters, Kern County, 2021.................................................................... 318

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 13
Figure 8-41 Overpayment by Homeowners, Taft, 2021......................................................................... 319 Figure 8-42 Overpayment by Renters, Taft, 2021 .................................................................................. 320 Figure 8-43 Percent of Overcrowded Households, Kern County, 2021 ................................................. 323 Figure 8-44 Percent of Severely Overcrowded Households, Kern County, 2021 .................................. 324 Figure 8-45 Percent of Overcrowded Households, Taft, 2021 ............................................................... 325 Figure 8-46 Percent of Severely Overcrowded Households, Taft, 2021 ................................................ 326 Figure 8-47 Percentage of Units Buit Prior to 1960, Taft, 2021............................................................. 331 Figure 8-48 Risk of Displacement, Kern County, 2022 ......................................................................... 337 Figure 8-49 Sensitive Communities, Kern County, 2022....................................................................... 338 Figure 8-50 Risk of Displacement, Taft, 2022 ....................................................................................... 339 Figure 8-51 Sensitive Communities, Taft, 2022..................................................................................... 340

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 14
1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of the Element
The California State Planning Act requires that every city and county prepare and adopt a comprehensive, long-term General Plan for its physical development.

The adoption of a Housing Element is the first step towards providing a strategy for suitable housing for the residents of the City. One of the objectives of the Housing Element is to increase public awareness regarding housing issues and to address specific needs, programs, and incentives that will most effectively meet the housing needs. For instance, allowing accessory dwelling units in all residential zone districts and a mix of multi-family residential densities and mixed-use projects in residential and mixed-use zone districts and the Downtown Taft Specific Plan will increase options for affordable housing. Optimizing the use of mobile home parks is one of the more affordable living accommodations available to moderateincome households. Nevertheless, objectives are kept balanced to ensure success and to recognize that organization and implementation will take time to create impetus.

In order to meet Taft's low- and moderate-income housing needs through the 2023 to 2031 planning period; the City must work with practical and quantified objectives. Through adopted policies and programs, the City will strive to achieve the following objectives, with the actual goal being an appropriate and affordable housing mix.

1.2 Legislative Authority
The State Legislature adopted Article 10.6 of the Government Code, in 1980, adding to the regulations and standards for Housing Elements. Sections 65580 through 65589.11 were added to Chapter 3 Local Planning of Division 1 Planning and Zoning of Title 7 Planning and Land Use of the Government Code.

The legislative authority, policy, intent, and guidelines for Housing Elements are as follows:

1.2.1 State Policy
The State Legislature finds and declares:
• The availability of housing is of vital statewide importance, and the early attainment of decent housing and a suitable living environment for every Californian, including farmworkers, is a priority of the highest order.
• The early attainment of this goal requires the cooperative participation of government and the private sector in an effort to expand housing opportunities and accommodate the housing needs of Californians of all economic levels.
• The provision of housing affordable to low- and moderate-income households requires the cooperation of all levels of government.
• Local and state governments have a responsibility to use the powers vested in them to facilitate the improvement and development of housing to make adequate provision for the housing needs of all economic segments of the community.

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 15
• The Legislature recognizes that in carrying out this responsibility, each local government also has the responsibility to consider economic, environmental, and fiscal factors and community goals set forth in the General Plan and to cooperate with other local governments and the state in addressing regional housing needs.
• Designating and maintaining a supply of land and adequate sites suitable, feasible, and available for the development of housing sufficient to meet the locality’s housing need for all income levels is essential to achieving the state’s housing goals. (Government Code, Section 65580).

1.2.2 State Intent
It is the intent of the Legislature:
• To assure that counties and cities recognize their responsibilities in contributing to the attainment of the State-housing goal.
• To assure that counties and cities will prepare and implement housing elements which, along with federal and state programs, will move toward attainment of the state-housing goal. • To recognize that each locality is best capable of determining what efforts are required by it to contribute to the attainment of the state housing goal, provided such a determination is compatible with the state housing goal and regional housing needs. • To ensure that each local government cooperates with other local governments in order to address regional housing needs (Government Code, Section 65581).

1.2.3 State Housing Element Guidelines
The State requires that certain basic components be included in a Housing Element:
• An assessment of local housing needs and an inventory of local resources and constraints relevant to meeting these local needs.
• A statement of the community's goals, quantified objectives, and policies relative to affirmatively furthering fair housing and to the maintenance, preservation, improvement, and development of housing.
• A program that sets forth a schedule of actions during the planning period that the local government is undertaking or intends to undertake to implement the policies and achieve the goals and objectives of the housing element. (Government Code, Section 65583) • A review of the actual results of the previous element's goals, objectives, policies and programs. • An analysis of the significant differences between what was projected or planned and what was achieved.

Based on the above, a description of how the goals, objectives, policies, and programs of the revised Housing Element incorporate what has been learned from the results of analysis of the previous Housing Elements.

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1.3 General Plan and Housing Element Consistency
California Government Code Section 65583(c)(8) requires housing elements to describe how consistency with the general plan will be achieved and maintained. Additionally, Government Code Section 65300.5 requires that general plans be internally consistent, meaning that the housing element, as an element of the general plan, shall be consistent with other elements of the general plan.

The City completed a comprehensive update to the General Plan that was adopted on June 22, 2010, excluding the Housing Element, with a subsequent amendment in 2017. The General Plan update complies with California Government Code 65302.1, which requires cities and counties to include data, analysis, comprehensive goals, policies, and feasible implementation strategies to improve air quality. The City also adopted a Climate Action Plan on April 18, 2017.

In 2022, the City adopted a new Downtown Taft Specific Plan with land use and development standards consistent with the updated General Plan elements. In addition, subsequent amendments to the housing element or other general plan elements will trigger a review of the entire general plan, such as land-use provisions, to ensure internal consistency is maintained during the planning period.

In preparing the 2023-2031 Housing Element, the City reviewed goals and policies in the various elements of the General Plan. The Housing Element is generally consistent with the General Plan, including goals and policies to encourage infill development, provide multi-family and mixed-use housing, promote rehabilitation, and increase energy efficiency. Additionally, no amendments to the planned land use are proposed as part of the 2023-2031 Housing Element. Program 9.n further ensures that consistency between the Housing Element and General Plan is maintained throughout the planning period.

1.4 Methodology
This Housing Element update began by reviewing the issues in the 5 th Cycle Housing Element for 2015-
2023 approved by the City Council on December 15, 2015, and certified by HCD on January 6, 2016.

Information presented is based on data from the 2000, 2010, and 2020 U.S. Census. The goals and objectives of the previous elements were revised to fit the needs of an updated eight-year plan based on information obtained from the following:
• City of Taft Housing Needs Study, Kern Cog, 2006
• A Growth and Development Strategy for the City of Taft, Management/Development Associates May 1991.
• City of Taft Market Study: Senior Assisted Living Facility. The Planning Institute, Inc., 2007 • City of Taft Community Demographic Survey and Labor Force Analysis, June 2000 • State of the Cities Data Systems: 2014-2018 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) Data
• 2000, 2010, and 2020 U.S. Census, SF-1 and SF-3 datum

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• SELECTED INCOME AND HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS 2016-2020 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, U.S. Census
• San Joaquin Valley Regional Early Action Planning (REAP), Taking Stock: A Comprehensive Housing Report for the San Joaquin Valley in 2022; March 2022 • San Joaquin Valley REAP, San Joaquin Valley Guide to Recent California Housing Laws; October 2022

1.5 Organization of the Housing Element
The Housing Element is organized based on the sequence suggested by the State Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) and has been used as such since the 2002-2007 Housing Element. The Housing Element is organized as follows:
• Introduction: This section describes the purpose, legislative authority, and methodology used to drive the creation of the Housing Element.
• Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan: This section provides a breakdown of the various housing needs by affordability category to be planned for in the Housing Element based on the Regional Housing Needs Allocation.
• Review and Revision of Previous Element: This section is an analysis of the previous cycle Housing Element including a review of the previous Element’s Guidelines, a breakdown of the effectiveness of the previous Element, and a progress report on the implementation of the programs outlined in the previous Element.
• Community Outreach and Engagement: This section details the process to properly engage the local community and gather their input during the creation of the Housing Element. • Housing Needs Assessment: This section provides an overview of the local Housing Market, including breakdowns of demographics, employment characteristics, household characteristics, housing stock characteristics, special needs households, and future housing needs. • Sites Inventory and Resource Assessment: This section details the adequacy of available sites for future housing, infrastructure, and other known constraints to increasing housing supply. • Analysis of Constraints: This section analyzes various potential and actual constraints present in the development of new housing, including governmental and non-governmental constraints. • Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing: Pursuant to AB 686, this section provides an assessment of fair housing practices, an analysis of the relationship between available sites and areas of high or low resources, and concrete actions and programs to affirmatively further fair housing. • Goals, Policies, Objectives, and Programs: This section outlines the Goals, Policies, Objectives, and Programs, including those being carried over from the previous Housing Element, set out by the Housing Element in order to facilitate and promote new housing development.

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• Quantified Objectives (By Income Groups): This section details the established quantified objectives for the maximum number of housing units by income category that can be constructed, rehabilitated, or conserved.
• General Requirements: This section provides the general requirements necessary to ensure internal consistency is maintained during the planning period.

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2 REGIONAL HOUSING NEED ALLOCATION PLAN
In California, Housing Element Law mandates that each jurisdiction adequately plan for housing to meet the needs of its community. The California Department of Housing and Development (HCD) determines the number of housing units needed at various affordability levels in each region of California, known as the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). HCD allocates the region’s share of statewide housing need to Councils of Governments (COG) based on Department of Finance (DOF) population projections and regional population forecasts used in preparing regional transportation plans. Kern Council of Governments (COG) acts in its capacity as the state designated Regional Planning Agency for the Kern County region and has the responsibility of developing the state mandated RHNA Plan.

The RHNA process identifies the number of housing units that each local government must accommodate in the Housing Element of its General Plan (Government Code Section 65584). As part of the region’s planning efforts, Kern COG worked with local governments and stakeholders on the RHNA Plan. Kern COG identified areas within the region sufficient to house an eight-and-a-half-year projection of the regional housing need. Additionally, the RHNA allocates housing units within the region consistent with the development pattern included in the Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) and is part of the Regional Transportation Plan. The development of Kern COG’s 2022 RTP/SCS happens in tandem with the 6th Cycle RHNA Plan.

2.1 Regional Housing Needs Allocation
The distribution of units for the Kern County region is shown in Table 2-1. The total need for the region for 2023-2031 was determined to be 57,650 units. The City of Taft’s allocation for the 6th cycle is 504 units, comprising 56% (284) above moderate, 21% (109) moderate, 8% (43) low, and 13% (68) very lowincome affordability categories. This allocation represents a 98% increase compared to the previous cycle's allocation of 250 units, with the largest increase in moderate (263%) followed by above moderate (94%) (Table 2-2).

Table 2-1 Housing Need Distribution by Jurisdiction, Kern County, Taft, 2023-2031 Affordability Category
Kern County Taft
Count Percent Count Percent
Very Low (<50% AMI) 14,658 25.4% 68 13.5%
Low (51-80% AMI) 9,328 16.2% 43 8.5%
Moderate (81-120% AMI) 9,299 16.1% 109 21.6%
Above-Moderate (>120% AMI) 24,365 42.3% 284 56.3%
Total 57,650 100.0% 504 100.0%
Source: Kern Council of Governments, 6th Cycle RHNA Plan, January 9, 2023

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Table 2-2 Housing Need Distribution, Taft, 5th Cycle vs. 6th Cycle RHNA Affordability Category
6 th Cycle
2023-2031
5 th Cycle
2023-2031 Change
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Very Low (<50% AMI) 68 13.5% 52 20.3% 16 30.8%
Low (51-80% AMI) 43 8.5% 26 10.4% 17 65.4%
Moderate (81-120% AMI) 109 21.6% 30 11.9% 79 263.3%
Above-Moderate (>120% AMI) 284 56.3% 146 57.4% 138 94.5% Total 504 100.0% 254 100.0% 250 98.4%
Source: Kern Council of Governments, 6th Cycle RHNA Plan, January 9, 2023, and City of Taft 2015-2023 Housing Element
It is important to note that RHNA does not project the need for extremely low-income units (0-30% AMI).

However, pursuant to AB 2634, local jurisdictions are required to project the needs of extremely lowincome households based on Census income distribution or assume 50% of very low-income units required by RHNA. The City thereby presumes that 50% of the very low-income households qualify as extremely low-income. Therefore, 34 out of 68 very low-income households are presumed to be extremely low-income. This allocation is shown in Table 2-3.

Table 2-3 Housing Need Allocation, Taft, 2023-2031
Affordability Category
Housing Need Allocation
Count Percent
Extremely Low (0-30% AMI) 34 6.7%
Very Low (31-50% AMI) 34 6.7%
Low (51-80% AMI) 43 8.5%
Moderate (81-120% AMI) 109 21.6%
Above Moderate (>120% AMI) 284 56.3%
Total 538 100.0%
Source: Kern Council of Governments, 6th Cycle RHNA Plan, January 9, 2023

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3 REVIEW AND REVISION OF PREVIOUS ELEMENT

3.1 Review of Previous Element Guidelines
Sections 65588(a) and (e) of the Government Code provide that each community shall review its housing element as frequently as appropriate, but at least once every eight (8) years, to evaluate all the following:

A. Appropriateness of Goals (Section 65588[a](1):

The appropriateness of the housing goals, objectives, and policies in contributing to the attainment of the state housing goal.

B. Effectiveness of the element (Section 65588[a](2)):

Analyzing the effectiveness of the Housing Element in attainment of the community’s housing goals and objectives.

C. Progress in implementation (Section 65588[a](3)):

An analysis of the progress of the City’s implementation of the Housing Element, the significant differences between what was projected or planned in the earlier element, and what was achieved.

D. Effectiveness of the Element regarding special needs groups (Section 65588[a](4)):

The effectiveness of the Housing Element goals, policies, and related actions for any special housing needs, such as those of the elderly, persons with disabilities, including developmental disability, large families, farmworkers; families with female heads of households; and families and persons in need of emergency shelter.

Per the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the three (3) areas of requisite analysis are:
• Review the results of the previous housing element’s goals, objectives, and programs. The results should be quantified where possible but may be qualitative where necessary. • Compare what was projected or planned in the previous housing element to what was achieved.

Determine where the previous housing element met, exceeded, or fell short of what was anticipated. • Based on the above analysis, describe how the goals, objectives, policies, and programs in the updated housing element are being changed or adjusted to incorporate what has been learned from the results of the previous housing element.

The City of Taft’s 5
th Cycle (2015- 2023) Housing Element adopted 19 programs to encourage new residential development, rehabilitate structures in need, provide housing assistance, update ordinances and general plan sections, encourage in-fill development, to address the need for emergency shelters, and provide fair housing for all, including special needs groups. An Assessment of the established programs and addressing their appropriateness and effectiveness as indicated in items A, B, C, and D is discussed below.

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3.2 Effectiveness of the Element/Results
The City's current Housing Element was adopted in December 2015 and was certified by HCD on January 6, 2016.

3.2.1 Housing Production
During 2015 to 2023, housing stock increased with 74 new residential units constructed with most units being moderate to above moderate single-family residential. In recent years, the City has amended the Zoning Regulations of the Taft Municipal Code to include by-right uses and include more residential development types such as accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Two (2) ADUs were permitted in 2023.

Table 3-1 5
th Cycle RHNA Housing Production, Taft, 2015-2023
Affordability
Category
5 th Cycle RHNA
2015-2023
Units
Constructed
During 5th
Cycle
Percentage of
5 th Cycle Need
Met
Balance of 5th
Cycle RHNA
Need
Extremely Low (< 30%
AMI) 26 0 0% 26
Very Low (31-50%
AMI) 52 0 0% 52
Low (51-80% AMI) 26 1 3% 25
Moderate (81-120%
AMI) 30 20 66% 10
Above-Moderate
(>120% AMI) 146 53 36% 93
Total 254 74 29% 180
Source: City of Taft, 2023 Annual Progress Report

3.2.2 No Net Loss and Adequate Sites
Senate Bill (SB) 166 requires local jurisdictions to maintain adequate sites to accommodate the RHNA balance. Seventy-four (74) units were constructed in the 5th Cycle. The 5th Cycle Housing Element provided a capacity of 2,283 units, which was a surplus of 2,092 units beyond RHNA. The City did not have a net loss capacity during the 5th Cycle and has maintained a surplus of available and adequate sites for all income levels throughout the planning period.

3.2.3 Assessment of 2015-2023 Goals, Objectives, and Programs The following is a program-by-program summary of the evaluation of the 2015 to 2023 Housing Element program accomplishments:

PROGRAM 1: Housing Rehabilitation
OBJECTIVE: This program was first established in 1993 and targeted ten (10) housing units per year beginning in 1995. Continue the Housing Rehabilitation program with a goal of rehabilitating 10 units per year.

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RESULTS: Objective partially met.

ANALYSIS: Rehabilitation efforts conserved several structures which otherwise would have deteriorated and eventually been demolished. Through the Housing Rehabilitation Program there were three singlefamily residential units rehabilitated during the 2015-2023 Housing Element cycle.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue Program.

PROGRAM 2: Housing Rehabilitation - Public Information
OBJECTIVE: Provide program information to property owners in hard copy form at City Hall and post on City website and social media sites regarding programs and funding availability.

RESULTS: Objective met.

ANALYSIS: The Grant Administrator produced updated hard copy brochures and informational handouts that were available for the public in the lobby at City Hall, while also publishing electronic PDF versions of the housing program information on the City website and Facebook page.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue to produce updated brochures on current housing programs and funding availability while utilizing the City website and social media sites to further distribute public information.

PROGRAM 3: First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB)
OBJECTIVE: This program was first established in 1997 with the goal of assisting 13 families as a reasonable objective from the 97-HOME Grant. Continue the First-time Home Buyer (FTHB) program.

RESULTS: Objective met. Funding discontinued.

ANALYSIS: During the 2015-2023 Housing Element program period, the City approved funds for twelve (12) First-Time Home Buyer applicants. Nine (9) of the loan recipients were approved for Low Income families and three (3) were approved for very low-income families.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: The HOME loan funds have been discontinued for the FTHB program. The City will seek current available funding sources to replace the program.

PROGRAM 4: Zoning Ordinance Review
OBJECTIVE: Complete an Ordinance review and an ordinance amendment to ensure General Plan and zoning land use consistency.

RESULTS: Objective completed.

ANALYSIS: On September 20, 2016, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 822-16 to increase the maximum density in the R-1 zone district to 7 dwelling units per ac (du/ac), the R-2 zone district increasing to 15 du/ac, and the R-3 zone district increasing to 29 du/ac. This ordinance amendment was necessary as these densities now match those in the General Plan Land Use Element that was adopted in 2010.

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HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: A comprehensive zoning ordinance review will not be necessary for the 6th cycle Housing Element. The City will maintain the ordinance and amend it as necessary when the state legislature adopts new and updated housing laws.

PROGRAM 5: Multi-Family Housing Project
OBJECTIVE: Develop an expedited re-approval process for an affordable low-income housing project on Adequate Site #35.

RESULTS: Objective not met.

ANALYSIS: In 2011, the City approved a 40-unit affordable family apartment development along the City’s Rails to Trails linear park, which is adjacent to the downtown area. The developer did not follow through with the project, the entitlement approval period expired, and the developer did not return to pursue the project again. In 2022, the City adopted the Downtown Taft Specific Plan (DTSP) with the help of Planning Grant Program (PGP) and Local Early Action Planning (LEAP) program grant funds.

Adequate Site #35 was included in the DTSP project area and is subject to its development standards. The DTSP includes objective design standards, development incentives, and reduced development standards that is typically found in the zoning ordinance for the rest of the City. The DTSP was designed to expedite the planning review and public hearing process.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue Program with updated goals. The City should continue to develop and seek creative mechanisms to assist the development of affordable and market-rate multifamily housing units.

PROGRAM 6: Land Use Element Update
OBJECTIVE: Complete a Land Use Element Update, if necessary RESULTS: Objective met. On June 22, 2010, the City completed a comprehensive update to the General Plan, including a complete update to the Land Use Element. On April 18, 2017, the Taft City Council adopted Resolution No. 3819-17 approving a General Plan Amendment that completed revisions to the 2010 Plan.

ANALYSIS: The 2017 Amendment included amendments to the Land Use Element and Land Use Map.

The Land Use designations and their locations were reevaluated to ensure properties identified on the Adequate Sites list were consistent were consistent with their applicable Zoning District.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Objective met, Program complete.

PROGRAM 7: Sustainable Community
OBJECTIVE: Approve a Climate Action Plan.

RESULTS: Objective met. On April 18, 2017, the Taft City Council adopted Resolution No. 3819-17 approving a Climate Action Plan.

ANALYSIS: The Climate Action Plan included strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and streamline environmental review. The Plan was developed based on the General Plan Land Use Map

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amendments adopted under Resolution No. 3816-17 and included reduction measures and implementation actions to help the City achieve state recommended emissions reduction targets for 2020, 2030 and 2050.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Objective met, Program complete.

PROGRAM 8: Code Enforcement
OBJECTIVE: Encourage more rehabilitation and limit demolitions of residential units to 2 per year.

RESULTS: Objective met.

ANALYSIS: During the 2015-2023 Housing Element program period, the City completed demolitions of 19 residential units. The City exceeded the two-unit limit between 2018 to 2020 by demolishing 13 units during this time period. There were multiple public safety concerns as many of the units were damaged by fire. Delays in the code enforcement process pushed resolution with these properties into the following years, but the units were ultimately determined to be a total loss of the residential structure and needed to be removed from the lots.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue code enforcement program limiting residential demolitions to 2 units per year.

PROGRAM 9 & 10: Fair Housing Support & Information Dissemination OBJECTIVE: Establish relationship with existing service providers. Continue to prepare information in English and Spanish for distribution to the public through libraries, senior centers, civic center offices, etc.

RESULTS: Objective being met continuously.

ANALYSIS: The City disseminates information on fair housing and refers fair housing complaints to the district office of the Department of Fair Employment and Housing. The City Grant Administrator is the public information contact for housing programs and fair housing support. The Administrator maintains a list of referral agencies that are utilized for fair housing complaints received by the City. Housing program information flyers have been published in English and Spanish.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue the program. The program should be updated to be an allinclusive public information program that covers housing programs, including owner and renter fair housing support and information dissemination.

PROGRAM 11: Senior Housing Project
OBJECTIVE: Complete construction of an additional 50+ units of senior affordable low-income housing.

RESULTS: Program objective not met.

ANALYSIS: During the 2015-2023 Housing Element program period, the City received no applications, communication, or other inquiries for new multi-family residential development projects.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue program to address senior housing needs.

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PROGRAM 12: Homeless Services/Emergency Shelter
OBJECTIVE: Work with existing service providers and establish City role/assistance. Begin joint regular meetings (monthly, quarterly, yearly, etc.) with representatives of local service providers to determine the current homeless services need.

RESULTS: Ongoing objective. The City is involved with service providers such as the Alpha House, the NEEDS Center, and Kern County Department of Health and Human Services to better understand the full scope of their efforts and to determine if the City has resources which can assist in this area of public service. In 2018, the City Council formed the Homelessness and Vagrancy Issues Ad Hoc Committee.

The committee consists of councilmembers, city staff, Police Dept staff, and a local non-profit from Bakersfield to develop a strategy and action plan for local Taft homelessness.

ANALYSIS: On July 7, 2015, the City adopted Ordinance No. 812-15 amending the Zoning Regulations of the Taft Municipal Code to include emergency shelters, transitional and supportive housing regulations and standards consistent with state law.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue program to address the ongoing challenges of homelessness in the City.

PROGRAM 13: ADA Compliance/Reasonable Accommodation
OBJECTIVE: Amend the Zoning Ordinance requiring ADA compliance with all new and rehabilitation projects. Continue application of California Building Code accessibility standards and Adopt Reasonable Accommodation Ordinance by December 2016.

RESULTS: Objective met.

ANALYSIS: On September 20, 2016, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 823-16 amending the General Development Standards of the Municipal Code to include Reasonable Accommodation standards.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Objective met, Program complete.

PROGRAM 14: Infrastructure Assistance
OBJECTIVE: Create a Community Revitalization and Investment Authority (CRIA) and develop an Infrastructure Assistance Plan, or within 12 months of becoming eligible to create such an authority.

RESULTS: Project not met.

ANALYSIS: Redevelopment agencies were dissolved in 2011 along with the aavailablefunds that could be used for infrastructure assistance. The state legislature has created the CRIA and Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts (EIFD) as replacement tools for redevelopment activities. There have not been many jurisdictions across the state that have adopted either the CRIA or EIFD entities. The City would have to dedicate a significant amount of time and budget cost to determine the feasibility of establishing a new redevelopment tool, such as CRIA or EIFD.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue to pursue alternative tax financing or grant programs to establish a local infrastructure assistance program.

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PROGRAM 15: Funding for Low-Income Housing Developments and Rehabilitation OBJECTIVE: Program an annual review of available funding sources and apply, as appropriate, with at least 3 successfully funded applications; Assist at least 50 units during planning period.

RESULTS: Objective not met.

ANALYSIS: During the 2015-2023 Element program period, the City of Taft received no inquiries and no applications for new multi-family residential housing development projects.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Develop new objectives for financing assistance.

PROGRAM 16: Market Rate Entry Level Homes
Support and encourage developer of Adequate Site #24 to build out all 394 lots by December 2022.

RESULTS: Objective not met.

ANALYSIS: During the 2015-2023 Element program period, the developer of Site #24 has developed and sold 48 market rate single-family residential units in Phases 1 and 2 of the approved projects.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue program with revised expected unit count. Work with developers if they elect to sell portions of the project area to other home builders, which may accelerate housing production with more than one developer.

PROGRAM 17: In-fill Housing
OBJECTIVE: Promote development of homes on in-fill lots listed on the Adequate Sites list and allow homes to be built on substandard lots without a Variance.

RESULTS: Objective met.

ANALYSIS: The City approved building permits for two single family residences on infill lots during the 2019 calendar year. In 2022, the City issued two more building permits on in-fill lots; one was for a single-family residence to be built by Habitat for Humanity, and the other was for a single-family residence that included and attached accessory dwelling unit (ADU). The City approved 5 new residential units on in-fill lots during the 2015-2023 Element program period.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue and revise program to include promoting in-fill permits include more than just a single-family residence. New permits should include ADUs and two-unit developments.

PROGRAM 18: Self-Help Housing
OBJECTIVE: Work with Habitat for Humanity to build one self-help single-family affordable housing unit per year on in-fill sites.

RESULTS: Objective partially met.

ANALYSIS: Habitat for Humanity last completed a single-family home development project in 2006. In 2022, after some unsuccessful attempts by Habitat to develop a home and secure a family for that home, a building permit was issued for a new single-family residence on an in-fill lot.

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HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue program. Continue working with Habitat for Humanity to locate available in-fill lots to develop low-income single-family residences.

PROGRAM 19: Developmentally Disabled
OBJECTIVE: Explore models to encourage the creation of housing for ppeoplewith developmental disabilities and implement a program by 2017.

RESULTS: Ongoing objective.

ANALYSIS: Taft College’s Transition to Independent Living (TIL) Program provides a post-secondary educational experience for adults with developmental/intellectual disabilities, with on-campus housing facilities and connect the adults with living arrangements off-campus within the City of Taft. The ARCTaft is a local non-profit that provides supported living opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, while also providing support services such as employment training, arranging doctor appointments, and utilizing local transit services.

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE: Continue program, seeking new opportunities to address housing opportunities for developmentally disabled persons.

3.3 Progress in Implementation
Programs #4 and #6 for the Zoning Ordinance Review and Land Use Element Update were completed during the 5th Cycle Housing Element. The programs were necessary as the comprehensive General Plan Update developed during the 4th Cycle was not completed until 2017. A subsequent amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Regulations was needed to ensure consistency between the two documents, particularly to match the allowable maximum densities between land use designations and zoning districts. There will be no land use or zone district changes needed for the 6th Cycle to have sufficient properties for the adequate sites list to meet Taft’s RHNA.

The remaining 17 programs from the 5th Cycle will be carried over in some form and continued in the 6th Cycle Housing Element period from 2023-2031. Although the programs had their objectives met, partially met, or saw no progress, they all have a place in the yearly objectives that all jurisdictions should strive for ensuring fair and equal housing for all in Taft.

3.3.1 Cumulative Effectiveness of Programs to Address Special Housing Needs The 5
th Cycle Housing Element contained several programs intended to address special housing needs, including low-income households, people with disabilities, senior households, and people experiencing homelessness. Programs and program results are summarized in Table 3-2, and further described below.

These programs include the first-time homebuyer program where the City approved funds for 12 firsttime home buyers, all of which were low- or very low-income families. The City also continued its housing rehabilitation efforts through its program and through public outreach, which resulted in successful rehabilitation of three (3) single-family units in need of repair.

The City continued its involvement with service providers including the Alpha House, the NEEDS Center, and Kern County Department of Health and Human Services, formed the Homelessness and Vagrancy

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Issues Ad Hoc Committee, and amended its Zoning Regulations to include emergency shelters, transitional housing, and supportive housing regulations. The City also amended its Zoning Ordinance to include Reasonable Accommodation Standards and remained connected and active with Taft College’s Transition to Independent Living Program. Overall, most objectives related to special housing needs were met, and the various programs are being carried over into the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update to continue to address these needs.

Table 3-2 Effectiveness of Programs to Address Special Housing Needs Program Results
Program 1: Housing Rehabilitation The objective was partially met. Three single-family residential units were rehabilitated. The program will
be continued.

Program 2: Housing Rehabilitation – Public
Information
The objective was met. Hard copy brochures and
informational handouts were printed and made
available for the public. Electronic versions were
posted online. The program will be continued.

Program 3: First-Time Home Buyer The objective was met, but the funding has been discontinued. The program will be continued, but the
City will need to seek current available funding sources to replace the program.

Program 5: Multi-Family Housing Project The objective was not met. However, the Downtown Taft Specific Plan was adopted in 2022 to help expedite the planning review and public hearing process which
will help future development. The program will be
continued.

Program 11: Senior Housing Project The objective was not met. The City did not receive any applications, communication, or inquiries for new
multi-family projects. The program will be continued.

Program 12: Homeless Services/Emergency
Shelter
The objective is ongoing. The City is involved with
service providers and the City did amend the Zoning
Ordinance to include emergency shelters, transitional
housing, and supportive housing standards consistent
with State Law. The program will be continued.

Program 13: ADA Compliance/Reasonable
Accommodation
The objective was met. The City amended its Zoning
Ordinance. The program is complete.

Program 15: Funding for Low-Income Housing
Developments and Rehabilitation
The objective was not met. The City did not receive any inquiries or applications for new multi-family projects.

The program will be continued, and the City will
develop new objectives for financing assistance.

Program 16: Developmentally Disabled The objective is ongoing. The City will continue the program and seek new opportunities to address housing
opportunities for developmentally disabled persons.

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4 COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT
State housing law requires local governments to make a diligent effort to achieve public participation of all economic segments of the community through the housing element update process (California Government Code Section 65583(c)(9). AB 686 enforces and builds on this requirement. Under AB 686, the housing element must also include a summary of fair housing outreach and capacity. The element must describe meaningful, frequent, and ongoing community participation, consultation, and coordination that is integrated with the broader stakeholder outreach and community participation process for the overall housing element.

4.1 Meaningful Outreach and Engagement Considerations
The City of Taft developed a comprehensive community outreach and engagement strategy to receive community feedback throughout the housing element update process. In preparing the strategy, the City considered the following factors to ensure meaningful, frequent, and ongoing participation. • The City considered geographic and transportation barriers for residents without vehicle access.

For example, the City held in-person workshops at the Taft Transit Center, which is centrally located in Downtown Taft and can be accessed by car, bus, walking, or biking. Aside from the community workshops, the City took the Housing Element update process “on the road” by presenting in-person to a high school senior class, at a Chamber of Commerce’s weekly Sit n Sip meeting, and before local service clubs.
• The City considered impediments to participation. For example, the City held in-person workshops outside of work hours, in the evening. The City selected days without conflicting community meetings, hearings, or events. The City scheduled the workshops for an hour and a half and built flexibility into the workshop agenda to allow for late arrivals, refreshments, networking, and interactive activities. The City also looked for other opportunities to incorporate the Housing Element update process into already occurring events and activities, including the Oil Tech Academy class at Taft Union High School, the Chamber of Commerce “Sit n Sip,” and Planning Commission and City Council meetings.
• To build stronger working relationships and products that are more inclusive by design, the City involved stakeholders in the early stages of development of other activities. For example, by engaging community-based organizations, the City was able to learn from and leverage other community engagement processes to increase inclusivity. In particular, the City learned that certain residents would respond better to hard copy surveys so the City made over 100 copies and provided them to community-based organizations to share. The City was also informed that it would be helpful to have more time to fill out the survey, so the City extended the deadline by a month and was able to receive over 100 more survey responses in that time. The City also heard about ethnic/linguistic challenges.
• To ensure an effective and inclusive outreach process, the City built in multiple contact points throughout the update process. For example, the City presented components of the Housing

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Element Update to Planning Commission, City Council, and at weekly community gatherings. In these meetings, the City was able to answer questions, receive feedback and ideas on how to conduct an effective and inclusive outreach process, and promote future opportunities for engagement. The City also leveraged the Chamber of Commerce’s weekly e-News and the City’s Facebook page to share engagement opportunities.

The City also provided these important components of meaningful engagement:
• Translation of materials and making translation available at meetings. • Working with community-based organizations and other community stakeholders to develop effective outreach and engagement plans.
• Minimizing overly technical language in information materials.

4.2 Summary of Efforts and Input
The City of Taft’s outreach and engagement for the Housing Element Update process began in February 2024 and consisted of the methods, metrics, and outcomes as described below.

4.2.1 Webpage
The City’s 2023-2031 Housing Element webpage introduces the Housing Element and ways to get involved in the update process including details and links to the community survey, community workshops, and public meetings. Webpage content is regularly updated as information becomes available.

Content is provided in English and Spanish. The webpage is located at the following link:
https://www.cityoftaft.org/pview.aspx?id=7699&catid=0.

4.2.2 Community Survey
A community survey was created to receive input on housing needs and constraints to help inform the Housing Element. The survey was open from February 23 through April 30, 2024, available online and in-person at City Hall. The survey consisted of 9 questions and was available in English and Spanish.

The City promoted survey participation through the Housing Element webpage, social media postings (Facebook), newspaper publication (Taft Midway Driller), the Chamber of Commerce e-weekly news bulletin, community postings, public meetings, stakeholder meetings, at community workshops, and through community-based organizations. All postings were provided in English and Spanish.

The City received 235 responses. Survey results are summarized below. The survey questions and results (raw data) are provided in APPENDIX A: Community Survey.

Key Takeaways
Housing Conditions/Availability/Affordability
• Housing is in horrible condition; many improvements need to be made. • Homes and apartments are too expensive.
• The rent is too high and not affordable.

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• A small number of homes are for purchase; the majority are for rent. • More single-family homes need to be built.
• Apartment complexes are deteriorating, and landlords don’t want to do anything about it. • More housing specifically for seniors, farmers, and veterans. • Homeowners insurance has increased, leading to foreclosures. • No housing options for young people.

Amenities/Resources
• Many people want more services, specifically for childcare. • Opportunities for sports and recreational centers for kids • Better amenities such as gym, pools, playgrounds.
• Taft should have more amenities considering all the empty store fronts. • A demand for the bare necessities such as more grocery stores and restaurants.

Special Needs
• A shelter needs to be made to combat the homeless crisis. • Not enough jobs to support the people in Taft.
• Roads are horrible, the streets and roads need to be repaired. • Clean up old buildings & homes in the city.
• Promote public safety.
• A need for homebuyers’ education so they can learn more about the programs they qualify for. • More legal aid and rental assistance programs needed. • More job fairs.
• More programs for tenants facing eviction.
• More resources and programs for the farmworkers in Taft.

Job Opportunities/Transportation
• Lack of transportation access to get to other areas where other services are. • Salary and pay do not match the price of housing.
• People from Taft are driving to Bakersfield for work when there should be more job and retail opportunities in Taft.

Housing Element Incorporation
Feedback and comments received from the survey have been incorporated into the Housing Element.

Specifically, feedback and comments have informed local data and knowledge within the Housing Needs Assessment, Sites Inventory and Resource Assessment, and Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing, in addition to formation of programs. Informed programs include first-time homebuyers, market rate entry level homes, rental assistance, code enforcement, housing rehabilitation, farmworker housing, fair housing, and several programs related to housing construction.

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have also informed programs such as homelessness, housing development, opportunities for homeownership, and fair housing. Feedback and comments related to community engagement informed the City’s outreach and engagement efforts.

4.2.3 Public Meetings
City staff presented components of the Housing Element Update to Planning Commission, City Council, and at weekly community gatherings including the Chamber of Commerce “Sit n Sip.” Planning Commission presentations were provided at their monthly meetings August through November 2023, with additional presentations on April 3, 2024, and May 8, 2024. The purpose of these presentations was to introduce, inform, and ensure multiple contact points throughout the Housing Element Update process.

City staff were able to answer questions, receive feedback and ideas on how to conduct an effective and inclusive outreach process, and promote future opportunities for engagement.

4.2.4 Stakeholder Engagement
The City created an extensive list of community stakeholders to engage in the Housing Element Update process through focus groups or one-on-one interviews. The list consisted of community-based and other organizations that represent protected class members, public housing authority, housing and community development providers, market-rate home builders, lower income community members and households that include persons in protected classes, fair housing agencies, independent living centers, regional centers, homeless services agencies, and churches and community service organizations that serve ethnic/linguistic minorities, school districts, and the development community.

Invitations to participate were emailed and mailed to 42 stakeholders. The invitations included the meeting options in addition to ways for further engagement including one-on-one interviews, the community survey, and community workshops. Flyers (English/Spanish) were provided in each invitation to encourage the stakeholders to share the information within their networks.

The City hosted four (4) stakeholders focus group meetings which were held virtually on March 18, 2024 – 1) Market Rate Developers and 2) Affordable Housing Developers – and April 4, 2024 – 3) Social and Special Interests and 4) Community At-Large. Focus group takeaways are summarized below.

Key Takeaways
Community Character
• A hard working, working-class community of oil workers and farmworkers. • A resilient community that looks out for one another in the midst of challenges – poverty, substance abuse, housing, etc.
• A changing community – demographics are shifting overtime with influx of Latino/Indigenous community from South Central America and Mexico.
• A dying community because of what’s happening in the oil industry. • A tight knit community with strong ties– residents has lived here a long time and if they leave, they come back.

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• A service-oriented community – everyone wants to help each other.

Community Strengths
• Strong faith community with several churches that are well attended. • There is a sense of community.
• There is a focus on service.
• The community is diverse – Spanish speakers, Indigenous communities, Transcontinental communities.
• It’s a small community with a lot of traditions – Oildorado Days, Father/Daughter Dance, West Kern Oil Museum, Car Shows, seasonal parades, etc.
• There are good restaurants.
• People are kind and easy to approach; this is the friendliest town.

Community Weaknesses
• There seems to be a lack of urgency to get things done [like housing investments and development], especially for people who don’t have a voice in the community. When you look at Taft compared to similar sized cities in the County, there should be more affordable housing options. It feels like we are stuck. It just takes the right person with power, authority, and agency to make it happen like a County Supervisor.
• We need to hold the City Council’s feet to the fire more when it comes to development and what the community wants to see. How can the community at large get their voices out? Maybe it’s a town hall meeting.
• There is a lack of amenities and resources, like grocery stores. There’s only Albertsons and it’s expensive. Without the amenities and resources needed, residents must waste gas to drive to Bakersfield to get things they need to be able to provide for themselves and their families. The town is big enough to have amenities and resources, especially with all the empty storefronts. • There is dilapidated housing all over Taft.
• Taft is an old oil, historic town that needs a lot of upgrades, new housing, new apartments, and more things to do.
• Faith in the Valley conducted a community survey and received 200 responses. Faith in the Valley estimates that most respondents are Hispanic/Indigenous. Surveys were taken in person at two (2) events held in the community in coordination with the Mexican Consulate. One (1) event was held at Taft College and the other was held in Ford City. The purpose of the event was to discuss parks and recreation, but the survey indicated several housing issues. Eighty percent (80%) of respondents shared they are paying more than 30 percent of their salary on housing. More than 80 percent of respondents have experienced an increase in rent over the last two (2) years. Sixty-seven percent (67%) of respondents had to sacrifice food and health needs [to afford rent]. Forty percent (40%) of respondents are in danger of losing their home. Ninety percent (90%) of respondents want to be part of finding a solution to the housing crisis.

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• There’s a large population of Hispanic/Indigenous residents in the Taft area. Many Hispanic/ Indigenous residents lack legal status or are part of a mixed-status family or household. Many of these residents also have limited English proficiency. In its organizing and resource work, Faith in the Valley has heard from these residents about issues with tenant rights. Many residents are experiencing notices of eviction and others feel they are being taken advantage of by landlords because they don’t speak English, lack legal status, and/or don’t know their rights as tenants. In these instances, it can be challenging to find legal representation. The opportunity is to work with community-based and faith-based organizations within the community to help refer and connect residents to resources and provide a conduit to finding solutions to these issues. • Apartment complexes are deteriorating, and landlords don’t want to do anything (e.g., change carpets) and not giving permission to the tenant to make necessary improvements to improve their health. Another example: farmworkers don’t want to bring pesticides into the home, they want to keep clothing and shoes outside, but they are not allowed [by the landlord] to leave anything outside of the apartment.
• There is a lack of services in Taft and a lack of transportation access to get to other areas where services are. For example, there’s a high percentage of death among Latinos because they don’t get the health attention or information [or have easy access to resources] soon enough. They have to prioritize work to pay for housing, and as a result, they neglect their health. The Department of Public Health is working to bring more resources to the area. • There is a lot of homelessness, but not in the form of unhoused. There has been an increase in migration and there are a lot of families that have to live together under one roof which leads to overcrowding and substandard housing conditions.
• Lacks programs like Legal Aid Services, Tenant Rights and Protection, Rental Assistance Programs that help keep families in their homes and figure out how to improve their situations.

Community Opportunities
• We need more grocery stores.
• We need more housing opportunities.
• Taft has a lot to offer. It is very family and community-oriented with a small-town feel. • We need more affordable resources in Taft.
• There are so many people that drive from Bakersfield toward Taft for work (e.g., oil workers, educators, etc.). They would probably live in Taft if there was more housing and more resources and retail opportunities. There are also a lot of people who drive from Taft to Bakersfield for work, so we need more jobs and retail opportunities.
• We need more stores and more things to do. There are a lot of college kids with nothing to do who have to go to Bakersfield. There’s potential for Center Street and the Fox Theater. • We need more housing, apartments, and affordable housing for small families. • Farmworker housing and affordable housing.

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• Incentivize nonprofit developers to build. Can be a fiscal incentive, reduction in permit fees or costs to attract affordable builders to communities where you can pool resources and impact entire neighborhoods, work in centralized area. Revitalize entire neighborhoods; focus on multiple lots in the same neighborhood. Provide community home repair. Take a more holistic approach. • Assist with funding, cost reductions, overhead incentives. For example, City of Bakersfield has $800,000 toward purchasing infill lots.
• The City should do their best to have a short list of available properties and be honest if there are issues with the property – foundation, proximity of wall to adjacent property, etc., so they know what they’re getting into. Do the due diligence up front to fast track the process. Provide excel sheet and APN maps.
• Update zoning. Provide flexibility in terms of lot sizes and product types. For example, allow zero lot lines, cottage homes, ways of getting the unit cost down to new development. Smaller lot, higher density development is getting good activity in Bakersfield Metro. Examples are Froelich Homes offering a range of product types in a 40-80-acre subdivision, mixing in small lots, 6,000- 8,000 square foot lots, and apartments (River Lakes Ranch). • Host a Taft Open House for developers and invite them – get them here physically to see what the town offers, lunch, door prizes, caravan, sell the town.

Community Threats
• The County as a whole forgets about communities that aren’t Bakersfield. More emphasis on rural communities is needed.
• The State or County not wanting to fund economic development is challenging. These communities deserve amenities and fun things to do for their residents. • Some of the long-time residents have a certain thought process for how Taft should be and aren’t particularly open to change.
• Taft exists because of oil but the State is challenging the future of the oil industry by not allowing oil drilling or issuing permits for abandoning old wells. There are layoffs and acquisitions and many of the major companies aren’t going to exist in 3-4 months. It’s difficult when a lot of people in Taft are oil workers and that’s all they know. They don’t have a secondary education. Many of the oil workers are 40-50 years old without degrees and won’t be able to make the same amount of money they make in the oil industry. • Homelessness and destruction of property and storefronts. • There’s a labor shortage.
• There are high interest rates.
• There’s an insurance crisis.
• Apartments can barely pencil out given regulatory constraints. Over 40% of all households in Bakersfield are renters, suggesting a good demand for more apartment construction. • Building supplies are expensive.
• Infrastructure is expensive.

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• Fish and Game paperwork is challenging.
• Lack of awareness of Taft from the developer community. • Most national building companies left Bakersfield Metro after the Recession. There are more homegrown developers that build 30-150 units a year.
• Lack of restaurants.

Community Priorities over the next 5-10 years
• Focus on energy and investment and find people who can dedicate time and energy to build more housing. “I do think it’s the responsibility of those in power to create conditions such that residents feel empowered and that their voice actually matters because folks may not know how to navigate those systems.”
• Build more neighborhood-like housing than traditional affordable housing (e.g., apartments). • Beautify downtown.
• Help transition the homeless to affordable housing, drug and alcohol counseling, and rehabilitation. Understand why this is happening and how they can be helped. • Advertise the community (e.g., big events, car shows, etc.). • Language Access.
• Community Engagement.
• Tenant Protection (Eviction Prevention, Right to Counsel). • Tenant/Landlord Education.
• Housing Development.
• Homelessness.
• Community Land Trust.
• Opportunities for homeownership.

Community Engagement
• Other City and County players (e.g., City Council members, Board of Supervisors, City/County Staff, Superintendents, Chamber of Commerce) need to be visible and more collaborative with community-based organizations (i.e., “work shoulder to shoulder”). • The County needs to be a lot more involved (“93268 is 93268”); they haven’t been involved. Need active participation from County.
• Use social media.
• Create flyers in English and Spanish.
• Translate websites to Spanish.
• Have more cultural events that would attract Spanish speaking families. There is a huge Oaxacan population in Taft.
• Post flyers in the grocery stores.
• Be present. Knowing your face helps people understand that there is some buy-in on the part of the organizations that care about what goes on in the City.

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Housing Element Incorporation
Feedback and comments received from stakeholder engagement have been incorporated into the Housing Element. Specifically, feedback and comments related to community character, community strengths, community threats, and weaknesses have informed local data and knowledge within the Housing Needs Assessment, Sites Inventory and Resource Assessment, and Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing.

Feedback and comments related to community priorities have also informed programs such as homelessness, housing development, opportunities for homeownership, and fair housing. Feedback and comments related to community engagement informed the City’s outreach and engagement efforts.

4.2.5 Community Workshops
Workshops Held Prior to Public Review Draft #1
Two (2) community workshops were held during the update process to engage and inform the community.

Workshop #1 – Introduction to the Housing Element was held on March 14, 2024, and Workshop #2 – Housing Element Implementation was held on March 21, 2024. Both workshops were held from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm at the Taft Transit Center centrally located in Downtown Taft.

The presentation materials were provided in English and Spanish. The presentation was provided in English, with Spanish translation services available. Presentation materials are provided in APPENDIX B: Community Workshop. Presentations were posted to the Housing Element update webpage following the conclusion of the workshops. Six (6) community members participated in Workshop #1 and 15 community members participated in Workshop #2. Key takeaways are summarized below.

The City promoted workshop participation through the Housing Element webpage, social media postings (Facebook), newspaper publication (Taft Midway Driller), the Chamber of Commerce e-weekly news bulletin, community postings, public meetings, stakeholder meetings, at community workshops, and through community-based organizations. All postings were provided in English and Spanish.

Key Takeaways
Community Strengths
• Affordable senior housing, but more is needed.
• New development near A Street Park.
• Relatively affordable compared to other cities.
• Some emergency housing is available (e.g., Alpha House).

Community Weaknesses
• Rents are high, though comparatively low compared to the last two years. • Not a lot of available land.
• Purchase prices are increasing.
• Unhoused population is increasing.

Community Priorities over next 5-10 years

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• Housing for seniors.
• Farmworker housing.
• Shelters and housing for the unhoused.
• Housing and accommodation for people with disabilities.

Community Engagement
• Social Media
Housing Element Incorporation
Feedback and comments received during the community workshops have been incorporated into the Housing Element. Specifically, feedback and comments related to community strengths and weaknesses have informed local data and knowledge within the Housing Needs Assessment, Sites Inventory and Resource Assessment, and Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing. Feedback and comments related to community priorities have also informed the formation of programs addressing senior housing, farmworker housing, shelters and housing for the unhoused, and housing and accommodation for people with disabilities.

Workshops Held Prior to Public Review Draft #2
A third community workshop was held during the update process to share the status and progress with the community and receive additional feedback on the programs prior to releasing Public Review Draft #2.

Workshop #3 – Housing Element Update was held on December 12, 2024, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm at the Taft Transit Center centrally located in Downtown Taft.

The presentation materials were provided in English and Spanish. The presentation was provided in English, with Spanish translation services available. Presentation materials are provided in APPENDIX B: Community Workshop. Presentations were posted to the Housing Element update webpage following the conclusion of the workshops. Approximately 20 community members participated in the workshop.

The workshop primarily addressed questions from the community. Questions are summarized below.

The City promoted workshop participation through the Housing Element webpage, social media postings, and through community-based organizations. All postings were provided in English and Spanish.

Q&A Summary
• Preservation of affordable units
• Integration of sites by income level
• Formation of an Ad Hoc committee to address homelessness • Receiving testimony from the unhoused community
• Formation of a Housing Element Advisory Committee
Housing Element Incorporation
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knowledge, programs, and resources pertaining to the unhoused community, and the City’s process for forming committees. The City added Program 5.q. Public Participation to set commitments to public participation in the implementation of the Housing Element to ensure a transparent and inclusive process.

4.2.6 Other Outreach and Engagement Efforts
The City presented information on the Housing Element Update process to a class of high school seniors in the Taft Oil Technology Academy at Taft Union High School on March 14, 2024. The presentation included an introductory video to housing elements followed by a group activity and discussion about housing issues and opportunities in the city. Takeaways are summarized below.

Key Takeaways
Community Strengths
• Good schools.
• Homey.
• Community.
• Everyone knows each other.
• Carnival.
• Lot of room to build things.
• Grass areas next to Fox Theater.
• Community events.
• Relatively cheaper than other areas.
• Condensed.
• Location.

Community Weaknesses
• More things to do.
• No where to buy clothes, soap, basic goods.
• Limited food options.
• Lacks community spaces.
• Lacks walkable places.
• Lacks lively downtown.
• Need more green space near bike path.
• Expensive.
• Costly.
• Limited options.
• Lengthy Process to build.
• South Taft and Ford City – run down.
• Not a lot of apartments.
• No houses to rent.

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• No housing for young people.
• Have to live with parents.
• Lack of options.
• Apartments run down.

Community Opportunities
• Need nicer, newer apartments.
• Need apartments above buildings – downtown.
• Homeless Shelter (Mission in Bakersfield)
• Temporary, supportive housing.
• College kids.

Housing Element Incorporation
Feedback and comments received from students have been incorporated into the Housing Element.

Specifically, feedback and comments related to community strengths and weaknesses have informed local data and knowledge within the Housing Needs Assessment, Sites Inventory and Resource Assessment, and Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing. Feedback and comments related to community opportunities have also informed the formation of programs addressing multi-family housing (including housing downtown and near Taft College), and shelters and housing for the unhoused.

4.2.7 Public Comment
Public Review Draft #1
The City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element Update was published and distributed for a 30-Day Public Review Period from June 12, 2024, to July 12, 2024, pursuant to Assembly Bill 215. The City received one (1) public comment letter, which was submitted by Faith in the Valley and is provided in Appendix C. The two focus areas of the commenter letter are 1) meaningful public engagement and 2) programs. The comment letter requests meaningful public engagement through qualified professional interpretation services for community workshops and a comprehensive or condensed version of a translated document to be made available for Spanish-speaking residents. The comment letter also recommends that the City include a program to establish a Housing Element Advisory Committee.

The City explored options for local translators and interpreters to assist with additional public outreach, including translation of key portions of the Housing Element as well as public meetings and hearings, and has since entered a contract with an interpreter who will assist with public outreach and translation of key portions of the Housing Element. The City has also added Program 5.r. Public Participation to set commitments to public participation in the implementation of the Housing Element to ensure a transparent and inclusive process.

Public Review Draft #2
The City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element Update – Public Review Draft #2 was published and distributed for a 7-Day Public Review Period from February 13, 2025, to February 21, 2025. The City received one

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(1) public comment letter, which was submitted by Faith in the Valley and is provided in Appendix C.

The focus areas of the comment letter are 1) creation of a Homeless and Vagrancy Issues Ad Hoc Committee and 2) creation of a Housing/Element Advisory Committee to help guide communityintegrated vision. The letter also requests to add these committees to Program 5.r Public Participation.

The City responded with 1) more history on the City’s prior Homeless and Vagrancy Issues Ad Hoc Committee, 2) a recommendation to amend Program 5.r to commit to holding biannual public meetings to report out and take input on the state of housing in Taft including homelessness, and 3) the process for submitting a request to City Council to form a committee. Program 5.r has been amended to commit the City to holding biannual public meetings.

Public Review Draft #3
The City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element Update – Public Review Draft #3 was published and distributed for a 7-Day Public Review Period from May 1, 2025, to May 8, 2025. The City received two (2) public comment letters, which were submitted by the NEEDS Center and are provided in Appendix C. The comment letters focus on the homeless population and demographics, lack of adequate services, funding disparity, call for comprehensive solutions, controversial proposed solutions, direct observation of unsheltered homelessness, and housing as a starting point for stability. These comments have been included in Chapter 8-AFFIRMATIVELY FURTHERING FAIR HOUSING as Local Data and Knowledge in Section 8.3.5. Disproportionate Housing Needs.

Public Review Draft #4
The City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element Update – Public Review Draft #4 was published and distributed for a 7-Day Public Review Period from June 12, 2025, to June 18, 2025. No comments were received.

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5 HOUSING NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Government Code Section 65583(a) requires that Housing Elements presents “an assessment of housing needs and an inventory of resources and constraints relevant to the meeting of these needs.” The Government Code specifically requires local governments to analyze the population and employment trends to adequately estimate existing and projected housing needs to develop policies and programs for housing at various income levels, including their share of the regional housing needs allocation (RHNA).

The following housing needs assessment provides a quantitative and descriptive analysis of a variety of factors that contribute to existing and future housing needs in Taft, including population, employment, household characteristics, housing stock characteristics, special needs housing, and future housing needs.

Three main data sources are used in this Section, as listed below.

1. U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS): The U.S. Census Bureau releases ACS data every year in the form of 1-year estimates and 5-year estimates. The ACS data is estimated using questionnaires provided to participants that are randomly selected. ACS provides the most up to date data with its latest release of the 2022 estimates.

2. U.S. Census Bureau Decennial Census: The decennial census is conducted every ten (10) years to provide an official count of the entire U.S. population. The latest release of the decennial census is the 2020 decennial census data. This provides an exact calculation of the current population and household characteristics.

3. HUD Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy: The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) receives custom tabulations of Census data each year to evaluate housing needs for lower income households. The data is referred to as Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data and includes documentation of the current number of households in each income category for Taft. While the latest CHAS data is based on the 2016- 2020 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates, the City finds that there is a data entry error for this year, resulting in approximately 1,000 more residential units. As such, the 2023-2031 Housing Element utilizes the CHAS data set based on 2014-2018 ACS statistics.

5.1 Regional Housing – An Overview of Taft’s Housing Market The Taft housing market is part of the Kern County "market region" and more specifically, the metropolitan Bakersfield housing market. Housing is available within the incorporated city limits as well as the adjacent unincorporated communities of South Taft, Taft Heights, and Ford City.

Between 2015 and 2023, housing development and valuation held a steady increase year over year after they had taken a significant decline during the economic recession of 2008 to 2013. In 2010, the median valuation for an existing home was $203,300, which was reduced to $158,900 in 2013. The median housing value increased to $182,700 per the 2016-2020 American Community Survey by the U.S. Census.

This represents a decrease in valuation of 21.8% in 2013, but an increase of 14.9% in 2020. During the same time period, the Kern County housing value increased 40.1% from $161,700 to $226,600, with the overall California home value increased 31.9% from $366,400 to $538,500. At $182,700, the increasing

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median housing valuation in Taft is keeping pace with that of the region as a whole but remains approximately 80% of the county and greater Bakersfield. Although housing in Taft is more affordable compared to the rest of the state, the recent increase in market prices is making purchase of homes more difficult for low to moderate income households.

5.2 Demographic Characteristics

5.2.1 Population Growth Trends
Table 5-1 shows population growth from 1990 to 2020 according to the U.S. Decennial Census. Between 1990 and 2000 the population of Taft grew by 49.3% from 5,902 to 8,811. This boom in population is predominately due to the opening of Taft Community Correctional Facility (CCF) in the early 1990s and the operation of the Taft Federal Correctional Institution (TCI) in 1997. CCF has a capacity of approximately 600 prisoners and TCI has a capacity of 2500 prisoners. By 2010, the population grew by

5.9% to reach 9,327 persons. In 2020, the City of Taft had a 8.4% reduction in population to 8,546 persons as the TCI and Modified CCF (MCCF) reduced their populations and the TCI closed by April 2020.

The surrounding unincorporated area accounted for an increase in population of 1.7% for the same period, an increase from 8,396 to 8,538 persons. The total for the Greater Taft area (inclusive of the City, Ford City, Taft Heights, and South Taft) per the 2020 Census is 17,727 persons, accounting for a net increase of four (4) persons or 0.02%.

Overall, compared to Kern County, there is little growth in population within Taft and the Greater Taft area. Figure 5-1 shows the population growth trend of Taft from 2010 to 2020. According to the linear trend line (dotted line in the figure), the population of Taft is slowly declining. However, it is important to consider the effect of the population of TCI and MCCF since they house a lot of temporary population.

The decline in population in 2011 can be partially due to the closing of CCF, which was opened again as the Modified CCF in 2014 with a higher security level. As mentioned above, TCI’s closing in April 2020 and MCCF’s closing in 2021 also affected the city’s population. As of 2023, MCCF has started to house inmates again. In conclusion, Taft has a steady population with little decline.

Table 5-1 Population Growth, Kern County, Taft, South Taft, Taft Heights, Ford City CDP 1990-2020 Year
Kern County Taft City South Taft
CDP
Taft
Heights
CDP
Ford City
Count Growth CDP
Rate
Count Growth
Rate
1990 544,981 - 5,902 - 2,170 2,050 3,781
2000 661,645 21.4% 8,811 49.3% 1,898 1,865 3,512
2010 839,631 26.9% 9,327 5.9% 2,169 1,949 4,278
2020 909,235 8.3% 8,546 -8.4% 2,100 1,999 4,348
Source: U.S. Decennial Census, 1990, 2000, 2010, 2020

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Figure 5-1 Population Growth Trend, Taft, 2010-2022
Source: 2010-2022 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates, Table DP05: ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates
Table 5-2 compares the population density of Taft and neighboring unincorporated communities from 2000 to 2020. Taft has the largest population among the compared communities; however, it is significantly less dense with 608 persons per square mile in 2020. This could be due to Taft having more lands dedicated to land uses other than residential dwellings, while most developed lands within the neighboring unincorporated communities are residential uses.

In terms of density, the City accounts for only 608 persons per square mile (down from 617 per square mile in 2010) compared to an average of 3,091 persons per square mile in the community surrounding the City. The reduction in density is due to the annexation of approximately 10-square miles of mostly vacant oil fields in conjunction with the construction of a federal prison facility in the 1990s.

Table 5-2 Persons per Square Mile, Taft, South Taft, Taft Heights, Ford City, 2000-2020 Location
Area
(Sq.

Mile)
Population Total Housing Units Persons Per Sq. Mile
2000 2010 2020 2000 2010 2020 2000 2010 2020
Taft City 15.11 6,400 9,327 9,189 2,494 2,525 2,596 427 617 608 South Taft 1.37 1,898 2,169 2,120 724 733 685 1,385 1,583 1,547 Taft
Heights 0.58 1,865 1,949 1,509 769 776 773 3,216 3,360 2,601 Ford City 1.52 3,512 4,278 4,909 1,444 1,426 1,410 2,310 2,814 3,229 Total 18.58 13,675 17,723 17,727 5,431 5,460 5,464 740.39 953.88 954.09 Source: U.S. Census 2000, 2010, and 2020

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5.2.2 Age Composition
Table 5-3 shows the breakdown of Taft’s population by age in 2000, 2010, and 2020. In the past decade (2010 to 2020), there has been a decrease in the number of children and youth (ages under 15), a decrease in the working force population (ages 15 to 64), and an increase of the senior population (ages 65 and over). The percentage of seniors rose from 10.0% in 2000, to 11.3% in 2020. The median age per the 2020 Decennial Census is 35.2 years, which slightly increased from 34.9 years during the 2010 Decennial Census and 33.1 in 2000. This increase in the senior population, decrease in the youth population, compounded with the rising median age, indicates that Taft is an aging city.

Table 5-3 Population by Age, Taft, 2000-2020
Age Group 2000 2010* 2020
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Under 5 Years 460 5.8% 538 5.8% 430 5.0%
5 to 9 Years 488 6.2% 1,306
(5 to 17 years) 14.0%
547 6.4%
10 to 14 Years 391 4.9% 579 6.8%
15 to 19 Years 543 6.9% 457 4.9% 595 7.0%
20 to 24 Years 792 10.0% 584 6.3% 676 7.9%
25 to 34 Years 1,655 20.9% 1,799 19.3% 1,419 16.6%
35 to 44 Years 1,207 15.3% 1,722 18.5% 1,329 15.6%
45 to 54 Years 964 12.2% 1,302 14.0% 1,095 12.8%
55 to 59 Years 380 4.8% 456 4.9% 496 5.8%
60 to 64 Years 219 2.8% 378 4.1% 420 4.9%
65 to 74 Years 425 5.4% 464 5.0% 583 6.8%
75 to 84 Years 302 3.8% 230 2.5% 291 3.4%
85 Years and Over 79 1.0% 91 1.0% 87 1.0%
Total Population 7,905 100.0% 9,327 100.0% 8,546 100.0% Median Age 33.1 - 34.9 - 35.2 -
Source: Summary Population and Housing Characteristics: 2000, 2010; 2020 Decennial Census DEC DP1 Table 5-4 compares the breakdown of population by age between Taft, Kern County, and California in 2020. Taft has an overall older population compared with Kern County, but a slightly younger population compared to California. However, the age dependency ratio of Taft is high at 77.7, meaning that there are

77.7 dependents per 100 working-age population (ages 15 to 64). This is substantially higher than Kern County and California. A higher age dependency ratio indicates a greater burden on working people, which can cause higher stress on the government and workforce. Policy-wise, a high age dependency ratio could benefit from the provision of social services to households with children and the senior population.

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Table 5-4 Population by Age Group, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 Age Group
Taft city Kern County California
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Under 5 Years 711 7.7% 69,067 7.7% 2,409,082 6.1%
5 to 17 Years 1,524 5.4% 71,516 8.0% 2,431,647 6.2%
18 to 24 Years 972 7.9% 75,827 8.5% 2,597,443 6.6%
25 to 34 Years 1,282 3.4% 41,749 4.7% 1,518,469 3.9%
35 to 44 Years 1,432 3.3% 24,626 2.8% 1,029,603 2.6%
45 to 54 Years 750 2.9% 12,541 1.4% 545,047 1.4%
55 to 64 Years 734 2.2% 12,577 1.4% 540,872 1.4%
65 to 74 Years 1,051 2.1% 40,718 4.6% 1,608,717 4.1%
75 to 84 Years 576 7.2% 72,896 8.2% 3,084,036 7.9%
85 Years and Over 157 6.7% 66,196 7.4% 2,923,877 7.4%
Total Population 9,189 - 892,458 - 39,346,023 -
Median Age 35.8 - 31.9 - 36.7 -
Age Dependency
Ratio*

77.7 - 66.4 - 59.0 -
Source: American Community Survey 5-year Estimates, Table B01001 and S0101, 2016-2020 *Age dependency ratio is the ratio of dependents--people younger than 15 or older than 64--to the workingage population--those ages 15-64. Data are shown as the proportion of dependents per 100 working-age population.

5.2.3 Race and Ethnicity
Taft has become more diverse in the past four (4) decades. Table 5-5 shows the racial composition of Taft from 1990 to 2020. The percentage of White population decreased from 91.9% in 1990, 83.2% in 2000,

79.2% in 2010, to 62.3% in 2020. While the White population is still dominant in Taft, it is expected to compose less than half of the population in the future as the trend continues. Between 1990 and 2020, growth is seen in all most races, including the highest increase in percentage being Some Other Race (17.6% increase) and Two or More Races (10.0% increase). In addition, the Hispanic or Latino population increased from 7.3% in 1990,15.5% in 2000, 35.9% in 2010, to 43.6% in 2020, and is much lower than that for Kern County as a whole at 54.9%.

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Table 5-5 Racial Composition, Taft, 1990-2020
Racial Category
1990 2000 2010 2020
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent White 5,422 91.9% 5,322 83.2% 7,388 79.2% 5,325 62.3%
Black Or African American 62 1.1% 126 2.0% 396 4.2% 145 1.7% American Indian and Alaska
Native 91 1.5% 54 0.8% 118 1.3% 236 2.8%
Asian 92 1.6% 81 1.3% 93 1.0% 145 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and Other
Pacific Islander
28 0.5% 28 0.4% 65 0.7% 38 0.4%
Some Other Race 207 3.5% 665 10.4% 1,023 11.0% 1,802 21.1% Two Or More Races - 0.0% 124 1.9% 244 2.6% 855 10.0%
Total 5,902 100.0% 6,400 100.0% 9,327 100.0% 8,546 100.0% Hispanic or Latino * 433 7.3% 995 15.5% 3,353 35.9% 3,724 43.6% Source: 1990 Census of Population; Summary Population and Housing Characteristics: 2000, 2010; 2020 Decennial Census: P1, P2
* The Census Bureau defines Hispanic/Latino ethnicity separate from racial categories.

Table 5-6 compares the racial composition between Taft, Kern County, and California in 2020. Compared to Kern County and California, Taft has a substantially higher percentage of White population and a lower percentage of Black or African American and Asian populations. The Hispanic or Latino population is lower than Kern County, but higher than California.

Table 5-6 Population by Race, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 Racial Category
Taft city Kern County California
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
White 5,325 62.3% 371,734 40.9% 16,296,122 41.2%
Black Or African American 145 1.7% 50,130 5.5% 2,237,044 5.7% American Indian and Alaska Native 236 2.8% 18,163 2.0% 631,016 1.6% Asian 145 1.7% 46,777 5.1% 6,085,947 15.4%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 38 0.4% 1,508 0.2% 157,263 0.4% Some Other Race 1,802 21.1% 274,153 30.2% 8,370,596 21.2% Two Or More Races 855 10.0% 146,770 16.1% 5,760,235 14.6% Total 8,546 100.0% 909,235 100.0% 39,538,223 100.0%
Hispanic or Latino 3,724 43.6% 499,158 54.9% 15,579,652 39.4% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 16-20 (5-year Estimates), Table B02001 In summary, while Taft is becoming more diverse, Taft is still predominately White with a larger percentage of White residents compared to the region.

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5.3 Employment Characteristics
Employment trends and characteristics play a significant role in housing needs and demand. The quality and availability of employment can determine the supply of available housing, market rates for housing, and the ability to afford adequate housing. Understanding the balance between housing and employment provides insights into future population trends and helps assess housing needs.

5.3.1 Employment Trends
The City's economy is dependent on the oil industry. This subjects the City to boom and bust cycles associated with the oil industry and national economy. The economic instability represented by this situation seems to limit investment in housing, both in terms of maintenance and new construction. An important stabilizing effect can be brought to the local housing market as the City works to diversify workplace opportunities.

Table 5-7 shows the current employment status for the labor force of Taft and Kern County. Taft’s labor force rate (the percentage of the population that is working or actively looking for work) is 47.4% of the city's population of 16 years and over, with a 2.3% unemployment rate. While Taft’s labor force of 47.4% is substantially smaller than Kern County (58.5%) and California (63.8%), Taft’s employment rate of

4.8% is lower than Kern County (8.3%) and California (6.4%). According to economists, an unemployment rate below 5% indicates that the economy is very close or at full capacity. This low level of unemployment prevents inflation and lets workers move in between jobs, providing a healthy economic environment.

Table 5-7 Employment Status, Taft, Kern County, California, 2022 Employment Status
Taft Kern County California
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Population 16 years and over 5,879 100.0% 674,370 100.0% 31,601,862 100.0% Labor Force 2,787 47.4% 394,325 58.5% 20,168,662 63.8%
Employed 2,652 45.1% 358,961 53.2% 18,729,798 59.3%
Unemployed 135 2.3% 32,872 4.9% 1,282,055 4.1%
Unemployment - 4.8% - 8.3% - 6.4%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics Table 5-8 shows the current place of work for employed residents of Taft. Almost all (95.2%) of workers residing in Taft work within Kern County and 57.1% of workers residing in Taft work within the city limits.

Table 5-8 Place of Work, Taft, 2022
Place of Work Count Percent
Worked in county of residence 2,477 95.2%
Worked outside county of residence 124 4.8%
Worked in place of residence 1,485 57.1%
Worked outside place of residence 1,116 42.9%
Total workers 16 years and over (based on labor force) 2,601 100.0% Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S0801: Commuting Characteristics by Sex

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Table 5-9 shows the current travel time to work for employed residents of Taft. The mean travel time to work is 21.0 minutes, with a majority (62.9%) of employed residents commuting less than 20 minutes to work. The commute time aligns closely to the proportion of employed residents working within city limits (57.1%), Since workers do not need to travel too far for work. This is a good indicator that Taft provides adequate employment opportunities for its residents.

Table 5-9 Travel Time to Work, Taft, 2022
Travel Time to Work Count Percent
Less than 10 minutes 840 32.3%
10 to 19 minutes 797 30.6%
20 to 29 minutes 98 3.8%
30 to 39 minutes 247 9.5%
40 to 59 minutes 364 14.0%
60 or more minutes 116 4.5%
Workers working from home 139 5.3%
Total workers 16 years and over 2,601 100.0%
Mean travel time to work (minutes) 21.0 -
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B08303 Travel Time to Work Figure 5-2 shows the employment trend from 2010 to 2022 in Taft. Taft’s labor force and employment population decreased slightly from 2013 to 2015, which could be due to the decrease in the overall population in the city. Similarly, the labor force and employment population decreased in 2020 and 2021, as the population slowly decreased in Taft. On the contrary, the labor force grew in 2022 even though there was a 15.1% decline in Taft’s population between 2021 and 2022.

Regarding unemployment, Taft is slightly under the 5% unemployment rate in 2017, 2019, and 2022.

Taft’s unemployment rate has dropped from around 9% during the 2010s to be around 5% to 6% between 2016 to 2022. A slight increase in unemployment can be seen during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020- 2021) but unemployment remains low overall.

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Figure 5-2 Employment Trends, Taft, 2010-2022
Source: 2010-2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics
The large number of people receiving unemployment benefits, welfare assistance, and social security income in the Taft area signifies the need for affordable housing for these people. Table 5-10 shows the number of families by supplemental security income (SSI) and/or cash public assistance. A total of 7.6% of families in Taft received SSI and/or cash public assistance in 2022, compared to 10.9% in Kern County.

There were 13.7% of families living below poverty level and 6.6% of families at or above poverty level received assistance.

Table 5-10 Families by Supplemental Security Income and Cash Public Assistance, Taft, 2022 Below
Poverty Level
At or Above
Poverty Level
Total Percent
With SSI and/or Cash Public Assistance 35 95 130 7.6%
Without SSI and/or Cash Public Assistance 221 1,351 1,572 92.4% Total Families 256 1,446 1,702 100.0%
Source: 2022 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table B17015

5.3.2 Employment by Industry
Table 5-11 shows the number of workers in each employment industry in Taft and Kern County. The industry with the largest percentage of employed Taft residents is Educational Services and Health Care and Social Assistance (30.4%). According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Educational Services sector comprises schools, colleges, and educational support services; the Health Care sector includes ambulatory health care, hospitals, nursing, and residential care facilities; and, the Social Assistance sector consists of individual and family services, community food and housing, vocational rehabilitation services, and child day care services. As of April 2024, the BLS estimates the average

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earnings of employees in the Educational services, Health Care, and Social Assistance sector to be $33.88/hour, which is significantly greater than California’s current $16.00/hour minimum wage.

The industry with the second largest percentage of employed Taft residents is Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, and Mining (14.7%). According to the BLS, the Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting sector comprises establishments primarily engaged in growing crops, raising animals, harvesting timber, and harvesting fish and other animals from a farm, ranch, or their natural habitats and are often described as farms, ranches, dairies, greenhouses, nurseries, orchards, or hatcheries. The Mining sector comprises establishments that extract naturally occurring mineral solids, such as coal and ores; liquid minerals, such as crude petroleum; and gases, such as natural gas. This reflects Taft being the major petroleum and natural gas projection region in California. Taft is also one of the few towns in the country that existed because of oil reserves and operates around oil and gas production.

Kern County has a similar breakdown between industry sectors as Taft, with Educational Services and Health Care and Social Assistance being the largest sector (21.9%) and sec Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, Hunting, and Mining being second largest (14.2%).

Table 5-11 Employment by Industry, Taft, Kern County, 2022 Employment Industry
Taft city Kern County
Count Percent Count Percent
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining 390 14.7% 50,824 14.2% Construction 270 10.2% 26,297 7.3%
Manufacturing 64 2.4% 19,559 5.4%
Wholesale trade - 0.0% 8,204 2.3%
Retail trade 104 3.9% 37,880 10.6%
Transportation and warehousing, and utilities 64 2.4% 23,798 6.6% Information 142 5.4% 3,299 0.9%
Finance and insurance, and real estate and rental and leasing 116 4.4% 12,416 3.5% Professional, scientific, and management, and administrative and waste management services
244 9.2% 29,689 8.3%
Educational services, and health care and social assistance 805 30.4% 78,447 21.9% Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and accommodation and food services 106 4.0% 29,312 8.2%
Other services, except public administration 105 4.0% 16,121 4.5% Public administration 242 9.1% 23,115 6.4%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics

5.3.3 Major Regional Employers
Table 5-12 lists the major employers in Kern County in 2024. Of the major employers in the region, none are located within Taft. The major employers reflect the industries with the largest percentages of employed residents in Kern County, with several employers in the Educational Services and Health Care and Social Assistance (e.g., Adventist Health, Community Action Partnership, Dignity Health Mercy Downtown, Memorial Hospital, Ridgecrest Regional Hospital, etc.) and Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing,

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Hunting, and Mining (e.g., Marko Zaninovich Inc., Nabors Completion-Production, Paramount Farms Huller 4, Sun Pacific, etc.).

Table 5-12 Major Employers in Kern County, 2024
Employer Name Location Industry Employer Size
Adventist Health Bakersfield Bakersfield Hospitals 1,000-4,999 Bolthouse Farms Bakersfield Agricultural Consultants 1,000-4,999 California Correctional Instn Tehachapi State Govt-Correctional Institutions 1,000-4,999 Chevron Corp Bakersfield Management Services 1,000-4,999 Community Action Partnership Bakersfield Community Centers 500-999 Dignity Health Mercy Downtown Bakersfield Hospitals 1,000-4,999 Edwards Air Force Base Edwards Military Bases 10,000+
Ensign United States Drilling Bakersfield Energy Management Systems & Products 500-999 Foster Care Human Svc Bakersfield Foster Care 1,000-4,999 Frito-Lay Inc Bakersfield Potato Chip Factories (mfrs) 500-999 Grimmway Farms Arvin Fruits & Vegetables-Growers & Shippers 1,000-4,999 Kern County Human Svc Dept Bakersfield Government Offices-County 1,000-4,999 Marko Zaninovich Inc McFarland Fruits & Vegetables-Growers & Shippers 1,000-4,999 Memorial Hospital Bakersfield Bakersfield Hospitals 1,000-4,999 Nabors Completion-Production Bakersfield Oil Field Service 1,000-4,999 Nasa/Armstrong Flight Research Edwards Alternative Fuels 1,000-4,999 Naval Air Warfare Ctr Ridgecrest Military Bases 5,000-9,999 Paramount Farms Huller 4 Lost Hills Farms 500-999
Ridgecrest Regional Hospital Ridgecrest Hospitals 500-999 Sierra Sands Unified Sch Dist Ridgecrest School Districts 500-999 Sun Pacific Bakersfield Fruits & Vegetables-Growers & Shippers 500-999 US Naval Air Weapons Station Ridgecrest Federal Government-National Security 500-999 Vasinda Investments Inc Bakersfield Home Health Service 500-999 Wasco State Prison Fire Dept Wasco State Govt-Correctional Institutions 1,000-4,999 Wonderful Citrus LLC Delano Citrus Growers 500-999
Source: California Employment Development Department, Major Employers in Kern County, 2024

5.3.4 Major Local Employers
Table 5-13 lists the top 10 major employers in the City of Taft for fiscal years 2023 and 2014. From 2014 to 2023, there has been a 24% drop in the City’s Total Labor Force and a 27% drop in the number of people employed by a Top 10 employer. In 2023, approximately 25% of total employment in Taft was in the Education sector (Taft City School District, Taft College, and Taft Union High School District), compared to approximately 15% in 2014. Most of that increase was from Taft College, which went from 86 employees in 2014 to 225 employees in 2023.

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Table 5-13 Top 10 Employers in City of Taft, 2023, 2014 Business Name
2023 2014
Number of
Employees
Percent of Total
Employment (%)
Number of
Employees
Percent of Total
Employment (%)
General Production Services 400 14.29% 449 12.14%
Taft City School District 312 11.14% 266 7.19%
Taft College 225 8.04% 86 2.32%
Taft Union High School District 163 5.82% 164 4.43%
Total-Western 96 3.43% 210 5.68
Albertsons 81 2.89% 80 2.16%
Oil-Dri-Taft Production Company 75 2.50%
Snow Well Services 70 2.50%
City of Taft 61 2.18% 142 3.84%
Accelerated Environmental Services 51 1.82%
Newberry Technical Services – NTS - - 487 13.16%
Jerry Melton and Sons Construction - - 150 4.05%
K Mart - - 90 2.43%
Total Top 10 Employers 1,534 54.79% 2,124 57.41%
Total City Labor Force (1) 2,800 - 3,700 -
Source: MuniServices an Avenue Insights & Analytics Company (1) Total City Labor Force provided by EDD Labor Force Data

5.4 Household Characteristics
This section summarizes Taft’s household trends and characteristics, excluding the population within group quarters. A household is any group of people living together in a residence related or unrelated. A survey of household characteristics is useful to determine household trends, incomes, overcrowding or under-utilization of housing, and special needs households. The special needs households are those having a unique need with respect to such issues as affordability, location, and unit size.

5.4.1 Number of Households
According to the decennial census, Taft has seen a slow and steady growth in the number of households from 2,283 households in 2000, 2,254 households in 2010, to 2,379 households in 2020.

5.4.2 Size of Households
Household size is a significant factor in housing demand. A larger household size may indicate a need for larger housing units with more bedrooms. It may also indicate a need for more affordable housing units for individuals that choose to live with others due to high housing costs. Generally, smaller numbers indicate more single-person households, while larger numbers indicate larger families living in a household.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average household size increased between 1980 and 1990, and continued to increase to 2.62 by 2000 and increased to 2.83 in 2010. However, household size decreased to 2.41 persons in 2020. Similarly, the 2010 average family size of 3.32 has reduced to 3.17 persons in

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2020. Regionally, Taft’s household size of 2.83 is smaller than Kern County’s household size of 3.15 and California’s household size of 2.94 in 2020.

5.4.3 Persons in Group Quarters
The housed population consists of people living in households and group quarters. A household can include an individual living alone, a single or multi-generational family living together, or a combination of related and unrelated individuals sharing a housing unit. Group quarters are living situations where kitchen and perhaps bath facilities are shared, such as in a residential facility with 6 or more individuals (not related; ex. prison, dormitories, etc.) or boarding house.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-year estimates, the City has a group quarters population of about 848 between the City-operated Modified Community Correctional Facility (MCCF, Max Capacity of 600 inmates) and at the federal prison Taft Correctional Institute (TCI, Max Capacity of 2,500 inmates) in 2020. In 2020, the TCI was closed during the pandemic resulting in a reduction of the group quarters population. Beyond the inmate population, the City also has individuals in other group quarters, of which are in college dormitories at Taft College or other non-institutionalized facilities.

5.4.4 Household Composition
Table 5-14 shows the change in household number and types in Taft from 2000 to 2020. The percentage of family and non-family households has not changed much, with non-family households increasing slightly. The most drastic change in household type is that the proportion of married-couple families has decreased, dropping 7.7% from 2000 to 2020.

Table 5-14 Household Type, Taft, 2020
Household Type
2000 2010 2020
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Family Households 1,632 71.5% 1,586 70.4% 1,687 70.9%
Married-Couple Families 1,259 55.1% 1,119 49.6% 1,127 47.4% Other Family, Male Householder 121 5.3% 178 7.9% 194 8.2% Other Family, Female Householder 252 11.0% 289 12.8% 366 15.4% Non-Family Households 651 28.5% 668 29.6% 692 29.1%
Householder Living Alone 551 24.1% 543 24.1% 522 21.9%
Householder Not Living Alone 100 4.4% 125 5.5% 170 7.1% Total Households 2,283 100.0% 2,254 100.0% 2,379 100.0% Source: U.S. Census Bureau. 2020: DEC Demographic and Housing Characteristics, P16: Household Type; 2010: DEC Summary File 1, P18: Household Type; 2000: DEC Summary File 4 Demographic Profile, DP1:

Profile of General Demographic Characteristics: 2000
Table 5-15 compares the household composition by type between the city, county, and state. In Taft,

47.4% of households are made up of a married couple, and 20.8% of households consist of a married couple with children under the age of 18. These percentages are similar to Kern County and California.

Taft also has similar percentages in all the household types compared to Kern County and California.

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Table 5-15 Household by Type, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 Household by Type Taft city Kern County California
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Married Couple Household 1,127 47.4% 136,963 48.7% 6,464,317 48.0% • Married with own children under 18 495 20.8% 64,484 22.9% 2,704,730 20.1% Cohabiting couple household 248 10.4% 23,336 8.3% 964,488 7.2% • Cohabiting with own children under 18 141 5.9% 12,275 4.4% 330,433 2.5% Male household; no spouse or partner
present 404 17.0% 49,344 17.5% 2,445,413 18.1%
• Living alone 250 10.5% 27,227 9.7% 1,404,025 10.4%
o 65 years and over 105 4.4% 8,657 3.1% 436,193 3.2%
• With own children under 18 44 1.8% 6,582 2.3% 235,591 1.7% Female household; no spouse or partner
present 600 25.2% 71,855 25.5% 3,601,405 26.7%
• Living alone 272 11.4% 27,936 9.9% 1,693,285 12.6%
o Female household; living alone 65
years and over 178 7.5% 14,184 5.0% 841,944 6.2%
• With own children under 18 138 5.8% 20,662 7.3% 650,323 4.8% Total Households 2,379 100.0% 281,498 100.0% 13,475,623 100.0% Households with individuals under 18
years
997 41.9% 120,622 42.9% 4,572,156 33.9%
Households with individuals 65 years or
older 789 33.2% 78,565 27.9% 4,267,068 31.7%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020 Decennial Census, DP1: Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics

5.4.5 Tenure
Tenure measures the rate of homeownership in a jurisdiction. Tenure preferences are primarily related to household income and the age of the householder. Homeownership and leasing or renting rates may identify the level of housing insecurity in a region. Renters have a higher likelihood of displacement with rising housing costs and rent payments. Rising costs may also impact the ability for some homeowners to remain in their homes.

Table 5-16 shows the percentage of housing tenure in Taft from 2000 to 2020. As of 2020, 58.2% of the city’s households are owners. However, there has been a steady decline in the percentage of owneroccupied households in previous decades. Approximately 64.3% of households were owner-occupied in 200, which has declined 6.1% by 2020.

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Table 5-16 Housing Tenure Trend, Taft, 2000-2020
Tenure
2000 2010 2020
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Owner 1,441 64.3% 1,375 61.0% 1,384 58.2%
Renter 800 35.7% 879 39.0% 995 41.8%
Total 2,241 100.0% 2,254 100.0% 2,379 100.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. 2020: DEC Demographic Profile; DP1: Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics; 2010: DEC Summary File 1; H16: Tenure by Household Size; 2000: DEC Summary File 4 Demographic Profile, DP1: Profile of General Demographic Characteristics: 2000.

Of the 1,384 owner-occupied households, 975 are owned with a mortgage or a loan, and 409 are owned free and clear. This indicates that the majority (70.4%) of housing units have not been paid off as of 2020.1 Figure 5-3 compares the percentage of owner and renter occupied households in Taft, Kern County, and California. Taft has a slightly lower (1.0% difference) percentage of owner-occupied household than Kern County but has a higher percentage of owner-occupied household than California (3.7% difference). Home ownership is the largest source of household wealth for many Americans. Through home ownership, people can hedge against inflation and build equity.

Figure 5-3 Housing Tenure, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020

5.4.6 Household Income
The ability of households to pay for their housing is a function of income and the cost of housing. Table 5-17 shows the median household income of Taft, Kern County, and California in 2022. The median household income for Taft is $52,414, which is 21.9% lower than Kern County and 74.7% lower than California. Owner occupied households in Taft have a significantly higher (53.3% higher) median household income compared to renter occupied households. The income disparity between owner and renter occupied households is even more significant in Kern County and California, where owner occupied households earn nearly twice the income of renter occupied households. While Taft’s median home values 1 U.S. Census Bureau. (2020). DEC Demographic and Housing Characteristics, H4: Tenure. https://data.census.gov/table?q=h4&g=160XX00US0677574

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are less expensive compared to Kern County and California, a large percentage of Taft residents were overpaying for housing (more than 30% of household income), particularly low-income renters. Section

5.5 provides analysis on housing prices and overpayment issues in Taft.

Table 5-17 Median Household Income by Tenure, Taft, Kern County, California, 2022 Jurisdiction All Households Owner Occupied Households Renter Occupied Households Taft city $52,414.00 $68,570.00 $44,721.00
Kern County $63,883.00 $85,503.00 $41,689.00
California $91,905.00 $118,739.00 $65,443.00
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25119: Median Household Income in the Past 12 Months (In 2022 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars)
Table 5-18 shows the change in median household income from 2000 to 2022 in Taft, Kern County, and California. In 2000, Taft’s median household income is $33,861, which is below the County median income of $35,446 by 4.7%. By 2010, Taft’s median income was below the Count median income by

1.7%. The difference grew to 16.8% in 2020 and 21.9% by 2022, with Taft’s median household income at $52,414 in 2022. Taft’s median household income rose 36.8% between 2000 and 2010 but remained stagnant between 2010 and 2020, with only a 1.4% increase. This is unusual since it is a lot less growth compared to the County and California. Similarly, there is a 11.6% increase in median household income between 2020 and 2022 in Taft, while Kern County and California has a larger growth of 16.5% and

16.8%, respectively. In summary, Taft residents earn much less compared to the region with an increasing income gap.

Table 5-18 Median Household Income, Taft, Kern County, California, 2000-2022 Jurisdiction 2000 2010
2000-
2010
Change
2020
2010-
2020
Change
2022
2020-
2022
Change
Taft city $33,861.00 $46,324.00 36.8% $46,980.00 1.4% $52,414.00 11.6% Kern County $35,446.00 $47,089.00 32.8% $54,851.00 16.5% $63,883.00 16.5% California $47,493.00 $60,883.00 28.2% $78,672.00 29.2% $91,905.00 16.8% Source: 2000 Decennial Census; 2010, 2020, 2022 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table B25119 Figure 5-4 shows the trend in household income for Taft residents in 2010 and 2022. The largest change between 2010 and 2022 is a 10.0% increase of households in the “more than $150,000” income level group. A 6.1% increase is seen in the “$50,000 to $74,999” income level, and a 1.4% increase in the “less than $5,000” income level. Other income levels saw a decrease in percentage of households. Over the 12- year period, households earning more than $150,000 increased by 339.5%, from 81 households to 356 households. Households earning less than $5,000 saw a 65.2% increase, from 69 households to 114 households. Income levels are further discussed and shown geographically in Section 8.3.5. Overall, these numbers indicate growing disparities between income level groups.

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Figure 5-4 Household Income Trends, Taft, 2010, 2022
Source: 2010, 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25118: Tenure by Household Income in the Past 12 Months
There are five (5) income groups, or “affordability categories,” identified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to determine eligibility for housing programs. These income groups are based on Area Median Income (AMI) for Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA). These ranges include extremely low-income (up to 30% AMI), very low-income (31%-50% AMI), low-income (51%-80% AMI), moderate-income (81%-120% AMI), and above moderate-income (greater than 120% AMI). Taft is within the Kern County MSA, which has a median income of $83,800 as of 2023.2 Table 5-19 shows the income ranges for each affordability category for 2023. This affordability category is used as a basis for evaluating the affordability of the current and future housing stock in Taft. As shown, approximately 40.4% of the households in Taft are within the lower income category. 3 The majority of
households (54.6%) are within the above moderate-income category, and only 5.0% are moderate income.

Households with above moderate income may be due to high single income or households with dual incomes. Similar to the growing disparity between income levels that is addressed above, the gap between income ranges is large, reflecting inequality in income distribution. 2 Department of Housing and Community Development. (2023). 2023 State Income Limits. Accessed March 28, 2024, https://www.hcd.ca.gov/sites/default/files/docs/grants-and-funding/income-limits-2023.pdf 3 The lower income category includes Acutely & Extremely Low Income, Very Low Income, and Low Income groups.

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Table 5-19 Income Range by Affordability Category, Kern County, 2023 Affordability Category % of County AMI Income Range
Household
Count
(2018)
Household
Percent
(2018)
Acutely & Extremely Low Income < 30% < $25,140 365 13.6% Very Low Income 30% - 50% $25,141 - $41,900 420 15.6%
Low Income 50% - 80% $41,901 - $67,040 300 11.2%
Moderate Income 80% - 120% $67,041 - $93,856 135 5.0%
Above Moderate Income > 120% > $93,856 1,465 54.6%
Source: HCD 2023 State Income Limits; 2016-2020; HCD Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) ACS tabulation, 2014-2018 release

5.5 Housing Stock Characteristics
Government Code Section 65583(a)(2) requires an analysis and documentation of housing stock condition. This section includes a description and analysis of current housing stock characteristics in Taft, including housing conditions, age of housing stock, housing costs and affordability, housing costs and trends, housing units in structure, and vacancy rates. This section also analyzes overpayment (i.e., cost burden) and overcrowding issues. By analyzing the housing stock trends, the City can identify specific housing issues and needs to tailor programs for those needs.

5.5.1 Age of Housing Stock
The age of housing stock can serve as an indicator of housing conditions. Newer housing stock is less likely to need major or substantial repairs or updates (e.g., fire sprinklers, mobility modifications, etc.).

Housing structures over 30 years old may display a need for repairs, and housing structures over 50 years may display a need for major repairs, as these structures are considered substantially aged.

Table 5-20 shows the year that Taft’s housing structures were built. A quarter of Taft’s housing stock was built between 1970 through 1979. The least number of homes were built between 1990 and 1999.

Approximately 1,288 residential structures were built between 1970 and 1990, indicating that 45.2% of Taft’s housing stock are aged (over 30 years old), and 1,280 residential units were built before 1970, indicating that 44.9% of the housing stock is severely aged (over 50 years old). This explains the increasing numbers of dilapidated housing stock in Taft.

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Table 5-20 Years Structure Built, Taft, 2022
Year Built Count Percent
Build 2020 or later - 0.0%
Built 2010 through 2019 132 4.6%
Built 2000 through 2009 94 3.3%
Built 1990 through 1999 55 1.9%
Built 1980 through 1989 584 20.5% Aged
Built 1970 through 1979 704 24.7% (over 30 years old)
Built 1960 through 1969 249 8.7%
Severely Aged
(over 50 years old)
Built 1950 through 1959 624 21.9%
Built 1940 through 1949 90 3.2%
Built 1939 or earlier 317 11.1%
Total 2,849 100.0%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25034: Year Structure Built For comparison, Table 5-21 shows the year that Kern County’s housing structures were built.

Approximately 61% of housing structures were built prior to 1980 with approximately 28% of housing units built over 50 years ago (severely aged). Compared to the County, Taft has a significantly higher proportion of severely aged structures (28% versus 45%).

Table 5-21 Years Structure Built, Kern County, 2022
Year Built Count Percent
Build 2020 or later 958 0.32%
Built 2010 through 2019 23,024 7.63%
Built 2000 through 2009 52,154 17.29%
Built 1990 through 1999 40,831 13.53%
Built 1980 through 1989 49,423 16.38% Aged
Built 1970 through 1979 48,503 16.08% (over 30 years old) Built 1960 through 1969 29,699 9.84%
Severely Aged
(over 50 years old)
Built 1950 through 1959 30,660 10.16%
Built 1940 through 1949 13,239 4.39%
Built 1939 or earlier 13,196 4.37%
Total 301,687 100.0%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25034: Year Structure Built Current figures for the City during the period 2015-2023 indicate a total of 18 units were built and 17 dilapidated structures were demolished, for a net gain of one (1) dwelling unit.

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Table 5-22 Completed Housing Permits and Demolitions
Housing Type 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Total Single-Family 11 9 15 8 12 6 6 3 4 74
Multi-Family -- -- -- 2 -- -- -- -- -- 0
Mobile Home -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 0
Total 11 9 15 8 12 6 6 3 4 74
Demolition 1 2 4 3 3 6 1 0 0 20
Source: 2022 Taft Annual Housing Element Report

5.5.2 Housing Conditions/Units in Need of Repair of Replacement The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) receives custom tabulations from the American Community Survey data known as the “CHAS” data (Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy) that demonstrate the extent of housing problems and housing needs, particularly for low-income households. CHAS data includes tabulations for four (4) “housing problems” and “severe housing problems” by tenure (i.e., owner-occupied versus renter-occupied housing). Housing problems include incomplete kitchen or plumbing facilities, more than one (1) person per room (i.e., overcrowding), and cost burden greater than 30%. Severe housing problems include incomplete kitchen or plumbing facilities, more than one (1) person per room (i.e., overcrowding), and cost burden greater than 50% (i.e., severe overpayment). Overcrowding and overpayment are discussed further in this section.

Housing problems by tenure for Kern County and Taft are shown in Table 5-23, using CHAS data.

Approximately 41% of Kern County households and 37% of Taft households experience at least one (1) housing problem. Of the total households experiencing at least one (1) housing problem, renter-occupied households in Kern County and Taft experience housing problems at a greater proportion than owneroccupied households. In Kern County, 57% of renter-occupied households experience at least one (1) housing problem compared to 43% of owner-occupied households. In Taft, 62% of renter-occupied households experience at least one (1) housing problem compared to 38% of owner-occupied households.

Table 5-23 also shows severe housing problems by tenure for Kern County and Taft. Approximately 24% of Kern County households and 18% of Taft households experience at least one (1) severe housing problem. Of the total households experiencing at least one (1) severe housing problem, renter-occupied households in Kern County and Taft experience housing problems at a greater proportion than owneroccupied households. In Kern County, 64% of renter-occupied households experience at least one (1) severe housing problem compared to 36% of owner-occupied households. In Taft, 63% of renter-occupied households experience at least one (1) severe housing problem compared to 37% of owner-occupied households.

Overall, these data indicate that renters – in both the County and City – are more likely to live in substandard housing conditions which can generally be judged as units lacking complete kitchen or plumbing facilities, overcrowded conditions, and overpayment of income on housing. In addition, as described in Section 5.5.1. Age of Housing Stock above, 90% of Taft’s housing stock is aged (45% over 30 years old)

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or severely aged (45% over 50 years old), which supports a need for rehabilitation programs to help homeowners and renters alike.

Table 5-23 Housing Problems by Tenure, Kern County, Taft, 2018 Taft Kern County
Number of
Problems
Total
Households
Owner
Occupied
Renter
Occupied
Total
Households
Owner
Occupied
Renter
Occupied
Housing Problems1
At least 1 990 375 615 110,065 46,710 63,355
None or other 1,695 1,160 535 157,845 108,685 49,160
Total 2,685 1,535 1,150 267,915 155,935 112,520
Severe Housing Problems2
At least 1 490 180 310 65,325 23,605 41,720
None or other 2,220 1,355 845 202,585 131,790 70,795
Total 2,685 1,535 1,150 267,915 155,935 112,520
Note:

1. The four housing problems are: incomplete kitchen facilities, incomplete plumbing facilities, more than 1 person per room, and cost burden greater than 30%.

2. The four severe housing problems are: incomplete kitchen facilities, incomplete plumbing facilities, more than 1 person per room, and cost burden greater than 50%.

Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) Date 2014-18
A Housing Conditions Survey was conducted in Taft in August/November 2007 using HCD approved survey questionnaires.4 The purpose was to document exterior housing conditions throughout the Target Area and categorize the various conditions found (see Figure 5-5 Target Area Map). As shown in Table 5-24, it is worth noting the results that indicate 400 structures were found to need "moderate to substantial" repair and 32 units were found to be in a "dilapidated" condition. This represents 58.5% of the housing structures in the Target Area, all of which are in the older, central (Downtown) parts of the City. Table 5-25 shows the housing conditions in Taft beyond the Target Area, or Downtown area. Almost all (96.9%) of the structures outside the Target Area are in sound condition or only require minor repair. As such, the need for repair/replacement is focused geographically to the Downtown, or central, area of the City.

Table 5-24 Housing Condition Survey, Taft Target Area, 2007 Housing Condition Number of Structures Percentage Number of Units Sound - 9 or less 242 32.75%
Minor - 10 - 15 65 8.80%
Moderate - 16 - 39 329 44.52%
Substantial - 40 - 55 71 9.61%
Dilapidated - 56 or more 32 4.33%
Total 739* 100.00% 1,034
Source: Taft Planning and Building Department
*includes multi-family structures
4 Total Structures Surveyed (City-wide sample) = 739 + 1430 = 2169; Total Units Surveyed (City-wide sample) = 1034 + 1506 = 2540

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Table 5-25 Housing Condition Survey, Non-Target Area, 2007 Housing Condition Number of Structures Percentage Number of Units Sound - 9 or less 1211 84.69%
Minor - 10 - 15 175 12.24%
Moderate - 16 - 39 41 2.88%
Substantial - 40 - 55 2 0.14%
Dilapidated - 56 or more 1 0.07%
Total 1430* 100.00% 1,506
Source: Taft Planning and Building Department
*Includes multi-family apartments
The most recent Housing Conditions Survey was the 2014 Kern COG Regional Housing Data Report which found that 343 housing units (41% of total units) in Taft need major rehabilitation and 131 housing units (16% of total units) are needing replacement, while approximately 524 (64% of total units) need moderate or minor repair.5 Of the 131 housing units, all but one (1) unit were built prior to 1969, with a majority (108) built prior to 1929. Of the 343 units in need of major rehabilitation, 330 were built prior to 1969. Most housing units in standard condition were built after 1951. According to the Kern COG Study, the units needing demolition and major rehabilitation are generally located in Central Taft, while the units in standard condition or needing minor repair are generally located outside Central Taft.

The single most common factor in housing conditions in Taft is age. Older single family and multi-family residential in the central part of the city both have concerns due to their age. The newer housing is mostly all single-family residential homes. With 1,592 units more than 50 years old, a certain amount of exterior deterioration is expected. The central area of Taft between 1st and 10th Streets, and Oak Street to Ash Street is the oldest area of the city. The area was part of the original plat maps that laid the street network of Taft shortly after incorporation in 1910. The homes in this central area are almost all over 50+ years old. It is most noticeable in the central area of Taft to see homes and apartment buildings with chipped paint, deteriorated siding, sagging roof lines, and possible foundation issues. Homes west of 10th Street were all built after 1970, but that still makes some homes pushing 50 years of age. Those neighborhoods have seen the least amount of code enforcement concerns regarding dilapidation or structural issues.

Based on current visual conditions of exteriors, there doesn’t seem to be as much reinvestment in the homes to help combat the age of the structures. However, this is not a chronic condition of poorly maintained housing. In the 2015-2023 planning period, the City issued more than 370 permits for reroofs, water heater changeouts, HVAC replacements, foundation and home rehabilitations, etc. for homes in Central Taft, indicating that rehabilitation is occurring. In addition, in the planning period, 20 housing units in Central Taft were demolished due to fire damage, blight, or substandard housing conditions as part of the City’s housing rehabilitation program and code enforcement efforts. Therefore, it can be inferred that conditions are improving over time.
5 Kern Council of Governments. (2014). Kern Regional Housing Data Report. Accessed August 22, 2024, https://www.kerncog.org/wpcontent/uploads/2013/06/Housing_Data_Report_201410.pdf

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Figure 5-5 City of Taft 2007 Housing Conditions Survey Target Area

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5.5.3 Housing Costs
Housing costs have increased in Taft with for both home values and rentals in the past decade. While Taft’s increase in housing costs is not as rapid compared to Kern County and California, 34.6% of Taft’s households have overpayment issues (i.e., housing costs are more than 30% of household income). This section analyzes the trend of housing costs in Taft and Section 5.5.6 further analyzes overpayment issues in Taft.

Table 5-26 provides an overview of housing affordability in Taft. The area median income of Kern County is $83,800. As such, the housing cost threshold for households to have affordable housing for each income group is calculated in the table.

Table 5-26 Housing Affordability, Taft, 2023
Income Groups Annual Income Monthly Rent1 Home Loan Limit2 Very Low Income
(Below 50% of Median) Up to $41,900 < $1,047.50 < $123,433.21 Low Income
(50-80% of Median) $41,901 – $67,040 < $1,676.00 < $197,493.14 Moderate Income
(80-100% of Median) $67,041 – $83,800 < $2,095.00 < $246,866.42 Above Moderate Income
(Above 100 of Median) Over $83,800 > $2,095.00 > 246,866.42 Source: HCD 2023 State Income Limits

1. Calculated at 30% of monthly income

2. Calculated at 2.9459 * income
Median Home Values
Figure 5-6 compares the median home prices of Taft, Kern County, and California from 2010 to 2022.

The median home value in California and Kern County has continued an upward trend since 2013, when the economy was starting to recover from the 2008 recession dip in prices. In 2018, median home values of California and Kern County bounced back to 2010 prices; however, this was not the case for Taft. In 2022, the median home value in Taft has just surpassed its 2010 value, indicating a much slower resiliency compared to California and Kern County.

Compared to Kern County and California, the median home value of Taft’s owner-occupied housing units is lower. Median home values in 2022 were $219,400 in Taft, compared to $282,800 in the County and $659,300 in California. Between 2010 and 2022, Taft’s median home value only grew 7.9%, compared to the 30.3% growth in Kern County and 43.8% growth in California.

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Figure 5-6 Median Home Prices, Taft, Kern County, California, 2010-2022 Source: U.S. Census Bureau. ACS 5-year Estimates Detailed Tables, B25077: Median Value (Dollars) Universe: owner-occupied housing units
Figure 5-7 breaks down the number of homes in each price category in Taft as of 2022. According to the previous Housing Element for the City of Taft, during 1989-90, 14 homes were sold in the $10,000 to $29,999 price range, while 31 homes sold in the $30,000 to $49,999 range. In 2022, 8.1% (107 units) of the owner-occupied housing units were valued under $25,000. Most units (64.6%) are priced between $150,000 and $300,000.

Figure 5-7 Home Prices, Taft, 2022
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. 2022: ACS 5-year Estimates Detailed Tables, B25075: Value Universe: owner-occupied housing units

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A variety of factors impact housing costs and can provide barriers for potential homeowners. For example, market forces on the economy and the subsequent effects on the construction industry may act as a barrier to housing production. 6 Since the 2008 recession, national construction costs for multi-family projects have risen by 25%. This dramatic rise in construction costs can make a project financially infeasible. 7 Economic recessions can also have a profound and long-lasting effect. In data going back to 1970, new home sales declined 15% nationally, on average, during recessions, with sale prices continuing to drop in the following year. 8 Further, the COVID-19 pandemic during 2020 to 2022 created a global economic recession which had different impacts on the California housing market than typical recessions in the past.

Lower interest rates and households spending more time at home created a demand for housing. Recent increases in mortgage interest rates have cooled the market slightly in recent months. Section 5.5.6 further analyzes the overpayment of housing in Taft.

Rental Prices
In 2020, of the total 2,379 occupied housing units in the City, approximately 995, or 41.8% are renter occupied units. This is similar to Kern County’s 40.8% and California’s 45.5% of renter occupied units. As shown in Table 5-27 and
Figure 5-8, Taft’s median rent fluctuates between 2010 and 2022, while Kern County’s median rent rises steadily over time and California’s median rent significantly increases or inflates over time with increasing growth rates. Between 2010 and 2022, Taft’s median rent increased a total of

41.2%, similar to Kern County’s 38.6%, but substantially lower than California’s rent increase of

62.7%. This growth trend is similar to median home values, without the 2008 recession dip in prices.

Similar to median home values, compared to Kern County and California, the median rent of Taft’s renteroccupied housing units is lower. Median rent in 2022 was $833 in Taft, compared to $938 in the County and $1,699 in California.
6 National Association of Home Builders. Material Cost Affect Housing Affordability. Accessed March 29, 2024, https://www.nahb.org/advocacy/toppriorities/material-costs 7 Terner Center for Housing Innovation. (2020). The Hard Costs of Construction: Recent Trends in Labor and Materials Costs for Apartment Buildings in California. Accessed March 29, 2024, https://ternercenter.berkeley.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Hard_Construction_Costs_March_2020.pdf 8 Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University. (2020). Past Recessions Might Offer Lessons on the Impact ofCOVID-19 on Housing Markets.

Accessed March 29, 2024, https://www.jchs.harvard.edu/blog/past-recessions-might-offer-lessons-on-the-impact-of-covid-19-on-housing-markets

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Table 5-27 Median Contract Rent, Taft, Kern County, California, 2000-2022 Year
Taft city Kern County California
Dollar Change Dollar Change Dollar Change
2000 $456 - $652 $783
2010 $590 29.4% $677 3.8% $1,044 33.3%
2011 $753 27.6% $707 4.4% $1,083 3.7%
2012 $673 -10.6% $722 2.1% $1,110 2.5%
2013 $600 -10.8% $738 2.2% $1,119 0.8%
2014 $663 10.5% $746 1.1% $1,138 1.7%
2015 $677 2.1% $741 -0.7% $1,149 1.0%
2016 $557 -17.7% $755 1.9% $1,181 2.8%
2017 $579 3.9% $774 2.5% $1,227 3.9%
2018 $667 15.2% $787 1.7% $1,309 6.7%
2019 $546 -18.1% $812 3.2% $1,377 5.2%
2020 $590 8.1% $827 1.8% $1,442 4.7%
2021 $758 28.5% $866 4.7% $1,547 7.3%
2022 $833 9.9% $938 8.3% $1,699 9.8%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. ACS 5-year Estimates Detailed Tables, B25058: Median Contract Rent (Dollars) Universe: Renter-occupied housing units paying cash rent Figure 5-8 Median Contract Rent, Taft, Kern County, California, 2010-2022 Source: U.S. Census Bureau. ACS 5-year Estimates Detailed Tables, B25058: Median Contract Rent (Dollars) Universe: Renter-occupied housing units paying cash rent

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Table 5-28 shows the current rental listings for properties in Taft and adjacent neighborhoods (Taft Heights, South Taft, and Ford City) as of April 2024. The listings were found on Craigslist, Zillow, and Apartments.com. The current listings were a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and mobile homes with two (2) or three (3) bedrooms. The cheapest listing is a studio apartment listed at $700 a month. The median monthly rental price for current listings is $1,265, which is significantly higher than the median contract rent of $833 per the ACS data in 2022. As such, it can be concluded that while the ACS-estimated median contract rent seems low, there are few to choose from that are at or below that cost in the current market.

Table 5-28 Current Rental Listings, Taft and Adjacent Neighborhoods, April 2024 Property Location Property Type Bed/Bath Listed Rent (Monthly) Listing Site 201 Warren St House 3 bd/2 ba $2,250 Zillow,
Apartments.com
600 1/2 Buchanan St House 2 bd/2 ba $1,575 Zillow, Craigslist 511 Harding Ave House 2 bd/1 ba $1,980 Zillow
100 Taylor St Apartment 2 bd/1 ba $1,250 Craigslist
403 Sunset Ln House 3 bd/2 ba $1,900 Craigslist
311 S. 6th St House 2 bd/1 ba $1,300 Craigslist
407 A Street Apartment studio $700 Craigslist
616 5th St Apartment 2 bd/1 ba $900 Craigslist,
Apartments.com
420 Finley Dr Apartment 1 bd/1 ba $895 Craigslist
123 N 10th Street 2 Mobile Home 3 bd/2 ba $1,660 Craigslist 123 N 10th Street 46 Mobile Home 3 bd/2 ba $1,280 Craigslist 519 Warren St Apartment 1 bd/1 ba $750 Craigslist
621 Philippine St House 1 bd/1 ba $975 Craigslist
407 A St Unit 2 Apartment studio $700 Craigslist
Median Monthly Rent $1,265
Average Monthly Rent $1,294
Source: Craigslist, Zillow, Apartments.com
Affordability is defined as paying no more than 30% of the gross household income on housing expenses.

Table 5-29 shows the percentage that gross rent takes up renter households’ incomes in 2022. 46.4% of Taft renters and 39.7% of Kern County renters have affordable rental housing. This indicates that the majority of renter households Taft and Kern County are cost burdened. Further discussion on the overpayment (i.e., cost burden) of rental properties is in Section 5.5.6.

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Table 5-29 Gross Rent as a Percentage of Household Income, Taft, Kern County, 2022 Percentage of
Household Income
Taft Kern County
Count Percent Count Percent
< 10.0% 53 3.9% 2,736 2.5%

10.0% to 14.9% 178 13.2% 9,132 8.3%

15.0% to 19.9% 79 5.9% 10,334 9.3%

20.0% to 24.9% 95 7.0% 10,930 9.9%

25.0% to 29.9% 221 16.4% 10,809 9.8%

30.0% to 34.9% 166 12.3% 9,601 8.7%

35.0% to 39.9% 68 5.0% 8,588 7.8%

40.0% to 49.9% 62 4.6% 10,373 9.4%
> 50.0% 377 27.9% 31,249 28.2%
Not computed 50 3.7% 6,928 6.3%
Total 1,349 100.0% 110,680 100.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. ACS 5-year Estimates Detailed Tables, B25070: Gross Rent as a Percentage of Household Income in the Past 12 Months
Universe: Renter-Occupied Housing Units
Housing Costs
Utilities are major expenses that add to the basic housing costs. Electricity, space heating and water heating are the main utility costs faced by renters and homeowners. Overall, housing costs have fluctuated significantly in the last decade, creating an uncertain burden on low to moderate income households.

American Community Survey gathers data on ongoing monthly costs, including payments for mortgages, or other debts on the property, real estate taxes, fire, hazard, and flood insurance, utilities (electricity, gas, and water and sewer), fuel (oil, coal, kerosene, wood, etc.), monthly condominium fees (when applicable), and mobile home costs (when applicable).

Table 5-30 Median Monthly Housing Costs, Taft, Kern County, California, 2010-2022 Location/Cost 2010 2015 2020 2022 Percent Change (2010 to 2022) City of Taft $793 $815 $743 $932 17.5%
Kern County $985 $988 $1,096 $1,263 28.2%
California $1,409 $1,419 $1,688 $1,947 38.2%
Source: 2010, 2015, 2020, U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year Estimates, Table B25105: Median Monthly Housing Costs (Dollars)
Table 5-30 shows the median monthly housing costs in Taft, Kern County, and California from 2010 to 2022. The median monthly housing costs have steadily risen for residents of Kern County and California, with increases of 28.2% and 38.2% between 2010 and 2022, respectively. Compared to the region, Taft’s housing costs change between 2010 and 2022 are smaller at 17.5%. During 2010 to 2015, Taft’s housing costs rose, peaking in 2015, then dropping 8.8% in 2020. However, between 2020 and 2022, housing costs rose rapidly, rising 25.4% in just two (2) years in Taft. Similarly, housing costs rose 15.2% and 15.3% in Kern County and California. This is largely due to inflation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Table 5-31 compares the monthly housing costs as percentage of household income. In 2022, owneroccupied units with a mortgage spend 22.0% of their household income on housing and units without a mortgage spend 11.3% of their household income on housing. This includes mortgage payments, which explains the 10.7% gap. Despite median monthly housing costs reaching a peak in 2015, the housing costs as a percentage of household income has dropped compared to 2010. The overall percentage of housing costs continue to drop from 2015 to 2020; however, the percentage of housing costs remain similar for households with a mortgage.

Table 5-31 Median Monthly Housing Costs as a Percentage of Household Income, Taft, 2010-2022 Year/Percentage of Household Income 2010 2015 2020 2022 Total 21.8% 16.1% 14.3% 13.4%
Units with a Mortgage 22.6% 16.5% 23.6% 22.0%
Units without a Mortgage 20.2% 10.2% 11.8% 11.3%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year Estimates, Table B25092: Median Selected Monthly Owner Costs as a Percentage of Household Income in the Past 12 Months
Universe: Owner-occupied Housing Units
Note: The costs are reported as a percentage of the household income in a monthly cost range such as “$1,250 to $1,499”, therefore it is “Selected” and does not cover all income households.

In 2021, the American Community Survey collected data for specific utility costs, including electricity, gas, water and sewer, and other fuel costs (such as oil, coal, kerosene, wood, etc.). For other fuel costs, most of Taft’s households (96.1%) are not charged, do not use, or payment is included in other fees. As such, the following focuses on 2022 electricity, gas, and sewer and water costs in Taft.

Table 5-32 shows the monthly electricity costs in Taft. Most households (52.7%) pay less than $150 for electricity each month. The median monthly electricity cost is between $100 and $149.

Table 5-32 Monthly Electricity Costs, Taft, 2022
Charged for Electricity Count Percent
Less than $50 478 17.9%
$50 to $99 305 11.4%
$100 to $149 627 23.4%
$150 to $199 380 14.2%
$200 to $249 288 10.8%
$250 or more 596 22.3%
Total Housing Units 2,674 100.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. ACS 5-year Estimates Detailed Tables, B25132: Monthly Electricity Costs Table 5-33 shows the monthly gas costs in Taft. Forty-seven percent (47.0%) of households are not charged or do not use gas, while 39.3% of the households are charged less than $75 for gas each month.

The median monthly gas cost is between $50 and $74.

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Table 5-33 Monthly Gas Costs, Taft, 2022
Charged for Gas Count Percent
Less than $25 234 8.8%
$25 to $49 429 16.0%
$50 to $74 388 14.5%
$75 to $99 36 1.3%
$100 to $149 237 8.9%
$150 or more 92 3.4%
Not charged, not used, or payment included in other fees 1,258 47.0% Total Housing Units 2,674 100.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. ACS 5-year Estimates Detailed Tables, B25133: Monthly Gas Costs Table 5-34 shows the annual water and sewer costs in Taft. The majority (65.1%) of households are charged less than $750 for water and sewer each year. The median annual water and sewer cost is between $250 and $499.

Table 5-34 Annual Water and Sewer Costs, Taft, 2022
Charged for Water and Sewer Count Percent
Less than $125 406 15.2%
$125 to $249 242 9.1%
$250 to $499 638 23.9%
$500 to $749 456 17.1%
$750 to $999 259 9.7%
$1,000 or more 150 5.6%
Not charged or payment included in other fees 523 19.6% Total Housing Units 2,674 100.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. ACS 5-year Estimates Detailed Tables, B25134: Annual Water and Sewer Costs

5.5.4 Housing Units in Structure
The composition of the current housing stock is indicative of the needs of Taft residents. It can be observed nationwide that the fastest and most dominant housing types are single family and large multi-family developments which create a gap in housing stock, often referred to as “missing middle housing”.

Table 5-35 shows the breakdown of housing by unit type in Taft in 2010 and 2018. The total number of units in Taft increased by 5.0%. One (1) unit detached units make up most of Taft’s housing stock, accounting for 74.7% in 2010 and 72.7% in 2018. This indicates that most housing provided in Taft are single-family detached dwellings, which are often not affordable to lower income households due to its lower density.

The housing unit type that saw the largest increase in the 8-year period was duplexes, which increased from 55 units in 2010 to 78 units in 2018, marking a 48.1% increase. Developments with 3 or 4 units also saw an increase, rising from 162 units in 2010 to 209 units in 2018 (a 29.0% increase). It should be noted that the margin of error for these numbers is too large to reflect any substantial changes to the number of structures in each category.

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The housing unit type that saw the largest decrease in the 8-year period was the 20 or more units, which dropped 49.2%. Attached, single-family homes also saw a 25.8% decrease and 5 to 9 units saw a 24.0% decrease in the past 8 years. It should be noted that the margin of error for these numbers is too large to reflect any substantial changes to the number of structures in each category.

Overall, Taft is seeing an increase in duplexes and 3- or 4-unit homes, providing a more diverse housing stock and more affordable choices compared to the past. However, based on the low percentage of apartments, Taft still presents a need for more multi-family housing. Diversifying Taft’s housing stock to include more multi-family housing in both rental and ownership properties can provide more affordable housing options. With the rising costs of purchasing real estate, multi-family housing can provide more affordable options for those who are looking to become first-time homeowners and build equity. Multifamily rental housing can also offer a diverse unit type (e.g., studios, 1-bedroom units, 2-bedroom units) and amenities at a lower cost for seniors, people with disabilities, students, single-person households, etc.

Table 5-35 Units in Structure, Taft, 2010, 2018
Unit Type
2010 2018
Percent Change
Count Percent Count Percent
1-unit, detached 2,066 74.7% 2,112 72.7% 2.2%
1-unit, attached 124 4.5% 92 3.2% -25.8%
2 units 55 2.0% 78 2.7% 48.1%
3 or 4 units 162 5.9% 209 7.2% 29.0%
5 to 9 units 204 7.4% 155 5.3% -24.0%
10 to 19 units 0 0.0% 125 4.3% N/A
20 or more units 59 2.1% 30 1.0% -49.2%
Mobile home 97 3.5% 105 3.6% 8.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 0 0.0% 0 0.0% N/A
Total 2,767 100.0% 2,906 100.0% 5.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. ACS 5-year Estimates Detailed Tables, B25024: Units in Structure

5.5.5 Vacancy Rate
Vacancy rates can be a good indicator of how effective housing units are meeting the current demand for housing in a community. Low vacancies usually indicate high demand and/or low supply conditions in the housing market. A vacancy rate that is too low can force prices up, making it more difficult for lower and moderate-income households to find housing. Generally, a 5% to 8% vacancy rate is considered to have an optimal balance between the demand and supply for housing. 9 According to Kern County 2015- 2023 Housing Element, the ideal vacancy rate in a community is 5%.

Table 5-36 shows the occupancy status in Taft throughout the last four (4) decades. In 1990, Taft had a total of 2,370 housing units with a 6.8% vacancy rate, which increased to 2,478 units with a 9.9% vacancy rate in 2000. In 2010, Taft had a total of 2,525 housing units, of which 10.7% are vacant. 2010 was the 9 US Lending Company. A Guide on Vacancy Rates and the Housing Market. Accessed April 2, 2024, https://www.uslendingcompany.com/blog/what-is-avacancy-rate-how-does-this-help-predict-housing-markets/#:~:text=As%20a%20metric%2C%20a%20vacancy,behavior%20in%20a%20housing%20market

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year with the highest vacancy rate in the past four (4) decades according to the decennial census. This reflects the consequences of the housing crisis and Great Recession of the late 2000s. As reported by the U.S. Census Bureau, many areas of the country saw a sharp increase in vacancy rates between the 2000 and 2010 Census due to the economic downturn, followed by a decrease between 2010 and 2020 as the markets recovered. 10 Taft followed the same pattern. In 2020, Taft had a total of 2,596 housing units and the vacancy rate dropped to 8.4%.

Table 5-36 Occupancy Status, Taft, 1990-2020
Occupancy
Status
1990 2000 2010 2020
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent Occupied 2,209 93.2% 2,233 90.1% 2,254 89.3% 2,379 91.6% Vacant 161 6.8% 245 9.9% 271 10.7% 217 8.4%
Total 2,370 100.0% 2,478 100.0% 2,525 100.0% 2,596 100.0% Source: U.S. Census Bureau. 2010, 2020: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171); H1: Occupancy Status; 2000:

DEC Summary File 1, H006: Occupancy Status; 1990 Census of Housing: General Housing Characteristics Table 5-11 shows the occupancy status of Taft, Kern County, and California in 2020. Compared with Kern County and California, Taft’s vacancy rate is substantially higher. A high vacancy rate provides inventory for sale/rent, which usually drives sale/rental prices down. High vacancy rates indicate that demand is not heavy; however, it can also mean that a neighborhood is not stable, which could signal a loss in community and not well-connected neighbors. Taft’s vacancy rates are just slightly above the typical vacancy rate of 5% to 8%, and the vacancy rate estimated by the ACS in 2022 (6.1%) further confirms the city’s trend toward a healthy housing market and ideal vacancy rate of 5%.

Figure 5-9 Occupancy Status, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 Source: U.S. Census Bureau. 2020: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171); H1: Occupancy Status 10 U.S. Census Bureau. (2021). U.S. Housing Vacancy Rate Declined in Past Decade. Accessed April 2, 2024, https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2021/08/united-states-housing-vacancy-rate-declined-in-past-decade.html

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Vacant units are necessary to moderate the cost of housing and balance supply and demand. placement vacancy rates can drive up housing costs and eliminate competition. Multi-family and rental occupied units generally have higher vacancies and greater turnover than the owner-occupied units.

Table 5-37 shows the vacancy rates for homeowners and rentals in Taft, Kern County, and California in 2020. Taft’s homeowner vacancies are 2.2%, higher than Kern County and California. Taft’s rental vacancy rate is 7.7%, also higher than Kern County and California.

Table 5-37 Vacancy Rates by Tenure, Taft, Kern County, California, 2020 Vacancy Rates Taft Kern County California
Homeowner Vacancy Rate * 2.2% 1.5% 1.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate ** 7.7% 4.8% 4.6%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. 2020: DEC Demographic Profile, DP1: Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics
* The homeowner vacancy rate is the proportion of the homeowner inventory that is vacant "for sale." It is computed by dividing the total number of vacant units "for sale only" by the sum of owner-occupied units, vacant units that are "for sale only," and vacant units that have been sold but not yet occupied; and then multiplying by 100.
** The rental vacancy rate is the proportion of the rental inventory that is vacant "for rent." It is computed by dividing the total number of vacant units "for rent" by the sum of the renter-occupied units, vacant units that are "for rent," and vacant units that have been rented but not yet occupied; and then multiplying by 100.

5.5.6 Overpayment for Housing
Housing is usually the largest single expense for most individuals and families; overpayment is a frequently occurring phenomenon and is measured in relation to household income. Overpayment, also called “cost-burdened,” is defined by the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) as households that spend more than 30% of their total income on housing, including utilities. For renters, housing cost is the contract rent plus cost of utilities. For owners, housing costs are mortgage payment, utilities, association fees, insurance, and real estate taxes. A household spending more than 50% of their total income is considered severe overpayment. Section 5.5.3 provides data on Taft’s housing costs.

Table 5-38 shows the percentage of overpayment (i.e., households spending more than 30% of their total income on housing costs) of Taft’s households. The percentage of households overpaying for housing costs is considerably high with 35% of Taft’s households paying more than 30% of their income on housing. This is a significant increase from 2010 when only 14% of households overpaid for housing.

Additionally, renters are disproportionately cost burdened as 23% of Taft’s households are renteroccupied households overpaying for rent compared to 12% of owner-occupied households overpaying for housing costs.

Table 5-38 shows overpayment by income range. Twenty-eight (28) percent of lower-income households (i.e., extremely low, very low-, and low-income categories) are overpaying compared to seven (7) percent of moderate and above moderate households. For owner-occupied households, nine (9) percent of lowerincome households are overpaying compared to two (2) percent of above moderate-income households overpaying. For renter-occupied households, 17% of lower-income households are overpaying compared

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to five (5) percent of moderate and above moderate-income households overpaying. This indicates lower income households are disproportionally impacted by overpayment compared to other income levels.

Table 5-38 Households Overpaying, More Than 30% of Income, by Area Median Income, Taft, 2018 Income Range
All Occupied Housing
Owner-Occupied
Housing
Renter Occupied
Housing
Number % of Total
Housing Number % of Total Housing Number % of Total Housing Extremely Low (0-30% AMI) 254 9% 34 1% 220 8%
Very Low (30-50% AMI) 305 11% 85 3% 220 8%
Low (50-80% AMI) 165 6% 135 5% 30 1%
Moderate (80-100% AMI) 35 1% -- 0% 35 1%
Above Moderate (100%+) 170 6% 65 2% 105 4%
Total 929 35% 319 12% 610 23%
Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) Date 2014-18 (Percentages based on total occupied households of 2,685) For comparison, overpayment by income range for Kern County households paying more than 30% of income for housing is shown in Table 5-39. Approximately 36% of County households pay more than 30% of their income on housing, which is similar to Taft’s proportion of households as described above.

Additionally, 21% of renter-occupied households experience overpayment compared to 15% of owneroccupied households in the County. Like Taft, renters are disproportionately burdened.

Twenty-eight (28) percent of lower-income households (i.e., extremely low, very low-, and low-income categories) in the County are overpaying compared to eight (8) percent of moderate and above moderateincome households. For owner-occupied households, 10% of lower-income households are overpaying compared to six (6) percent of moderate- and above-moderate income households. For renter-occupied households, 18% of lower-income households are overpaying compared to two (2) percent of moderate and above moderate-income households. This indicates that lower income households are disproportionally impacted by overpayment compared to other income levels. These trends are similar to what Taft households are experiencing, as described above.

Table 5-39 Households Overpaying, More Than 30% of Income, by Area Median Income, Kern County, 2018 Income Range
All Occupied Housing Owner-Occupied Housing Renter Occupied Housing Number % of Total
Housing
Number % of Total
Housing
Number % of Total
Housing
Extremely Low (0-30% AMI) 26,520 10% 7,170 3% 19,350 7% Very Low (30-50% AMI) 24,455 9% 8,130 3% 16,320 6%
Low (50-80% AMI) 24,290 9% 10,670 4% 13,625 5%
Moderate (80-100% AMI) 7,605 3% 4,655 2% 2,945 1%
Above Moderate (100%+) 12,735 5% 10,015 4% 2,720 1%
Total 95,605 36% 40,640 15% 54,960 21%
Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) Date 2014-18 (Percentages based on total occupied households of 267,915)

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Table 5-40 shows the percentage of severe overpayment (i.e., households spending more than 50% of their total income on housing costs) of households in Taft, Kern County, and California. 11.2% of households in Taft have severe overpayment issues. All of these households are those that make less than 50% of the area median income (AMI). Compared to Taft, the cost burden is worse in Kern County and statewide in California. 16.9% of Kern County households have severe overpayment issues, including

15.4% households in the lower income category and 1.0% in the moderate and above-moderate income category. In California, 19.0% of households have severe overpayment issues, including 17.5% households in the lower income category and 1.5% in the moderate and above-moderate income category.

Table 5-40 Households Overpaying, More Than 50% of Income, by Area Median Income Income Range
Taft Kern County California
Number
% of
Total
Housing
Number % of Total
Housing Number % of Total Housing
Extremely Low (0-30% AMI) 185 6.9% 22,990 8.6% 1,229,985 9.5% Very Low (30-50% AMI) 115 4.3% 12,165 4.5% 666,685 5.1% Low (50-80% AMI) 0 0.0% 6,190 2.3% 375,810 2.9%
Moderate (80-100% AMI) 0 0.0% 1,335 0.5% 95,440 0.7%
Above Moderate (100%+) 0 0.0% 1,420 0.5% 100,430 0.8%
Total 300 11.2% 44,105 16.9% 2,468,350 19.0%
Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) Date 2014-18
Overall, data indicates that lower-income households are disproportionately burdened by housing costs compared to their moderate and above-moderate income counterparts. Renter-occupied households are also disproportionately burdened by housing costs compared to owner-occupied households. The local housing market, sensitive to supply and demand as well as interest rates, has been insulated from the major growth that occurred in southern California. Incomes, especially in skilled oilfield jobs, are not increasing proportionately, and the recent stagnation has significantly affected the local economy. This results in more households overpaying for housing.

5.5.7 Overcrowding
Overcrowding is defined by the U.S. Census as a unit with more than one (1) person per room. Severely overcrowded units are defined as those with more than 1.5 people per room. These definitions exclude bathrooms and kitchens as rooms. While overpayment can be directly correlated with median household income, overcrowding is directly related to household size and the availability to find affordable and adequately sized housing. While overcrowding is directly related to housing size and availability, income level also plays a role since overcrowding is less prevalent as income levels increase. According to the

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California Department of Housing and Community Development, households with 95% of the median income experience overcrowding less than three (3) times the amount as those with very low incomes. 11 Table 5-41 identifies overcrowding using persons per room as a metric. In 2022, approximately three (3) percent of Taft households are considered overcrowded with less than one (1) percent considered severely overcrowded. In 2012, eight (8) percent of Taft households were overcrowded, and two (2) percent of households were overcrowded, indicating an overall decrease of overcrowded households from 2012 to 2022.

In 2022, most housing units in Taft have 0.50 occupants or less per room. Among owner-occupied units,

1.3% of the units are considered severely overcrowded. Among renter-occupied housing, 5.5% are considered overcrowded and none are severely overcrowded. While overcrowding is identified in both owner and renter-occupied units, this housing issue may not be considered severe due to the small percentage. However, it should be noted that renter-occupied units have a higher number of occupants per room compared to owner-occupied units, coupled with the fact that lower income households make up more of the renter market, that lower income households may have a disproportionate impact on overcrowding.

Table 5-41 Occupants per Room by Tenure, Taft, 2012, 2022 Occupants per Room
Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Total Housing Units
2012 2022 2012 2022 2012 2022

0.50 or less 1,080 1,049 295 702 1,375 1,751

0.51 to 1.00 229 259 532 573 761 832

1.01 to 1.50 28 0 116 74 144 74

1.51 to 2.00 0 17 40 0 40 17

2.01 or more 13 0 0 0 13 0
Total 1,350 1,325 983 1,349 2,333 2,674
Overcrowded 41 17 156 74 197 91
Severely Overcrowded 13 17 40 0 53 17
Source: 2012, 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25014: Tenure by Occupants per Room
Table 5-42 identifies overcrowding using persons per room as a metric by race/ethnicity. In 2022, approximately 74 White households and 17 households with Some Other Race is overcrowded. Regarding ethnicity, 91 Hispanic or Latino households are overcrowded compared to 0 Non-Hispanic or Latino households being overcrowded.
11 California Department of Housing and Community Development. Overpayment and Overcrowding. Accessed March 27, 2024, https://www.hcd.ca.gov/planning-and-community-development/housing-elements/building-blocks/overpayment-payment-and-overcrowding

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Table 5-42 Occupants per Room by Race/Ethnicity, Taft, 2022 Race/Ethnicity
Occupants per Room

1.00 or less Overcrowded (1.01 or more)
Race
White 2,076 74
Black or African American 21 0
American Indian and Alaska Native 0 0
Asian 16 0
Native Hawaiian 0 0
Some other race 148 17
Two or more races 322 0
Ethnicity
White (Not Hispanic or Latino) 1,784 0
Hispanic or Latino 524 91
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25014: Occupants per room In addition, through the Stakeholder Interviews conducted for the 6th Cycle Housing Element (Section 4 COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT), the City of Taft learned from representatives of social and special interests that there is a lot of homelessness, but not in the form of the unhoused. Rather, there has been an increase in migration over the years that has resulted in several families that live together under one (1) roof. This has led to overcrowding and substandard housing conditions that may not be adequately reflected in the Census data.

For comparison, Table 5-43 shows occupants per room by tenure for Kern County in 2012 and 2022. As of 2022, approximately seven (7) percent of Kern County households are considered overcrowded with approximately two (2) percent of households considered overcrowded. In 2012, 10% of Kern County households were overcrowded and two (2) percent of households were overcrowded, indicating a slight decrease of overcrowded households from 2012 to 2022.

In 2022, among owner-occupied units, approximately four (4) percent of the units are considered overcrowded, and one (1) percent are considered severely overcrowded. Among renter-occupied housing, 15% are considered overcrowded and five (5) percent are severely overcrowded. Overall, compared to the County, Taft households experience significantly less overcrowding and severe overcrowding.

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Table 5-43 Occupants per Room by Tenure, Kern County, 2012, 2022 Occupants per Room
Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Total Housing Units
2012 2022 2012 2022 2012 2022

0.50 or less 91,783 104,173 43,993 49,052 135,776 153,225

0.51 to 1.00 47,605 55,865 46,885 45,120 94,490 100,985

1.01 to 1.50 7,349 9,846 12,990 11,226 20,339 21,072

1.51 to 2.00 875 1,997 3,754 3,992 4,629 5,989

2.01 or more 288 949 445 1,290 733 2,239
Total 147,900 283,510 108,067 110,680 255,967 394,190
Overcrowded 8,512 12,792 17,189 16,508 25,701 29,300
Severely Overcrowded 1,163 2,946 4,199 5,282 5,362 8,228 Source: 2012, 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25014: Tenure by Occupants per Room

5.5.8 Assisted Housing Developments at Risk of Conversion Pursuant to Government Code Section 65583(a)(9), the housing element must identify and analyze units that are at risk of converting from affordable to market-rate during the next 10 years. If units are found to be at-risk, the housing element must estimate the total cost of replacing and preserving these units and include a list of entities with the capacity to acquire multifamily developments at-risk. The analysis should guide policies and programs necessary to address the critical activity of preserving at-risk units.

Defining Assisted Housing Developments (“At-Risk Units”) HCD defines assisted housing developments (or at-risk units) as multifamily, rental housing complexes that receive government assistance under any of the federal, state, and/or local programs or any combination of rental assistance, mortgage insurance, interest reductions, and/or direct loan programs and are eligible to convert to market-rate units due to termination (opt-out) of a rent subsidy contract, mortgage prepayment, or other expiring use restrictions within 10 years of the beginning of the housing-element planning period, which is 2023 for the City of Taft.

Inventory of At-Risk Units
As shown in Table 5-44, Taft has one assisted housing development, Taft Senior Apartments or “Heritage Park Senior Apartments.” The housing development is located at 201 8th Street in Taft and is part of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. The earliest possible date of conversion from lowincome use is 2052. There are a total of 61 units, 60 of which are affordable for seniors.

Table 5-44 Summary of Assisted Housing Units, Taft, 2024 Property
Name Address Total Units
Affordable
Units
Active
Program(s)
Estimated
Affordability End Date
Risk
Level
Taft Senior
Apartments
201 8th Street,
Taft, CA 93628 61 60 LIHTC 2052 Low
Source: California Housing Partnership Preservation Database, May 2024

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Risk of Conversion
The Taft Senior Apartments housing development has a low risk of conversion, meaning these affordable units are at-risk of converting to market rate in more than 10 years and/or are owned by a stable non-profit developer/owner as identified by the California Housing Partnership Database in May 2024.

Cost of Replacement versus Preservation for Units at Risk Generally, the cost of preserving assisted housing units is estimated to be significantly less than replacing units through new construction. Preserving units entails covering the difference between market rate and assisted rental rates. New construction tends to be less cost efficient because of the cost of land, which is often a limiting factor in the development of affordable housing.

Any analysis of the cost to preserve at-risk units must include determining the cost to acquire and rehabilitate the at-risk project, as well as determining the monthly subsidy necessary to preserve affordability. If the affordability terms expire on an at-risk project and the property owners of the projects decide to convert the rental rates of the project to be equal to or more than the fair market rental rates, it is possible that interested parties (nonprofit, for profit, government agency) may purchase and rehabilitate the property to maintain the affordability of the units.

Purchasing the at-risk units depends on the owners’ willingness to sell, interested parties to purchase the project, and available funding assistance. Following the acquisition and rehabilitation of the units, the ongoing cost to preserve affordability is determined by identifying the gap subsidy (funding) between the assisted rent and the market rent. The exact amount is difficult to estimate because the rents are based on a tenant’s income and therefore would depend on the size and income level of the household.

Financing and Subsidy Resources
There are several programs to help cities acquire, replace, or subsidize at-risk affordable housing units.

The financial resources available are summarized as follows. • Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC): Created by the Tax Reform Act of 1986, the LIHTC program gives State and local LIHTC allocating agencies the equivalent of approximately $8 billion in annual budget authority to issue tax credits for the acquisition, rehabilitation, or new construction of rental housing targeted to lower-income households. • United States Department of Agriculture: Low-interest, fixed-rate homeownership loans are provided to qualified persons directly by USDA Rural Development. Financing is also offered at fixed rates and terms through a loan from a private financial institution and guaranteed by USDA Rural Development for qualified persons. Neither one of these home loan programs requires a down payment. USDA Rural Development also offers competitive grants to public and private non-profit Self-Help Housing organizations and Federally Recognized Tribes to enable hardworking families to build their own homes.
• California Department of Housing and Community Development: A state program that administers programs that provide grants and loans (from both state and federal housing

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programs), HCD creates rental and homeownership opportunities for Californians from all levels of society, including veterans, seniors, young families starting out, people with disabilities, farmworkers, and individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness. • U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: A federal program that awards discretionary funding through over 20 grant programs that support HUD initiatives, including Affordable Housing Development and Preservation, Community and Economic Development, Environment, and Energy, Fair Housing, Homelessness, Homeownership, Rental Assistance, Supportive Housing, and Services.
• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): A federal program that funds local community development activities with the goal of providing affordable housing, anti-poverty programs, and infrastructure development. It is a flexible program that allows state and local governments to use the funds at their discretion, subject to less federal oversight. • California Home (CALHOME): A program that provides grants to local public agencies and nonprofit corporations for first time homebuyer and housing rehabilitation assistance, homebuyer counseling and technical assistance activities to enable low- and very low-income households to become or remain homeowners.
• California Home (CALHOME): Provides formula grants to states and localities that communities use - often in partnership with local nonprofit groups - to fund a wide range of activities including building, buying, and/or rehabilitating affordable housing for rent or homeownership or providing direct rental assistance to low-income people.

5.6 Special Needs Households
Special needs housing refers to demographic or occupational groups that require additional housing resources, programs, or responses to create stable housing outcomes. This section analyzes special needs housing for extremely low-income households, farmworkers, people with disabilities, seniors, femaleheaded households, large households, and people experiencing homelessness. These groups are more at risk of being cost burdened by housing or spending a disproportionate amount of household income on housing or having inadequate housing for their needs. Table 5-45 provides an overview of the special needs groups in Taft, which are further described in the following sub-sections.

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Table 5-45 Summary of Special Needs Groups, Taft, 2022
Special Needs Group Total Percent of Total
Population
Percent of Total
Households
Extremely Low-Income 385 5.2% 14%
Farmworkers 360 4.9% --
People with Disabilities 1,582 21.3% --
Seniors 961 13.0% 27%
Female-Headed Households 508 6.9% 19%
Large Households 779 10.5% 27%
People experiencing homelessness 10 0.1% --
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; 2020 Decennial Census; Various Tables (See Sub-Sections)

5.6.1 Extremely Low-Income Households
Housing Needs
The classification of extremely low-income households falls within the subset of very low-income households. Extremely low-income is defined by HCD as households earning 30% or less than the area median income (AMI). In Taft, with an AMI of $83,800 based on the Kern County Metropolitan Statistical Area, extremely low-income households are those earning $25,140 or less annually, which amounts to 30% or less of the AMI.

HUD’s Office of Policy Development and Research provides consolidated planning data through an application programming interface. The data, known as Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS), demonstrates the extent of housing needs and problems specifically for lower-income households. As shown in Table 5-46, 365 out of 2,685 households are identified as earning a household income of 30% or less of the HUD Area Median Family Income (HAMFI). This indicates that a total of 14% of all Taft households are extremely low-income households. Additionally, the CHAS data shows that renters are more likely to live in an extremely low-income-earning household, with 27% of all renteroccupied households falling into this category, as opposed to 3% of owner-occupied households.

Table 5-46 HUD Area Median Family Income by Tenure, Taft, 2018 Income Distribution Overview Owner Renter Total Percent Household Income <= 30% HAMFI 50 315 365 14%
Household Income >30% to <=50% HAMFI 120 300 420 16%
Household Income >50% to <=80% HAMFI 240 60 300 11%
Household Income >80% to <=100% HAMFI 65 70 135 5%
Household Income >100% HAMFI 1,1,055 410 1,465 54%
Total Households 1,535 1,150 2,685 100.0%
Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) Date 2014-18 (Percentages based on total occupied households of 2,685) Housing problems for extremely low-income households in Taft and Kern County are shown in Table 5-47. Approximately 51% (185 out of 365) of extremely low-income households experience severe overpayment and 74% (270 out of 365) experience housing problems (e.g., cost burden, overcrowding, housing without complete kitchen or plumbing facilities). Approximately 49% of renter-occupied and

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60% of owner-occupied extremely low-income households are paying more than 50% of income toward housing. Lastly, 70% of renter-occupied and 100% of owner-occupied extremely low-income households experience housing problems.

Table 5-47 Extremely Low-Income Households with Housing Problems, Taft, Kern County, 2018 Total Households
Owner Occupied
Households
Renter Occupied
Households
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
City of Taft
Household Income < = 30% HAMFI 365 100% 50 14% 315 86%
Overpayment (>30% to < = 50%) 75 20% 4 1% 65 18%
Severe Overpayment (>50%) 185 51% 30 8% 155 42%
With any Housing Problem ** 270 74% 50 14% 220 60%
Kern County
Household Income < = 30% HAMFI 34,295 100 10,065 29% 24,230 71% Overpayment (>30% to < = 50%) 3,530 10% 1,360 4% 2,170 6% Severe Overpayment (>50%) 22,990 67% 5,810 17% 17,180 50% With any Housing Problem ** 27,220 79% 7,295 21 19,925 58% Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) Date 2014-18 (Percentages based on total occupied households of 2,685) Programs and Resources
There are several local, State, and federal funding programs that can be used to assist with affordability of housing. As is explained on its website, HCD administers over 20 programs, “that award loans and grants for the construction, acquisition, rehabilitation and preservation of affordable rental and ownership housing, homeless shelters and transitional housing, public facilities and infrastructure, and the development of jobs for lower income workers. With rare exceptions, these loans and grants are not made to individuals, but to local public agencies, non-profit and for-profit housing developers, and service providers. In many cases these agencies then provide funds to individual end users.” In addition to the programs administered by HCD, programs managed by the Housing Authority of the County of Kern or other agencies make funds available for housing. These include:
• Housing Choice (Section 8) Voucher Program: Provides local housing authorities with federal funds from HUD. Families use the voucher by paying the difference between the rent charged and the amount subsidized by the program.
• School Facility Fee Down Payment Assistance Program: Provides a small grant to first-time homebuyers purchasing a home.
• Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program: Provides interest-free capital to finance the construction, rehabilitation, or acquisition (with or without rehabilitation), of structures that will serve as supportive housing for very low-income elderly persons. • Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities Program: Provides interest-free capital advances to nonprofit sponsors to help finance the development of rental housing such as

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independent living projects, condominium units, and small group homes with the availability of supportive services for persons with disabilities.
• Shelter Plus Care Program: Provides grants for the provision of rental assistance payments. • Supportive Housing Program: Provides assistance to homeless persons in the transition from streets and shelters to permanent housing and maximum self-sufficiency.

To further address the housing needs of extremely low-income households, through Program 9.e.

Funding for New Low-Income Housing Developments, the City will identify and meet with nonprofit builders and developers who specialize in building housing for low- and extremely low-income households and supportive housing. This effort is designed to:
• Build a long-term partnership in affordable housing development. • Gain access to specialized funding sources, including applying for funding sources that support deeper targeting.
• Identify the range of local and regional resources and assistance needed to facilitate the development of housing for low- and extremely low-income households. • Promote a variety of housing types, including higher density, multi-family supportive, and missing-middle housing developments.

5.6.2 Farmworkers
Housing Needs
The California Department of Housing and Community Development defines farmworkers and day laborers as those whose primary income comes through either permanent or seasonal agricultural labor.

Permanent employment would consist of those who have long-term, year-round employment, while seasonal employment consists of migrant populations who follow crops during distinct seasons.

Farmworkers are considered a special needs group in relation to housing because they generally have unstable employment and more limited income. According to the California Housing and Community Development Department (HCD), farmworkers have high rates of poverty, live in housing with poor conditions, have high rates of overcrowding, and have low homeownership rates.

According to a Farmworkers Case Study for Kern County by Housing Assistance Council12, Kern County has experienced an in-migration of farmworkers from Mexico (namely, Oaxaca) and Central American countries including El Salvador since the 1990s. The case study indicates that these groups were relatively new to the San Joaquin Valley and thus lacked support networks that traditional Mexican immigrants have. The case study also describes a simultaneous shift away from migratory labor toward resident-based labor in the San Joaquin Valley within the same timeframe. The longer growing season in the San Joaquin Valley has resulted in a steady increase in permanent farmworkers over the years.

Migrant and resident (or permanent) farmworkers are distinct populations with distinct special needs.

Migrant workers come to Kern County without support networks and typically experience the worst 12 Housing Assistance Council. Farmworkers Case Study: Kern County, California. Accessed May 2, 2024, https://ruralhome.org/wpcontent/uploads/storage/documents/farmcase.pdf

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employment, job security, and housing conditions; whereas resident farmworkers typically have support networks in place and have a higher likelihood to access off-farm employment, such as food packing or transportation. The Farmworkers Case Study also describes a major transition in the San Joaquin Valley from single laborers (i.e., single men living by themselves who send money back to their families) to farm labor families moving and residing together.

Lastly, the Farmworkers Case Study describes housing characteristics and conditions for farmworkers.

Most farmworkers are renters and most housing options within their price range are generally small singlefamily homes and mobile homes. Multi-family housing and farm labor camps in Kern County are limited.

Further, the available housing is often older units which may be smaller than newly constructed homes and in need of repairs. In addition, the case study indicates that housing costs often increase during peak agricultural season due to increased demand and the ability of landlords to take advantage of migrants with limited English proficiency. Overall, the lack of affordable housing options, especially during peak agricultural season, is often the primary cause of overcrowding and substandard living conditions for farmworker families.

According to the University of California, Merced 2022 Farmworker Health Study, farmworkers across the state are facing serious health challenges daily including substandard housing conditions such as older homes, apartments, mobile homes, motels, garages, and similar spaces that require repairs like new roofs, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, and pest control.13 Farmworkers in the study were most like (92%) to be renters, to live in single-family homes (55%), and do not rely on employers to pay any or all of their rent (98%). Poor housing conditions and crowded spaces put farmworkers at increased risk for respiratory illnesses such as asthma and infectious diseases like tuberculosis and COVID-19. In addition, farmworkers in the study faced issues related to the built environment of their homes with poor water quality, problems keeping the house cool or warm, problems related to water and moisture, and pest control issues.

In terms of household characteristics, farmworkers in the study live in large, overcrowded households with low incomes and several household problems, arrangements associated with decreased mental health.

Farmworker households were larger than the State average (3.0 persons per household) with a median household size of four (4) persons. More than half (55%) of farmworkers reported two (2) persons per room and overcrowded situations. Of note, the size of households likely underestimates farmworkers’ obligations to provide for family as more than half of respondents financially supported one or more family members outside the household. The median household income reported was $25,000 per year, which is significantly less than what the American Community Survey reported for California farmworkers ($62,021). Lastly, most respondents reported financial difficulties paying for food or bills.

The USDA 2017 Census of Agriculture identifies a total of 845 farms in Kern County with 20,469 hired farmworkers, 98 farms with 6,062 migrant farmworkers, and 600 farms with 1,309 unpaid farmworkers.14 Approximately 1,130 farmworkers worked less than 150 days. The length of 150 days is important for 13 UC Merced, Community and Labor Center. (2022). Farmworker Health in California: Health in a Time of Contagion, Drought, and Climate Change.

Accessed August 21, 2024, https://clc.ucmerced.edu/sites/clc.ucmerced.edu/files/page/documents/fwhs_report_2.2.2383.pdf 14 U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2017). Census of Agriculture, 2017 Census Volume 1, Chapter 2: County Level Data. Accessed April 30, 2024, https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2017/Full_Report/Volume_1,_Chapter_2_County_Level/California/st06_2_0007_0007.pdf

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farm labor because it is the general length of harvest. Some farm workers may work on two or more farms to be employed year-round; likewise, some farms may produce two or more crop types to be in production year-round. Distinguishing between “seasonal” or year-round labor is important, as farmworkers within the less than 150-days category are more likely to follow harvest and may not have permanent housing.

These workers are also less likely to receive overtime, healthcare, and other benefits and labor protections.

The USDA estimates average farm wages nationwide. In 1990, the average hourly wage for farmworkers in nonsupervisory positions was $11.25 per hour compared to other private sector nonsupervisory occupations that made an average of $22.27 per hour. By the year 2022, the average farm wage for farmworkers in nonsupervisory positions was $16.62 per hour compared to other private sector nonsupervisory occupations that made an average of $27.56 per hour. Although wages are increasing for farmworkers, it is evident that farmworkers earn disproportionately lower incomes than their nonfarmworker counterparts. In Taft, a household with a single wage-earner making $16.62 an hour would have to pay 51% percent of its gross income to afford a $1,294 unit (Table 5-28) and would be costburdened ($16.62 an hour multiplied by eight (8) hours is $132.96 a day or $664.80 a week, if working a five (5) day workweek, divided by $1,294 equals 51%).

Farmworkers and people associated with the agricultural industry in the region are finding housing in Taft and the surrounding County communities. According to the 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, approximately 360 residents of Taft worked in the agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining employment industries, which equates to approximately 14% of the city’s total employed labor force (Table 5-11) and 5% of the city’s total population. The U.S. Census does not identify the number of individuals within each sub-sector of this industry. The adjacent unincorporated County communities of Ford City, South Taft, and Taft Heights have approximately 1,489 residents in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting, and mining employment industries.

Lastly, of note, the State Water Project aqueduct serves as portion of eastern city limit and separates oil and gas production activity that makes up most of the Greater Taft Area and the agricultural lands to the east. No portion of Taft is in the active farming areas of Kern County. The nearest active agricultural lands are less than 2 miles from Taft’s eastern boundary.

Programs and Resources
To date, the City of Taft is not aware of housing projects exclusively for farmworkers within the Taft city limits. Although there is no exclusive farmworker housing in Taft, the City does not prohibit or discourage farmworker housing. The City will promote and encourage farmworker housing through Program 9.e.

Funding for New Low-Income Housing Developments and Program 9.o. Farmworker Housing.

Zoning for housing for agricultural employees is further discussed in Section 7 ANALYSIS OF CONSTRAINTS. The City will remove constraints on agricultural employee housing through Program

5.b. Housing for Agricultural Employees.

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5.6.3 People with Disabilities
Housing Needs
Disabilities include mental, physical, and developmental disabilities. Individuals living with a disability experience housing instability because they have a condition that may warrant special needs that may not be available or affordable. Disabilities may impact an individual’s ability to work, thus further impacting their cost burden for adequate housing facilities. The types of disabilities identified by the U.S. Census Bureau include hearing difficulty, vision difficulty, cognitive difficulty, ambulatory difficulty, self-care difficulty, and independent living difficulty, further defined below:
• Hearing difficulty: deaf or having serious difficulty hearing. • Vision difficulty: blind or having serious difficulty seeing, even when wearing glasses. • Cognitive difficulty: because of a physical, mental, or emotional problem, having difficulty remembering, concentrating, or making decisions.
• Ambulatory difficulty: having serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs. • Self-care difficulty: having difficulty bathing or dressing. • Independent living difficulty: because of a physical, mental, or emotional problem, having difficulty doing errands alone such as visiting a doctor’s office or shopping.

According to the 2022 ACS 5-Year Estimates, approximately 22% of Taft’s population lives with one or more disabilities (see Table 5-48). As shown in Table 5-49, the under 18 years age group primarily experiences vision and ambulatory difficulties, while the 18 to 64 years age group predominately experiences cognitive, independent living, and ambulatory difficulties and the senior population predominately experiences ambulatory, hearing, cognitive, and independent living difficulties.

Table 5-48 Disability Characteristics by Age, Taft, 2022 Age Group
Total
Population
With a disability
Count Percent
Under 5 years 337 0 0%
5 to 17 years 1,390 22 2%
18 to 34 years 1,953 304 16%
35 to 64 years 2,197 572 26%
65 years and older 1,167 684 58%
Total Population 7,044 1,582 22%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S1810 | Disability Characteristics Table 5-49 Disability Characteristics by Age, Taft, 2022 Age Group Hearing
Difficulty
Vision
Difficulty
Cognitive
Difficulty
Ambulatory
Difficulty
Self-Care
Difficulty
Independent
Living Difficulty
Under 18 years 0 1 0 21 0 0
18 to 64 years 72 120 614 338 50 457
65 years and older 340 38 293 381 170 286
Total Population 412 159 907 740 220 743
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S1810 | Disability Characteristics

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For comparison, disability characteristics for Kern County are shown in Table 5-50. Approximately 12% of the County’s population lives with one or more disabilities, which is a significantly lower proportion than Taft (12% versus 22%). As shown in Table 5-51
Table 5-51, the under 18 years age group primarily experiences cognitive and vision difficulties, while the 18 to 64 years age group predominately experiences cognitive, ambulatory, and independent living difficulties and the senior population predominately experiences ambulatory, independent living, and hearing difficulties.

Table 5-50 Disability Characteristics by Age, Kern County, 2022 Age Group Total
Population
With a disability
Count Percent
Under 5 years 64,019 680 1%
5 to 17 years 195,761 9,969 5%
18 to 34 years 220,288 16,023 7%
35 to 64 years 305,557 41,676 14%
65 years and older 106,413 19,128 18%
Total Population 892,038 105,728 12%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S1810 | Disability Characteristics Table 5-51 Disability Characteristics by Age, Kern County, 2022 Age Group Hearing
Difficulty
Vision
Difficulty
Cognitive
Difficulty
Ambulatory
Difficulty
Self-Care
Difficulty
Independent
Living Difficulty
Under 18 years 1,691 3,020 6,542 548 1,689 0
18 to 64 years 10,054 12,909 28,589 25,751 10,664 21,839 65 years and older 13,657 7,195 10,342 25,037 9,486 15,822 Total Population 25,402 23,124 45,473 51,336 21,839 37,661 Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S1810 | Disability Characteristics Developmental Disabilities
California Senate Bill (SB) 812, Chapter 507, Statutes of 2010 amended State Law to require housing elements include an evaluation of the special housing needs of persons with developmental disabilities.

This analysis includes an estimation of the number of people with developmental disabilities in a jurisdiction, an assessment of the housing need, and a discussion of potential resources.

State Law defines a “developmental disability” as a severe, chronic disability of an individual that:
• Is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of mental and physical impairments; • Is manifested before the individual attains age 18;
• Is likely to continue indefinitely;
• Results in substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity: a) self-care; b) receptive and expressive language; c) learning; d) mobility; e) self-direction; f) capacity for independent living; or g) economic self- sufficiency; and •

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• Reflects the individual’s need for a combination and sequence of special, interdisciplinary, or generic services, individualized supports, or other forms of assistance that are of lifelong or extended duration and are individually planned and coordinated.

Community-based services for persons with developmental disabilities are provided by the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) through a network of 21 community-based, nonprofit agencies known as “regional centers” with more than 40 offices located throughout the state. Regional centers provide assessments, determine eligibility for services, and offer case management services. They also develop, purchase, and coordinate the services in each person’s Individual Program Plan.

Taft is served by the Kern Regional Center. The Kern Regional Center serves approximately 10,000 individuals in Kern, Inyo, and Mono Counties. According to the 2023 Regional Center Overview by the DDS, the Kern Regional Center served approximately 15,000 individuals.15 Most of the individuals served were between the ages of 3 to 21 years (7,120) followed by 22 to 99 years (4,511), and 0-2 years (2,864).

The individuals served were predominately Hispanic (7,924), White (3,717), or Black (1,107). According to a search of the DDS database for licensed care facilities, there is only one (1) licensed facility/program in the Taft area, the ARC, described below.

The DDS compiles data on the statewide number of developmentally disabled persons by zip code for the geographic area. DDS provides the number of persons by residence type and age group as shown in Table 5-52. There are approximately 200 residents within the 93268-zip code with developmental disabilities.

The 93268-zip code includes all the incorporated areas of the City of Taft, and the unincorporated areas of Ford City, South Taft, Taft Heights, Dustin Acres, and Valley Acres. There are 42 residents that are independently living or in supported living conditions, but not within their parent’s or family’s home.

Many of the 42 residents are most likely in Taft College’s Transition to Independent Living (TIL) program, described further below.

Table 5-52 Developmental Disabilities by Zip Code and Residence Type Zip
Code
Home of
Parent/ Family
/Guardian
Independent
/Supported
Living
Community
Care
Facility
Intermediate
Care
Facility
Foster/
Family
Care
Other
Total
Residents
93268 158 42 0 0 0 0 200
Developmental Disabilities by Zip Code and Age Type
Zip Code 0-17 Years 18+ Years Total Residents
93268 84 116 200
Source: State of California, Department of Development Services, Consumer Count by Residence Type and Age Group, December 2021
15 California Department of Development Services. 2024. Regional Center Overview. Accessed May 2, 2024, https://www.dds.ca.gov/rc/dashboard/overview

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Programs and Resources
The TIL Program is a post-secondary educational experience for adults having developmental / intellectual disabilities. The program is through Taft College. The program provides instruction, training, and support on a community college campus. The program is comprehensive, with curriculum and training that promotes acquisition of the functional, social, and career skills necessary for students to live a productive and normalized lifestyle. The program occupies 32 dorms at the Center for Independent Living (CIL) (one (1) of three (3) residence halls on the Taft Community College Campus) and several one (1) to four (4) bedroom homes in the community. The program began in August 1995 with funding from the Kern Regional Center.

Another resource is the Independent Living Center of Kern County (ILCKC). ILCKC’s office is in Bakersfield. ILCKC serves Kern County, promoting social change, eliminating disability-based discrimination, and creating opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in the legislative process to affect change. ILCKC’s core services include independent living skills, information and referral, peer support, individual and system change advocacy, housing resources and services, and personal assistance services. In 2022, ILCKC offered a total of 1,522 individual services for 431 consumers. 16 Most (41%) of consumers were White, Hispanic/Latino (32%), or Black (17%). The disability types assisted included physical (160), mental health (92), multiple (78), vision (74), cognitive (22), and hearing (5).

ARC-Taft is a private, nonprofit organization located in Taft. ARC-Taft provides instruction and handson training to adults with intellectual disabilities. The organization’s objectives are to increase independent living skills, develop vocational skills, and to empower the individuals they provide to with the knowledge to advocate for themselves in their desire for full integration within society. ARC-Taft operates a licensed facility for the Adult Day Program, “Community Based Day Program,” located at 204 Van Buren Street in Taft. The facility has a capacity of 45. In addition to the Adult Day Program, ARCTaft provides supportive living, supported employment, and transportation services.

The City will encourage and promote resources and housing and remove constraints for people with disabilities through Program 2.a. Housing Rehabilitation (Funding and Assistance), Program 2.b.

Housing Rehabilitation (Public Information), Program 2.c. Code Enforcement (Demolitions), Program 2.d. Code Enforcement (Information and Monitoring), Program 5.m. Definition of Family, Program 5.n. Residential Care Facilities, Program 9.e. Funding for New Low-Income Housing Developments, and Program 9.g. Developmental Disabilities. 16 Independent Living Center of Kern County. 2021. Annual Report 2021-2022. Accessed May 6, 2024, https://ilcofkerncounty.org/wpcontent/uploads/2023/08/Independent-Living-Center-of-Kern-County-Annual-Report-2021-22-5.pdf

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5.6.4 Senior Households
Housing Needs
Seniors, or the elderly, are defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as persons 65 years of age and older.

Generally, the share of the U.S. population is growing older. According to the U.S. Census Bureau Decennial Census, the nation’s senior population grew more than a third and at the fastest rate of any decade in 130 years from 2010 to 2020. The aging population has social and economic implications due to reduced or fixed income, physical and mental disabilities, mobility limitations, and rising healthcare and housing costs. Some implications include:
• Fixed income can make finding affordable and adequate housing challenging. • Limited mobility could result in challenges with walking and standing. Some of these mobility challenges warrant the need for improvements and modifications to existing housing. Some seniors may also require access to reliable transportation as their mobility limits them from driving a vehicle.
• Seniors may experience more severe medical, or lifestyle needs that warrant assisted living, which can be in-home care or at an assisted living facility. These facilities and services can be costly if funding assistance is not available.

Table 5-53, Senior Population by Age Group, shows the population 65 years and older by age group in Taft. As discussed in Section 5.2.2 Age Composition, the total population in this age group dipped from 2000 to 2010, but sharply increased by 2020, indicating that Taft’s population is aging.

Table 5-53 Senior Population by Age Group, Taft, 2010, 2020 Age Group Male Female Total
2010 2020 2010 2020 2010 2020
65 – 69 145 165 139 159 284 324
70 – 74 90 120 90 139 180 259
75 – 79 50 82 75 100 125 182
80 – 84 41 47 64 62 105 109
85+ 24 31 67 56 91 87
Senior Total 350 445 435 516 785 961
Total Population 9,327 8,546 9,327 8,546 9,327 8,546
Senior Percentage 4 5 5 6 8 11
Source: 2010 Decennial Census, P12; 2020 Decennial Census, DP1 Table 5-54, Tenure by Age of Householder, shows that senior households account for 27% of total households. A majority (68%) of senior households are owner occupied, indicating that the senior population is more likely to be a homeowner than renter.

Table 5-54: Tenure by Age of Householder, Taft, 2020
Age of Householder

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Total
Households
Owner Occupied
Households
Renter Occupied
Households
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
15-24 years 127 5 28 2 99 10
25-34 years 351 15 145 10 206 21
35-64 years 1,263 53 774 56 489 49
65 years and over 638 27 437 32 201 20
Total households 2,379 100 1,384 100 995 100
Source: 2020 Decennial Census, Table H13: Tenure by Age of Householder Table 5-55, Median Household Income by Age, shows the median household income by age of householder in the past 12 months for Taft and Kern County in 2022. The 2022 median household income for households with a resident aged 65 years and over was $59,000 for Taft compared to $47,199 in Kern County. This median household income for seniors is also higher than the citywide median household income but is slightly lower than the countywide median household income.

Table 5-55: Median Household Income by Age, Taft, Kern County, 2022 Age of Householder
Median Income by Jurisdiction
Taft Kern County
15-24 years -- $36,694
25-44 years $51,277 $68,817
45-64 years $61,569 $73,922
65 years and over $59,000 $47,199
All Households $52,414 $63,883
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S1903: Median Income in the Past 12 Months (In 2022 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars)
Table 5-56, Poverty Status by Age, shows the poverty status in the past 12 months for Taft residents.

Seniors account for 8 percent of the total population below poverty, or approximately 15 percent of the total senior population (Table 5-53).

Table 5-56: Poverty Status by Age, Taft, 2022
Age
Population for whom poverty status is determined
Count Percent
Under 18 years 505 34%
18 to 64 years 870 58%
65 years and over 122 8%
Total population below poverty 1,497 100%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S1701: Poverty Status in the Past 12 Months
Table 5-57, Senior Households by Household Type, shows the household types for householders 65 years and older. Most senior households comprise non-family householders living alone, meaning a one-person household. Approximately 35% of senior households are married couples and the remaining five (5) percent comprise a female householder without a spouse. This data indicates that seniors in Taft are more likely to be living alone. Living alone at older ages can have greater needs for support in the home and

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have fewer resources available than similarly aged couples. In addition, older single people may have lower median incomes than their married counterparts, which may make it more difficult to afford housing and in-home care if needed.

Table 5-57: Senior Households by Household Type, Taft, 2022 Household Type
Total
Households
Owner
Occupied
Households
Renter Occupied
Households
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Married-Couple Family 272 35% 236 45% 36 15%
Male Householder, No Spouse 0 0% 0 0% 0 0%
Female Householder, No Spouse 36 5% 36 7% 0 0%
Non-Family Householder, Living Alone 460 60% 252 48% 208 85% Non-Family Householder, Not Living Alone 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% All Senior Households 768 100% 524 100% 244 100%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S2501: Occupancy Characteristics As discussed in Section 5.6.3 People with Disabilities, approximately 58% of the senior population lives with one or more disabilities (see Table 5-48). As shown in Table 5-49, the senior population predominately experiences ambulatory, hearing, cognitive, and independent living difficulties.

Programs and Resources
The City of Taft has one (1) affordable senior living apartment complex, Heritage Park, located at 8th Street and North Street. The apartment complex has 61 units. According to recent listings, rent is subsidized and is approximately $288 to $640 a month. The apartment complex was developed in 1998 using CDBG, HOME, and LIHTC funds. Based on the facility continuously at full occupancy and the results of the 2007 Senior Assisted Living Housing Study, conducted by The Planning Institute, development of another assisted living and/or skilled nursing facility is needed.

There are resources available to serve the senior population in Taft. Resources are available through Kern County Aging and Adult Services, Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Kern County, and Partners in Care Foundation. • Kern County Department of Aging and Adult Services: The department provides communitybased services to ensure seniors and disabled adults remain safely in their home. The department provides a variety of in-home services through its In-Home Supportive Services and Supported Individual Provider program, in addition to Adult Protective Services, Social Programs, and Senior Nutrition. The department also provides tips, techniques, and resources for caregivers.

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• Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance (GBLA): GBLA’s Seniors Law Center program provides direct civil legal assistance to Kern County’s socially and economically needy residents who are 60 years of age or older. Services may include resolving issues related to health, housing, consumer law, and elder abuse. GBLA’s Housing/Disability Income Advocacy Program and Social Security Disability Advocacy Program helps residents (that are experiencing homelessness) obtain SS and SSI disability benefits.
• Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Kern County: ADRC is organized through the State of California Department of Aging as a coordinated network that works to improve service delivery and help older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers navigate the Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) system. The KC-ADRC is a partnership of Kern County Aging and Adult Services and the Independent Living Center of Kern County to help residents find agingand disability-related resources to help improve their lives. KC-ADRC serves anyone in Kern County who is aging or disabled, or their families or caregivers. Anyone who is searching for help navigating the complex LTSS system is invited to use the resources of KC-ADRC. • Partners in Care Foundation: the Partners in Care Foundation’s Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP) serves older adults living in Kern County qualified for Medi-Cal, and functionally impaired or have a medical condition that makes it difficult to complete everyday activities. Various services are provided at no cost to eligible participants including safety equipment, grab bars, ramps, minor home repairs, in-home care, emergency response system, transportation, home delivered meals, and more.

In addition, through the Stakeholder Interviews conducted for the 6th Cycle Housing Element (Chapter 4 COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT), the City of Taft learned about Habitat for Humanity Golden Empire’s Critical Home Repair program which includes general home repair (i.e., ADA ramps, tubs, showers, etc.) and weatherization. Through an informal referral network, Habitat for Humanity Golden Empire can perform home repair work focused on senior and low-income households with a priority for safe homes. Habitat for Humanity Golden Empire completes approximately 250-300 home repairs annually and is growing capacity in this work.

Taft has several opportunities to provide additional and continued support for seniors, such as:
• Zoning that allows a variety of residential options, (i.e., ADUs, multi-family housing, cohousing, and mixed-use developments) (See Section 7.1.2 Zoning Ordinance for discussion). • Promoting the development of senior housing options near transit and within walkable, pedestrianfriendly neighborhoods to increase the mobility and independence of older adults. • Cross-sector partnerships among government agencies, nonprofits, faith-based, cultural institutions to offer resources to help older adults avoid social isolation (e.g., critical home repair, meal programs, recreational and wellness programs).

The City will encourage and promote resources and housing and remove constraints for senior housing through Program 2.a. Housing Rehabilitation (Funding and Assistance), Program 2.b. Housing Rehabilitation (Public Information), Program 2.c. Code Enforcement (Demolitions), Program 2.d.

Code Enforcement (Information and Monitoring), Program 4.c. Preserve Affordable Units,

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Program 5.m. Definition of Family, Program 7.a. Fair Housing (Assistance and Support), Program

7.b. Fair Housing (Information), Program 9.d. (Senior Housing Project), Program 9.e. Funding for New Low-Income Housing Developments, and Program 9.g. Developmental Disabilities.

5.6.5 Female Headed Households
Housing Needs
Female headed households are those with no spouse or partner present. Female headed households are a special housing needs group because females often make lower wages and lack essential resources such as childcare which can be a constraint for finding adequate housing.

Tenure by household type for Taft is shown in Table 5-58. Family households, either married-couple or “other family” (e.g., single-parent households), comprise 64% of Taft’s total housing units (1,702 out of 2,674 households). Approximately 40% of family households are married couples and 24% are other family households. Nonfamily households account for 36% (972) of total households.

Most owner-occupied households in the City are family households (66%) compared to non-family households (34%). Of the owner-occupied households, female-headed households account for nine (9) percent compared to five (5) percent for male-headed households. Sixty-one percent (61%) of renteroccupied households comprise family households and 39% are nonfamily households. Of the renteroccupied households, female-headed households account for 11% compared to 23% for male-headed households.

Overall, female-led households comprise a minority (43%, or 276 out of 643 households) where roughly half of female-led households (55%, or 152 out of 276 households) have own children of the householder under 18 years of age. For comparison, the 2015-2023 Housing Element identified 413 female-led households with own children under 18 years of age. Thus, the number of female-led households with own children has decreased approximately 33%. Most female-led family householders are renter-occupied (55% or 151 out of 276 households).

Table 5-58 Tenure by Household Type, Taft, 2022
Household Type
Total
Households
Owner
Occupied
Households
Renter
Occupied
Households
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Family Households 1,702 64% 881 66% 821 61%
Married-couple family 1,059 40% 691 52% 368 27%
Other family 643 24% 190 14% 453 34%
Male householder, no spouse present 367 14% 65 5% 302 23% With own children under 18 years 285 11% 24 2% 261 20%
No own children under 18 years 82 3% 41 3% 41 3%
Female householder, no spouse present 276 10% 125 9% 151 11% With own children under 18 years 152 6% 73 5% 79 6%
No own children under 18 years 124 4% 52 4% 72 5%
Nonfamily households 972 36% 444 34% 528 39%
Total Households 2,674 100% 1,325 100% 1,349 100%

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Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25115 | Tenure by Household Type and Presence and Age of Own Children
For comparison, tenure by household type for Kern County is shown in Table 5-59. Family households, either married-couple or “other family” (e.g., single-parent households), comprise 74% of the County’s total housing units (210,632 out of 283,510 households). Approximately 49% of family households are married couples and 25% are other family households. Nonfamily households account for 26% (72,878) of total households. The County has a higher proportion of married-couple family households and other households than Taft. Taft has a higher proportion of nonfamily households than the County.

Most owner-occupied households in the County are family households (79%) compared to non-family households (21%). Of the owner-occupied households, female-headed households account for 12% compared to 7% for male-headed households. Renter occupied households are similar, with 67% comprising family households and 33% nonfamily households. Of the renter-occupied households, female-headed households account for 23% compared to 11% for male-headed households.

Overall, female-led households in the County comprise a majority (65%, or 46,759 out of 71,617 households) of other family households where roughly half of female-led households (56%, or 26,460 out of 46,759 households) have own children of the householder under 18 years of age. This is a significantly higher proportion of female-led households than the Taft.

Table 5-59 Tenure by Household Type, Kern County, 2022
Household Type
Total Households Owner Occupied
Households
Renter Occupied
Households
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Family Households 210,632 74% 136,488 79% 74,144 67%
Married-couple family 139,015 49% 102,323 59% 36,692 33% Other family 71,617 25% 34,165 20% 37,452 34%
Male householder, no spouse present 24,858 9% 12,628 7% 12,230 11% With own children under 18 years 13,907 5% 6,607 4% 7,300 7% No own children under 18 years 10,951 4% 6,021 3% 4,930 4% Female householder, no spouse
present
46,759 16% 21,537 12% 25,222 23%
With own children under 18 years 26,460 9% 8,478 5% 17,982 16% No own children under 18 years 20,299 7% 13,059 8% 7,240 7% Nonfamily households 72,878 26% 36,342 21% 36,536 33%
Total Households 283,510 100% 172,830 100% 110,680 100% Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25115 | Tenure by Household Type and Presence and Age of Own Children
Female households by type for Taft and Kern County are shown in Table 5-60. In Taft, there is a total of 508 female households. Most female households (57.1%) in Taft are females living alone followed by females living with relatives (no children) (24.4%). Taft has a higher percentage of females living alone

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than Kern County (57.1% versus 42.1%), but a similar proportion of female households with relatives (no children) (24.4% versus 25.1%). Kern County has a significantly higher percentage of its female households with children than Taft (29.3% versus 15.0%).

Table 5-60 Female Households by Type, Taft, Kern County, 2022 Household Type
City of Taft Kern County
Count Percent Count Percent
Female Householder, No Spouse Or Partner Present 508 100.0% 68,807 100.0% Living Alone 290 57.1% 28,942 42.1%
With Own Children Under 18 Years 76 15.0% 20,193 29.3%
With Relatives, No Own Children Under 18 Years 124 24.4% 17,282 25.1% With Only Nonrelatives Present 18 3.5% 2,390 3.5%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B11012: Households by Type Poverty status by non-married and non-family household type for Taft is shown in Table 5-61. Of the non-married and non-family households, 29.6% of female-headed households (with or without children) are living below the poverty level compared to 70.4% of male-headed households (with or without children). Out of the 148 female-headed households living below the poverty level, 48.0% are with children under 18 years and 52.0% are without children. This data indicates that maleheaded households (with or without children) are experiencing poverty at a significantly greater rate than female-headed households.

Table 5-61 Male- and Female-Headed Households by Poverty Status, Taft, 2022 Household Type
Below Poverty Level At or Above Poverty
Level
Count Percent Count Percent
Male Householder, no spouse present, with children under 18 years 165 33.1% 202 18.1%
Male Householder, no spouse present, without children 186 37.3% 478 43.8% Female Householder, no spouse present, with children
under 18 years 71 14.2% 205 18.4%
Female Householder, no spouse present, without children 77 15.4% 231 20.7% Total 499 100.0% 1,116 100%
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B17017 | Poverty Status in the Past 12 Months by Household type by Age of Householder
Programs and Resources
Single-parent households, specifically female-headed households, face housing constraints due to their limited and single income. These households generally have higher living expenses and require additional

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resources such as childcare and job training assistance, among other things. The City of Taft allows small family childcare homes in all residential zone districts as a by-right use. This follows state law, which promotes affordable in-home childcare.

The Taft area has access to childcare resources available to support female-headed households. Taft College Children’s Center is operated by the West Kern Community College District, serving Pre-K, Toddler, and Infant children through the California State Preschool Program. Taft College Children’s Center is located at 29 Cougar Court in Taft. As of 2023, the teacher-child ratio is three (3) teachers for every nine (9) infants, three (3) teachers for every 12 toddlers, and one (1) teacher for every eight preschoolers and a group size less than 20. This ratio is considered the highest quality for the California State Preschool Program.

The Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) funds various childcare programs that assist families in overcoming poverty and improving their economic situation. CAPK offers the Taft Head Start program for children ages three (3) to five (5) for both partial day and full day services to facilitate healthy development for income eligible families, and the Early Head Start program for children zero (0) to three (3) years. The Childcare Payment Assistance Program is another childcare program offered through the Kern County Superintendent of Schools that is subsidized for low-income families that are either employed, seeking employment, or participating in vocational or educational training. CAPK also has the East Kern Family Resource Center, which can assist families in evaluating and finding adequate childcare.

Experienced consultants work with families to provide childcare referrals that meet logistical, financial, and philosophical goals. The consultants also assist in assessing specific childcare needs.

Beyond childcare, there are additional resources available to support female-headed households. The Kern County Department of Human Services (DHS) offers CalWORKs, which is a program that provides cash assistance to low-income families with children 19 years and younger. Additionally, Kern County DHS partners with the State of California DSS on the CalFresh Program, which provides nutrition and food attainment assistance in the form of a monthly electronic allowance that can be used to purchase food at most markets and grocery stores.

The Kern, Inyo, and Mono County Workforce Development Board County provides job training programs that focus on the economic health of residents, businesses, and communities. They maintain a Workforce Assistance Center to assist job seekers in finding adequate employment and provide job and skill training opportunities that can be utilized by female-headed households to find jobs with higher earnings.

The number of households headed by women indicates the need for childcare, recreation programs, and other social services. The community has made effective use of grant funds for childcare managed by the Community College. The childcare facility accommodates children of students, low-income families, and foster children.

Although there are several programs to support female headed households in the region, Taft lacks a variety of impactful programs within city limits. Additional opportunities for Taft to support femaleheaded households can be realized through the successful implementation of the Housing Element programs, including Program 2.a. Housing Rehabilitation (Funding and Assistance), Program 2.b.

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Housing Rehabilitation (Public Information), Program 2.c. Code Enforcement (Demolitions), Program 2.d. Code Enforcement (Information and Monitoring), Program 3.a. (First-Time Home Buyer Program (Funding and Assistance), Program 3.b. (First-Time Home Buyer Program (Education), Program 4.a. (Housing Choice Vouchers), Program 4.b. Rental Assistance (Education), Program 5.m. Definition of Family, Program 9.d. Senior Housing Project, and Program 9.e.

Funding for New Low-Income Housing Developments.

5.6.6 Large Households
Large households are defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as households containing five (5) or more members. Typically, large households are families with two (2) or more children or families with extended family members (e.g., in-laws, grandparents). Large households are considered a special needs population due to difficulty finding adequately sized and affordably priced units. The lack of adequately sized and affordably priced units to accommodate large households, compounded with lower income levels of larger families, can result in large households residing in overcrowded conditions.

Tenure by household size is shown in Table 5-62. Households with four or more people account for approximately 29.1% (779) of all households in Taft. A slightly higher percentage of these households are renter occupied (1,349 renter occupied households divided by 2,674 total households equals 50.5%), indicating an even split between renter and owner-occupied households. As discussed in Section 5.5.7 Overcrowding, most housing units in Taft have 0.50 occupants or less per room. Among renter-occupied housing, 5.5% are considered overcrowded and none are considered severely overcrowded. As discussed, renter-occupied units have a higher number of occupants per room compared to owner-occupied units.

With lower income households comprising more of the renter market, lower income renters may be disproportionately impacted by overcrowding.

Table 5-62 Tenure by Household Size, Taft, 2022
Household Size
Total
Households
Owner Occupied
Households
Renter Occupied
Households
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
1 person 872 32.6% 344 26.0% 528 39.1%
2 persons 668 25.0% 606 45.7% 62 4.6%
3 persons 355 13.3% 108 8.2% 247 18.3%
4 or more persons 779 29.1% 267 20.2% 512 38.0%
Total households 2,674 100.0% 1,325 100.0% 1,349 100.0% Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S2501: Occupancy Characteristics The number of bedrooms by tenure for occupied housing units is shown in Table 5-63. Of the total occupied housing units, approximately 19.9% (533) have four (4) or more bedrooms. In other words, there are 533 housing units to serve the estimated 779 large households that require at least four (4) bedrooms to avoid overcrowding conditions. Most of the four (4)-or-more-bedroom units are owner-occupied, with only 40% that are renter-occupied. While these numbers do not consider household size, i.e., whether it is actually large households occupying these units, these

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data suggest that large households are more likely to experience overcrowding since large households are more likely to rent than own (see Table 5-62).

Table 5-63 Number of Bedrooms by Tenure, Taft, 2022
Bedrooms
Occupied
Housing Units
Owner Occupied
Housing Units
Renter Occupied
Housing Units
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
No bedroom 21 0.8% 0 0.0% 21 1.6%
1 bedroom 295 11.0% 0 0.0% 295 21.9%
2 or 3 bedrooms 1,825 68.2% 1,007 76.0% 818 60.6%
4 or more bedrooms 533 19.9% 318 24.0% 215 15.9%
Total Housing Units 2,674 100.0% 1,325 100.0% 1,349 100.0% Source: 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S2504: Physical Housing Characteristics for Occupied Housing Units
According to City staff, most of the homes for rent in Taft are in the central portion of the city. Most of these homes were built between 1917 and 1935 and average one (1) or two (2) bedrooms. Over the years porches have been closed in to provide additional sleeping rooms and are counted as bedrooms by the occupants. They are typically larger in floor area and thus more costly. Also, the living costs of a larger family are higher than the average family’s cost of living. Considering the age and condition of housing, it would be of value to create housing, both through rehabilitation and new construction that offers greater sleeping capacity without having to provide a larger floor area. Large families may also require rental assistance.

Programs and Resources
The housing needs of large households are generally in line with the needs of low- and moderateincome households, especially given the likelihood of cost burden and the ability to find adequately sized housing. As with other special needs groups, large households can benefit from more affordable housing development that accommodates larger households (e.g., units more than twobedrooms) which may also include child-care facilities, recreational areas, and transit nearby.

Additional opportunities to support lower and moderate-income large households are through the successful implementation of Program 2.a. Housing Rehabilitation (Funding and Assistance), Program 2.b. Housing Rehabilitation (Public Information), Program 3.a. (First-Time Home Buyer Program (Funding and Assistance), Program 3.b. (First-Time Home Buyer Program (Education), Program 4.a. (Housing Choice Vouchers), Program 4.b. Rental Assistance (Education), Program

5.m. Definition of Family, and Program 9.e. Funding for New Low-Income Housing Developments.

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5.6.7 People Experiencing Homelessness
Homelessness is defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as17:
• Individuals and families who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and includes a subset for an individual who is exiting an institution where he or she resided for 90 days or less and who resided in an emergency shelter, or a place not meant for human habitation immediately before entering that institution;
• Individuals and families who will imminently lose their primary nighttime residence; • Unaccompanied youth and families with children and youth who are defined as homeless under other federal statutes who do not otherwise qualify as homeless under this definition; or • Individuals and families who are fleeing, or are attempting to flee, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or other dangerous or life-threatening conditions that relate to violence against the individual or a family member.

The Kern Council of Governments, per the Kern Regional Housing Data Report approved by HCD in November 2014, conducted a homeless census count known as the Bakersfield-Kern Regional Homeless Collaborative (BKRHC), Homeless Census 2014. The total number of homeless identified in the Taft area in 2014 was 15 adults, none with children.

The most recently published Point In Time (PIT) count for unhoused people countywide was published by BKRHC in 2024. The PIT count covered three (3) days, from January 24, 2024, to January 27, 2024, comprising a single night shelter count and a three (3)-day unsheltered count. Overall, the count found 2,669 persons experiencing homelessness, including 39 people in Taft (Table 5-64). For comparison, the 2023 PIT count found 10 unhoused people in Taft. Between 2023 and 2024, the unhoused population in Taft increased by 290%.

According to the 2024 PIT count, the number of unhoused people in the County has increased over time from 1,603 in 2022, to 1,948 in 2023, and 2,669 in 2024. Of the 2024 unhoused populations, 38% are sheltered (1,006 individuals) and 62% are unsheltered (1,663 individuals). Because there are no shelters in Taft, it can be assumed that the 39 unhoused people are unsheltered. Unsheltered populations in the County represent higher percentages of chronically homeless, veterans, and youth. 17 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (September 2013) Expanding Opportunities to House Individuals and Families Experiencing Homelessness through the Public Housing (PH) and Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Programs: Questions and Answers (Q&As).

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Table 5-64 Unsheltered Point In Time Count by Jurisdiction, 2024 Jurisdiction Count Percent
Arvin 26 2%
Bakersfield 1,202 76%
Bodfish 2 0%
Delano 86 5%
Ford City 1 0%
Frazier Park 3 0%
Inyo-Kern 1 0%
Lake Isabella 16 1%
Lamont 13 1%
Mojave 7 0%
Oildale 122 8%
Ridgecrest 9 1%
Rosamond 8 1%
Shafter 2 0%
Taft 39 2%
Tehachapi 11 1%
Wasco 35 2%
Wofford Heights 2 0%
Total 1,585 100%
The racial/ethnic composition of homeless populations in Kern County is shown in Table 5-65, based on the most recent HUD Continuum of Care homeless assistance programs – homeless populations and subpopulations summary. As shown, most homeless populations (sheltered and unsheltered) identify as non-Hispanic/Latino (59%) and White (77%).

Table 5-65 Race and Ethnicity of Homeless Populations, Kern County, 2023 Total Sheltered Unsheltered
Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent
Ethnicity
Hispanic/Latino 791 41% 349 37% 442 43%
Non-Hispanic/Latino 1,157 59% 582 62% 575 57%
Total 1,948 100% 931 100% 1,017 100%
Race
Black or African-American 306 16% 189 20% 117 12%
White 1503 77% 675 73% 828 81%
Asian 12 1% 8 1% 4 0%
American Indian or Alaska
Native 36 2% 20 2% 16 2%
Native Hawaiian or Other
Pacific Islander 12 1% 5 1% 7 1%
Multiple Races 79 4% 34 4% 45 4%
Total 1,948 100% 931 100% 1,017 100%
Source: HUD 2023 Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance Programs Homeless Populations and Subpopulations, https://files.hudexchange.info/reports/published/CoC_PopSub_CoC_CA-604- 2023_CA_2023.pdf

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Programs and Resources
The Bakersfield-Kern Regional Homeless Collaborative (BKRHC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works to reduce the impacts of homelessness in the county through collaborative planning and action that expands access to permanent affordable housing and supportive services. BKRHC was founded in 2019 to serve as the HUD-recognized Collaborative Applicant and Fiscal Agent for the Bakersfield/Kern County Continuum of Care responsible for planning and coordinating housing and services for families and individuals experiencing homelessness in the Bakersfield-Kern region.

As a collaborative, BKRHC includes homelessness service providers, government agencies, advocacy groups, businesses, and currently and formerly homeless persons, who bring their expertise from working hands-on, every day with homeless individuals and families to help them obtain permanent housing and get the supportive services they need to reach their full potential. BKRHC does not provide any services directly to persons experiencing homelessness. Rather, BKRHC works to coordinate programs and services across the continuum of care, so that people experiencing homelessness have the resources and support they need to achieve stability in permanent housing. BKRHC is responsible for developing and coordinating the implementation of the Bakersfield-Kern region’s 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness.

The most current 10-year plan, “Home at Last! Kern County’s Plan to End Homelessness by 2028,” was adopted in 2018.

There are a variety of housing facilities and services offered to homeless individuals by organizations within Kern County, including Emergency Shelters, Transitional Housing, and Permanent Supportive housing options. Currently, there are no housing facilities or services for homeless individuals in Taft.

Table 5-66 shows the total beds available in Kern County in 2022, based on HUD’s CoC Homeless Assistance Programs, Housing Inventory Count Report. There are approximately 889 beds in emergency shelters, 267 beds in transitional housing, and 3,100 beds in permanent supportive housing.

Taft has a network of service providers who work together in coordinating their limited resources to meet the needs of the unhoused. The Alpha House “A Place for New Beginnings,” Salvation Army, N.E.E.D.S.

Center (a United Way/Emergency Food and Shelter funded program), Laborers of the Harvest, American Red Cross and several local churches are organized to address the needs of unhoused persons in the City of Taft and greater Taft area. These groups working in conjunction with the Kern County Department of Social Services provide food, shelter, clothing, transportation, disaster, and medication services. The Police Department and Chamber of Commerce are involved in this network in that they often are sought out as references to these local services.

The Alpha House “A Place for New Beginnings” is a 501 (C)(3) non-profit organization, which was established in the early 1990’s and shelters unhoused females of all ages, males under the age of 12, and battered women. The facility has a capacity of housing 14 individuals, with a maximum stay of no longer than six (6) months. The Alpha House receives funding through private and public sector grants to operate and works closely with the Salvation Army, N.E.E.D.S. Center (a United Way/Emergency Food and Shelter funded program), American Red Cross and several local churches to provide the needed care for the unhoused in the area.

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Table 5-66: Housing Inventory Count Report, Kern County, 2022 Facility Name Facility
Type Provider Name
Beds
Family AdultOnly
ChildOnly Total
Alliance Emergency
Shelter ES Alliance Ag. Family Violence 8 8 0 16
ALPHA House ES Women’s & Children’s
Shelter 9 3 0 12
Bethany Services ES Bethany Services 130 114 0 244
Low Barrier ES California Veteran’s
Assistance Foundation 18 6 0 24
Casa Esperanza ES Casa Esperanza 20 0 0 20
M Street Café
Camping/Homeless
Navigation Center
ES Community Action
Partnership of Kern 0 197 0 197
Brundage Lane Navigation ES Mercy House Living
Centers 0 150 0 150
The Mission at Kern
County ES The Mission at Kern County 0 200 0 200
Women’s & Children’s
Shelter ES Women’s Center High Desert 26 0 0 26
Total 211 678 0 889
Delano Shelter
Project/Transitional
Housing Project
TH Alliance Ag. Family
Violence 20 20 0 40
CVA TH California Veteran’s
Assistance Foundation 8 54 0 62
HDAP TH Flood Bakersfield
Ministries 44 0 0 44
Men’s
Residential/Women’s
Residential
TH The Mission at Kern
County 32 71 0 103
Transitional Housing
Program TH Women’s Center High Desert 18 0 0 18
Total 122 145 0 267
Aftercare (Various) PSH Bethany Services 201 295 0 496
HIV/AIDS Homeless
Project PSH Clinica Sierra Vista 19 63 0 82
Various PSH Housing Authority of
Kern 1,191 1,331 0 2,522
Total 1,411 1,689 0 3,100
Note: ES = Emergency Shelter, PSH = Permanent Supportive Housing, TH = Transitional Housing Source: HUD 2022 Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance Programs, Housing Inventory Count Report, 2022
The best count to date by Westside Resource Center (now defunct) shows that approximately 11 individuals (excluding children) request shelter per month and are subsidized from various organizations for this population to be in local motels. The number of people seeking shelter has steadily increased.

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Taft has many functionally homeless people; those who move from couch to couch, home to home, shelter to shelter by staying with whomever will take them. The BKRHC believes this is an unidentified problem and increases the likelihood that this population will end up without shelter. A common concern among these groups is the limited transportation services to Bakersfield, or at least the cost associated with it.

The nearest homeless shelter is in Bakersfield, more than 30 miles east, and it is difficult for this population to arrange transportation to the shelter, if needed. Specialized medical care not being available in Taft also creates a demand for transit that is not affordable to limited income persons. The Mission at Kern County does outreach in Taft monthly to offer services and resources for those seeking shelter or support.

Additional opportunities to support people experiencing homelessness or on the verge of homelessness are through the successful implementation of Program 4.a. (Housing Choice Vouchers), Program 4.b.

Rental Assistance (Education), Program 5.c. Emergency Shelters, Program 5.d. Low Barrier Navigation centers, Program 5.e. Transitional Housing, Program 5.f. Supportive Housing, Program

5.g. Single-Room Occupancy, Program 7.a. Fair Housing (Assistance and Support), Program 7.b.

Fair Housing (Information), Program 8.a. Homeless Services, and Program 9.e. Funding for New Low-Income Housing Developments.

Project Roomkey
In March 2020, Project Roomkey was established as part of the State’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the Project Roomkey and Rehousing Strategy was to provide non-congregate shelter options, such as hotels and motels, for people experiencing homelessness and to minimize strain on the health care system. The program evolved, in November 2020, to a Rehousing Strategy to support permanent transitions to safe and stable housing to ensure homelessness is non-recurring. The program was also used to provide those exposed to COVID-19 a place to recuperate and properly quarantine outside of a hospital facility, and as a safe place for isolation for people who are experiencing homelessness and at high risk of medical complications. The Project Roomkey units were intended to be temporary, emergency shelter options, while the Housing Strategy ensured occupants transitioned to permanent housing.

Building on the Project Roomkey and Rehousing Strategy program, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) began the Homekey grant program. The funding program was created to provide opportunities for agencies to acquire hotels, motels, apartments, and other buildings to provide long-term homes for people experiencing, or at risk of homelessness. Homekey is an opportunity for state, regional, and local public entities to convert commercial properties and other existing buildings to permanent or interim housing, including but not limited to hotels, motels, hostels, single-family homes and multi-family apartments, adult residential facilities, and manufactured homes.

Due to the City’s low homeless population, the existing voucher programs, and prior experience with the local homeless population not seeking or wanting temporary housing assistance, the Roomkey and Homekey programs have not been adopted or implemented in the greater Taft area.

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5.7 Future Housing Needs
The Kern Council of Governments (KernCOG) prepares a Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) that analyzes regional growth trends based on the incorporated City and unincorporated County land use plans with the regional transportation needs, and with the perspective of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Part of the analysis includes populations and household growth projections. The KernCOG 2022 RTP/SCS included Table 5-67 with the growth trends for Kern County. Below are selections from that table to include Kern County and Taft projections for population, households, and employment for Census years and out to the year 2046.

Table 5-67 Population Growth Trends, Kern County, Taft, 2000-2046 Community Census
2000
Census
2010
Census
2020
Forecast
2035
Forecast
2046
Historic Growth
1980-2020
Forecast Growth
2020-2046
Kern County
Population 661,653 839,600 909,235 1,076,000 1,200,000 2.0% 1.0% Group Quarters 29,970 36,575 28,704 32,490 28,680 3.0% 0.0% Households 208,655 254,610 281,498 318,180 350,720 1.7% 0.8% Employment 232,461 274,900 334,800 374,780 395,110 1.7% 0.6% Taft
Population 6,400 9,327 8,546 9,800 10,620 1.2% 0.8%
Group Quarters 559 2,955 1,620 1,800 1,600 6.1% 0.0%
Households 2,233 2,254 2,379 2,700 2,960 0.3% 0.8%
Employment 2,600 3,000 3,690 3,900 4,200 1.0% 0.5%
Source: Kern Council of Governments (KernCOG) 2022 RTP/SCS, Table 3-2 As seen in the table above, the projected forecasts for Kern County continue the optimistic trend resulting from the greater Bakersfield area’s continued steady housing development and growth. As the greater Bakersfield area grows within and absorbs the migration from the larger metro areas of southern and northern California, this growth trend is expected to continue well into 2035 and 2046. The area cresting over the 1,000,000-person population number should be achieved prior to the 2030 Census.

As for Taft, the projected forecast has remained conservative as the City has not had trends of growth spikes or drops, except with the group quarter’s population. However, a sub-one-percent growth rate of

0.8% is an appropriate outlook as housing development tends to operate at a slow-and-steady pace. The next chapter will cover the available land in the City that can continue to provide for the slow and steady growth of infill lots, tract development, and redevelopment of Downtown Taft through a mix of uses.

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6 SITES INVENTORY AND RESOURCE ASSESSMENT
State Housing Law (Government Code Section 65583(a)(3)) requires local governments to prepare an inventory of land suitable for residential development, including:
1) vacant sites and sites having realistic and demonstrated potential for redevelopment during the planning period to meet the locality’s housing need for a designated income level, 2) an analysis of the relationship between zoning, public facilities and services to these sites; and 3) an analysis of the relationship of the sites identified in the land inventory to the jurisdiction’s duty to affirmatively further fair housing.

The available and suitable sites are referred to in this chapter as “adequate sites.”

6.1 Sites Inventory

6.1.1 Regional Housing Needs Allocation
On August 18, 2022, the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) approved Kern COG’s 6
th Cycle Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) Plan that was adopted by their board on July 21, 2022 (Corrected on January 9, 2023). The allocated housing needs for the City of Taft for the planning period of June 2023 through December 2031 are shown in Table 6-1 by income category based on the Area Median Income (AMI). During this Housing Element planning cycle, 2023 to 2031, Taft has been allocated through RHNA, 111 lower income units, 109 moderate income units, and 284 above moderate-income units.

Table 6-1 RHNA for 8-Year Planning Period, Taft, 2023-2031 Income Category Total Units
Very Low Income (< 50% AMI) 68
Low Income (50-80% AMI) 43
Moderate Income (80-120% AMI) 109
Above Moderate Income (>120% AMI) 284
Total Units 504
Extremely Low Income (<30% AMI) * 34*
*Extremely low income housing need determined pursuant to Government Code Section 65583(a)(1). Extremely low income RHNA is assumed to be half of the very low income RHNA.

This section of the Housing Element addresses the requirements of Government Code Sections 65583 and 65583.2, requiring a parcel specific inventory of appropriately zoned, available, and suitable sites that can provide realistic opportunities for the provision of housing to all income segments within the community.

6.1.2 Adequate Site Selection Methodology
A City’s share of RHNA can be met through the implementation of a variety of strategies (e.g., available and appropriately zoned land, units built since the beginning of baseline RHNA period, and nonresidential zoned sites that can be rezoned for residential use). Due to Taft’s abundance of undeveloped land within city limits, Taft’s primary method for meeting RHNA requirements is through the

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identification of available vacant sites that are suitable and appropriately zoned. The inventory of adequate sites is created utilizing the following methodology.

Step 1. Adjust RHNA based on ADU Development and Pipeline Projects Step 1 is to adjust RHNA based on projected Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) development and pipeline projects. First, the average number of ADUs permitted per year is calculated and local knowledge is used to project the average ADUs that could be built per year in the City. Then the annual project ADU units is multiplied by eight (8) for the planning period (2023 to 2031) of this Housing Element. These projected ADUs are then allocated to each income category based on the market rates for comparable rental properties and/or studies on ADU affordability. Next, planned or approved projects under development that are presumed to be completed during the 2023-2031 planning period are identified. These units are then allocated to each income category based on market rates for comparable sales or rental properties.

Lastly, the projected ADU and pipeline units are subtracted from RHNA. The remaining RHNA are referred to as “adjusted RHNA.”
Step 2. Produce Inventory of Adequate Sites and Analyze Suitability of Sites for RHNA Step 2 is to produce an inventory of adequate sites and provide an analysis on the suitability of these sites to accommodate RHNA. The City’s evaluation of adequate sites begins with a listing of sites that permit residential development by zone and general plan designation. Next, vacant and underutilized properties (i.e., sites that are partly vacant or sites that are used solely for parking) are identified from the sites that permit residential development. Sites that have existing structures that are not utilized for more than 20 years are also included in the inventory. The site’s suitability analysis will demonstrate that these sites are currently available with limited to no constraints to provide realistic development opportunities prior to December 31, 2031 (the end of planning period). To demonstrate the realistic development viability of the sites, Section 6 also discusses whether appropriate zoning is in place, the applicable development standards and their impact on projected development capacity and affordability, existing constraints including any known environmental issues (Section 6.2), availability of existing and planned public service capacity levels (Section 6.3), and other constraints (Section 6.4).

The City’s land inventory was developed with the use of a combination of resources including the City of Taft and Kern County’s Geological Information Systems (GIS) database, updated Assessor’s data, field surveys, and review of the City’s Land Use Element and Zoning Ordinance. The compilation resulted in an identification of sites and an estimate of potential development capacity for these sites (see STEP 3).

The City’s available land for residential development is categorized into three (3) types: (1) the redevelopment areas in Downtown Taft Specific Plan Area (DTSP), (2) in-fill lots within residential areas where homes have been destroyed/demolished due to dilapidation and/or fire (IFL), and (3) vacant large lot properties adjacent to the developed edge of Taft (LLP).

Step 3. Calculate Realistic Development Capacity of Sites Step 3 is to calculate realistic development capacity of the sites. Government Code Section 65583.2(c) requires that local governments demonstrate that the projected residential development capacity of the

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inventory sites can be realistically achieved. AB 1397 amends the Housing Element Law to include limitations on assigning unit capacity to sites. Specifically, calculation for unit capacity must be realistic based on analysis demonstrating a history of development of affordable housing at the assigned density.

A site cannot be presumed to accommodate the maximum density permitted. Historically, in past Housing Elements, the City used 80%; however, no residential development of significant size occurred in the last cycle. The following section details the development assumptions for the 6th Cycle Housing Element.

Recent Development Trends
There has been limited development in Taft in the last planning period. The most recent proposed development within the planning period includes Tentative Tract Map (TTM) 7227 and 7230, which together proposed a 394-lot single-family residential subdivision on 128.6 acres (proposed density: 3.0 dwelling units per acre) in the R-1 zone district (maximum density: 5.0 dwelling units per acre). The TTMs were approved in 2012. As described in Pipeline Projects, 48 lots have been sold and built, with 346 lots remaining. Lots that have been developed are currently developed with approximately 78% capacity. No other development of significant size has occurred in the city since the last cycle.

Since development is limited, Taft-specific development trends cannot accurately reflect future housing development. Therefore, for more recent development trends in the region, the City looked at the Housing Elements of neighboring Kern County cities including Wasco and Shafter. Both cities utilized 70% as a conservative estimate for realistic capacity, which is based on the historical pattern for the 5th Cycle and recent development patterns and trends in all zones. Example projects are shown in Table 6-2. As noted in their Housing Elements, a higher capacity is seen for single-family compared to multi-family residential. Therefore, in the absence of recent local development, Taft will utilize a realistic capacity of 70% of the maximum density permitted for residentially zoned parcels.

Realistic Capacity (du/ac) = Max Density (du/ac) x Acreage of Parcel x 70%

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Table 6-2 Development Trends in the Past 10 Years, Wasco, 2012 - 2022 Project Name Jurisdiction General Plan
Land Use
Designation
Zone District Affordability Project Site
Size (ac)
Built Units Built Density
(% of max.)
Tract 7311 Wasco Low Density
Residential
(max. 7.5 du/ac)
Single Family
R-1
Moderate 47.37 203 4.28 du/ac
(57%)
Tract 7373 Wasco Low Density
Residential
(max. 7.5 du/ac)
Single Family
R-1
Moderate 39.09 145 3.70
(49%)
Tract 6334
Phase II
Wasco Low Density
Residential
(max. 7.5 du/ac)
Single Family
R-1
Moderate 15 73 4.86
(65%)
Delgado Villas Wasco Medium Density
Residential
(max. 15 du/ac)
Multi-Family
R-2
Moderate 1.74 23 13.2
(88%)
Poplar Place
Apartments
Wasco Medium Density
Residential
(max. 15 du/ac)
Multi-Family
R-2
Moderate 2.6 36 13.8
(92%)
Rosaleda
Village
Wasco High Density
Residential
(max. 24 du/ac)
Multi-Family
R-3
Very Low; Low 17 226 13.2
(55%)
Average 68%

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Sites with Environmental Constraints
The realistic capacity of each site is also affected by known constraints including flood zones and airport compatibility zones which can limit density. There are approximately eight (8) parcels in a flood zone and 19 parcels within an Airport Compatibility Zone in Taft. For the purposes of this Housing Element, sites that have rivers, streams, or flood zones on or adjacent to the property use a development assumption of 60% of the maximum density permitted. For these parcels, a lesser capacity is assumed and based on the average percentage of the site area within a flood zone which is approximately 10%. In addition, sites that are within Airport Compatibility Zone C use a development assumption of 15 dwelling units per acre.

Flood Zone Realistic Capacity (du/ac) = Max Density (du/ac) x Acreage of Parcel x 60% Airport Compatibility Zone C Realistic Capacity (du/ac) = 15 or Max Density, whichever is less (du/ac) x Acreage of Parcel x 70%
Likelihood of Non-residential Development for Mixed-Use Sites Mixed-use zones in Taft include the Mixed Use (0 to 29 dwelling units), Downtown Core Mixed Use (25 to 40 dwelling units per acre), Downtown Transition Mixed Use (15 to 30 dwelling units per acre), and Live-Work Mixed Use (10 to 20 dwelling units per acre) zone districts within the Downtown Taft Specific Plan Area. The realistic capacity for mixed-use sites is affected by the potential for non-residential development, since residential and non-residential development is permitted in these zones. There are approximately 97 parcels that are zoned for mixed-use development, which could result in 1) a combination of residential and non-residential uses, 2) 100% residential uses, or 3) 100% non-residential uses based on the Zoning Ordinance.

According to City records, there has been limited residential and non-residential development demand in these mixed-use zone districts; the sites are currently vacant and undeveloped. Furthermore, no mixeduse or multi-family residential development has occurred in Taft. Since development is limited, Taftspecific development trends cannot accurately reflect future housing development. Therefore, for more recent development trends in the region, the City looked at the Housing Elements of neighboring Kern County cities including Wasco, Shafter, and Bakersfield. Of the three, Bakersfield is the only city with established mixed-use development trends as documented in its Housing Element. Like Taft, Bakersfield’s mixed-use zones permit 100 percent non-residential uses, with no minimum requirement for residential development. Mixed-use development trends in Bakersfield from 2012 to 2021 show that 55% of development applications in these zones included residential uses and that residential projects continue to be developed in mixed use zones.

Despite the limited interest in Taft, there is infrastructure capacity (water, sewer, transportation) to support development on these parcels and flexible development and design standards that would not impact density achievable should residential uses be proposed. Out of the 97 parcels, two (2) are developed with former commercial uses and nine (9) are City-owned with potential soil contamination. Although the existing conditions of these 11 sites could limit their development potential, this Housing Element

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provides an analysis and establishes programs to remove barriers to development (See Realistic Development Potential of Non-Vacant Sites and Government Properties Suitable for Development).

In addition, the Downtown Taft Specific Plan (DTSP) actively plans for and encourages residential uses and mixed-use development within the downtown area, which encompasses a significant portion of these mixed-use parcels. The DTSP's "Land Use Plan" aims to "encourage new housing opportunities" and create a "thriving, healthy and balanced community with an economically diverse Downtown urban environment.” As detailed in Chapter 3 of the DTSP, the plan introduces specific mixed-use districts like the Downtown Core and Downtown Transition. The "Downtown Core" is specifically "intended to encourage vertical high density residential and commercial uses," fostering a "unique Downtown main street look and feel." The "Downtown Transition" designation also allows for a "wide variety of uses," including residential, creating a transition to existing residential neighborhoods. The DTSP also features a "Live-Work designation" which "encourages residents to build and grow local businesses, with the opportunity to live above their workspace." The plan's vision is to establish downtown as a central zone with street-oriented uses and a vibrant mixed-use district, surrounded by residential uses, providing a strong policy framework for future housing.

The suitability of these locations for residential development is further reinforced by their proximity to existing community amenities and the City's broader goals for downtown revitalization. The City's ownership of nine (9) parcels within these zones provides an opportunity to actively influence and promote residential development as part of its economic development and housing strategies. Given these factors— the proactive encouragement of residential uses within the DTSP, the strategic suitability of the locations for mixed-use residential, the City's ownership of key parcels enabling direct intervention, the existing infrastructure capacity, and flexible zoning standards—and recent mixed-use development trends in Bakersfield. the City has adopted a conservative estimate of 50% realistic capacity for mixed-use sites.

This acknowledges the current lack of historical demand while reflecting the strong policy direction and inherent potential for residential development facilitated by the DTSP and the City's direct involvement.

Mixed-Use Realistic Capacity (du/ac) = Max Density (du/ac) x Acreage of Parcel x 50% Step 4. Identify Affordability Level of Sites
Step 4 is to identify the affordability level of each site based on permitted density. The general criterion of categorization follows this method:
• Above-moderate income sites: Sites that are designated as Low Density Residential (consistent with RS, R-1, R-2 zone districts) are generally categorized for above-moderate housing development due to its low density.
• Moderate income sites: Sites that are designated as Medium Density Residential and High Density Residential (consistent with R-2 zone district), including Medium Density Residential (MDR) and Live-Work Mixed Use (LW-MU) in the Specific Plan, are generally categorized for moderate housing development.

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• Lower income sites: The City recognizes that sites that have a maximum permitted density of over 20 du/ac, including Mixed Use (consistent with MU, DC-MU, DT-MU zone districts) and High Density Residential (consistent with R-3 zone district) designations, provide the potential for lower construction costs due to the economies of scale; therefore, are viewed as the most suitable for development of housing affordable to very low- and low-income households.

Step 5. Confirm Compliance with State Law
Step 5 is to confirm that the adequate sites for inventory comply with State Law. State Law restricts the type and condition of sites that can be allocated to provide for RHNA units, especially for lower income units. This is to ensure that the sites are not constrained by environmental or social barriers and are more prone to development. Relevant requirements are listed below. If the sites do not meet these requirements, a Program would be established, or it would be removed. • Non-vacant and Underutilized Sites: An analysis must be provided to describe the realistic development potential within the planning period if non-vacant sites are included in the inventory to meet RHNA. If more than 50% of the inventory sites for lower income households are identified to be non-vacant, the non-vacant sites’ existing use is presumed to impede additional residential development, and findings based on substantial evidence shall be provided to describe that the existing use will likely be discontinued during the planning period. These findings are required to be included in the resolution adopting the Housing Element. • Re-identification of Sites from Prior Housing Element: Pursuant AB 1397, sites identified in prior Housing Elements may only be included in a new element as available to accommodate the lower income RHNA if they are rezoned for by‐right development and require at least 20% of the housing on those sites be affordable to lower income households. Generally, previously identified sites refer to parcels that were identified in previous Housing Element’s sites inventory to accommodate any portion of any income category of the jurisdiction’s RHNA, as follows:
o For a nonvacant site: Included in a prior planning period’s housing element (e.g., 5th cycle housing element)
o For a vacant site: Included in two or more consecutive planning periods (e.g., 5th cycle and 4th cycle housing element)
• Density Requirement to Accommodate Lower-Income Units: Government Code Section 65583.2(c)(3)(B) allows local governments to utilize “default” density standards deemed adequate to meet the “appropriate zoning” test. Since Taft is a “suburban” jurisdiction, sites allowing at least 20 units per acre shall be deemed appropriate to accommodate housing for lower income households (per Government Code Section 65583.2(c)(3)(B)(iii)). This is only required when an identified lower-income housing site requires rezoning to meet the RHNA numbers. • Lot Size Requirement to Accommodate Lower-Income Units: It should be noted that parcels and/or portions of parcels smaller than 0.5 acre or over 10 acres are considered inadequate to accommodate housing affordable to lower income households, unless feasibility is demonstrated.

Feasibility can be demonstrated through providing evidence that: 1) that sites of equivalent size

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were successfully developed during the prior planning period with an equivalent number of lower income housing units as projected for the site; 2) developer interest; or 3) lot consolidation or lot splits, policies or incentives provided, etc.
• Stronger Infrastructure Requirements: Pursuant AB 1397, sites identified to accommodate the lower income RHNA must be served by water, sewer and dry utilities. • No Net Loss Requirement: As amended by SB 166, jurisdictions must ensure that the land inventory and site identification program are sufficient to accommodate the unmet RHNA for lower and moderate-income households “at all times.” This means that if developments do not meet the presumed number of lower income units in the Housing Element, the jurisdiction must make a finding that the remaining inventory sites could meet the RHNA or identify a replacement site that makes up for the lost capacity.
• Land Ownership: Identify sites located on land controlled by exempt entities (e.g., college/ university, military, recognized Native American tribes). Do not include unless it can be demonstrated that planned housing can be developed within the current planning period.

Step 6. Final Sites Inventory
Step 6 is to produce the final Sites Inventory, including completing the electronic sites inventory template as required by HCD and creating maps. California maintains a statewide electronic database listing Housing Opportunity Sites for every jurisdiction in the State. Cities and counties are required to enter their sites into the database upon adoption of their Housing Elements pursuant to Government Code Section 65583.3. This includes providing data such as assessor parcel number, acreage, yield, zoning, General Plan designation, and other prescribed fields of information for each site, as required by HCD. Taft entered this data for the adequate sites following adoption, as required by State law.

6.1.3 Availability of Adequate Sites
This section provides a calculation of the adjusted RHNA and an overview of the adequate sites of the Sites Inventory. The inventory includes a wide range of small to large parcels that are in residential and non-residential zone districts which are substantially vacant or underutilized and have the potential to be developed for more intense residential uses. The City has identified 33 potential sites that meet the demand allocated by the Kern Council of Governments Regional Housing Needs Allocation. The sites range in size from 0.14 acres to 95.08 acres. The locations are dispersed throughout the City and have been organized and mapped based on if the site is an infill site, a potentially larger development or subdivision, or in the Downtown redevelopment area.

Adjusted RHNA
Table 6-3 shows the adjusted RHNA for Taft. The adjusted RHNA is calculated by removing the number of ADUs that are projected to be developed and number of units that are within the development pipeline and are presumed to be constructed during the 6th cycle eight-year planning period. Moderate and abovemoderate income units are accommodated through pipeline projects. The remaining/adjusted RHNA totals 90 units for lower income units. ADU projections and pipeline projects are described further below.

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Table 6-3 Adjusted RHNA, Taft, 2023-2031
Accessory Dwelling Units
Government Code Section 65583.1(a) allows the identification of accessory dwelling unit (ADU) units based on the number of ADUs developed in the prior housing element planning period to credit for RHNA.

There were two (2) ADUs that have been built by the same builder in 2023 (500 sf and 650 sf), one (1) ADU built in 2016 (760 sf), and one (1) ADU which permit expired in 2022 (500 sf). According to Taft’s Planning and Development Services Department, the City expects to see an increase of ADU development in the coming years due to a number of reasons, including:

1. There has been no apparent opposition to ADU development in the community.

2. Many properties in the City have alley access, which provides a more suitable environment for the development of ADU regarding access issues.

3. The ADUs built in 2023 will showcase and spread word on the benefits of ADUs, encouraging more property owners to build.

4. Taft will develop and adopt an ADU Pre-Approved Program (see Program 6.a. ADU Ordinance, Program 6.b. ADU Pre-Approved Plans, Program 6.c. Promote and Monitor ADU Development) by 2024, with a goal to develop at least five (5) ADUs per year.

As such, it is expected that that three (3) ADUs will be built per year in 2023 (half of the units since the cycle starts mid-year), 2024, and 2025, and (5) ADUs will be built per year after the Pre-Approved Program is adopted in 2026 to the end of this planning period in June 2031 (half of the units since the cycle starts mid-year). This results in a projection of a total of 30 ADUs in the 2023-2031 Housing Element planning period. Program 6.c. implements a monitoring program to ensure the production and affordability of ADUs in 2028 to access progress towards reaching 30 ADUs during the planning period.

If it is evident that the 30 ADU target is not being met, additional action, such as incentives and outreach, would be taken within six (6) months of the assessment.

Affordability Levels
There is no readily available survey information regarding ADU affordability in Taft or Kern County. As such, an ADU survey performed in 2021 by the UC Berkeley Center for Community Innovation is used Income Category
Total
Lower (Very Low and Low) Moderate Above Moderate
6 th Cycle RHNA 111 109 284 504
ADU Projections 21 6 3 30
Pipeline Projects 0 0 346 346
Remaining/Adjusted RHNA 90 103 0 220

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to investigate the affordability of ADUs in California.18 While this ADU survey only covers the central and southern coastal counties in California, the attributes assessed are used as a sample of California as a whole and is consequently used for Taft for this analysis. According to the ADU survey, 51% of California’s new ADUs serve as income-generating rental units and 16% of ADUs are occupied by relatives for free. Most of California’s new ADUs are not family-sized units; rather, 86% of renteroccupied ADUs are occupied by only one (1) or two (2) people. Similarly, it is expected that ADUs constructed within Taft are small in size and range from one (1) to two (2) bedrooms.

Regarding the rental prices of ADUs, the ADU survey found that the median ADU rental prices ranged from $1,925 in the Central Coast region to $2,200 in the San Francisco Bay Area, which has an overall median ADU rent per square foot of $3.68. The median rental prices are affordable, meaning that rent prices consist of less than 30% of household incomes. The survey also found that a large number of units are affordable to those making less than 80% of the area median income (AMI); however, this varies significantly between counties. Table 6-4 lists the current ADU rental listings in Kern County in April 2024. There are four (4) ADUs available for rent in Kern County, including three (3) studios and a 2- bedroom ADU. The median rental price is $950, and the average rental price is $1,025, which are both affordable for very low-income households (below 50% of AMI). Overall, three (3) of the ADUs are affordable to very low-income households and the ADU with the highest rent ($1,350) is affordable to low-income households (below 80% of AMI).

Table 6-4 Current ADU Rental Listings, Kern County, April 2024 Property Location ADU Size Bed/Bath Listed Rent (Monthly) Listing Site 327 Adeline St, Maricopa 450 sf. studio $1,000 Craigslist 812 Lawson Rd, Bakersfield 400 sf. studio $900 Zillow
1006 1/2 Quantico Ave, Bakersfield 600 sf. 2 bd/1 ba $850 Zillow 240 E Church Ave, Ridgecrest 430 sf. studio $1,350 Zillow Median Monthly ADU Rent $950
Average Monthly ADU Rent $1,025
Source: Craigslist, Zillow, Apartments.com
Note: A second dwelling that is smaller from the main dwelling in the same lot is included in this ADU rental listing search. Duplexes are not included.

The 2021 ADU Survey found that the median rent price of ADUs is affordable to median income households and referenced the Pacific Northwest survey, which found that 58% of ADUs rent for below market rate. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) 19 and Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) 20 also recommend ADU affordability distributions to estimate future ADU units for Housing Elements. ABAG recommends ADU affordability to be distributed as 60% for lower income, 18 UC Berkeley Center for Community Innovation. (2021). Implementing the Backyard Revolution: Perspectives of California’s ADU Owners. Accessed April 4, 2024, https://www.aducalifornia.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Implementing-the-Backyard-Revolution.pdf 19 Association of Bay Area Governments. (2022). Using ADUs to Satisfy RHNA. Accessed April 4, 2024, https://abag.ca.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2022-06/ADUs-Projections-Memo_final.pdf 20 Southern California Association of Governments. (2020). SCAG Regional Accessory Dwelling Unit Affordability Analysis. Accessed April 4, 2024, https://scag.ca.gov/sites/main/files/file-attachments/adu_affordability_analysis_120120v2.pdf?1606868527

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30% for moderate income, and 10% for above moderate income. SCAG recommends ADU affordability to be distributed as 41% to 70% for lower income, 2% to 30% for moderate income, and 2% to 30% for above moderate income, depending on which county it is in.

According to Table 6-4, current ADU rental listings in Kern County is distributed as 100% lower income.

Additionally, ADUs that were built in Taft are smaller in size, which usually results in higher affordability.

However, for a more conservative projection, Taft utilizes a 10% above moderate and 20% moderate ADU affordability distribution to provide a similar scenario as the current ADU rental listings in Kern County but account for outliers and listings that are not currently on the market. A conservative projection ensures that RHNA units for lower and moderate-income households are not overestimated. Table 6-5 shows the distribution of ADU affordability by income category assumed in the RHNA sites inventory for Taft’s 6th cycle Housing Element. Additionally, the City will continue to monitor the extent of ADU production to ensure that ADU-related policies and procedures are successful and that the Housing Element goals and RHNA production can be met, as outlined in Program 6.c. Promote and Monitor ADU Development.

Table 6-5 6th Cycle ADU by Income Category for RHNA, Taft Income Category Distribution Percentage Projected Number of ADUs Lower 70% 21
Moderate 20% 6
Above Moderate 10% 3
Total 100% 30
Pipeline Projects
Pipeline projects can be applied to RHNA if they are projected to be built or occupied by the end of the 6 th cycle eight-year planning period, which is 2031. To date, there is one (1) project that is expected to account for a total of 394 units in the works. The project is called Sandy Creek Estates, which includes Tentative Tract Map (TTM) No. 7227 and No. 7230 for single-family residential development on 127 acres within the R-1 zone district. It is identified as APNs 032-152-74 and 032-152-65, located on the west side of Hillard Street, north of A Street, and south of Lassen Avenue. Figure 6-1 shows the aerial imagery of this pipeline project.

The first two (2) phases of TTM 7227 have been recorded and construction of 48 single-family residences has been completed as of January 2022. Having not yet submitted for Phase 3 development plans, the applicant submitted an Extension of Time application on November 14, 2022. This extension grants oneyear, to December 19, 2023, on the approval of conditions and mitigation measures of the TTMs. The City is working with the developer to exhaust all available extensions allowed per the Subdivision Map Act.

As of the start of this Housing Element planning period, 48 lots have been sold and built, with 346 lots remaining. The projected buildout is expected within the planning period; there are no known constraints or barriers to developing these lots. To ensure housing development can continue, the City will implement Program 3.d. Market Rate Entry Level Homes (Pipeline Project).

Since the City anticipates 346 single-family homes to be built during the planning period, these units can be calculated toward RHNA. To assess the affordability of these homes, we look at the price of the 48

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homes that were already sold within TTM 7227. Lower income households (below 80% of AMI) make less than $67,040, moderate income households (80% to 100% of AMI) make less than $83,800, and above-moderate income households (above 100% of AMI) make more than $83,800 as of 2023. As such, housing units allocated for lower and moderate-income households should not exceed $260,000 and $325,000, respectively, for mortgage, property tax, and homeowner insurance to not exceed 30% of the household income thresholds.

Table 6-6 shows the price of homes within Sandy Creek Estate that were sold within 36 months according to Zillow. Only 1 out of the 12 homes sold in Sandy Creek Estates are affordable to moderate income households if the sold price in 2021 was used. Since 2021, house prices have gone up, and according to home values estimated by Zillow, all the homes in Sandy Creek Estates are within the above moderateincome category. Consequently, it is expected that all future homes built in this subdivision will be affordable to above moderate-income households. As a result, pipeline projects are expected to account for 346 above moderate-income units during the planning period.

Table 6-6 Home Prices in Sandy Creek Estate Sold within 36 Months of April 2024 Lot No. Sold Date Sold Price Zestimate * Income Category** 4 8/16/2021 $380,000 $412,700 Above Moderate
6 12/21/2021 $365,000 $423,500 Above Moderate
8 2/17/2022 $320,000 $368,100 Moderate
12 10/19/2021 $400,000 $498,400 Above Moderate
13 5/9/2022 $370,000 $404,100 Above Moderate
14 1/14/2022 $384,900 $435,900 Above Moderate
33 5/24/2021 $380,000 $451,300 Above Moderate
41 7/23/2021 $359,000 $426,300 Above Moderate
44 10/11/2021 $380,000 $440,500 Above Moderate
46 10/26/2021 $449,000 $493,900 Above Moderate
50 6/11/2021 $370,000 $434,600 Above Moderate
51 1/28/2022 $439,000 $514,900 Above Moderate
Average Price $383,075 $442,017 Above Moderate
Median Price $380,000 $435,250 Above Moderate
Source: Zillow
*A Zestimate® home valuation is Zillow's estimated market value. It is not an appraisal. ** The income category is based on the monthly mortgage of the Sold Price not to exceed 30% of household income. The monthly mortgage assumes a down payment of 20% and an interest rate of 7%. A 1.1% property tax and $50 homeowner insurance was also included to calculate the final monthly payment breakdown.

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Figure 6-1 Pipeline Project: Sandy Creek Estates

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6.1.4 Sites Inventory
Figure 6-2, Table 6-13, Table 6-14, and Table 6-15 show and list the Sites Inventory for Taft’s 2023- 2031 6th Cycle Housing Element. There are a total of 336 lower income units identified in the Site Inventory, providing the City with a surplus of 246 lower income units. There is also a surplus of 1,183 moderate income units and 2,665 above moderate-income units that can be developed in Taft. Most sites within the inventory are either vacant or underutilized (i.e., currently used for parking). New residential development is expected to occur primarily on the city’s fringe. No rezoning is required to meet RHNA numbers.

Table 6-7 Regional Housing Needs Allocation, Taft, 6th Cycle Housing Element Realistic Development Potential of Non-Vacant Sites
As mentioned previously, an analysis must be provided to describe the realistic development potential within the planning period if non-vacant sites are included in the inventory to meet RHNA. There are four (4) vacant sites included in the Sites Inventory, as shown in Table 6-8. These sites are the former Wells Fargo Bank, former Bank of America, and parking lots described further below. The former bank building sites, Sites A and B, have been vacant for over 20 years and are not compliant with the current building code and ADA standards. The parking lots are used for adjacent commercial uses. Sites A and B are located within the central area of the City, which has access to services, amenities, and job opportunities.

As such, sites A and B are identified by the City as suitable for redevelopment. Since the vacant sites used for parking lots do not require the demolition of existing structures, the City identifies these as having development potential. The City is committed to push for housing on these sites through Program 1.e.

Acquisition and Development of Non-Vacant Sites.

Table 6-8 Realistic Development Potential of Non-Vacant Sites # APN Existing Use Description of Site
A 031-030-22-00-9
Former Wells
Fargo Bank
Privately owned site that is approximately 0.44 acres with building that has been vacant for at least 20 years.

B 031-060-14-00-5
Former Bank of
America
Privately owned site that is approximately 0.50 acres with building that has been vacant for at least 20 years.

C 031-030-12-00-0 Parking Lot
Privately owned site that is approximately 6,405 sf. and has been used by the adjacent commercial building for parking for at least 10 years. This site is currently owned by the adjacent property which is a gym and only provides 12 parking spaces.

Income Category
Total
Lower (Very Low and Low) Moderate Above Moderate
6 th Cycle RHNA 111 109 284 504
ADU Projections 21 6 3 30
Pipeline Projects 0 0 346 346
Remaining/Adjusted RHNA 90 103 0 220
Surplus RHNA after Adjusting 0 0 62 62
Total Units on Sites Inventory 336 1,286 2,603 4,225
Total Unit Surplus 246 1,183 2,665 4,094

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Since this is a small site that provides minimal parking, parking can be offset onto Center Street and side streets, where on-street parking is available.

D 031-120-01-00-4 Parking Lot
Privately owned site that is approximately 6,263 sf. and has been used as a parking lot for at least 20 years. This parking lot provides 18 parking spaces. It mainly provides parking for the church across the alley with no on-site parking for its services. Since this is a small site that provides minimal parking, parking can be offset onto Kern Street, 3rd Street, and North Street, where plenty of on-street parking is available.

Housing Sites Controlled by an Exempt Entity
According to HCD, sites located on land controlled by exempt entities (e.g. college/university, military, recognized Native American tribes, state, federal) are different from housing capacity planned on sites controlled by local governments because the local government has no control over the planning and decision-making processes of that land. As such, HCD requires a demonstration of “sufficient certainty” that housing development on sites controlled by other entities could occur within the planning period to local government to identify as adequate local sites to meet RHNA.

There are three (3) vacant residential sites that are federally owned within the city limits that could contribute to Taft’s RHNA. These sites, APNs 032-220-56-00-0, 032-220-59-00-9, and 032-220-61-00- 4, are under the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) as the land was previously owned by the U.S. Navy.

These sites are within Taft city limits and have been vacant with no development planned for more than two (2) planning periods. They are planned and zoned for residential uses within Taft. These sites have the potential of 365 housing units at 60% of maximum permitted density and are immediately adjacent to a developed housing tract with a street network that is laid out to continue northward onto these sites should the BLM seek to discharge the properties for private ownership and development.

The City sees potential and has received continued feedback from the community on their interest in having residential development on these lands. The City has continued to reach out to the BLM to understand their interest in releasing the land but hasn’t received positive feedback yet. Since there is an interest in the community and the City is willing to continue reaching out to obtaining the land, the Housing Element incorporated Program 1.c. Acquisition and Development of Federally Owned Property, which would facilitate continued communication between the city, potential developers, and the federal government for possible purchase and/or development of these federally owned lands within the city limits. Additionally, Program 1.a. No Net Loss and Program 1.d. Acquisition and Development of Large Lot Properties would continue to monitor and market the acquisition and development. The Programs would ensure that the City assesses lower and moderate-income units for no net loss and look for alternative sites if RHNA cannot be met because these sites cannot be utilized.

Realistic Development Capacity
Table 6-9 shows the realistic development capacity of vacant land according to the General Plan land use designation and zone district. As described in the methodology, realistic development capacity is based

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on 70% development of the maximum permitted density. However, for sites that are planned for Mixed Use, 50% of the maximum permitted density is used as realistic development capacity. This is to account for the possibility that sites could be developed with 100% non-residential. Additionally, the realistic capacity of each site is calculated to include effects by known constraints including flood zones and airport compatibility zones. Affordability distribution is generally based on density. There is a total of 155 sites identified to accommodate residential development in Taft, estimated to produce a total of 4,225 units. As demonstrated in the Sites Inventory, there are far more than a sufficient number of available vacant properties with a realistic development capacity to meet the RHNA for each income level. As such, no rezoning is required to meet RHNA in Taft for the 6th Cycle Housing Element.

Table 6-9 Residential Unit Capacity of Vacant Lands
Land Use
Designation
Zone
District
Density
Range
(du/ac)
Realistic
Density
(du/ac)
Number
of Sites
Realistic Units
Lower Moderate Above
Moderate
Total
Low Density
Residential
R-1 0.0 - 7.0 4.9 28 0 0 2,205 2,205
R-2 0.0 - 7.0 4.9 4 0 0 4 4
Medium
Density
Residential
R-1 4.0 - 7.0 4.9 1 0 0 1 1
R-2 4.0 - 15.0 10.5 4 0 106 0 106
High Density
Residential
R-2 8.0 - 15.0 10.5 19 0 28 0 28
R-3 8.0 - 29.0 20.3 2 0 21 0 21
Mixed Use
R-1 0.0 - 7.0 3.5 2 0 0 2 2
R-2 0.0 - 15.0 7.5 9 0 11 0 11
R-3 0.0 - 29.0 14.5 3 0 7 0 7
MU 0.0 - 29.0 14.5 2 263 658 393 1,314
Downtown Taft Specific Plan Land Use Designations and Zones Downtown Core Mixed
Use (DC-MU) 25.0 - 40.0 20.0 17 2 54 0 56
Downtown Transition
Mixed Use (DT-MU) 15.0 - 30.0 15.0 50 29 217 0 246
Medium Density
Residential (MDR) 12.0 - 24.0 16.8 3 42 173 0 215
Live-Work Mixed Use
(LW-MU) 10.0 - 20.0 10.0 11 0 11 0 11
Total 155 336 1,286 2,603 4,225
Overview of Adequate Sites
Figure 6-3 shows the location of sites inventory parcels, categorized into three categories, Large Lot Properties (LLP), Downtown Taft Specific Plan (DTSP), and Infill Lots (IFL). Each category has its own characteristics, as discussed below.

Large Lot Properties
Large Lot Properties (LLP) are primarily large, vacant parcels located at the edge of city limits that are zoned for residential development. The location of the LLP sites is shown in Figure 6-3 and listed in

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Table 6-15. There are 11 LLP identified in the Sites Inventory, totaling approximately 628.53 acres. All LLPs are currently vacant and are within the R-1, R-2, or MU zone districts. As summarized in Table 6-16, LLPs assume a total capacity of 336 lower income, 1,286 moderate income, and 2,603 above moderate-income units, for a total capacity of 4,225 units.

Eight (8) of the LLP sites are planned for Low Density Residential and zoned for R-1, which can be developed with a maximum density of seven (7) dwelling units to the acre. Five (5) of these sites are partially within a flood zone, so only 60% of the maximum density permitted is used to estimate the number of units due to this environmental constraint. As such, it is estimated that the Low Density Residential LLP sites can accommodate a total of 2,177 housing units. Due to the low density, it is anticipated that these sites would provide for above-moderate income households. There is one (1) LLP parcel planned for Medium Density Residential and zoned for R-2, which can be developed with a maximum density of 15 dwelling units to the acre. It is estimated that this parcel can accommodate 103 moderate income units.

As the maximum unit output totals show, LLPs provide the greatest potential to accommodate the City’s potential future growth, as there are sufficient properties and densities to exceed the required RHNA.

These larger sites are mostly single-family residential zoned lots; however, Taft needs multi-family housing options to increase housing affordability. Sites zoned for Mixed Use are anticipated to provide more lower income units due to higher density allowance. Two (2) LLP parcels located in the southeast area of the City zoned for Mixed Use have the potential to provide an estimated total of 1,317 housing units, including 263 lower income units. Since the two (2) mixed use parcels are large, 21.35 and 79.83 acres, it is anticipated that they would be developed with varying housing types, including lower and higher density multi-family residential, as well as commercial and office uses.

Most of the LLP parcels are located to the east and southeast part of the city. Many of these parcels are recently oil land that’s been acquired. While there is no immediate interest from private developers in developing these lands, the City has seen property owner’s interest in subdividing the parcels to facilitate development and sales. Smaller parcels also attract more affordable housing developers. The Housing Element thus incorporates Program 1.d. Acquisition and Development of Large Lot Properties to facilitate land divisions to create appropriately sized parcels that encourage affordable housing and development in general. The City would also offer incentives to projects that propose at least 20% affordable housing on these sites.

Downtown Taft Specific Plan (DTSP)
In December 2022, the City utilized the Planning Grant Program and Local Early Action Planning (LEAP) grant program to develop the DTSP that plans for more residential development in the center part of the city. The DTSP was adopted in November 2022, which seeks to encourage higher density development, with the most dense/intense development in the downtown core and lower density development radiating out toward the edge of the Specific Plan Area. The minimum and maximum permitted density by zone district is shown in Table 7-3. Some previous sites were developed with only commercial development,

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however, there continues to be more than sufficient available properties that can be developed with enough housing to meet the City’s RHNA and to meet all income levels of needed housing.

Sites within the DTSP area are shown in Figure 6-3 and listed in Table 6-14. There are a total of 81 sites in the DTSP area identified in the Sites Inventory, totaling approximately 34.36 acres. Most DTSP sites are vacant, with the exception of two (2) commercial buildings and two (2) parking lots further described under Realistic Development Potential of Non-Vacant Sites. DTSP sites are zoned DC-MU, DT-MU, LW-DU, and MDR. As summarized in Table 6-16, DTSP sites assume a total capacity of 73 lower income, 456 moderate income, and 0 above moderate-income units, for a total capacity of 529 units.

The DTSP zoning allows standalone multi-family residential and mixed-use commercial-residential development, are also an important part of the City’s Inventory of adequate sites. Sites within the DTSP encourage multi-family development with higher permitted residential densities (maximum of 20 to 40 du/ac), providing the greatest opportunity for a mix of residential unit types and affordability levels. The City expects most of the affordable rental units to be developed in the DTSP area. The DTSP area also has the greatest potential to provide new moderate and above moderate rental housing, and possibly for sale multi-family, that is needed to provide a wider range of housing options for those working in the local area, attending Taft College, and young professionals. This area is also near existing amenities and well connected to existing infrastructure, which encourages development and reduces construction costs to an extent.

As shown in Table 6-9, the available DTSP sites have the potential to be developed with an additional 529 residential units. Realistic capacity is calculated using 70% of maximum permitted density for MDR designations and 50% of maximum permitted density for all MU designations. The new DTSP land use designations permit densities higher than that in the citywide zoning code. Almost all sites, 91.4% of the DTSP sites, are smaller than one (1) acre. Seven (7) sites are larger than one (1) acre and are estimated to accommodate most of the area’s units, totaling 331 units. All larger sites are owned by the City.

Infill Lots (IFL)
In addition to LLP and DTSP sites, sites located within the City’s developed/central area are categorized as Infill Lots (IFLs). IFLs are shown in Figure 6-3 and listed in Table 6-13. There is a total of 63 IFL sites identified in the Sites Inventory, totaling approximately 24.30 acres. All IFLs are vacant and are within the R-1, R-2, or R-3 zone districts. As summarized in Table 6-16, IFLs assume a total capacity of 0 lower income, 69 moderate income, and 30 above moderate-income units, for a total capacity of 99 units.

The IFL parcels are smaller than one (1) acre in size. Similar to DTSP sites, IFL sites are close to existing amenities and infrastructure. Since all IFL parcels are within established neighborhoods, it is not expected that future development on these parcels could provide for lower-income housing according to housing prices and the type of development in the existing neighborhood. However, Program 9.j. Lot Splits and Small Lot Residential Development (SB 9) would amend the Zoning Ordinance to ministerially approve splitting a lot into two (2), which would increase the number of units that could be built on the lot. This

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could create smaller dwellings and a higher density, which could introduce lower-income units in the area.

Out of all the categories, IFL sites accommodate the least number of units.

Furthermore, this updated Adequate Sites List improves upon the 2015-2023 Housing Element as a housing program included in the prior element required the City to complete a consistency review that included an amendment of the Zoning Ordinance. The amendment involved most zone districts increasing in density to match the higher densities of the land use designations of Land Use Element of the General Plan. Taft City Council adopted Ordinance No. 822-16 in September 2016 to increase the maximum density of the R-1, R-2, and R-3 zone districts.

Government Properties Suitable for Development
There are 20 sites in the Inventory that are owned by the City of Taft. These sites are all located within the DTSP area and are planned for mixed use or residential development. It is expected that these sites can accommodate 71 lower income units and 458 moderate income units, for a total of 529 units. Figure 6-4 shows the City-owned properties that are suitable for development that are included in the Inventory.

These sites are listed and described further in Table 6-17.

The City has previously offered surplus land under the Surplus Land Act but hasn’t received any responses to the notification. The City has worked in partnership with developers in the past to complete projects that have occurred on city owned lands, such as Best Western Hotel, Dollar General, and Grocery Outlet.

Future development on City-owned lands is expected to follow the same path, through establishing partnership with developers and working through the process to determine what is beneficial to both parties. To ensure the development of City-owned properties, Program 1.b. Acquisition and Development of City Owned Property would review, evaluate, and update the City-owned properties inventory for housing development every two (2) years. Once these sites are identified, the City will actively recruit developers and apply for funding to facilitate affordable or special needs housing.

Adequate Sites for Lower Income Households
There are 15 adequate sies within the Inventory with units allocated for the lower income category. As mentioned previously, HCD requires that governments demonstrate the potential of development of lower income units in the Housing Element, specifically, regarding the items listed below. An analysis is also included for each requirement.
• Non-Vacant Sites: If more than 50% of the inventory sites for lower income households are identified to be non-vacant, findings based on substantial evidence shall be provided to describe that the existing use will likely be discontinued during the planning period. Only one (1) of the 15 lower income inventory sites, and two (2) units out of 336 units identified for lower income are currently not vacant. The potential of these non-vacant sites being developed during the planning period is analyzed in Table 6-8. Since no more than 50% of the inventory sites for lower income households are identified to be non-vacant, the Inventory is compliant with this requirement. • Re-identification of Sites from Prior Housing Element: Pursuant AB 1397 and Government Code Section 65583.2(c), non-vacant sites identified in prior Housing Element and vacant sites

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identified in two (2) consecutive prior Housing Elements may only be included in a new element as available to accommodate the lower income RHNA if they are zoned for by‐right development of at least 20 du/ac and require at least 20% of the housing on those sites be affordable to lower income households. Table 6-10 provides the General Plan Land Use Designation and reidentification status of all the sites identified for lower income households. There are no sites that have been re-identified from prior Housing Elements.

Table 6-10 Suitability Analysis of Lower Income Adequate Sites: Re-identification APN
Land
Use
Existing Use
Identified in
Prior HE Cycles
Lower Income
RHNA Units
Compliance
with AB 1397
031-060-14-00-5 SP Commercial No 2 N/A
032-040-27-00-4 SP Vacant No 2 N/A
032-040-28-00-7 SP Vacant No 2 N/A
032-111-01-005 SP Vacant No 7 N/A
032-111-03-00-1 SP Vacant No 3 N/A
032-111-05-00-7 SP Vacant No 7 N/A
032-112-10-00-8 SP Vacant No 2 N/A
032-113-04-00-8 SP Vacant No 2 N/A
032-113-09-00-3 SP Vacant No 1 N/A
032-113-10-00-5 SP Vacant No 3 N/A
032-117-01-00-7 SP Vacant No 5 N/A
032-117-02-00-0 SP Vacant No 15 N/A
032-118-01-00-4 SP Vacant No 22 N/A
220-042-01-00-3 MU Vacant No 32 N/A
220-042-07-00-1 MU Vacant No 231 N/A
• Lot Size Requirement to Accommodate Lower-Income Units: Pursuant Government Code Section 65583.2(c)(2), a parcel and/or a portion of parcel smaller than 0.5 acre or over 10 acres are considered inadequate to accommodate housing affordable to lower income households, unless feasibility is demonstrated. Feasibility can be demonstrated through providing evidence that: 1) that sites of equivalent size were successfully developed during the prior planning period with an equivalent number of lower income housing units as projected for the site; 2) developer interest; or 3) lot consolidation or lot splits, policies or incentives provided, etc. Table 6-11 shows the acreage of all parcels allocated with lower income units for RHNA, and a short analysis to demonstrate feasibility for lots larger than 10 acres. For parcels larger than 10 acres with zoning that allows 20 or more units per acre, up to 10 acres were allocated to the lower-income category with the remaining capacity allocated to the moderate or above moderate-income category. The City anticipates that these parcels would be subdivided to accommodate a variety of uses. In addition, Program 1.d., Acquisition and Development of Large Lot Properties, aims to facilitate land divisions of large lot properties to appropriately size parcels into smaller lots that encourages affordable housing. While the two (2) LLP sites have not received proposals to develop or subdivide, development trends within the San Joaquin Valley show that parcels that are larger

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than 10 acres, especially those that are not zoned solely for residential (both parcels are zoned for mixed use), are further subdivided into smaller lots to accommodate a variety of uses. For example, Visalia approved a parcel map to separate a site into parcels smaller than 10 acres in 2023 (3506 N Dinuba Blvd). As such, feasibility is demonstrated.

Table 6-11 Suitability Analysis of Lower Income Adequate Sites: Lot Size Requirement APN Acreage
Meet Lot Size
Requirement?
Units Feasibility Analysis
031-060-14-00-5 0.50 Yes 2 -
032-040-27-00-4 0.88 Yes 2 -
032-040-28-00-7 0.96 Yes 2 -
032-111-01-005 2.63 Yes 7 -
032-111-03-00-1 1.31 Yes 3 -
032-111-05-00-7 2.63 Yes 7 -
032-112-10-00-8 0.91 Yes 2 -
032-113-04-00-8 0.68 Yes 2 -
032-113-09-00-3 0.64 Yes 1 -
032-113-10-00-5 1.31 Yes 3 -
032-117-01-00-7 1.56 Yes 5 -
032-117-02-00-0 4.64 Yes 15 -
032-118-01-00-4 6.71 Yes 22 -
220-042-01-00-3 21.35 No 32
Only 20.0% of the units allocated to this site is
categorized for lower income. As such, it is
expected that less than 10 acres of land is
allocated for lower income units.
220-042-07-00-1 79.83 No 231
Only 20.0% of the units allocated to this site is
categorized for lower income. As such, it is
expected that less than 10 acres of land is
allocated for lower income units.

Total 130.43 - 336
• Stronger Infrastructure Requirements: Pursuant AB 1397, sites identified to accommodate the lower income RHNA must be served by current or planned water, sewer, and dry utilities. The local water service in Taft is provided by the West Kern Water District. Dry utilities include electrical, telecommunications, and natural gas systems. Taft city, inclusive of all inventory sites, is within the West Kern Water District (WKWD) and the Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) service area. Most lower income adequate sites are within proximity to existing sewer pipelines except for Large Lot Property (LLP) parcels in the southeast area of the City (APNs 220-042-01 and 220-042-07). All city residents are served by the local sewer system, however, where sewer facilities are not available within 600 feet of a property to be developed, septic tanks are allowed.

Since areas where sewer pipelines do not currently exist are large parcels, development of masterplanned residential developments are anticipated on these parcels. As such, it is anticipated that sewer pipelines will be extended to reach these parcels.

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Table 6-12 Suitability Analysis of Lower Income Adequate Sites: Infrastructure Requirements APN Water Sewer Dry Utilities
031-060-14-00-5 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-040-27-00-4 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-040-28-00-7 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-111-01-005 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-111-03-00-1 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-111-05-00-7 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-112-10-00-8 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-113-04-00-8 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-113-09-00-3 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-113-10-00-5 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-117-01-00-7 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-117-02-00-0 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
032-118-01-00-4 Within WKWD service area Yes Yes
220-042-01-00-3 Within WKWD service area Planned Yes
220-042-07-00-1 Within WKWD service area Planned Yes
• Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Requirements: The Sites Inventory is also subject to the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) requirements pursuant AB 686. This requires that the lower income sites be geographically distributed in ways that foster integration and create affordable housing opportunities throughout high resource areas. There are 73 lower income units allocated within the central area of Taft (i.e., Downtown), which is close to existing jobs, services, and amenities. There are 263 lower income units allocated within the southeast area of Taft, which is described by the community as an area with a good neighborhood and good location for oil workers. There are no lower income units allocated to the west and northeast area of Taft. Section 8 – AFFIRMATIVELY FURTHERING FAIR HOUSING provides detailed analysis of AFFH. • Buffer Requirement: Pursuant Government Code Section 65863 and SB 166, jurisdictions must include a “buffer” of additional sites in case some of the sites listed in this Housing Element become unavailable before the planning period. HCD requires the buffer to be at least 15%. Taft allocated a total of 336 lower income units(not including projected ADUs), which is a 203% buffer for the required 111 lower income units per RHNA.
• No Net Loss Requirement: Pursuant Government Code Section 65863 and SB 166, jurisdictions must ensure that the land inventory and site identification program are sufficient to accommodate the unmet RHNA for lower and moderate-income households “at all times.” This means that if developments do not meet the presumed number of lower income units in the Housing Element, the jurisdiction must make a finding that the remaining inventory sites could meet the RHNA or identify a replacement site that makes up for the lost capacity. The Housing Element establishes Program 1.a. No Net Loss to develop and implement a formal, ongoing (project-by-project) evaluation procedure to track the number of extremely low-, very low-, low-, moderate-, and above moderate-income units constructed to calculate the remaining unmet RHNA.

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• Rezoning Land to Accommodate Lower-Income Units: Where a jurisdiction’s Inventory sites does not demonstrate enough suitable, available, and appropriately zoned sites to accommodate RHNA, the Housing Element must include an Adequate Sites Program to identify sites that can be developed during the planning period and rezone the sites to provide:
o Ensure sites are zoned to allow owner-occupied and rental multifamily residential uses “byright” (only subject to ministerial approval) in which 20% or more of the units are affordable to lower income households.
o Pursuant Government Code Section 65583.2(c)(3)(B), sites identified for lower income households are required to develop by-right at least 20 units per acre if rezoning is required for the site to meet RHNA.
o Pursuant Government Code 65583.2(h), each site designated for lower income housing has the capacity for at least 16 units.
o Either a) ensure at least 50% of lower-income RHNA can be accommodated on sites designated for exclusively residential uses or b) if accommodating more than 50% of the lower-income RHNA on sites designated for mixed-uses, all sites designated for mixeduses must allow 100% residential use and require residential use to occupy at least 50% of the floor area in a mixed–use project.

Since Taft has enough suitable, available, and appropriately zoned sites to accommodate RHNA, this requirement is not applicable.

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Figure 6-2 Taft 6th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory

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Figure 6-3 Categorization of Adequate Sites

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Figure 6-4 Government Properties Suitable for Development

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Table 6-13 6
th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory – Infill Lots
Assessor
Parcel Number
General
Plan
Designation
(Current)
Zoning
Designation
(Current)
Existing
Use
Minimum
Density
Allowed
(units/acre)
Maximum
Density
Allowed
(units/acre)
Parcel
Size
(Acres)
Lower
Income
Capacity
Moderate
Income
Capacity
Above
Moderate
Income
Capacity
Total
Capacity
031-130-03-00-3 MU R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-130-04-00-6 MU R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-140-04-00-9 MU R-3 Vacant 0 29 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-140-05-00-2 MU R-2 Vacant 0 15 0.21 0 1 0 1
031-250-21-00-0 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-260-03-00-1 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-260-07-00-3 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.14 0 1 0 1
031-270-06-00-3 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.14 0 1 0 1
031-270-14-00-6 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.05 0 1 0 1
031-280-17-00-8 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-280-19-00-4 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-280-28-00-0 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-290-08-00-5 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-290-10-00-0 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.14 0 0 1 1
031-290-14-00-2 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.03 0 0 1 1
031-310-05-00-1 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-310-06-00-4 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.08 0 0 1 1
031-310-07-00-7 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.06 0 0 1 1
031-310-11-00-8 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-310-13-00-4 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.14 0 0 1 1
031-310-24-00-6 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-320-23-00-6 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-320-26-00-5 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-320-30-00-6 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.12 0 0 1 1
031-330-01-00-5 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.05 0 1 0 1

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031-330-08-00-6 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-330-09-00-9 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.14 0 1 0 1
031-330-12-00-7 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.21 0 2 0 2
031-340-05-00-0 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-340-13-00-3 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.03 0 1 0 1
031-340-18-00-8 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-350-05-00-3 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.14 0 1 0 1
031-350-12-00-3 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.14 0 1 0 1
031-360-13-00-9 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.14 0 1 0 1
031-390-18-00-3 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.14 0 0 1 1
031-401-03-00-8 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-401-15-00-3 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.28 0 0 2 2
031-402-04-00-8 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.07 0 0 1 1
031-420-17-00-8 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.21 0 0 1 1
032-131-11-00-0 MDR R-2 Vacant 4 15 0.19 0 2 0 2
032-136-10-00-2 MDR R-2 Vacant 4 15 0.16 0 1 0 1
032-136-15-00-7 MDR R-1 Vacant 4 7 0.15 0 0 1 1
032-137-19-00-6 MDR R-2 Vacant 4 15 0.14 0 1 0 1
032-141-01-00-4 LDR R-2 Vacant 0 7 0.31 0 0 1 1
032-141-02-00-7 LDR R-2 Vacant 0 7 0.39 0 0 1 1
032-141-04-00-3 LDR R-2 Vacant 0 7 0.19 0 0 1 1
032-141-05-00-7 LDR R-2 Vacant 0 7 0.39 0 0 1 1
032-142-01-00-1 MU R-2 Vacant 0 15 0.53 0 6 0 6
032-142-02-00-4 MU R-2 Vacant 0 15 0.19 0 2 0 2
032-143-01-00-8 HDR R-2 Vacant 8 15 0.77 0 9 0 9
032-610-01-00-3 HDR R-3 Vacant 8 29 8.38 0 18 0 18
032-610-02-00-6 HDR R-3 Vacant 8 29 6.44 0 3 0 3
039-020-24-00-8 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.40 0 0 2 2
039-071-02-00-6 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.64 0 0 3 3
039-071-03-00-9 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 0.27 0 0 1 1

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Table 6-14 6
th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory – Downtown Taft Specific Plan Assessor
Parcel Number
General
Plan
Designation
(Current)
Zoning
Designation
(Current)
Existing
Use
Minimum
Density
Allowed
(units/acre)
Maximum
Density
Allowed
(units/acre)
Parcel
Size
(Acres)
Lower
Income
Capacity
Moderate
Income
Capacity
Above
Moderate
Income
Capacity
Total
Capacity
031-020-10-00-1 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.29 0 5 0 5
031-020-18-00-5 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-020-19-00-8 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-030-02-00-1 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-030-05-00-0 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-030-12-00-0 SP DC-MU Parking 25 40 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-030-17-00-5 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-030-22-00-9 SP DC-MU Commercial 25 40 0.43 0 8 0 8
031-060-10-00-3 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.21 0 4 0 4
031-060-11-00-6 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-060-14-00-5 SP DC-MU Commercial 25 40 0.5 2 8 0 10
031-070-02-00-3 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.11 0 2 0 2
031-070-03-00-6 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.11 0 2 0 2
031-080-04-00-2 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-080-05-00-5 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-080-06-00-8 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-080-10-00-9 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-080-11-00-2 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-080-12-00-5 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.29 0 4 0 4
031-080-13-00-8 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-080-16-00-7 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.21 0 3 0 3
031-090-05-00-8 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-090-06-00-1 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-090-14-00-4 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-090-15-00-7 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1

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031-090-17-00-3 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-090-18-00-6 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-090-20-00-1 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-100-03-00-4 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-100-04-00-1 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-100-12-00-0 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.21 0 3 0 3
031-100-16-00-2 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-120-01-00-4 SP DT-MU Parking 15 30 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-120-17-00-1 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-120-28-00-3 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.23 0 3 0 3
031-120-29-00-6 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.36 0 5 0 5
031-140-17-00-7 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-140-18-00-0 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-140-19-00-3 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-140-20-00-5 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-160-17-00-3 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-160-18-00-6 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-170-18-00-9 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.11 0 1 0 1
031-170-19-00-2 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-180-11-00-1 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.13 0 1 0 1
031-200-08-00-8 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.21 0 4 0 4
031-200-10-00-3 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.29 0 5 0 5
031-210-08-00-1 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.14 0 2 0 2
031-210-09-00-9 SP DC-MU Vacant 25 40 0.24 0 4 0 4
031-220-21-00-3 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.11 0 1 0 1
031-240-20-00-4 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.11 0 1 0 1
031-430-02-00-7 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-430-03-00-0 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.11 0 1 0 1
031-430-17-00-1 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.06 0 1 0 1
031-430-18-00-4 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.06 0 1 0 1

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031-430-23-00-8 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-430-24-00-1 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-440-12-00-9 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.08 0 1 0 1
031-440-16-00-1 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.11 0 1 0 1
031-440-28-00-6 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.14 0 1 0 1
031-440-30-00-1 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-440-31-00-4 SP LW-DU Vacant 10 20 0.14 0 1 0 1
031-450-09-00-4 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-450-12-00-2 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-460-22-00-4 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-460-27-00-9 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.07 0 1 0 1
031-460-28-00-2 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.14 0 2 0 2
032-040-27-00-4 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.88 2 11 0 13
032-040-28-00-7 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.96 2 12 0 14
032-111-01-00-5 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 2.63 7 32 0 39
032-111-03-00-1 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 1.31 3 16 0 19
032-111-05-00-7 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 2.63 7 32 0 39
032-112-05-00-4 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.46 0 6 0 6
032-112-10-00-8 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.91 2 11 0 13
032-113-03-00-5 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.34 0 5 0 5
032-113-04-00-8 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.68 2 8 0 10
032-113-09-00-3 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 0.64 1 8 0 9
032-113-10-00-5 SP DT-MU Vacant 15 30 1.31 3 16 0 19
032-117-01-00-7 SP MDR Vacant 12 24 1.56 5 21 0 26
032-117-02-00-0 SP MDR Vacant 12 24 4.64 15 62 0 77
032-118-01-00-4 SP MDR Vacant 12 24 6.71 22 90 0 112

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Table 6-15 6
th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory – Large Lot Properties Assessor
Parcel Number
General
Plan
Designation
(Current)
Zoning
Designation
(Current)
Existing
Use
Minimum
Density
Allowed
(units/acre)
Maximum
Density
Allowed
(units/acre)
Parcel
Size
(Acres)
Lower
Income
Capacity
Moderate
Income
Capacity
Above
Moderate
Income
Capacity
Total
Capacity
032-220-56-00-0 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 8.45 0 0 35 35
032-220-59-00-9 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 21.82 0 0 91 91
032-220-61-00-4 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 57.12 0 0 239 239
039-520-13-00-1 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 5.97 0 0 33 33
220-042-01-00-3 MU MU Vacant 0 29 21.35 74 185 112 371
220-042-07-00-1 MU MU Vacant 0 29 79.83 143 359 216 718 220-042-07-00-1 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 228.90 0 0 961 961
220-042-11-00-2 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 160.00 0 0 672 672
220-300-15-00-5 MDR R-2 Vacant 4 15 9.86 0 118 0 118
220-300-16-00-8 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 5.25 0 0 29 29
220-300-17-00-1 LDR R-1 Vacant 0 7 29.98 0 0 125 125
Table 6-16 6
th Cycle Housing Element Sites Inventory – Capacity Summary Category Parcel Size
(Acres)
Lower Income
Capacity
Moderate Income
Capacity
Above Moderate
Income Capacity Total Capacity
Infill Lots 24.30 0 69 30 99
Downtown Taft Specific Plan 34.36 73 456 0 529
Large Lot Properties 628.53 263 761 2,573 3,597
Total 687.19 336 1,286 2,603 4,225

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6.2 Environmental Constraints
Government Code Section 65583.2(b)(4) requires a description of environmental constraints to the development of housing as part of the site inventory assessment. The information does not need to be provided on a site-specific basis; however, it should analyze the suitability of the sites identified as part of the Sites Inventory. Environmental constraints can pose constraints on development. The suitability of sites must be evaluated relative to environmental conditions or other known issues, including a general description of any known environmental features (e.g., presence of floodplains, protected wetlands, oak tree preserves) that have the potential to impact the development of the identified sites. Environmental constraints are discussed below to bring to attention potential development constraints caused by existing agricultural and forest resources, steep slopes, geologic hazards, flooding, wildfire hazards, biological resources, etc.

Overall, environmentally sensitive lands impeding housing production include:

1. Poor soil compaction conditions.

2. Flooding of Sandy Creek (in the Ford City area, primarily).

3. Habitat for endangered species to the eastern edge of the City.

4. A high hydrocarbon content in the local air shed caused by oil extraction.

There are a few areas within the City’s Planning Area that lie within environmentally sensitive, hydrologically or geotechnical hazardous, or steep and difficult terrain, as outlined in the General Plan Open Space and Conservation Element. These areas have been determined unsuitable for development or appropriate for rural (low-density) residential housing only. The following topics discuss potential environmental constraints in the City.

6.2.1 Agriculture and Forest Resources
All parcels in the Sites Inventory are zoned and planned for urban development (i.e., there are no agriculturally zoned parcels). There are some parcels in the northeast area of Taft that are currently operated as agricultural lands. These parcels are identified as prime farmland according to the California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) data (dated 2020). 21 However, none of these parcels are identified as adequate sites in the Site Inventory.

6.2.2 Williamson Act
There are no parcels identified within city limits that are subject to the Williamson Act.

6.2.3 Steep Slopes
Taft has a relatively flat topography throughout the city that slopes gently to the north and eastern city boundaries.
21 California Department of Conservation. (2020). California Important Farmland Finder. Accessed April 9, 2024, https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/ciff/

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6.2.4 Geologic Hazards
The White Wolf Fault (responsible for a 1952 earthquake that caused extensive damage in the Bakersfield area) is located approximately 2 miles southeast of Taft’s Planning Area. In addition, numerous unnamed faults are mapped within the oil fields in the vicinity of the Planning Area. According to the Taft General Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR), most of the faults are not considered to be a concern.

Soils
Based on the findings of the geologic study for the General Plan Update, the subsurface conditions encountered appear typical of those found in the geologic region of the site. In general, the upper soils consist of approximately 6 to 12 inches of very loose silty sand, silty sand with trace clay, sandy silt, clayey sand, or clayey gravel. These soils are disturbed, have low strength characteristics, and are highly compressible when saturated. Below the loose surface soils, approximately 2 to 4 feet of soils that are typically moderately strong and slightly to moderately compressible. The clayey soils have a low to high expansion potential. Below 3 to 5 feet, soils are typically moderately strong and slightly compressible. 22 Soil compressibility is the ease of which a soil decreases in volume when it is under mechanical load. Soil compaction occurs when soil particles are pressed together, reducing space between the particles and increasing maximum density. Since soils of Taft are mostly high to moderate compressible, soils can become compacted during construction (intentional) or during ground shaking events (unintentional).

Overall, the City of Taft has poor soil compaction conditions, which is seen when soil does not adequately compact. Poor compaction can cause issues such as cracking foundations, dips in roadways, and settling slabs, which lowers the life of structures and buildings. Program 2.a. Housing Rehabilitation (Funding and Assistance) and Program 2.b. Housing Rehabilitation (Public Information) provides resources and promotes information on rehabilitation of houses in Taft.

6.2.5 Flooding
There are several streams that run through Taft, which creates flood hazard zone within the City, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). According to the General Plan EIR, there is a potential for flooding in the Kern Lakebed and Buena Vista Lake Bed areas as well as in the proximity of the Kern River and of several seasonal streams. The most severe flooding problems on the Kern River near Bakersfield have resulted from high intensity winter rainstorms over a large portion of the basin, which generally occur from November to April.

Figure 6-5 shows the flood hazard zone in Taft. Sandy Creek, located adjacent to the north boundary of the City, is within Flood Zone AE, and other streams are within Flood Zone A, both of which are defined as areas with a 1% annual chance of flooding and a 26% chance of flooding over the life of a 30-year mortgage. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements and floodplain management standards apply to both Zone AE and A. RHNA parcels in the southeast portion of Taft are within or near the identified 22 City of Taft. Taft General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report. Accessed May 1, 2024, https://taftca.municipalone.com/files/documents/document1409070124011514.pdf

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flood hazard zone. Two (2) of the sites with allocated units for lower income households are within flood hazard zones. However, only 20% of the units on the sites are allocated for lower income households, which can be built in areas on the site that are not within the flood hazard zones. Additionally, the General Plan Safety Element includes policies that limit development in these flood zones. Specifically, Policy S3 limits development on land subject to flooding during a 100-year event and allows potential development in areas subject to flooding to be clustered onto portions of a site which are not subject to flooding.

6.2.6 Wildfire Hazards
According to the General Plan Appendix B, two (2) major fire events occurred near Taft in 1998 and 2004.

The 1998 fire was due to fireworks and the 2004 fire was due to high heat and wind. All lands within Taft city limits are not classified as moderate, high, or very high fire hazard severity zones as identified by CAL FIRE. However, areas north, east, and south adjacent to Taft city limits are classified as moderate to high fire hazard severity zones. 23 As such, none of the RHNA sites are within the fire hazard severity zones.

6.2.7 Biological Resources
According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife National Wetland Inventory (NWI), there are mapped waters, specifically, streams, canals, and lakes within city limits. 24 Figure 6-6 shows the location of wetlands within the City of Taft. Like the flood hazard map, streams pass through four (4) sites located within the southeast and northeast area (east of State Route 119) of the City. The estimated number of units that can be built on these sites are reduced in recognition of this constraint.

According to the Environmental Conservation Online System (ECOS), there are no critical habitats within or near Taft. While site-specific conditions, such as existing vegetation and land cover, impacts whether biological resources would become a constraint during development, it is not expected that they will rise to a level of significance on Inventory sites in the central and west area of Taft (west of State Route 119) since they sites are further from existing waters, outside of critical habitats, and surrounded by existing development, and do not have trees or shrubs, which further degrades the land’s ability to support wildlife species.

However, most sites east of State Route 119 have streams running through them and are further away from existing urban development. A higher level or more in-depth environmental review on future development of these sites on biological resources could be warranted due to this. Additionally, wetland delineation could be required due to the existence of streams. These requirements could increase the cost of development. Two (2) of the sites with allocated units for lower income households are within the southeast area of the City. However, only 20% of the units on the sites are allocated for lower income households, 50% allocated for moderate income households, and 30% for above moderate-income 23 California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer. Accessed on April 12, 2024, https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/03beab8511814e79a0e4eabf0d3e7247/ 24 U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Download Seamless Wetlands Data by State: California (file downloads last updated October 23, 2023). Accessed on April 12, 2024, https://www.fws.gov/program/national-wetlands-inventory/download-state-wetlands-data

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households. Since there are other income categories anticipated for the sites, it is assumed that these additional costs can be covered and would not affect the developer’s ability to develop the sites with 20% lower income units.

According to the General Plan Open Space and Conservation Element, the City of Taft's vacant suburban edges are biological sensitive habitat areas that have the potential to provide habitat suitable for threatened and endangered species. City staff and housing developers will have to provide biological studies that are project-specific, and work with the state Department of Fish and Wildlife (DF&W) to receive approval or conditional approval with mitigation measures prior to grading activities. The DF&W can impose mitigation fees and set-aside land as well to offset the land taken for development. Additionally, the City has expressed interest in joining the Valley Wide Habitat Conservation Plan proposed by the County of Kern. Taft is evaluating other options as well.

6.2.8 Hazardous Sites
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Superfund National Priorities List (NPL) 25, California Department of Toxic Substance Control’s EnviroStor database 26 , and the State Water Resources Control Board’s GeoTracker database 27 include hazardous release and contamination sites. A search of each database was conducted on April 12, 2024. According to the databases, there are three (3) LUST cleanup sites on or adjacent to the Inventory sites along Main Street and Supply Road, all of which are closed. As such, there are no hazardous sites that would affect the development of Inventory sites.

Regarding air and water pollutants, there is a high hydrocarbon content in the local air shed caused by oil extraction. According to the General Plan EIR, natural hydrocarbon emissions and evaporative emissions of fuels and solvents exacerbate air pollution in the City. These emissions lead to higher levels of ozone and PM10 during hot weather. Ozone is a greenhouse gas which can contribute to global warming. PM10 exacerbates cardiovascular disease, asthma, and other respiratory diseases and is associated with increased mortality. Additionally, polluted runoff from rainwater could potentially contaminate groundwater resources if not properly treated with water quality controls. The EIR calls out compliance with statewide NPDES permits for construction runoff and Low Impact Development (LID) techniques required by General Plan Policy S-6 as water quality control measures to protect groundwater quality in Taft. 25 United States Environmental Protection Agency. Superfund National Priorities List. Accessed April 12, 2024, https://epa.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=33cebcdfdd1b4c3a8b51d416956c41f1 26 California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Envirostor. Accessed April 12, 2024, https://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/ 27 California State Water Resources Control Board. GeoTracker. Accessed April 12, 2024, https://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov/

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Figure 6-5 FEMA Flood Hazard Map, Taft, 2024

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Figure 6-6 Wetlands Map, Taft, 2023

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6.3 Adequate Infrastructure
Government Code Section 65583.2(b)(5) requires a description of existing or planned water, sewer, and other dry utilities supply, including the availability and access to distribution facilities. Identification of inventory sites must be based on “current or planned availability and accessibility of sufficient water, sewer and dry utilities.” Sites identified for lower income housing shall have utilities in proximity to the site or programs/plans that would make utilities accessible.

Infrastructure, including complete roadways, sewer, water, and stormwater systems, is lacking in most of Taft's undeveloped land, which is predominately located at the city limit edges. Since these lands are usually larger tracts anticipated to be subdivided into multiple lots as master planned developments, the installation of infrastructure would be able to serve a large area as development happens. However, this adds significantly to the cost of new development. Requirements that the City places on the developer for the provision of necessary public improvements may prove a constraint when weighed with other construction/property costs and the return on housing investments in today's market. Finding methods to finance these improvements over a long period of time and over the largest service area possible will be an ongoing challenge for the City.

To ensure adequate public facilities for future development, the City should periodically reassess its infrastructure rates to ensure the development is paying for itself. The City must maintain its existing infrastructure in good repair so that the community will be in a good position to meet future infrastructure needs. The City could require dedication fees for new parks from the developer if demand is created. The School Districts could also require dedication fees for new schools from the developer if demand is created; the fees would be assessed to offset the costs to the schools.

6.3.1 Public Land
The City owns approximately 97 parcels within city limits. These properties vary in terms of usage and availability for conversion to uses to accommodate housing needs. City-owned properties include road rights-of-way, parks, drainage basins, Wastewater Treatment Plant, parking lots, and administration buildings.

While much of City-owned property is used for public facilities such as roads, parks or drainage, seven (7) properties have structures, all of which are currently being utilized for a specific public purpose. These properties include the Taft City Police Department, Taft Modified Community Correctional Facility, Cavins Oil Well Tools, old Taft fire station on the southeast corner of Center and 8th Streets, Taft City Hall, Taft Transit Center, and National Oilwell Varco. These sites are being utilized for their original purpose and are in acceptable condition, so it is not feasible at this time to utilize or convert these buildings to housing facilities. In the future, if these uses are relocated to other facilities, the remaining property and/or associated buildings should be considered for conversion to an emergency shelter or lower- or moderate-income level housing use consistent with community needs.

The City does own some properties that are vacant or underutilized, which could accommodate residential development. There are 20 city-owned parcels planned and zoned for residential uses and included in the

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Site Inventory to accommodate a total of 93 lower-income units and 441 moderate-income units. These sites are described further in Table 6-17. The 12 sites identified with potential soil contaminants are sites within the Downtown Taft Specific Plan area. These sites would likely require additional assessment and remediation efforts to address the constraints. These sites have been on the City’s Surplus list since 2022 with no interest or inquiries received to date. In the past, the City has assisted developers of sites with soil contamination through in-kind support such as focused studies, site remediation, and hauling off/disposing of material. The City is committed to continuing in kind assistance to remove such barriers to development through Program 1.b. Acquisition and Development of City Owned Property.

Table 6-17 Sites Inventory - City-Owned Properties
APN
RHNA Capacity
Constraints (soil
contamination, etc.)
Property Availability and
Past Inquiries Lower
Income
Moderate
Income
Total
031-060-10-00-3 0 4 4 None
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
031-060-11-00-6 0 2 2 None
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
031-080-11-00-2 0 2 2 None
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
031-080-12-00-5 0 4 4 None
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
031-080-13-00-8 0 2 2 None
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
031-080-16-00-7 0 3 3 None
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
031-090-14-00-4 0 1 1 None
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
031-260-07-00-3 0 1 1 None
Habitat for Humanity attempting to
purchase.
032-111-01-00-5 7 32 39
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-111-03-00-1 3 16 19
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.

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032-111-05-00-7 7 32 39
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-112-05-00-4 0 6 6
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-112-10-00-8 2 11 13
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-113-03-00-5 0 5 5
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-113-04-00-8 2 8 10
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-113-09-00-3 1 8 9
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-113-10-00-5 3 16 19
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-117-01-00-7 5 21 26
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-117-02-00-0 15 62 77
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.
032-118-01-00-4 22 90 112
Potential soil
contamination
The property has been publicly
available but no inquiries have
been received.

6.3.2 Roadway System
The circulation system in Taft is comprised of local streets, collectors, arterials, and arterial highways (State Route 33 and 119). Taft also has alleyways throughout the central area and developed subdivisions in the central and west area of the City. However, the most recent developed subdivision, Sandy Creek Estate located in the west area of the City, does not include alleyways. According to the General Plan Circulation Element, landscaped parkways are proposed along State Route 119 and medians and parkways are proposed along State Route 33, North 10th Street (arterial), and 5th Street (arterial). Additionally, bikeways and pedestrian trails are provided within the City and connect to neighboring communities.

Taft’s circulation system is adequate to accommodate new growth. As new growth occurs, the need to construct improvements to the circulation system will increase. The City will continue to work closely with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and Kern County in the future regarding important regional circulation issues.

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6.3.3 Public Transportation
Taft Area Transit (TAT) provides public transit servicesto the community, including Dial-A-Ride Service, which is limited within city limits, and the Maricopa-Taft Route, which travels between Taft and Maricopa. The Maricopa-Taft Route has a set schedule that runs the route three (3) times a day on weekdays, starting at the Maricopa Post Office at 7:12 am for its first trip and starting at Kern Street/2nd Street at 1:34 pm and 5:14 pm for its second and last trip. TAT also provides service within portions of neighboring unincorporated Kern County: Ford City, South Taft, and Taft Heights. The service operates on weekdays (Monday – Friday) from 7:15 am to 5:30 pm, and on Saturday from 10:15 am to 2:30 pm.

All TAT vehicles are ADA-compliant. The one-way adult fare is $2.50. Seniors (age 60 and above) as well as individuals with disabilities (regardless of age) are eligible for a reduced fare of $1.75. Children under 5 and ADA attendant ride for free.

Taft Rails To Trails
The City began purchasing right-of-way property from Union Pacific Railroad Company and Sunset Railway Company in 1995. The construction of a pedestrian bicycle trail began in 2000. The paved portion of the trail is 20 feet wide, providing enough room for bicycles and walkers to pass without incident. From 2 nd Street to Hillard Street, each side of the trail has approximately 40 feet of landscaping. The grass and trees provide for a pleasant walk. Benches are located throughout the trail for those who would like to rest or want to visit with others. The trail system also installed lights to provide security and convenience. Taft Rails to Trails is currently two (2) miles long. The trail starts from West Side Highway (State Route 33), connects the West Kern Oil Museum, through downtown Taft, and westward to the Sandy Creek Estates housing development.

Additional right-of-way has been purchased for the expansion of the trail system. Projects to expand and improve the trail system have been approved and are currently awaiting grant funds. Taft Rails to Trails provide the community with mobility options to exercise and to move about the City without using a motorized vehicle as well as providing recreational spaces within the City. The trail system has been such a success that additional paths have been written into the circulation element that in the future will provide over 15 miles of trail.

6.3.4 Sewer System
The Taft Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant is a grade 1 system. It has the capacity to treat 1.5 million gallons (MGD) of waste per day. Current usage is 0.9 MGD. The reserve capacity of the plant is 0.6 MGD. Additionally, the Federal Prison Wastewater Treatment Plant Facility has a capacity of 0.5 MGD, but the facility only serves the Taft Correctional Institution, which has not been operating since 2021. At full capacity, the facility sewer usage was 0.4 MGD, with the reserve capacity at 0.1 MGD. The current treatment plants can handle present residential inflow and accommodate the allotted RHNA within the planning period of 2023 to 2031 without exceeding capacity.

As the wastewater provider, the City has policies that set priorities for service allocations to proposed developments that include housing units affordable to lower-income households. Most of the adequate sites identified in the Sites Inventory are located within 600 feet of an existing wastewater service line.

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Three (3) Large Lot Property (LLP) parcels are located more than 1,100 feet from existing sewer pipelines, including APNs 220-042-01, 220-042-07, and 220-042-11.

6.3.5 Water System
The West Kern Water District (WKWD) currently provides all the City’s potable water needs. The WKWD also provides water to virtually the entire west side region of Kern County. WKWD is innovative and responsive in assuring its clients of a reliable supply of excellent quality water in a planned, efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible manner, while promoting public awareness of water related issues.

The existing WKWD delivery capacity is 22 million gallons of water per day. This is sufficient to satisfy current needs and accommodate the RHNA within the planning period of 2023 to 2031, but WKWD and the City are aware that future water needs must be evaluated and planned to accommodate future developments. As the District region, central valley, and state’s cycle between drought conditions and wet years, the District is required to provide regular monitoring updates to the state to show conservation progress.

The drought years have not created a moratorium on new residential construction. However, all new residential development is required to submit plans and anticipated water demand for WKWD review.

Developers are required to pay a water demand fee based on a WKWD formula and current market rates for new water supply. City building permits are not issued until the developer has WKWD approval and will serve letter.

Furthermore, WKWD is operating under their 5-year update to their Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) in 2021. The UWMP includes an overview of the District’s history, demographics, water supply resources, water demand, reliability and water contingency planning and conservation measures. The UWMP provides the City the opportunity to work with the District to ensure that sufficient water supplies remain available for current needs, the allotted RHNA, and growth beyond the planning period.

WKWD’s water supply facilities include 13 groundwater recovery wells, 26 water storage tanks, 15 booster pump stations, and 306 miles of distribution pipelines that convey water to an over its service area.

Two (2) to 24-inch WKWD transmission lines lie within Taft city limits.

6.3.6 Stormwater System
Sandy Creek originates on the eastern slopes of the Temblor Range and drains within Kern and San Luis Obispo counties. The watershed for the surrounding hills enters the City of Taft and surrounding communities in four (4)separate areas. The City utilizes the watershed route by using the natural landscape as drainage. The Sandy Creek Hydrology Study by Meyer Civil Engineering (2005) has provided the City with alternatives in maintaining the use of the landscape while ensuring that the City’s environmental responsibilities are preserved and structured to accommodate technological advances.

The study has presented the City with a plan that will improve urban runoff filtration, eliminate flooding (flood zones within the city), thus assisting development, and reducing flood insurance rates. By enacting this plan, development in and around the City will benefit due to the construction of a filtration system

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that will trap harmful chemicals and trash due to urban runoff. In addition, the plan calls for the construction of catch basins strategically located within the watershed route before entry into the urban areas. The construction of the catch basins will eliminate flood zones within the city. The elimination of flood zones will provide a decrease of flood insurance rates and the addition of developable land that was in the past undevelopable due to uncertainty of flooding.

The study also proposes the construction of a detention basin at Midoil Road (west of Taft). The detention basin is designed to store 187 acre-feet of water to reduce the 100-year inflow peak from 2,139 cubic feet per second (CFS) to 848 CFS.

The current drainage system of Taft guides runoff onto roadways and then into Sandy Creek. The water in Sandy Creek further flows out to the east, into the vast plains outside of the city limits. A catch basin on 10th and Kern Street aids drainage in that area. Water from the catch basin also drains into Sandy Creek.

It is expected that future development will utilize the same technique since the City soils have poor compaction, which would cause degradation of structures if runoff were infiltrated into soils and soils compresses. Underground pipelines or catch basins could be incorporated in drainage designs in development of LLPs depending on circumstances; however, all stormwater will eventually drain into Sandy Creek and to the east plains.

6.3.7 Senate Bill 1087
SB 1087 (2006) requires that water and wastewater service providers develop written policies that grant priority to proposed development that includes housing affordable to lower-income households. The legislation also prohibits water and sewer providers from denying or conditioning the approval of development that includes housing affordable to lower-income households unless specific written findings are made. The City does not currently have specific written procedures to grant priority water and sewer service to developments with units affordable to lower-income households pursuant to Government Code Section 65589.7. Program 5.p. Water and Sewer Priority will establish written procedures pursuant to State Law. In addition, the City will provide a copy of the final Housing Element to sewer and water providers, within 30 days of adoption. The City will also continue to coordinate with service providers to ensure priority service provision to affordable housing developments.

6.4 Other Known Constraints
This section discusses “other known conditions” that could impact the ability of each site to accommodate the number of housing units presumed. The following provides information on such conditions in each site, including known conditions such as parcel dimensions, access, property conditions, easements, and airport overlays.
• Dimension: Overall, the dimensions (i.e., width and depth) of the sites in the Inventory will not impact their development capacity. Several sites in the Downtown Taft Specific Plan (DTSP) have a narrower width of 25 feet. This is common in this area and the existing housing developed on parcels with a 25 feet width demonstrates capability of residential development on these Inventory sites.

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• Shape: The sites in the Inventory are generally square or rectangular in shape, which provides possible configuration to accommodate the number of units presented in the estimates for each site. One of the sites, APN 031-430-23-00-8 located on 102 Main Street, is 0.07 acre and triangular shape. While this would cause restrictions to the layout of structures for development, development would still be possible according to the size of structures that are existing in Taft. • Access: All sites in the Inventory have access to existing paved roadways. Most sites would require standard improvements (i.e., curb, gutter, sidewalks, streetlights, etc.) along their frontage roads as development is proposed.
• Property Condition: As previously mentioned, all sites except for two (2) are vacant and/or underutilized (i.e., used solely for parking or are partially vacant). There are no slopes, geologic hazards, etc., that would restrict development on the sites. However, there are special property conditions for four (4) sites east of State Route 119 including multiple streams running through the sites and having 100-year flood zones within the site. This is discussed under Section 6.2 Environmental Constraints. This condition can cause additional costs during development and also reduce the buildable area of the four (4) sites. The estimated number of units that can be built on these four (4) sites are reduced in recognition of this constraint. • Easements: There are no irrigation canals within Taft. There are no other easements identified. • Airport Overlay: The applicable airport land use plan for the Taft-Kern County Airport is the Kern County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) adopted in 1994. Many Inventory sites are within the C – Common Traffic Pattern Zone or D – Other Airport Environs Zone. Zone C has infrequent noise intrusion from overflight and limited risk level for safety due to the limited use of the airport. The residential maximum allowed is 15 du/ac in Zone C. Zone D has a low potential of annoyance from overflights and negligible risk of impact. There is no limit to residential density in Zone D. Both single-family and multi-family residential uses are considered compatible within Zone C and D. A dedication of overflight easement is required for residential uses in Zone C and a deed notice is required for residential uses in Zone D. There are 18 sites located in Zone C, 16 of which have a permitted density higher than 15 du/ac. To ensure RHNA units are not overestimated, a residential maximum of 15 du/ac is used for the 16 sites. An 80% realistic capacity of the 15 du/ac is still applied to these sites.
• Importance to Economic Development: The City’s economy is dependent on the oil industry. The oil economy subjects the City to “boom/bust” cycles associated with changes in local, national and international oil economies. The economic instabilities contribute to lack of investment in housing rehabilitation and new construction. A stabilizing effect can be achieved if the City works towards diversifying job opportunities in the area. The availability of affordable income qualified and market rate housing is extremely vital to growth and development of Taft. Housing for relocated workers and managers must be readily available if Taft is to be competitive with other cities. To the extent that new economic development and diversification in other industries in addition to the

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oil industry can be achieved successfully, an increase in housing construction could be attained as a beneficial result.

6.5 Opportunities for Energy Conservation
Government Code 65583(a)(7) requires that the Housing Element include “an analysis of opportunities for energy conservation with respect to residential development.” Specifically, the energy conservation section of the Housing Element must inventory and analyze the opportunities to encourage the incorporation of energy-saving features, energy-saving materials, and energy-efficient systems and design for residential development. Planning to maximize energy efficiency and the incorporation of energy conservation and green building features can contribute to reduced housing costs for homeowners and renters, in addition to promoting sustainable community design and reduced dependence on vehicles. Such planning and development standards can also significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gases.

Updated policies and programs could address the environmental significance and operational benefits of employing energy conservation in the building and retrofit of decent, safe, and affordable housing.

For a large number of older homes in Taft, a lack of upgrades exacerbated the problem of high-energy consumption rates. Insulation and weatherization of these homes could reduce energy costs significantly.

Attic and wall insulation is usually lacking in older homes, and weather stripping and caulking often have not been replaced over the years. Program 2.a. Housing Rehabilitation (Funding and Assistance) and Program 2.b. Housing Rehabilitation (Public Information) provides resources and promotes rehabilitation of old residential buildings in Taft, which could reduce energy usage and costs.

According to utility companies, energy conservation activities that focus on reducing outside air infiltration are the most effective. Outside air infiltration through windows, doors, and walls can account for 25% to 39% of heating costs. The second largest portion of heating costs, 27%, can be attributed to heat loss and gain through windows and doors because of low R-values through the lack of weatherization and sealing of gaps and openings.

Furthermore, the state has pushed to increase the amount of residential rooftop solar panel installations.

Numerous grants, tax incentives, and low interest loan programs make rooftop solar installations more affordable for residents, along with lowering utility bills. The City of Taft has averaged approximately 70 permits issued per year since 2012. However, the local utility is in the midst of yearly rate increases that were approved prior to the pandemic. Those that have not improved their home through rehab, solar panels, new mechanical systems, or weatherization are seeing their total cost of living increase.

6.5.1 CalGreen Standards and Practices
The California Green Energy Code (CalGreen) sets minimum requirements for energy efficiency standards and practices for residential and nonresidential projects in California. Mandatory Measures that cover multiple topics, including site selection, storm water control, water efficiency of fixtures and appliances, electric vehicle charging stations, VOC limits, moisture control, construction waste recycling, indoor air quality and environmental comfort, are defined in CalGreen. Local jurisdictions are required to adopt their own set of building codes that comply with these measures. CalGreen was first adopted in 2009 and the most updated version, 2022 CalGreen code, went into effect January 1, 2023. Another update

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of CalGreen will go into effect on July 1, 2024, to include an additional mandatory part of the building code: Embodied Carbon Emission Control.

6.5.2 Building Codes
All new buildings in California must meet the standards contained in Title 24, Part 6 of the California Code of Regulations (Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings). Taft has adopted and implemented the code. Energy efficiency requirements are enforced by the City through the building permit process. All new construction must comply with the standards in effect on the date a building permit application is submitted.

Taft’s building code does not include energy efficiency standards that exceeds that required in CalGreen See Section 8.1.3 for more information on Taft’s Building Code.

6.5.3 Housing Element Programs
Planning and land use tools and strategies have the potential to reduce energy consumption. These tools and strategies typically include planning to provide an adequate supply of affordable housing for a range of income groups, planning for sufficient housing near jobs, services, and amenities, and adopting higher densities and promoting infill development. In turn, these tools and strategies can increase housing affordability, reduce vehicle miles traveled, maximize existing land resources, reduce conversion of agricultural resources, and conserve environmentally sensitive areas.

This Housing Element includes several programs that encourage energy conservation through planning and land use tools and strategies, as summarized below. • Promoting rehabilitation efforts of existing dwelling units to increase the level of energy efficiency and conservation in existing homes. (Program 2.a. and Program 2.b.). • Expediting qualifying residential projects consistent with SB 35 (Program 9.i.). • Expediting qualifying residential projects consistent with SB 330 (Program 9.h.).

6.5.4 Energy Efficiency Incentives
Energy Efficient Mortgages: Several federal agencies and government-sponsored enterprises offer Energy Efficient Mortgages (EEMs), including Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac), U.S.

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture. EEM Programs are designed to help families save money on their utility bills by enabling them to purchase homes that are energy efficient or finance energy efficient improvements with their mortgage. EEM Programs are eligible for all income groups. Additionally, since EEM Programs usually have more flexible loan-to-value and debt-toincome ratios, they present less barriers for lower and moderate-income households that are seeking energy efficiency improvements.

Single Family Affordable Solar Housing: The federal government offers rebates of 30% for solar installations. Because this is a tax rebate, however, it does not benefit lower-income homeowners to the extent it benefits higher-income households. The Single Family Affordable Solar Housing (SASH)

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Program does provide additional incentives to low-income homeowners with an AMI of 80% or less. The SASH program is overseen by the California Public Utilities Corporation, and is administered by GRID Alternatives, a non-profit organization. GRID Alternatives also administers a low-income weatherization program.

Housing Rehabilitation Program: Taft has used HOME grants to fund the City’s Housing Rehabilitation Program in the past (Program 2.a. and Program 2.b.). The program is designed to provide financing to repair income eligible and owner-occupied homes in need of essential health and/or safety repairs. The City will determine eligibility. Some common home repairs include roofing, heating, cooling, insulation, and window modifications. Eligible homeowners can apply to and receive funding for home upgrades to increase the energy efficiency of their homes and thereby reduce their energy bills.

6.5.5 Incentives for Lower Income Households
Energy efficiency has a direct impact to overall housing/living costs because the more money spent on energy, the less available for rent or mortgage payments. High energy costs have particularly detrimental effects on low-income households that do not have enough income or cash reserves to absorb cost increases and often must choose between basic needs such as shelter, food, and energy.

Volatile energy markets have led to renewed widespread interest in energy conservation approaches.

Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) provides gas and electricity services for the City of Taft. PG&E offers incentives to help consumers save energy and money through a variety of rebate programs and by providing energy saving tips and educational materials to its consumers. These programs and incentives include but are not limited to:
• Home Energy Checkup/Home Energy Audit (An online assessment free for all income groups) • Energy Savings Assistance Program (eligible for income-qualified households) • Green Saver Program (eligible for income-qualified households) • California Alternate Rates for Energy (eligible for income-qualified households) • Third-Party Demand Response Program (eligible for all income groups) • Generator & Battery Rebate Program (eligible for all income groups within High Fire Threat District and serviced by an Enhanced Power Safety Settings (EPSS) circuit) • Zero Net Energy Pilot Program (PG&E’s commitment to a net zero energy system in 2040) Medical Baseline Program (eligible for households with medical needs that depend on power) A number of the programs listed above are administered and funded by the state or federal government.

Some of these programs and incentives that offer incentives for lower income households are further described below.
• California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) is a statewide program that offers a 30-35% discount on electric bill and a 20% discount on natural gas bill for households with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty income levels. PG&E customers may qualify for this program.

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• Family Electric Rate Assistance Program (FERA) is a statewide program that offers an 18% discount on electric bill if the household income exceeds CARE allowances. This includes households with incomes at or below 250% of the federal poverty income levels. PG&E customers may qualify for this program.
• Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help (REACH) is administered by the Dollar Energy Fund. REACH helps households pay for energy with a payment that is applied directly to their past-due bill. For eligible low-income households, REACH provides an energy credit of up to $1,000 based on the past-due balance. For low to moderate income households, REACH provides a triple matching payment of up to $1,000 for customers who make a payment of at least $50 towards their past due balance. Households must be PG&E customers to qualify for this program.
• Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that provides assistance to low-income households with the goal of meeting their home heating and cooling needs. There are several portions of LIHEAP, including HEAP, Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP), Weatherization, education on energy efficiency practices, and energy budget counseling. HEAP provides one-time financial assistance to household’s utility bill. ECIP provides assistance to households that are in a crisis situation. Weatherization provides free energy efficiency upgrades to households. The Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) runs the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). The program has two (2) services: 1) Utility Assistance and 2) Weatherization and Energy Efficiency. Utility Assistance assists with payments on propane bills for applicants that have a total household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty income levels. Weatherization and Energy Efficiency service enables families to permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. Free weatherization services are provided, including refrigerator replacement, installing attic insulation, weatherstripping, installing door shoes, caulking doors/windows, installing low-flow shower heads and aerators, water heater blankets, carbon monoxide detectors, set-back thermostat, duct testing HVAC systems, installing smoke alarms, and other home repairs. The income qualifications are the same as Utility Assistance services.

6.6 Financial and Administrative Resources
By recommending a mix of affordable housing types, it is believed that continued socio-economic group integration in neighborhoods in Taft can be achieved. The City's progress toward accomplishing these objectives will be reviewed annually to measure success and to create a housing plan for the upcoming years. In addition to providing much needed affordable housing, the provision of housing development is a critical economic development strategy for the City. While the City may be successful in receiving state or federal housing grants, the City needs to assist private developers with its own resources, when possible, and efficient processes to provide adequate housing sites in Taft. Table 6-18 lists funding programs related to housing. Program 2.a. Housing Rehabilitation (Funding and Assistance), Program 3.a. First-Time Home Buyer Program (Funding and Assistance), and 9.e. Funding for New Low-Income Housing Development commits the City of Taft to secure funding related to housing.

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Table 6-18 Funding Programs
Program Description
Affordable Housing & Sustainable
Communities (AHSC)
Agency: Strategic Growth Council (SGC)
The Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities
Program (AHSC) creates healthier communities and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by increasing the supply of
affordable housing near jobs, amenities, and transportation options.

Sustainable Transportation Planning (STP)
Grant
Agency: California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Caltrans offers grants for sustainable transportation planning to cities and counties in California. The grants aim to support local and regional identification of transportation-related climate vulnerabilities through the development of climate adaptation plans. The grants will be awarded to cities and counties to begin or complete planning for resilience, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and sometimes just to get up to speed with state climate goals.

Community Development Block Grant
Program (CDBG)
Agency: California Department of Housing & Community
Development (HCD)
CDBG is a federal funding program that provides annual grants to states, cities, and counties to develop viable urban communities. The grants are used to provide decent housing, a suitable living environment, and economic opportunities, mainly for low- and moderate-income people.

Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG)
Agency: California Department of Housing & Community
Development (HCD)
The objective of the Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG) program is to promote infill housing development by providing financial assistance for Capital Improvement Projects that are an integral part of, or necessary to facilitate the development of affordable and mixed income housing.

Local Housing Trust Fund (LHTF)
Agency: California Department of Housing & Community
Development (HCD)
A local housing trust fund (LHTF) is a tool communities can use to make affordable housing a reality for their residents. It is established by a local government by dedicating local public revenue for housing. The trust fund provides local officials with a vehicle to coordinate a complex array of state and federal programs to fashion a housing strategy that is tailored to the community’s unique needs, conditions, and political culture.

Trust funds help communities leverage public and private resources and jumpstart projects that draw investment and jobs.

Multi-family Housing Program (MHP) Agency: California Department of Housing & Community Development (HCD)

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Program Description
A program that provides low-interest, long-term deferredpayment loans for new construction, rehabilitation, and preservation of permanent and transitional rental housing for lower-income households. The program assists rural property owners through loans, loan guarantees, and grants that enable owners to develop and rehabilitate properties for low-income, elderly, and disabled individuals and families as well as domestic farm laborers.

Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA)
Agency: California Department of Housing & Community
Development (HCD)
Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) is a program that provides a permanent source of funding to all local
governments in California to help cities and counties implement plans to increase the affordable housing stock. The program is administered by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The goal of the program is to help meet the unmet need for affordable housing and increase the supply of affordable housing units.

Transit Oriented Development (TOD)
Agency: California Department of Housing & Community
Development (HCD)
Funding programs that support the development of projects that increase transit use. TOD grants provide funding for moderateto higher-density projects located within easy walking distance of a major transit stop. The grants aim to integrate land use and transportation planning in new fixed guideway and core
capacity transit project corridors, improve economic
development and ridership potential, foster multimodal
connectivity and accessibility, improve transit access for pedestrian and bicycle traffic, engage the private sector, identify infrastructure needs, and enable mixed-use
development near transit stations.

Housing Choice Voucher Program
Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Kern County Housing Authority A federal program that helps very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to pay for decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. The program provides vouchers that cover a portion of the rent, and the tenants pay the rest. The vouchers can be used for any type of housing that meets the program's standards.

Continuum of Care (CoC)
Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Bakersfield-Kern Regional Homeless Collaborative
A federal grant program designed to promote a communitywide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness. The program provides funding for efforts by nonprofit providers,

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Program Description
states, Indian Tribes or tribally designated housing entities, and local governments to quickly rehouse homeless individuals, families, persons fleeing domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, and youth while minimizing the trauma and dislocation caused by homelessness. The program also promotes access to and effective utilization of mainstream programs by homeless individuals and families and optimizes self-sufficiency among those experiencing homelessness.

Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESG)
Agency: California Department of Housing & Community
Development (HCD)
The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program provides grant funding to (1) engage homeless individuals and families living on the street, (2) rapidly re-house homeless individuals and families, (3) help operate and provide essential services in emergency shelters for homeless individuals and families, and (4) prevent individuals and families from becoming homeless.

Active Transportation Grant Program (ATGP)
Agency: California Transportation Commission (CTC)
The Active Transportation Grant Program (ATGP) is a program that encourages local jurisdictions to plan and build facilities that promote multiple travel choices and increase connectivity to transit, schools, retail centers, parks, work, and other community gathering places. The program allows cities,
counties, transit agencies and other public agencies to compete for grants to build bicycle/pedestrian paths, install bike racks, and pay for other projects or programs that make walking or biking easier, safer and more convenient.

HOME Investment Partnership Program
Agency: California Department of Housing & Community
Development (HCD)
HOME is a flexible grant program and funds are awarded on a formula basis for housing activities. HOME considers local market conditions, inadequate housing, poverty, and housing production costs. HOME funding is provided to jurisdictions to assist rental housing or homeownership through acquisition, construction, reconstruction, and/or rehabilitation of affordable housing.

Local Partnership Program
Agency: California Transportation Commission (CTC)
A program that provides funding to local and regional agencies to improve infrastructure, road conditions, active
transportation, transit and rail, and health and safety benefits. The program was created by SB 1 to provide counties, cities and regional transportation agencies that have passed sales tax measures, developer fees or other imposed

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Program Description
transportation fees with additional support for local projects from the State.

Solutions for Congested Corridors Program
Agency: California Transportation Commission (CTC)
A statewide, competitive program that provides funding to achieve a balanced set of transportation, environmental, and community access improvements to reduce congestion
throughout the state.

Transit and Intercity Rail Capitol Program
Agency: California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) A program that provides grants from the Greenhouse Gas
Reduction Fund (GGRF) to fund capital improvements that will modernize California’s intercity rail, commuter rail, and urban rail systems, and bus and ferry transit systems. The program aims to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, vehicle miles traveled, and congestion.

Pro-housing Designation
Agency: California Department of Housing & Community
Development (HCD)
Provides incentives to cities and counties to increase the availability of affordable housing. The program gives
jurisdictions bonus points in grant application processes and allows them to get in front of the line for various state-funded programs, including Affordable Housing and Sustainable
Communities (AHSC), Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG),
Transformative Climate Communities (TCC), and Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP).

6.6.1 Funding History
The two (2) primary sources of financial resources to aid in the development of housing in Taft come from Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and HOME Investments Partnership Program (HOME) funds. In the past, the City has also been approved by the California Housing Financing Agency (CalHFA) for Housing Rehabilitation and First Time Homebuyers Programs.

The City competes for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds under the State Department of Housing and Community Development’s Small Cities Program. Taft received CDBG planning funds and three (93, 95, and 99) implementation grants of $500,000 each, for housing rehabilitation and a 61- unit affordable housing project for senior citizens built in 1999. The City also received CDBG funding for a First-Time Homebuyer Program in 2014. The rehabilitation and provision of affordable housing continues to be a prime economic development strategy and the major focus of the City’s efforts. The City will continue to seek CDBG funding and to budget matching funds for affordable housing activities. In addition to maintaining the rehabilitation loan program, City’s CDBG Program will seek specific assistance for new projects, most likely in the form of land acquisition and infrastructure assistance. The dissolution of Redevelopment Agencies by the state in 2012 has further hindered and limited funding sources to assist the development of affordable housing projects in the City, County, and statewide.

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The City received $900,000 in HOME funds in 1995, for housing rehabilitation, the 61-unit senior project, and for in-fill new construction in the Target Area for first-time homebuyers (FTHB). In 2014, the City was awarded $500,000 for housing rehabilitation and FTHB, with or without rehabilitation. Recent CDBG and HOME guidelines allow monies to be spent in any area of the City, not just in the Target area, unlike in the past. The City will continue to seek HOME funding and to budget matching funds for affordable housing activity. In addition to maintaining the rehabilitation loan program, the City will seek specific assistance for new projects of all housing types.

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7 ANALYSIS OF CONSTRAINTS
There are several factors that constrain the development of housing, including where, how, when, and what type of housing development occurs. Constraints generally fall within two categories – government constraints and non-governmental constraints (e.g., market conditions, environmental, and infrastructure).

Governmental constraints typically include land use controls, policies, regulations, processes, and procedures that may affect housing. Non-government constraints are typically factors beyond the direct control and authority of a local agency.

State Housing Law (Government Code Section 65583) requires jurisdictions to analyze potential and actual governmental and non-governmental constraints to the production, maintenance, and improvement of housing for all persons of all income levels and those with special needs, and, where appropriate and legally possible, remove governmental constraints through clear, measurable, and timely programs. In accordance with State Housing Law, this section identifies, analyzes, and evaluates potential governmental and non-governmental constraints to housing development in the City of Taft.

7.1 Governmental Constraints

7.1.1 General Plan
A comprehensive update to the Taft General Plan was adopted in June 2010. The General Plan was amended in 2017 (Resolution No. 3819-17) to 1) reduce the Planning Area to current Sphere of Influence limit with a small addition of unincorporated area to the northwest, 2) establish an Urban Growth Boundary to encourage more sustainable growth, and 3) prepare a Climate Action Plan. This amendment also provided an opportunity for the City to analyze and amend its Land Use Element. The Land Use designations and their locations were re-evaluated to ensure properties identified on the Adequate Sites list were consistent with their applicable Zoning District.

Land Use Designations
The Land Use Element establishes nine (9) land use designations, including five (5) land use designations that allow residential uses, Low Density Residential, Medium Density Residential, High Density Residential, Commercial, and Mixed Use. These designations are described below. • Low Density Residential: The intent is to provide for low density residential neighborhoods. Low Density Residential development will most likely consist of detached units or attached units.

Secondary dwelling units are also permitted. Low Density Residential development is generally served by community sewer and water. The Low Density Residential designation is intended to allow limited multiple family residential development on corner lots in single-family residential neighborhoods where zoning permits. The Low Density Residential designation is also intended to allow limited neighborhood commercial development in residential neighborhoods where zoning permits. Neighborhood commercial uses must be compatible with nearby residential uses and located at the intersection of arterials/local streets or collectors/local streets. Development of neighborhood commercial centers must be in scale with the surrounding residential neighborhood.

The maximum anticipated population density is 21 persons per acre. The Maximum Dwelling

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Density is seven (7) dwelling units per gross acre (7 du/ac). Compatible zone districts include RS, R-1, PD, DI, and CF.
• Medium Density Residential: The intent is to provide for medium density residential neighborhoods. Medium Density Residential development will most likely consist of more compact single family development consisting of detached units or attached units, or multiple family units. The Medium Density Residential designation is also intended to allow limited neighborhood commercial development in residential neighborhoods. Neighborhood commercial land uses must be compatible with nearby residential uses and located at the intersection of arterials/local streets or collectors/local streets. Development of neighborhood commercial centers must be in scale with the surrounding residential neighborhood. The maximum anticipated population density is 45 persons per acre. The Minimum Dwelling Density is four (4) dwelling units per gross acre (4 du/ac) and the Maximum Dwelling Density is 15 dwelling units per gross acre (15 du/ac). Compatible zone districts include R-2, PD, DI, and CF. • High Density Residential: The intent is to provide for high density residential neighborhoods.

High Density Residential development will most commonly consist primarily of attached units or multiple-family units. The High Density Residential designation is also intended to allow limited neighborhood commercial development in residential neighborhoods. Neighborhood commercial uses must be compatible with nearby residential uses and located at the intersection of arterials/local streets or collectors/local streets. Development of neighborhood commercial centers must be in scale with the surrounding residential neighborhood. The maximum anticipated population density is 87 persons per acre. The Minimum Dwelling Density is eight (8) dwelling units per gross acre (8 du/ac) and the Maximum Dwelling Density is 29 dwelling units per gross acre (29 du/ac). Compatible zone districts include R-3, PD, DI, and CF. • Commercial: The intent is to provide for local and regional shopping centers, highway commercial land uses, general retail land uses, and office developments. It is expected that this designation will not have population as the uses are not intended to include residential development. However, there may be some associated residential uses but the population to acre ratio is expected to be very low, anticipating three or fewer persons per acre where zoning permits.

Building intensity in this designation may cover the entire parcel and reach several floors.

Compatible zone districts include DC, GC, PD, PE, DI, and CF. • Mixed Use: The intent is to encourage a mix of residential, office, and retail uses in designated areas of the community. The Mixed Use designation is concentrated in the Downtown area and other appropriate areas as shown on Figure 3.0-1 (Land Use Map). The maximum anticipated population density is 87 persons per acre. Building intensity in this designation may cover the entire parcel and reach to several floors. The Maximum Dwelling Density is 29 dwelling units per gross acre (29 du/ac). Compatible zone districts include DC, PD, GC, DI, and CF.

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7.1.2 Zoning Ordinance
Zone Districts
The Zoning Ordinance contains four (4) residential zone districts, two (2) commercial zone districts, an agricultural zone district, community facilities zone district, and natural resources zone district where residential uses are permitted. The purpose and intent of each zone district is provided below. • Residential Suburban (RS) Zone District: The primary purpose of the Residential Suburban Zone District is to provide for and protect a rural atmosphere and lifestyle or a large lot estate atmosphere and lifestyle. This zone district is intended as an area for development of low density, comprised of: 1) a large lot subdivision with a maximum allowable density of one dwelling unit per acre; or 2) a small lot subdivision with a maximum allowable density of two and one-half (2 ½) dwelling units per acre.
• Single-Family Residential (R-1) Zone District: The primary purpose of the R-1 Zone District is to provide for and protect the atmosphere and lifestyle associated with detached, single-family residential neighborhoods. This zone district is intended as an area for detached single-family residential small lot developments at a maximum allowable density of seven (7) dwelling units per acre.
• Medium Density Residential (R-2) Zone District: The primary purpose of the R-2 Zone District is to provide a range of housing choices for residents in a more urban setting. The R-2 Zone District provides for residential development, including small lot single- and multiple-family detached and attached residential uses at a maximum allowable density of fifteen (15) dwelling units per net acre.
• High Density Residential (R-3) Zone District: The primary purpose of the R-3 Zone District is to provide for the development of multi-family attached residential dwelling units with enhanced amenities (common open space and recreation areas) at a maximum allowable density of twentynine (29) dwelling units per net acre. • Mixed Use (MU) Zone District: The Mixed-Use Zone District is intended to provide maximum flexibility by allowing combinations of commercial and multiple-family residential uses on the same parcel of land.
• General Commercial (GC) Zone District: The primary purpose of the General Commercial Zone District is to provide sites for commercial uses that will serve a large segment of the population with a wide variety of retail, wholesale, service and office uses. • Agricultural (A) Zone District: The primary purpose of the Agricultural (A) Zone District is to designate areas suitable for agricultural uses, to prevent the encroachment of incompatible uses into agricultural lands, and to prevent the premature conversion of such lands to nonagricultural uses.

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• Community Facilities (CF) Zone District: The primary purpose of the community facilities (CF) zone district is to assure the availability and adequacy of lands suitable for future public, quasipublic and institutional facilities, uses and activities. • Natural Resources (NR): The primary purpose of the natural resources (NR) zone district is to designate areas suitable for natural resource uses, to prevent the encroachment of incompatible uses into natural resource lands, and to prevent the premature conversion of such lands to non resource uses. The following regulations shall apply in the natural resources zone, unless otherwise provided in this title.

Zoning for a Variety of Housing Types
The following section analyzes the availability of zoning for a variety of housing types to promote a diverse housing stock, in accordance with Government Code Section 65583 and 65583.2. A variety of housing types contribute to neighborhood stability by offering more housing options that meet the needs of varying households. This section analyzes the zoning and availability of sites for a variety of housing types in the City of Taft, and then, based on the findings, describes how existing ordinances, policies, and standards will be modified to remove, mitigate, or reduce constraints, and comply with applicable legislation. Specifically, this section analyzes:
• Multi-Family Rental Housing
• Housing for Agricultural Employees
• Emergency Shelters
• Low Barrier Navigation Centers
• Transitional Housing
• Supportive Housing
• Single Room Occupancy Units
• Manufactured Housing
• Mobile homes and mobile home Parks
• Accessory Dwelling Units
Residential uses permitted per zone district are summarized in Table 7-1.

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Table 7-1: Residential Uses Permitted within Zone Districts Residential Use RS R-1 R-2 R-3 MU GC A CF NR
Accessory dwelling unit P P P P X X P X X
Board and care facility (12 or more residents) X X C C X X X X X Boarding/rooming house (7 or more residents) X X C C X X X X X Convalescent care X C C C X X X X X
Emergency shelter X X P X X X X X X
Farm Labor Housing for Contract Labor X X X X X X C X X Farm Labor Housing for On Site Employees X X X X X X C X X Mobile home park X C C X X X X X X
Mobile home subdivision C C C X X X X X X
Multi-family dwellings X X P P C X X X X
Residence in conjunction with a business X X X X C X X X X Residential care facility (per State law) X X X X DP DP C C X Residential facilities X X X X X X C X X
Senior congregate care, assisted living X C C C X X X X X Senior independent living X C C C X X X X X
Single-family dwelling P P P C X X P* X C
Supportive housing P P P P C X P X C
Transitional housing P P P P C X P X C
Two-Unit Dwelling P P P P X X X X X
Legend: Notes:
*Permitted if occupied by the owner or full-time on-site employee P = Permitted subject to Site Plan Review approval C = Permitted subject to approval of a conditional use permit DP = Permitted subject to approval of a Director's Permit application X = Prohibited

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Multi-Family Rental Housing
The City’s Zoning Ordinance includes two (2) use classifications related to multi-family housing: “twounit dwelling” and “multi-family dwellings.” The Zoning Ordinance defines a “multi-family dwelling” as a building containing two (2) or more dwelling units, either attached or detached; “two-unit dwelling” is not currently defined but can be implied to mean a duplex or a building designed to accommodate two units.

Two-unit dwellings are permitted in the RS, R-1, R-2, and R-3 zone districts, subject to site plan review.

Multi-family dwellings are permitted in the R-2 and R-3 zone districts, subject to site plan review, and in the MU zone district, subject to a conditional use permit. Within the Downtown Taft Specific Plan Area, multi-family dwellings are permitted in the MDR, DC-MU, DT-MU, and LW-MU zone districts subject to site plan review, and in the C zone district subject to a conditional use permit.

Overall, the lack of definition and redundant use of two (2) or more units could cause confusion for both the potential developer/builder and for City staff and requiring a conditional use permit for multi-family dwellings may constitute a barrier to multi-family rental housing development and thereby limit the variety of housing choice and opportunities. As such, Program 5.a. Multi-Family Rental Housing will amend the Zoning Ordinance and Downtown Taft Specific Plan to:
• Define “two-unit dwellings.”
• Modify the definition of “multi-family dwellings” to “a legal parcel containing three (3) or more dwelling units, either attached or detached” to not cause confusion with two-unit dwellings, such as a duplex.
• Allow two-unit dwellings in the MU zone district as a use by right. • Allow small multi-family dwellings (triplexes and fourplexes) as a use by right in the R-2 and R3 zone districts as allowed within the permitted densities, and large multi-family dwellings (five or more units) subject to a site plan review.
• Remove the conditional use permit requirement for multi-family dwellings in the MU zone district and allow small multi-family dwellings (triplexes and fourplexes) as a use by right, and large multifamily dwellings (five or more units) subject to a site plan review. • Allow two-unit dwellings within the Downtown Taft Specific Plan Area, specifically in the MDR, DC-MU, DT-MU, and LW-MU zone districts, as a use by right.

Housing for Agricultural Employees
According to the Employee Housing Act (Government Code Section 17008(a)), “Employee housing” means any portion of any housing accommodation, or property upon which a housing accommodation is located, if all of the following factors exist: 1) the accommodations consist of any living quarters, dwelling, boardinghouse, tent, bunkhouse, maintenance-of-way car, mobile home, manufactured home,

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recreational vehicle, travel trailer, or other housing accommodations, maintained in one or more buildings or one of more sites, and the premises upon which they are situated or the area set aside and provided for parking of mobile homes or camping of five or more employees by the employer; and 2) the accommodations are maintained in connection with any work or place where work is being performed, whether or not rent is involved.

Employee housing also includes any portion of any housing accommodation or property upon which housing accommodations are located, if all of the following factors exist: the housing accommodations or property are 1) located in any rural area (defined by Section 50101), 2) not maintained in connection with any work or workplace, 3) by someone other than an agricultural employer (defined by Section 1140.4), and 4) used by five or more agricultural employees of any agricultural employer or employers for temporary or seasonal residency, permanent residency (if mobile home, manufactured home, travel trailer, or recreational vehicle), or permanent residency is subject to the State Housing Law, more than 30 years old, and at least 51 percent of the structures (or 51 percent of the accommodation if not separated into units) are occupied by agricultural employees.

The Employee Housing Act further distinguishes between employee housing providing accommodations for six (6) or fewer employees (i.e., “small” employee housing) (Government Code Section 17021.5) and employee housing consisting of no more than 36 beds in a group quarters or 12 units of spaces (i.e., “large” employee housing) (Government Code Section 17021.6). According to State Law, small employee housing shall be deemed a single-family structure with a residential land use designation and no permit shall be required of small employee housing that is not required of a family dwelling of the same type in the same zone. Large employee housing is required to be deemed an agricultural land use and no permit shall be required of this employee housing that is not required of any other agricultural activity in the same zone. The Employee Housing Act also establishes a streamlined, ministerial approval process for agricultural employee housing if certain criteria are met (Government Code Section 17021.8).

The City’s Zoning Ordinance includes two (2) use classifications related to employee housing or housing for agricultural employees: “Farm Labor Housing for Contract Labor” and “Farm Labor Housing for On Site Employees.” These use classifications are not currently defined in the Zoning Ordinance. Both uses are permitted as residential uses in the A zone district, which is the City’s only agricultural zone district, and require a conditional use permit. The Zoning Ordinance does not identify streamlined ministerial approval process for certain employee housing pursuant to applicable State Law.

Of note, Taft has approximately two (2) square miles of land within the Agricultural (A) zone district in the southeastern edge of the City. The properties within the A zone are not covered by Williamson Act contracts and are not considered prime farmland. The properties contain the federal Taft Correctional Institute (TCI). However, if such agricultural or farming activity were to occur on those A zoned properties, they would be subject to the Employee Housing Act and employee housing standards as defined in Section 17008 of the California Health and Safety Code.

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Therefore, as currently written, the City’s Zoning Ordinance does not comply with the Employee Housing Act including Health and Safety Code Sections 17021.5 (“Small” Employee Housing), 17021.6 (“Large” Employee Housing), and 17021.8 (Agricultural Employee Housing), which may constitute a barrier for development of such housing. As such, Program 5.b. Housing for Agricultural Employees will amend the Zoning Ordinance to:
• Define Employee Housing pursuant to Health and Safety Code Sections 17008 (Employee Housing), 17021.5 (“Small” Employee Housing), 17021.6 (“Large” Employee Housing). • Allow Employee Housing (Small) as a single-family structure with a residential land use designation in the same zones and of the same permit requirements of a family dwelling of the same type in the same zone (i.e., RS, R-1, R-2, R-3 zone districts). • Allow Employee Housing (Large) as an agricultural land use in the same zones and of the same permit requirements of any other agricultural activity in the same zone (i.e., A zone district). • Add new section to Specific Use Development Standards, “Agricultural Employee Housing,” that describes the requirements and process for streamlined ministerial approval pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17021.8.

Emergency Shelters
According to State Law, “Emergency Shelter” means housing with minimal supportive services for homeless persons that is limited to occupancy of six (6) months or less by a homeless person (Health and Safety Code Section 50801). No individual or household may be denied emergency shelter because of an inability to pay. Emergency Shelters shall also include other interim interventions, including but not limited to, a navigation center, bridge housing, and respite or recuperative care (Government Code Section 65583).

State Law requires that every jurisdiction identify a zone or zones where Emergency Shelters are allowed as permitted use without a conditional use or other discretionary permit (Government Code Section 65583). The identified zone or zones must include sufficient capacity to accommodate the need for Emergency Shelter, and each jurisdiction must identify a zone or zones to accommodate at least one (1) 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 zoning designation or designations where Emergency Shelters are allowed, shall include sites that meet at least one of the following standards:
• Vacant sites zoned for residential use.
• Vacant sites zoned for nonresidential use that allow residential development, if the local government can demonstrate how the sites are located near amenities and services that serve people experiencing homelessness, which may include, health care, transportation, retail, employment,

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and social services, or that the local government will provide free transportation to services or offer services onsite.
• Nonvacant sites zoned for residential use or for nonresidential use that allow residential development that are suitable for use as a shelter in the current planning period, or which can be redeveloped for use as a shelter in the current planning period. A nonvacant site with an existing use shall be presumed to impede emergency shelter development absent an analysis based on substantial evidence that the use is likely to be discontinued during the planning period. The analysis shall consider current market demand for the current uses, market conditions, and incentives or standards to encourage shelter development.

Further, the zoning designation or designations shall have sufficient sites to accommodate the need for shelters identified based on the capacity necessary to accommodate the most recent homeless point-intime (PIT) count conducted before the start of the planning period, the need based on number of beds available on a year-round and seasonal basis, the number of shelter beds that go unused on an average monthly basis within a one-year period, and the percentage of those in shelters that move to permanent housing solutions. The number of people experiencing homelessness that can be accommodated on any site shall be demonstrated by dividing the square footage of the site by a minimum of 200 square feet per person. According to the Kern County 2023 Point in Time Count Report prepared by the Bakersfield-Kern Regional Homeless Collaborative, Taft’s unsheltered population is approximately 10 people. Therefore, Taft would be required to identify adequate site(s) that can accommodate at least 10 individuals with a minimum of 200 square feet per person/bed in facilities totaling approximately 2,000 square feet.

Additionally, Emergency Shelters may be subject only to development and management standards that apply to residential or commercial development in the same zone. A local government may apply written and objective standards include all the following:
• Maximum number of beds.
• Off-street parking based upon demonstrated need.
• Size and location of onsite waiting and intake areas. • Provision of onsite management.
• Proximity to other shelters.
• Length of stay.
• Lighting.
• Security during hours when the shelter is open.

The City’s Zoning Ordinance defines an “Emergency Shelter” as “housing with minimal supportive services for homeless persons that is limited to occupancy of six (6) months or less by a homeless person.

No individual or household may be denied emergency shelter because of inability to pay, as defined in Health and Safety Code section 50801(e).” This definition is mostly consistent with State Law. To fully comply, the City would need to add, “including but not limited to, a navigation center, bridge housing,

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and respite or recuperative care (Government Code Section 65583).” As such, Program 5.c. Emergency Shelters will amend the Zoning Ordinance to modify the definition of Emergency Shelters to include other interim interventions, including but not limited to, a navigation center, bridge housing, and respite or recuperative care (Government Code Section 65583).

The City’s Zoning Ordinance permits Emergency Shelters in the R-2 zone district, subject to site plan review. The R-2 zone district is a residential district. Emergency Shelters are also permitted as a residential use within the Downtown Taft Specific Plan Area, specifically in the MDR, C, DC-MU, LW-MU, and OM zone districts, subject to site plan review. Therefore, the City currently permits Emergency Shelters in more than one (1) zone district including residential zone districts and non-residential zone districts that allow residential development, which complies with AB 139 and AB 2339.

According to the latest Zoning Map, there are approximately 46.1 acres of vacant or underutilized (i.e., parking) land within these zone districts that would permit Emergency Shelters which would leave more than enough acres of suitable land to accommodate the most recent PIT count. These sites are shown in Figure 7-1. All but one of these sites are located near amenities and services that serve people experiencing homelessness, including healthcare, transportation, retail, employment, and social services.

In addition, approximately 99% of these sites are within 0.5 miles of an existing bus stop.

The City’s Zoning Ordinance also includes written and objective development standards specific to Emergency Shelters under Specific Use Development Standards. These standards are listed below.

Overall, these development standards are objective and encourage and facilitate the development of, or conversion to, emergency shelters, except for the current parking standards that are inconsistent with State Law. Therefore, Program 5.c. Emergency Shelters will amend the Zoning Ordinance to modify the parking requirements for emergency shelters to only require sufficient parking to accommodate all staff working in the shelter, provided that the standards do not require more parking than other residential or commercial uses within the same zone (Government Code Section 65583). • Maximum Stay.
• Capacity.
• Location to Transit Stop.
• Distance between facilities.
• On Site Manager.
• Parking.
• Bicycle Rack.
• Lighting.
• Waiting/Intake Areas.
• Storage.
• Restroom Facilities.
• Operational Plan.

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Figure 7-1 Vacant/Underutilized Parcels that Permits Emergency Shelters, Taft, 2024

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Low Barrier Navigation Centers
According to State Law, a “Low Barrier Navigation Center” (LBNC) means a Housing First, low-barrier, service-enriched shelter 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 (Government Code Section 65660). LBNCs are required to be a use by right (i.e., no discretionary review or approval) in areas zoned for mixed use and non-residential zones permitting multi-family uses, if it meets the requirements of State Law (Government Code Section 65662).

The City’s Zoning Ordinance does not define LBNCs, nor does it explicitly permit LBNCs as a use.

Therefore, as currently written, the City’s Zoning Ordinance does not comply with applicable State Law (Government Code Sections 65660 et. seq.), which may constitute a barrier for development of such housing. As such, Program 5.d. Low Barrier Navigation Centers will amend the Zoning Ordinance to:
• Define Low Barrier Navigation Center (Government Code Section 65660). • Allow Low Barrier Navigation Center as a use by right in areas zoned for mixed use and nonresidential zones permitting multi-family uses, if it meets the requirements of State Law (Government Code Section 65662).
• Add new section to Specific Use Development Standards, “Low Barrier Navigation Centers,” that describes the requirements and process for streamlined ministerial approval pursuant to Government Code Section 65662.

Transitional Housing
According to State Law, “Transitional Housing” means buildings configured as rental housing developments, but operated under program requirements that require the termination of assistance and recirculating of the assisted unit to another eligible program recipient at a predetermined future point in time that shall be no less than six (6) months from the beginning of the assistance (Government Code Section 65582).
“Target population” means persons with low incomes who have one or more disabilities, including mental illness, HIV or AIDS, substance abuse, or other chronic health condition, or individuals eligible for services provided pursuant to the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act and may include, among other populations, adults, emancipated minors, families with children, elderly persons, young adults aging out of the foster care system, individuals exiting from institutional settings, veterans, and homeless people (Government Code Section 65582).

Of note, Transitional Housing is a type of Supportive Housing used to facilitate the movement of people experiencing homelessness into permanent housing. A person experiencing homelessness may live in a transitional apartment for a predetermined period of time, however not less than six (6) months while receiving supportive services that enable independent living.

Transitional housing is required to be considered a residential use of property and shall be subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone (Government

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Code Section 65583). In other words, Transitional Housing is to be permitted in all zones allowing residential uses and are not subject to any restrictions (e.g., occupancy limit) not imposed on similar dwellings (e.g., single-family homes, apartments) in the same zone in which the Transitional Housing is located. For example, Transitional Housing located in an apartment building in a multi-family zone is permitted in the same manner as an apartment building in the same zone and Transitional Housing located in a single-family home in a single-family zone is permitted in the same manner as a single-family home in the same zone.

The City’s Zoning Ordinance defines “Transitional Housing” as “buildings configured as rental housing developments, but operated under program requirements 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, as defined in Government Code section 50675.2(h).” Transitional Housing is permitted as residential use in the RS, R-1, R-2, R-3, and A zone districts, subject to a site plan review, and in the MU and NR zone districts with a conditional use permit. In the Downtown Taft Specific Plan Area, Transitional Housing is permitted in the MDR and O-M zone districts, subject to a site plan review, and in the DC-MU and LW-MU zone districts with a conditional use permit. The zones and manner in which Transitional Housing is permitted in these zone districts is consistent with how other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone are permitted.

There are sufficient vacant and existing developed properties to house such facilities. Residential and agricultural districts comprise 1,737 acres of the 9,622 acres of the City of Taft, or 18.1 percent of the City. The commercial zone districts that allow transitional and supportive housing with approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) comprise another 9.3 percent of City area. The majority of the City of Taft is within the NR zone district, which comprises 56.2 percent of the City. Although the NR zone district allows such facilities with approval of a CUP, most of the NR area is undeveloped and does not have sufficient infrastructure for development as the area is intended for oil and gas production activities.

Further, the Zoning Ordinance does not identify development standards or restrictions for Transitional Housing that do not apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. With regard to parking, the Zoning Ordinance does not currently identify parking requirements specific to Transitional Housing. However, the Downtown Taft Specific Plan sets a minimum off street parking requirement of one (1) space per unit for Transitional Housing.

Overall, as currently written, the City’s Zoning Ordinance generally complies with applicable State Law (Government Code Sections 65582 and 65583); however, there are some changes that could be made to ensure the Zoning Ordinance does not constitute a barrier for development of such housing. As such, Program 5.e. Transitional Housing will amend the Zoning Ordinance to:
• Modify the definition of Transitional Housing to replace reference to Government Code Section 50675.2(h) with Government Code Section 65582.
• Identify parking requirements for Transitional Housing.

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Supportive Housing
According to State Law, “Supportive Housing” means housing with no limit on length of stay, that is occupied by the target population, and that is linked to onsite or offsite services that assist the supportive housing resident in retaining the housing, improving their health status, and maximizing their ability to live, and when possible, work in the community (Government Code Section 65582). “Target population” means persons with low incomes who have one or more disabilities, including mental illness, HIV or AIDS, substance abuse, or other chronic health condition, or individuals eligible for services provided pursuant to the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act and may include, among other populations, adults, emancipated minors, families with children, elderly persons, young adults aging out of the foster care system, individuals exiting from institutional settings, veterans, and homeless people (Government Code Section 65582).

Of note, Supportive Housing is permanent rental housing linked to a range of support services designed to enable residents to maintain stable housing and lead fuller lives. Evidence shows Supportive Housing works to reduce chronic homelessness. In addition, studies have shown that Supportive Housing benefits communities by reducing homelessness locally, addressing blight, and increasing property values.

Per State Law, Supportive Housing is required to be considered a residential use of property and shall be subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone (Government Code Section 65583). For example, Supportive Housing located in an apartment building in a multi-family zone is permitted in the same manner as an apartment building in the same zone. Supportive Housing is required to be a use by right (i.e., no discretionary review or approval) in zones where multi-family and mixed uses are permitted, including non-residential zones permitting multifamily uses, if it meets the requirements of State Law (Government Code Section 65651). In addition, if the Supportive Housing development is located within one-half mile of a public transit stop, no minimum parking requirements shall be imposed for the units occupied by supportive housing residents (Government Code Section 65654).

The City’s Zoning Ordinance defines “Supportive Housing” as “housing with no limit on length of stay, that is occupied by the target population, and that is linked to on 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, as defined in Government Code Section 50675.14(b).”
Supportive Housing is permitted in the RS, R-1, R-2, R-3, and A zone districts, subject to a site plan review, and in the MU and NR zone districts with a conditional use permit. In the Downtown Taft Specific Plan Area, Supportive Housing is permitted in the MDR, LW-MU, and O-M zone districts, subject to a site plan review. Per State Law, Supportive Housing should be allowed as a use permitted by right in zones where multi-family and mixed uses are permitted, which would include the MU and NR zone districts in the Zoning Ordinance and the C, DC-MU, and DT-MU zone districts in the Downtown Taft Specific Plan Area.

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The Zoning Ordinance does not identify development standards or restrictions for Supportive Housing that do not apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. The Zoning Ordinance does not identify parking requirements specific to Supportive Housing. The Downtown Taft Specific Plan sets a minimum off street parking requirement of one (1) space per unit for Supportive Housing.

Overall, as currently written, the City’s Zoning Ordinance does not comply with applicable State Law (Government Code Sections 65582 and 65651 et. seq.), which may constitute a barrier for development of such housing. As such, Program 5.f. Supportive Housing will amend the Zoning Ordinance and Downtown Taft Specific Plan to:
• Modify the definition of Supportive Housing to replace reference to Government Code Section 50674.14(b) with Government Code Section 65582.
• Allow Supportive Housing as a use by right in zones where multi-family and mixed uses are permitted, including non-residential zones permitting multi-family uses, if it meets the requirements of State Law (Government Code Section 65651), subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone (Government Code Section 65582).
• Add new section to Specific Use Development Standards, “Supportive Housing,” that describes the requirements and process for streamlined ministerial approval pursuant to Government Code Section 65651.
• Identify parking requirements for Supportive Housing, with no minimum parking requirements imposed for units occupied by supportive housing residents when located within one-half mile of public transit (Government Code Section 65654).

Single Room Occupancy Units
A single-room occupancy (SRO) unit is usually small, between 200 to 350 square feet. 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 have previously experienced homelessness. Per State Law, SRO units must be allowed in at least one (1) zone district (Government Code Section 65583).

The City’s Zoning Ordinance does not currently define or permit SRO units, but the concept has historically been used by motels in the City through local housing assistance voucher programs operated by the State, County, or nonprofits. The motels that have operated as an SRO at times include Sunset Motel, Western Inn & Suites, Holland Inn & Suites, and Topper’s Motel with a total capacity of 110 units.

Hotels and motels are currently permitted with a Conditional Use Permit in the R-3 zone district and permitted with a Site Plan Review in the General Commercial and Mixed-Use zone districts. While these uses have occurred in the past, not explicitly permitting SROs could constitute a barrier for development of such housing. As such, Program 5.g. Single Room Occupancy Units will amend the Zoning Ordinance and Downtown Taft Specific Plan to:

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• Define Single Room Occupancy Units (e.g., Single Room Occupancy means a facility providing six (6) or more dwelling units where each unit has a minimum floor area of one hundred fifty (150) square feet and a maximum floor area of four hundred (400) square feet. These dwelling units may have kitchen or bathroom facilities and shall be offered on a monthly basis or longer.) • Allow SROs in at least one zone district (Government Code Section 65583). • Add new section to Specific Use Development Standards, “Single Room Occupancy Units,” that describes objective development standards specific to SRO units.

Manufactured Housing
According to State Law, “Manufactured Home” means a structure that was constructed on or after June 15, 1976, is transportable in one or more sections, is eight body feet or more in width, or 40 body feet or more in length, in the traveling mode, or, when erected on site, is 320 or more square feet, is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a single-family dwelling with or without a foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein (Health and Safety Code Section 18007). “Manufactured Home” includes any structure that meets all the requirements of this paragraph except the size requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification and complies with the standards established under the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Act of 1974.

State Law requires public agencies to allow the installation of manufactured homes certified under the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 on a foundation system, pursuant to Section 18551 of the Health and Safety Code, on lots zoned for conventional single-family residential dwellings (Government Code Section 65852.3). Except for architectural requirements, a public agency shall only subject the manufactured home and the lot on which it is placed to the same development standards to which a conventional single-family residential dwelling on the same lot would be subject (e.g., setbacks, trash enclosures, parking, etc.). Public agencies shall not subject an application for such homes to any permit, planning, or development process of requirement which would otherwise not be imposed on a conventional single-family residential dwelling on the same lot, with the exception of requiring compliance with architectural requirements permitted by Government Code Section 65852.3.

The City’s Zoning Ordinance defines “Manufactured Home” as a structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a permanent chassis and is designed for use with or without permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities. For floodplain management purposes, the term “manufactured home” also includes park trailers, travel trailers, and other similar vehicles placed on site for more than one hundred eighty (180) consecutive days. In addition, the Zoning Ordinance defines a “Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision” as a parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into two (2) or more manufactured home lots for sale or rent.

Although the Zoning Ordinance includes definitions of Manufactured Home and Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision, these uses are not currently included as use classifications in the Zoning Ordinance

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use tables, which may constitute a barrier for development of such housing. As such, Program 5.h.

Manufactured Housing will amend the Zoning Ordinance and Downtown Taft Specific Plan to:
• Modify the definition of Manufactured Home (and thereby, Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision) to match and/or reference Health and Safety Code Section 18007. • Allow Manufactured Homes on lots zoned for conventional single-family residential dwellings to be permitted in the same manner as conventional single-family dwellings would be permitted on the same lot.

Mobile homes and Mobile home Parks
According to State Law, “Mobilehome” means a structure that was constructed prior to June 15, 1976, is transportable in one or more sections, is eight body feet or more in width, or 40 body feet or more in length, in the traveling mode, or, when erected on site, is 320 or more square feet, is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a single-family dwelling with or without a foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein (Health and Safety Code Section 18008). “Mobilehome” includes any structure that meets all the requirements of this paragraph and complies with the state standards for mobilehomes in effect at the time of construction. Of note, mobilehomes do not include a commercial modular (Section 18001.8), factory-built housing (Section 19971), manufactured home (Section 18007), multi-family manufactured home (18008.7) or recreational vehicle (Section 18010).

The City’s Zoning Ordinance defines “Mobile Home” as a transportable structure in one or more sections, built on a permanent chassis, and designed to be used with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities; excluding recreational or travel. In addition, the Zoning Ordinance defines a “Mobile Home Park” as any area or tract of land where one or more mobile home spaces are rented or leased or held out for rent or lease to accommodate mobile homes used for human habitation.

The City’s Zoning Ordinance currently allows Mobile Home Parks in the R-1 and R-2 zone districts with a conditional use permit and Mobile Home Subdivisions in the R-S, R-1, and R-2 zone districts with a conditional use permit.

Overall, as currently written, the City’s Zoning Ordinance and Downtown Taft Specific Plan may constitute a barrier for development of such housing. As such, Program 5.i. Mobile Homes will amend the Zoning Ordinance and Downtown Taft Specific Plan to:
• Modify the definition of Mobile Home (and thereby, Mobile Home Park) to match and/or reference Health and Safety Code Section 18008.

Accessory Dwelling Units
The City’s Zoning Ordinance defines “Accessory Dwelling Unit” as a secondary dwelling unit located on the same parcel as a primary single-family residential unit or multi-family residential development. The unit may be attached, detached, or a conversion of a room(s) in the primary dwelling. “Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit” is defined as an ADU of no less than 70 square feet and no more than 500 square feet in

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size and contained entirely within a single-family residence. A JADU can only be created through conversion of an existing portion of a single-family dwelling, not a garage or other accessory building.

ADUs and JADUs are regulated in Section 6-12-23 of the Municipal Code. In 2022, the City adopted two (2) ordinance amendments that further amended the zoning regulations regarding ADUs. The new regulations included allowing ADUs in all residential districts, defining JADUs, and reduced or eliminated development standard barriers to building ADUs. To date, the adopted ordinance has not been submitted to HCD for review. Any city/county that does adopt an ADU ordinance, must submit the ordinance to HCD within 60 days. Jurisdictions are required to provide a response letter to HCD within 30 days of HCD’s ADU Ordinance Review Letter.

The City’s Zoning Ordinance currently allows ADUs in the RS, R-1, R-2, R-3, and A zone districts subject to a site plan review. The Downtown Taft Specific Plan does not explicitly permit ADUs. Per State Law, ADUs shall be permitted in any residential and mixed-use zone, which should be construed broadly to mean any zone where residential uses are permitted by right or by conditional use. Therefore, ADUs should also be permitted in the MU zone district as well as the MDR, C, DC-MU, DT-MU, and LW-MU zone districts within the Downtown Taft Specific Plan.

Overall, as currently written, the City’s Zoning Ordinance and Downtown Taft Specific Plan may constitute a barrier for development of such housing. Through Program 6.a. ADU Ordinance, the City will submit its ADU Ordinance to HCD to complete a comprehensive review. Once HCD provides a response, the City will provide a detailed list of corrected actions to bring the ADU ordinance into compliance with State Law.

Boarding or Rooming House
The City’s Zoning Ordinance defines a “Boarding or Rooming House” as a building containing a dwelling unit where lodging is provided with or without meals, for compensation, for seven (7) or more persons.

The City’s Zoning Ordinance currently allows Boarding/Rooming Houses in the R-2 and R-3 zone districts with a conditional use permit. The Downtown Taft Specific Plan permits Boarding/Rooming Houses in the MDR and LW-MU zone districts with a conditional use permit. No constraints for boarding or rooming houses have been identified.

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Zoning Regulations
Development Standards
The City’s development standards are contained in the Zoning Ordinance for each zone district. The development standards applicable to residential uses are summarized in Table 7-2 and described in detail in the following section. Specifically, this section considers and analyzes:
• Density
• Parking Requirements
• Lot Coverage
• Height Limits
• Lot Size Requirements
• Unit Size Requirements
• Floor Area Ratios
• Setbacks
• Open Space Requirements

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Table 7-2 Taft Zoning Ordinance Residential Development Standards R-S R-1 R-2 R-3 MU*

1. MINIMUM LOT
SIZE
Area
Width
Depth
20,000
80’
125’
6,000
50'
100’
5,000
50’
100’
3,000
50’
100’
12,500
65’
100’

2. SETBACKS
Front
Side
Rear
30’
15’
10’
20’
5’
5'
20’
5’
5'
20’
5’
10'
0’
0’
0’

3. COVERAGE 30% 40% 50% 60% 0.85 FAR

4. DISTANCE

BETWEEN

BUILDINGS
10’ 10’ 10’ 10’ 10’

5. UNIT STANDARDS
Min. Floor Area 1,000 1,000 800 450 450

6. HEIGHT LIMIT
Feet 35' 35' 35' 45’ 45’

7. DENSITY
One unit/sq.ft.

Min. units/ac.

Max. units/ac.
20,000

1.0 2.5
6,000

2.5 7.0
--

7.0 15.0
--

15.0 29.0

15.0 29.0

8. PARKING
spaces/unit
Single Family
Multi-Family
Studio
1 Bedroom
2 or More Beds
Guest
11 or More Units
2 in Garage
or Carport
2 in
Garage or
Carport
2 Garage or
Carport

1.0 1.0

2.0 0.25
2 1.0

1.0 2.0

0.25 1.0^

1.0^

2.0^

0.25^
*Mixed Use commercial standards shown, multi-family and mixed-use residential shall meet density and other development standards of the R-3 zone district
^Multi-family parking is in addition to the parking required for retail, office, or other uses in the mixed-use development

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Density
The minimum and maximum permitted densities by zone district are shown in Table 7-3. The Taft City Council adopted Ordinance No. 822-16 in September 2016 to increase the maximum density of the R-1, R-2, and R-3 zone districts. The ordinance was necessary to ensure continuity of the permitted density between zone districts and to align with the recommended densities in the General Plan. The Downtown Taft Specific Plan was adopted in November 2022, which seeks to encourage higher density development, with the most dense/intense development in the downtown core and lower density development radiating out toward the edge of the Specific Plan Area. The City’s density requirements are in line with several nearby jurisdictions and do not pose a constraint to housing.

Table 7-3 Permitted Density by Zone District
Zone District Minimum Density Maximum Density
Residential Suburban (RS) - Large Lot Subdivision: 1 du/ac Small Lot Subdivision: 2.5 du/ac
Single-Family Residential (R-1) - 7 du/ac
Medium Density Residential (R-2) 4 du/ac 15 du/ac
High Density Residential (R-3) 8 du/ac 29 du/ac
Mixed Use (MU) - 29 du/ac
Downtown Taft Specific Plan
Downtown Core Mixed Use (DC-MU) 25 du/ac 40 du/ac
Downtown Transition Mixed Use (DTMU)15 du/ac 30 du/ac
Medium Density Residential (MDR) 12 du/ac 24 du/ac
Live-Work Mixed Use (LW-MU) 10 du/ac 20 du/ac
Parking Requirements
Taft’s parking requirements are contained in Chapter 14 Parking Regulations of the Zoning Ordinance.

Requirements vary by residential use type. Parking requirements contained in the Zoning Ordinance are shown in Table 7-4. The Zoning Ordinance contains provisions to provide parking reductions. A decrease in the number of spaces required may be granted under certain circumstances by approval of a variance or as part of an application for a conditional use permit. These circumstances include the following:
• Shared Parking. A maximum reduction of 30% of the minimum parking requirements for individual uses may be granted by the planning agency where joint use of parking facilities or other factors will mitigate peak parking demand. Requests for shared parking reductions must be supported by information including but not limited to proximity to transit facilities, general location of parking facilities, surrounding land uses and mix, predicted pedestrian patterns, and similar variables which affect parking needs.
• Transportation Management Plans: The number of parking spaces required for a project may be decreased up to 20% subject to planning commission approval of a transportation management

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plan. The plan is required to provide evidence that identifies the actual parking requirement and supports and justifies the parking reduction request.
• Low Percentages of Usable Space: Where buildings contain excessive areas of employee facilities such as cafeterias, racquetball courts, health facilities, covered patios, etc., gross leasable space may be significantly below the 85% average assumed in the parking schedules. In these cases, a proportionate reduction in parking requirements may be granted by the planning commission. • Off Site Parking Facilities: Required parking for a development may be provided off site under certain instances including proximity of the off-site facilities, ease of pedestrian access, type of use which the off-site parking is intended to serve, and resulting urban benefits, if any.

Parking requirements contained in the Downtown Taft Specific Plan are shown in Table 7-5.

Requirements vary by residential use type. The Downtown Taft Specific Plan also offers parking incentives intended to reduce parking in certain circumstances in the Specific Plan Area to encourage development investment and increase alternative mobility within the area. These incentives include:
• Transit Credit: If the project is within a 1,000-foot radius of a transit stop, then parking may be reduced up to 10% of the minimum spaces required. Within the Specific Plan Area, there are six (6) transit stops.
• Shared Parking: Shared parking may be utilized through the Specific Plan Area. A shared parking agreement must be created between interested parties and submitted to the Planning Director.

Shared parking may be considered for residential uses and retail. • Downtown Core: Uses located within the Specific Plan Area are eligible for up to 10% reduction in parking.
• Tandem Parking: In certain cases, tandem parking may be used to meet parking requirements for new development. In the case of residential development, tandem parking can be implemented by providing one (1) regular parking space and one tandem parking space for an individual dwelling unit requiring two (2) parking spaces.

The parking requirements do not impede a developer’s ability to achieve maximum densities.

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Table 7-4 Parking Requirements by Residential Use, Taft Municipal Code, Chapter 14 Residential uses Min. Parking Requirements Notes
Mobile home parks and subdivisions:

Resident parking 2 spaces per unit Tandem spaces may be permitted to meet parking requirements for a
mobilehome park
Guest parking 1 space per 5 units
Model home complexes:
2 spaces per model home, plus
1 space per 300 square feet of
office area
On street parking adjacent to the
model homes may be counted
toward the parking requirement if
it is found that such parking will
not impact other residential
parking and will not obstruct
traffic flow
Multi-family dwellings:

Resident parking Studio: 1 space per unit All spaces shall be located within 150 feet of the unit being served
1 bedroom: 1 space per unit
2 or more bedrooms: 2 spaces
per unit
The parking requirement shall be
reduced to 1 space per unit
pursuant to a density bonus
granted for a qualifying residents
project in accordance with the
provisions of section 6-11-8 of this
title
Guest parking 0.25 space per unit for 11 or
more units; no guest parking for
10 or less units
Senior housing; congregate care:

Resident parking 0.5 space per unit, or as
determined by the planning
agency
Applicant shall submit a parking
study pursuant to the requirements
of subsection (G)2 of this section
For multiple-family units, the
parking shall be within 150 feet of
the dwelling it is serving
Guest parking 0.25 space per unit
Senior housing; independent living:

Resident parking 1 space per unit Spaces may be covered, and may be either a carport or garage
Guest parking 0.25 space per unit Guest spaces may be uncovered Single family dwelling:
2 spaces per unit May be located within a garage or
covered carport, with the
structures not located within the
required front setback

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Table 7-5 Parking Requirements by Residential Use, Downtown Taft Specific Plan Residential uses Min. Parking Requirements
Board and care facilities 1 space per 3 residents
Boarding/rooming house 1 space per room, plus 2 spaces
Live-work units 1 space per unit and 1 space per 300 square feet of floor area used by nonresident employees or
customers
Residential care homes 1 space per bed and additional parking regulations apply for other uses (offices, etc.)
Multi-family dwellings:

Residential parking Studio: 1 space per unit
1 bedroom: 1 space per unit
2 bedrooms: 1.5 spaces per unit
3+ bedrooms: 2 spaces per unit
Guest parking 0.25 per unit over 11 units; no guest parking for 10 or less units
Senior housing; congregate care:

Resident parking 0.5 per unit with 1 guest space per every 4 beds and 1 space per 2 employees on largest shift
Guest parking 0.25 spaces per unit
Senior housing; independent living:

Resident parking 1 space per unit
Guest parking 0.25 spaces per unit
Single-family dwelling 2 spaces per unit
Supportive Housing 1 space per unit
Transitional Housing 1 space per unit

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Lot Coverage
The maximum lot coverage differs for the residential zone districts. • RS Zone District: 25% for Large Lot and 30% for Regular Lot. • R-1 Zone District: 40%.
• R-2 Zone District: 50%.
• R-3 Zone District: 60%.
• MU Zone District: Multi-family residential and mixed-use residential developments in the MU zone district are required to comply with the development standards for the R-3 zone district, which means the maximum lot coverage is 60%.

Maximum lot coverage in the Downtown Taft Specific Plan Area is determined by a combination of development requirements. No specific percentage is set.

The maximum lot coverage requirements do not constrain residential development from reaching the residential densities prescribed in the General Plan.

Height Limits
Taft’s Zoning Ordinance establishes maximum height requirements for each zone district. • RS Zone District: 35 feet. There are no restrictions on the number of stories built, so it would be generally possible to build up to three (3) stories.
• R-1 Zone District: 35 feet. There are no restrictions on the number of stories built, so it would be generally possible to build up to three (3) stories.
• R-2 Zone District: 35 feet. There are no restrictions on the number of stories built, so it would be generally possible to build up to three (3) stories.
• R-3 Zone District: 45 feet. There are no restrictions on the number of stories built, so it would be generally possible to build up to four (4) stories.
• MU Zone District: Multi-family residential and mixed-use residential developments in the MU zone district are required to comply with the development standards for the R-3 zone district, which means the maximum height requirement is 45 feet. There are no restrictions on the number of stories built, so it would be generally possible to build up to four (4) stories.

The Downtown Taft Specific Plan also establishes maximum height requirements for each zone district, including maximum number of stories.
• MDR Zone District: 45 feet or three (3) stories.
• Commercial Zone District: 45 feet or three (3) stories. • DC-MU Zone District: 45 feet or four (4) stories.
• DT-MU Zone District: 45 feet or four (4) stories.
• LW-MU Zone District: 35 feet.

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The height limits do not constrain residential development from reaching the residential densities prescribed in the General Plan.

Lot Size Requirements
Taft’s Zoning Ordinance establishes minimum lot areas for each zone district. • RS Zone District: 40,000 square feet for Large Lot and 20,000 square feet for Regular Lot • R-1 Zone District: 6,000 square feet; in an R-1 subdivision with 21 or more lots, lots can be reduced to 5,000 square feet, provided the average lot size for the entire subdivision is 6,000 square feet. • R-2 Zone District: 5,000 square feet. Note: Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2021-13 was adopted in March 2022, which reduced the R-2 lot size from 9,000 to 5,000 square feet. • R-3 Zone District: 3,000 square feet. Note: Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. 2021-13 was adopted in March 2022, which reduced the R-2 lot size from 12,000 to 3,000 square feet. • MU Zone District: Multi-family residential and mixed-use residential developments in the MU zone district are required to comply with the development standards for the R-3 zone district, which means the minimum lot area is 3,000 square feet.

The Downtown Taft Specific Plan also establishes minimum lot areas for each zone district. • MDR Zone District: 2,500 square feet.
• Commercial Zone District: 5,000 square feet.
• DC-MU Zone District: 2,500 square feet.
• DT-MU Zone District: 2,500 square feet.
• LW-MU Zone District: 2,500 square feet.

The lot size requirements do not constrain residential development from reaching the residential densities prescribed in the General Plan.

Unit Size Requirements
Taft’s Zoning Ordinance establishes minimum unit size requirements. The minimum unit size differs by zone districts and between single-family dwellings and multi-family dwellings. • Single-Family Dwellings: The minimum unit size for single-family dwellings ranges is 1,000 square feet in the RS and R-1 zone districts, 800 feet in the R-2 zone district, and 450 square feet in the R-3 zone district.
• Multi-Family Dwellings: For all zone districts where multi-family dwellings are allowed, the minimum multi-family dwelling unit size is 450 square feet for a studio, 650 square feet for a onebedroom, and 800 square feet for a two-bedroom plus 120 square feet for each additional bedroom in excess of two (2). Multi-family residential and mixed-use residential developments in the MU zone district are required to comply with the development standards for the R-3 zone district.

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The Downtown Taft Specific Plan does not contain unit size requirements.

The unit size requirements of the Zoning Ordinance may constrain residential development from reaching the residential densities prescribed in the General Plan. Therefore, Program 5.j. Unit Size Requirements will amend the Zoning Ordinance to reduce or remove unit size requirements.

Floor Area Ratios
Taft’s Zoning Ordinance establishes a maximum floor area ratio for non-residential zone districts including the MU, GC, A, CF, and NR zone districts. However, the floor area ratio only applies to nonresidential uses. The Downtown Taft Specific Plan also establishes a maximum floor area ratio for nonresidential zone districts including the C zone district. However, the floor area ratio only applies to nonresidential uses. The maximum floor area ratios do not constrain residential development from reaching the residential densities prescribed in the General Plan.

Setbacks
Taft’s Zoning Ordinance establishes setbacks for each zone district. Minimum setbacks – front, side, and rear – differ by zone districts and street types.
• RS Zone District:
o Front Yard (Straight Street): 40 feet for Large Lot and 30 feet for Regular Lot. o Front Yard (Cul-de-Sac or Knuckle Streets): 40 feet for Large Lot and 20 feet for Regular Lot. o Side Yard: 20 feet for Large Lot and 15 feet for Regular Lot. o Rear Yard: 15 feet for Large Lot and 10 feet for Regular Lot. • R-1 Zone District:
o Front Yard (Straight Street): 20 feet.
o Front Yard (Cul-de-Sac or Knuckle Streets): 20 feet.
o Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Rear Yard: 5 feet.
• R-2 Zone District:
o Front Yard (Straight Street): 20 feet.
o Front Yard (Cul-de-Sac or Knuckle Streets): 20 feet.
o Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Rear Yard: 5 feet.
• R-3 Zone District:
o Front Yard (Straight Street): 20 feet.
o Front Yard (Cul-de-Sac or Knuckle Streets): 20 feet.

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o Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Rear Yard: 10 feet.
• MU Zone District: Multi-family residential and mixed-use residential developments in the MU zone district are required to comply with the development standards for the R-3 zone district. o Front Yard (Straight Street): 20 feet.
o Front Yard (Cul-de-Sac or Knuckle Streets): 20 feet.
o Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Rear Yard: 10 feet.

Taft’s Zoning Ordinance also contains additional setback standards for condominiums, townhouses, and apartments summarized below.
• Greater Setbacks: The planning commission and/or city council may require a greater setback as part of a precise plan of design due to the size, width, or length of a building and its relationship to a street or intersection of two (2) streets. In addition, a greater setback may be required to ensure compatibility with contiguous land uses.
• Patios: In the case of a dwelling structure designated with a patio above the first-floor level, such patio shall be permitted to extend only a maximum of six (6) feet into the required side or rear yard setback area, provided the remaining distance between the patio and property line is at least 10 feet. In addition, the required side or rear yard setback area may be used for patio purposes. • Parking and Vehicular Access: The front yard setback area, as well as the side yard setback area adjacent to a street, shall not be used for parking. Vehicular access to designated parking areas shall be limited to driveways.

The Downtown Taft Specific Plan also establishes setbacks for each zone district. Minimum setbacks – front, side, and rear – differ by zone districts.
• MDR Zone District:
o Front Yard: 10 feet.
o Interior Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Street Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Rear Yard: 5 feet. Where abutting an alley, 0 feet.
• Commercial Zone District:
o Front Yard: 0 feet.
o Interior Side Yard: 3 feet.
o Street Side Yard: 0 feet.
o Rear Yard: 3 feet.

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• DC-MU Zone District:
o Front Yard: 0 feet.
o Interior Side Yard: 0 feet.
o Street Side Yard: 0 feet.
o Rear Yard: 0 feet.
• DT-MU Zone District:
o Front Yard: 10 feet.
o Interior Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Street Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Rear Yard: 5 feet.
• LW-MU Zone District:
o Front Yard: 0 feet.
o Interior Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Street Side Yard: 5 feet.
o Rear Yard: 5 feet.

While all setbacks reduce the amount of buildable area on a lot, the current setbacks have not been identified as an actual constraint for residential projects from reaching the maximum densities prescribed in the General Plan. However, this analysis identifies two potential constraints in the Zoning Ordinance.

Specifically, 1) the front yard setback requirements in single-family districts could limit the buildable area on smaller lots, and 2) the additional setback standards for condominiums, townhouses, and apartments contains subjective language that could be a barrier to site planning a residential project. Therefore, Program 5.k. Setbacks will amend the Zoning Ordinance to:
• Reduce front yard setback requirements in single-family districts to increase buildable area on smaller lots.
• Replace subjective language in the additional setback standards related to greater setbacks, patios, and parking and vehicular access.

Open Space Requirements
Taft’s Zoning Ordinance establishes open space requirements for residential uses and development. These requirements include:
• Open Space: Each residential development shall provide outdoor open space at a minimum of 25% of the net acreage.
• Private Open Space: Each dwelling unit shall have a minimum open space of 150 square feet with a minimum dimension of 10 feet.

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In addition, the City requires new residential development projects to provide a minimum of 2.5 acres of parkland per 1,000 persons through dedication of land or payment of in-lieu fees to contribute to the acquisition and development of parks or recreation facilities. When private open space is proposed (e.g., private trails, parks, open spaces), such lands may be used for partial credit, not to exceed 50 percent, with approval of the City Council. Dedication and fee requirements are contained in Chapter 11 – Quimby Act of the City’s Municipal Code.

While open space requirements do reduce the amount of buildable area, this is an important urban design amenity for all development, particularly for multi-family residential. The open space requirements of the Zoning Ordinance do not constrain residential development from reaching the residential densities prescribed in the General Plan.

Objective Design Standards for Residential Development
In addition to the Development Standards described above, the City’s Zoning Ordinance establishes Objective Design Standards for residential development. Objective design standards are defined under State law as “standards that involve no personal or subjective judgement by a public official and are uniformly verifiable by reference to an external and uniform benchmark or criterion available and knowable by both the development applicant or proponent and the public official prior to submittal” (California Government Code, Section 65913.4). The City of Taft’s objective design standards as established in Section 6-4-5- of the Zoning Ordinance and include the following standards:
• Building Siting, Access, and Orientation
• Access, Circulation, and Parking
• Building, Scale, Massing, and Articulation
• Livable Area
• Roofline Variation
• Building Materials, Finishes, and Colors
• Design
• Sustainable Design Features
• Landscape Elements
• Floor Plans
• Elevations
• Agricultural Land Uses
New residential development that meets the underlying zone requirements and incorporates the applicable objective design standards into their design would be processed ministerially by the City without discretion. This removes personal or subjective judgment and ensures streamlined review by City staff, thereby removing constraints to the development of housing.

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Cumulative Effect of Development Standards
When considered cumulatively, the development standards related to density, parking requirements, lot coverage, height limits, floor area ratios, and open space requirements do not constrain a developer’s ability to achieve maximum densities. However, as identified in this analysis, lot size requirements, unit size requirements, and setbacks are potential constraints to achieving maximum densities. The City will remove these constraints through the identified programs.

Density Bonus Provisions and Development Incentives
Taft’s density bonus provisions and development incentives for all developers who propose to construct affordable housing are contained in Section 6-11-8 Development Density: Density Bonuses of the Municipal Code. These provisions and incentives implement the State Density Bonus Law (Government Code Sections 65915 et. seq.). In accordance with State Density Bonus Law, a development of more than (5) units in Taft are eligible to receive density bonuses if certain requirements are met. Taft’s Density Bonus Ordinance was last substantively revised in July 2014 (Ordinance No. 805), prior to several changes to State Density Bonus Law (including parking requirements). Through Housing Element Program 9.l.

Density Bonus Provisions and Development Incentives, the City of Taft will conduct a review of its Density Bonus and make modifications to comply with State Law (including parking requirements).

Growth Management or Controls Processes
Growth management and controls processes are typically ordinances, policies, procedures, or measures imposed by the local government that specifically limit the amount or timing of residential development that should be analyzed as potential governmental constraints and mitigated, where necessary. Such controls may impact the cost and supply of housing. Other than an Urban Growth Boundary (discussed below), the City of Taft does not have any growth control ordinances, policies, or requirements, including:
• Systematic (area-wide) residential down-zoning.
• Annexation restrictions.
• Building permit or other residential development caps. • Voter approval for up-zoning, rezoning or general plan changes. • Legislative super-majority for up-zoning, rezoning or general plan changes. • Systematic changes to local height and floor area ratio regulations. • Adequate public facilities ordinances.

The City of Taft adopted an Urban Growth Boundary in 2016. Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) means a defined geographic boundary that designates an area within which urban services and urbanized uses of land will be concentrated. Provisions of the UGB, including implementation and amendment procedures, are described in Section 6-16-2 of the Zoning Ordinance. The purpose of the UGB is to ensure that the preservation of agricultural production, oil and gas development, open space, and protection of environmentally sensitive habitat are inviolable against transitory and short-term decisions and that

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agricultural, oil and gas, and open space lands are not prematurely or unnecessarily converted to other non-agricultural or non-open space uses without public debate at a public hearing or a vote of the people.

The UGB may be amended for residential uses pursuant to the following methods:
• The City Council, following at least one (1) noticed public hearing and after CEQA compliance, may amend, by majority vote, the UGB to implement the Housing Element to achieve compliance with the applicable RHNA. City Council must make the following findings:
o The land is immediately adjacent to existing compatibly developed areas and the applicant for the inclusion of land within the Taft UGB has provided to the city evidence that the fire department, police department, department of public works, applicable water and sewer districts, and the school district with jurisdiction over such land have adequate capacity to accommodate the proposed development and provide it with adequate public services; and o Proposed development will address the highest priority need identified in the analysis, of the housing element, by which the city has determined it is not in compliance with state law, i.e., low and very low-income housing; and
o There is no existing residentially designated land of comparable size and accessibility available within the Taft UGB to accommodate the proposed development; and o It is not reasonably feasible to accommodate the proposed development by re-designating lands within the Taft UGB.

As written, the UGB provisions allow amendments for residential use to implement the Housing Element.

The UGB does not limit the number of permits issued or the amount of land available for housing. With these provisions in place, the UGB does not constrain housing development.

Form-based Codes
The City of Taft does not have any adopted form-based codes.

Compliance with Other State Law
Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (SB 330)
The Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (SB 330 and amended by SB 8) establishes a statewide housing emergency and creates new state laws focused on the production and preservation of housing. SB 330 and SB 8 aim to expedite and increase certainty in the development process with changes to the Housing Accountability Act and Permit Streamlining Act that will be in effect from January 1, 2020, to January 1, 2030. SB 330 also addresses the statewide housing shortfall with new protections for existing housing and restrictions on certain zoning actions that reduce the availability of housing.

The legislation creates a preliminary application process, and housing developments will only be subject to those ordinances, fees, and policies in effect when the completed preliminary application is submitted.

Like SB 35, SB 330 limits jurisdictions from imposing subjective design standards on housing developments. Objective standards are limited to design standards that involve no personal or subjective judgment by a public official. They must be verifiable by reference to an external and uniform benchmark

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available to both the applicant and the public official prior to application submittal. Program 9.h.

Preliminary Application for Development (SB 330) will establish and implement an expedited permit process for qualified housing development projects pursuant to SB 330 to encourage housing production.

Streamlined Ministerial Approval (Senate Bill 35)
Senate Bill 35 (SB 35) (Government Code Section 65913.4) created an opt-in program for developers that allows a streamlined approval process for developments in localities that have not yet met their housing targets, provided that the development is on an infill site and complies with existing residential and mixeduse zoning. Participating developments must provide at least 10% of units for lower-income families. All projects over 10 units must be prevailing wage and larger projects must provide skilled and trained labor.

The City of Taft is currently subject to SB 35 streamlining for developments with at least 10% affordability. SB 35 also created a “streamlined ministerial approval process” for eligible housing projects.

As of May 2024, the City of Taft has not received an SB 35 application. If it were to receive an SB 35 application, it would follow the process codified in State Law. Program 9.i. Streamlined Ministerial Approval (SB 35) will establish and implement an expedited permit process for qualified housing development projects pursuant to SB 35 to encourage housing production.

California HOME Act (Senate Bill 9)
Senate Bill 9 (SB 9) (Government Code Sections 65852.21, 66411.7, 66452.6) requires a proposed housing development containing no more than two (2) residential units within a single-family residential zone be considered ministerially, without discretionary review or hearing, if the proposed development meets certain requirements pursuant to State Law. SB 9 also requires a local agency to ministerially approve a parcel map for an urban lot split, resulting in two (2) parcels, if the proposed lot split meets certain requirements pursuant to State Law. Per SB 9, the local agency may impose objective zoning standards, objective subdivision standards, and objective design review standards that would not physically preclude the construction of up to two (2) units or would physically preclude either of the two (2) units from being at least 800 square feet in floor area. The legislation became effective on January 1, 2022. To date, the City of Taft has not received any SB 9 requests. However, to ensure compliance with SB 9, the City will implement Program 9.j. Lot Splits (SB 9) to amend the Zoning Ordinance and add provisions pursuant to SB 9.

Affordable Housing and High Roads Jobs Act of 2011 (Assembly Bill 2011) Assembly Bill 2011 (AB 2011) (Government Code 65400, 65585, and 65912.100-131) creates a CEQAexempt, time-limited ministerial approval process for multi-family housing development on commercially zoned property. The legislation provides qualifying criteria depending upon whether the project is 1) for 100-percent affordable housing (i.e., “Below Market Rate”) on commercial zoned land or 2) for mixedincome housing (e.g., 15 percent BMR) located in “commercial corridors.” AB 2011 projects must pay prevailing wages to construction workers, among other labor standards. Eligibility is limited by site and project criteria. The legislation became effective on July 1, 2023, and sunsets on January 1, 2033. To date, the City of Taft has not received any application invoking these statutes. Upon receipt of an eligible application, the City will invoke these statutes in accordance with State Law. Program 9.k. Multi-Family

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Housing on Commercially Zoned Property (AB 2011) will establish and implement an expedited permit process for qualified housing development projects pursuant to AB 2011 to encourage housing production.

Middle Class Housing Act of 2022 (SB 6)
Senate Bill 6 (SB 6) (Government Code Sections 65852.24 and 65913.4) allows qualifying projects, either a 100-percent residential project or a mixed-use project where at least 50 percent of the square footage is dedicated to residential uses, on commercially zoned property without requiring a rezone. SB 6 projects are required to pay prevailing wages and utilize a “skilled and trained workforce.” The legislation became effective on July 1, 2023, and sunsets on January 1, 2033. To date, the City of Taft has not received any application invoking these statutes. Upon receipt of an eligible application, the City will invoke these statutes in accordance with State Law.

Residential, commercial or other development types: parking requirements (AB 2097) Assembly Bill 2097 (Government Code Sections 65585 and 65863.2) prohibits a local agency from imposing or enforcing any minimum automobile parking requirement on a residential, commercial, or other development project if the project is located within one-half mile of public transit (i.e., “major transit stop”). “Major transit stop” means a site containing an existing rail or bus rapid transit station, a ferry terminal served by bus or rail transit, or the intersection of two (2) or more major bus routes with service intervals of 15 minutes or less during the morning and afternoon peak commute periods. Local agencies may impose or enforce minimum automobile parking requirements on a project if certain written findings are made within 30 days of the receipt of a completed application. The legislation became effective on January 1, 2023. Because the City of Taft does not have a major transit stop as defined by this statute, the City is not subject to AB 2097.

Post-Entitlement Phase Permits (AB 2234)
Assembly Bill 2234 (AB 2234) (Government Code Sections 65589.5, 65913.3, and 65913.3.5) requires a local agency to compile one or more lists that specify the information that will be required from any applicant for a post-entitlement phase permit. The local agency is required to post an example of a complete, approved application and an example of a complete set of post-entitlement phase permits for at least five (5) types of housing development projects in the jurisdiction, including but not limited to, ADU, duplex, multifamily, mixed use, and townhome. These items are required to be posted no later than January 1, 2024. AB 2234 also sets time limits for the local agency to deem post-entitlement applications complete and approve or deny post-entitlement applications. The legislation became effective on January 1, 2023.

The City will implement Program 5.l. Post-Entitlement Phase Permits (AB 2234) to implement the provisions of AB 2234.

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7.1.3 Building Code and Enforcement
Building Code Regulations
The City of Taft’s Code of Building Regulations is in Title V of the Municipal Code. This Code of Building Regulations applies to new building construction, including but without limitation to additions, renovations, demolition, deconstructions, and to the installation of new mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and energy systems; it applies to existing construction and to existing mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and energy systems to the extent specifically defined by the secondary codes adopted by reference into this title. The has City adopted the following codes as required by the State of California:
• 2022 California Building Code (Volumes 1 and 2)
• 2022 California Residential Code
• 2022 California Electrical Code
• 2022 California Plumbing Code
• 2022 California Mechanical Code
• 2022 California Energy Code
• 2022 California Green Building Standards Code (CalGreen) The City has adopted amendments of the California Building Code including Section 105.2(3) regarding oilfield activities, Section 109.4 regarding work commencing before permit issuance, and Section 1804.5 regarding grading in flood hazard areas. The City has also adopted amendments to the California Residential Code Section 301 to add or amend definitions to be specific to Taft (i.e., “Building code shall mean the Taft Building Code) and Section 1001 – Substandard Buildings in conformity with Section 17290.3 of the Health and Safety Code.

The 2022 and prior building codes that have been enacted have had an impact on the cost of housing as the implementation and added requirements through CalGreen and solar installation requirements of the CBC has increased the estimated valuation of housing, thus increasing the plan check and permit fees.

Code Enforcement
The Taft City Council has adopted City codes (laws) specifically designed to address blight and nuisances, to maintain a clean environment for all citizens in our community. The City of Taft does this by working in partnership with the people of Taft.

The City of Taft’s Code Enforcement Division is within the Public Works Department. Code Enforcement is responsible for enforcing codes which address health and safety issues, including regulations related to rubbish, debris, attractive nuisances, removal of vegetation, zoning and inoperable vehicles on private property. Enforcement is taken proactively and in response to requests for action requested by citizens.

These services help to improve and stabilize neighborhoods, protect property values and promotes a healthier and safer environment.

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The vision and approach of the City’s Code Enforcement Division is to strive as a Code Enforcement team to optimize all available resources to foster positive relationships within the City of Taft’s community residents, business and industry. This is accomplished by voluntary compliance through various methodologies of outreach, liaison opportunities, clearly defined code standards and appropriate enforcement actions. Code Enforcement's heritage for serving the public continues with dignity, respect, high professional standards and a collaborative spirit to maintain the health, safety and livability of the community. The Division embraces cooperation with neighborhood organizations and professional businesses to promote industry standards for quality development through effective municipal services.

The City of Taft’s Code Enforcement Division identifies four (4) types of property maintenance: 1) yard maintenance, 2) fences and screening walls, 3) outside storage, and 4) open and vacant buildings and structures. The property owner is responsible for maintaining the building, structures, and grounds of property, windows, doors, and other openings. If a property becomes vacant, the property owner is required to board up the building/structure and secure it to City specifications. A boarding permit from the Building Division is required. No building shall remain boarded for more than six (6) months.

The City of Taft City Code Chapter 4.3 and Zoning Ordinance Section 6.11.390 requires property owners to annually register a vacant or abandoned building with the Planning and Community Development Department within 30 days after it has become vacant or abandoned. The annual registration fee is $380.00. A separate application and fee is required for each property.

Substandard Housing Conditions and Enforcement
Health and Safety Code Section 17980 requires tenants to be notified of conditions that exist within any building or portion thereof that endangers the life, limb, health, property, safety, or welfare of the public of the occupants. When deciding whether to require a substandard building to be vacated or to repair (as necessary), health and safety code requires local governments to consider the needs for housing as expressed in the housing element. 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. The City of Taft is cognizant of these requirements and will act in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17980 when required.

7.1.4 On- and Off-Site Improvement Standards
Development improvements are generally classified into two categories: (1) On-site improvements and (2) Off-site improvements. On-site improvements required are paved parking spaces, landscaping, automatic irrigation, etc. as required by the City’s Zoning Ordinance and discussed under Zoning Regulations. Off-site improvements include sidewalk, curb, and gutter, paved streets, fire hydrants, provisions for utilities (e.g., water, sewer), storm drainage, easements, landscaping, etc., in conformance with the City’s subdivision improvement standards which originate with the requirements of the California Subdivision Map Act.

Generally, the City requires full street right-of-way improvements for new subdivisions as well as all the utilities required to serve the homes. Often, the location of a site brings about site improvements that respond to some localized conditions such as drainage structures to handle storm water that traverse the

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site, or block walls to retain earthwork or reduce noise impact on site, or traffic control devices for the traffic generated by a residential project. These standards are necessary to achieve the health and safety requirements in the community and would not hinder future residential development.

The City’s most recently approved residential subdivisions are Vesting Tentative Tract Map No. 7227, Sandy Creek Estates (126 lots), and Vesting Tentative Tract Map No. 7230, Hillside Terrace Estates (271 lots). Conditions of approval for these subdivisions were approved by City Council in January 2013.

Examples of the required off-site improvements for these subdivisions included:
• Required subdivision improvements shall include, but are not limited to, roadway construction, striping, curb, gutter, sidewalk, drive approaches, wheelchair ramps, street lighting and signage per the policies, regulations, and standards of Kern County Engineering Development Standards. • The developer shall construct a potable water system for each dwelling unit, parcel or lot created, per the policies, regulations and standards of West Kern Water District. • The developer shall construct sanitary sewers and connections for each dwelling unit, parcel or lot created, per the standards, conditions and policies of the City, and shall have sewer improvement plans and specifications reviewed and approved by the City Engineer. • The developer shall coordinate with utility providers and the Taft Public Works Director for the installation of streetlights.
• The developer shall be responsible for a pro-rata share of the construction of a traffic signal at the Intersection of SR 33 and Hillard Street with protected left turns and dedicated lanes for all movements, or as required by Caltrans.

Per the City of Taft General Plan Circulation Element, the City requires that the Level of Service on roadways and at intersections be maintained as follows:
• Assure that roadway congestion generally does not exceed Level of Service (LOS) D except where:
1) providing LOS D would be infeasible due to physical constraints or 2) maintaining LOS D would require an unreasonable expansion of the roadway or intersection as determined by the City. • Maintain a LOS D at all signalized intersections except where: 1) the level of congestion already exceeds this standard or 2) where increased intersection capacity cannot be provided due to physical constraints.
• Maintain the LOS at unsignalized intersections at D or better; intersections may be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine if signal warrants are met.

Where a project would cause or contribute to congestion exceeding the Level of Service and/or significance threshold, the City will require on- or off-site transportation improvements as a condition of approval as appropriate. Examples include but are not limited to:
• Improvements to on- or off-site roadways;
• Improvements to intersections in the vicinity of the project;

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• Installation of transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, including facilities which exceed the minimum standards imposed by City regulations;
• Restriction of access to roadways;
• Limitations on hours of operation or use.

The City of Taft has reviewed the off-site and on-site development standards and found that the existing standards are standard, objective, and necessary, and do not restrict housing production within the City.

However, to promote efficient and sustainability development, the City has adopted Land Use and Conservation Policies (City of Taft General Plan Pages A-1 through A-3, A-6 to A-7, and A-14 through A-23) in the General plan Land Use Element adopted by the City on June 22, 2010, and subsequently amended on April 18, 2017. It addresses such issues as Land Use and Connectivity, Open Space & Farmland Preservation, Development Scale and Design, Street Widths, Street Trees, Residential Facades, Energy Conservation, Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Green Building, etc. The General Plan recognizes these principles and the benefits of Sustainable Growth, as an Urban Growth Boundary and Climate Action Plan were adopted as part of the amendment in 2017.

7.1.5 Processing and Permitting Procedures
Processing and permit procedures can pose a considerable constraint to the production and improvement of housing. Common constraints include lengthy processing time, unclear permitting procedures, layered reviews, multiple discretionary review requirements, and costly conditions of approval. These constraints increase the final cost of housing, uncertainty in the development of the project, and overall financial risk assumed by the developer.

Permit and Approval Types
This section describes the types of permits applicable to residential development, extent of discretionary review, including required approval findings and procedures. Residential uses permitted per zone district are summarized in Table 7-1. Generally, a “P” indicates that the use is permitted subject to approval of a Site Plan Review, a “C” indicates that the use is subject to approval of a Conditional Use Permit, “DP” means the use is subject to approval of a Director’s Permit, and “X” means the use is prohibited.

General Plan Amendment
Section 6-2-3 of the Municipal Code establishes the procedures for amendments to the General Plan. As conditions within the City change it may, from time to time, become necessary to amend the General Plan to enhance its effectiveness. In addition, state law requires that the General Plan be periodically reviewed and updated. The purpose of the General Plan Amendment is to provide a method for amending the General Plan to ensure its continued effectiveness.

The City Council may amend all or part of the General Plan, or any element thereof. All zone districts, specific plans (for which a development agreement or vesting subdivision or parcel map has not been adopted) and any other plans of the City that are affected by a General Plan Amendment, and which by law must be consistent with the General Plan, shall be reviewed and amended concurrently, to ensure consistency between the General Plan and implementing zoning, specific plans, and other plans.

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An amendment to the General Plan or any element thereof may be initiated by any of the following actions:
1) request made and approved by the Planning Commission to the City Council; 2) request made and approved by the City Council; 3) an application from a property owner or his/her authorized agent; provided, that such application involves the development or modification of property located within the area affected by such amendment; 4) an application from any affected party; provided, that such application involves only revisions to the goals, objectives, policies and implementation programs of the General Plan; or 5) request made by the Planning Director to the Planning Commission subject to approval by the Planning Commission. Authority for approval of General Plan Amendments shall be vested in the City Council. The Planning Commission shall forward recommendations to the City Council regarding General Plan Amendments.

An amendment to the general plan shall not be approved unless all of the following findings are made:
• The proposed amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, policies and programs of the general plan, or with the general plan as revised by the proposed amendment, and will not result in any internal inconsistencies within the general plan; and • The proposed amendment will not adversely affect the public health, safety or general welfare; and
• The proposed amendment is consistent with the purposes and intent of this title, unless such amendment proposes to change, supplement or alter any part of this title, whereas said amendment must be consistent with all applicable sections, including these findings; and • The potential environmental impacts of the proposed amendment are insignificant, have been mitigated, or there are overriding considerations that outweigh the potential impacts.

To date, the General Plan Amendment process has not constrained housing development. General Plan Amendments have not been requested for housing development in the last planning period. The findings are objective and the process, with City Council final action, are typical for General Plan Amendments pursuant to State Law.

Zoning Ordinance Amendment
Section 6-2-4 of the Municipal Code establishes the procedures for amending zone district regulations and boundaries, as well as other provisions of this title. The amendment process is necessary to provide and ensure consistency between this title, the General Plan, and state law, to increase the effectiveness of this title, and to improve clarity in implementing General Plan goals, objectives and policies.

An amendment to zone district regulations and boundaries or other provisions of this title may be initiated by any of the following actions: 1) a request made and approved by the Planning Commission; 2) a request made and approved by the City Council; 3) a request made by the planning director to the Planning Commission, subject to approval by the Planning Commission; 4) an application from a property owner or his/her authorized agent; provided, that such application involves the development or modification of property located within the area affected by such amendment; or 5) an application from any affected party; provided, that such application involves only revisions to the text of this title and does not require

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redistricting of properties for which the affected party is not the owner or the authorized representative of the owner. Authority for approval of amendments to this title, including amendments to the official zoning map, shall be vested in the City Council. The Planning Commission shall forward recommendations to the City Council regarding such amendments.

All of the following findings shall be made prior to the adoption of any amendment to this title, including amendments to the official zoning map:
• The proposed zoning ordinance amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, policies and programs of the general plan and is necessary and desirable to implement the provision of the general plan; and
• The proposed zoning ordinance amendment will not adversely affect the public health, safety and welfare, or result in an illogical land use pattern; and • The proposed zoning ordinance amendment is consistent with the purpose and intent of the remainder of this title not under consideration; and
• The proposed zoning ordinance amendment would not result in a significant effect on the environment, the environmental impacts have been mitigated, or there are overriding considerations that outweigh the potential impacts.

To date, the Zoning Ordinance Amendment process has not constrained housing development. Zoning Ordinance Amendments have not been requested for housing development in the last planning period. The findings are objective and the process, with City Council final action, are typical for Zoning Ordinance Amendments pursuant to State Law.

Conditional Use Permit
Section 6-2-5 of the Municipal Code establishes the procedures for a conditional use permit. A conditional use permit is intended to control the establishment of those uses that have some special impact or uniqueness, such that their effect on the surrounding environment cannot be determined in advance of the use being proposed for a particular location. The conditional use permit application provides for the review of the location and design of the proposed use, configuration of improvements, potential impact on the surrounding area from the proposed use, and the evaluation of the use based on fixed and established standards. The review also determines whether the proposed use should be permitted by weighing the public need for and benefits to be derived from the use against any adverse impact it may cause. Authority for approval of conditional use permits shall be vested in the Planning Commission.

Following review and consideration of an application, the Planning Commission, or the City Council on appeal, may approve a conditional use permit application in whole or in part, with or without conditions, provided the Planning Commission prepares a written decision which contains the findings of fact upon which the Planning Commission’s decision is based. In preparing this written decision, all of the following findings of fact must be made in an affirmative manner:
• The proposed use is permitted within the subject zone district pursuant to the provisions of this section, complies with all applicable provisions of this title, is consistent with the goals, policies

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and objectives of the general plan, and is consistent with the applicable development policies and standards of the city; and
• The proposed use would not impair the integrity and character of the zone district in which it is to be established or located; and
• The site is suitable for the type and intensity of use or development proposed; and • There are adequate provisions for water, sanitation, public utilities and services to ensure public health and safety; and
• The proposed use will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare, or materially injurious to properties and improvements in the vicinity; and • The proposed use would not result in a significant effect on the environment, unless overriding considerations outweigh the potential impacts.

To date, the Conditional Use Permit process has not constrained housing development. However, through the Housing Element Update, the City is removing the conditional use permit requirements for several housing types as discussed in 7.1.2. ZONING ORDINANCE.

Variance
Section 6-2-6 establishes the procedures for a variance, including a minor variance and major variance.

The purpose of a variance is to provide for equity in use of property, and to prevent unnecessary hardships that might result from a strict or literal interpretation and enforcement of certain regulations prescribed by this title. The authority to grant a minor variance shall be vested with the planning director. The authority to grant a major variance shall be vested with the Planning Commission.

A variance from the terms of the regulations of this title shall be granted only when it is demonstrated that the strict application of the zoning regulations deprives such property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the general vicinity and in the same zone district due to special circumstances applicable to the property in question, including size, shape, topography, location or surroundings. Consequently, a variance to a zoning regulation prescribed by this title may be granted with respect to development standards, including, but not limited to, walls, fences, screening and landscaping, site area, width and depth, coverage, front, side and rear yards, height of structures, usable open space, and on street and offstreet parking and loading facilities.

The planning director may approve requests for minor variances to modify the following requirements:
• Minor parking lot improvements.
• Up to thirty percent (30%) of parking and loading space requirements, not to exceed two (2) spaces. • Up to twenty percent (20%) of front yard setback requirements. • Up to forty percent (40%) of side yard setback requirements, but no closer than three feet (3') from the side property lines.

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• Up to twenty five percent (25%) of rear yard setback requirements, but not closer than five feet (5') from the rear property line.
• Up to ten percent (10%) of lot area requirements, excluding lot area and dimension requirements. • Up to ten percent (10%) of the maximum building coverage requirements. • Up to ten percent (10%) of maximum gross floor area requirements.

Any request for a variance other than a minor variance shall be termed a major variance and shall be reviewed and acted upon by the Planning Commission.

The Planning Commission and/or the planning director shall make all the following findings in a decision to grant a variance request:
• Strict or literal interpretation and enforcement of the specified regulation would result in practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship, excepting financial hardships, not otherwise shared by others within the surrounding area or vicinity; and
• There are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the property involved or to the intended use of the property that do not apply generally to other properties in the vicinity and under the same zoning classification; and • The strict interpretation and enforcement of the specified regulation would deprive the applicant of privileges enjoyed by the owners of other properties in the vicinity and under the same zoning classification; and
• The granting of the variance will not constitute a grant of special privilege inconsistent with the limitations on other properties in the vicinity and under the same zoning classification; and • The granting of the variance will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity; and • The granting of the variance is consistent with the objectives and policies of the general plan and the intent of this title.

To date, the Variance request process has not constrained housing development. Requests for variances are rarely requested. The findings are objective and the process, with minor and major variances, is typical.

Site Plan Review/Design Review
Section 6-2-9 establishes the procedures for a site plan review/design review. The purpose of the site plan review/design review is to:
• Reasonably ensure that construction of new buildings or structures and additions, renovations and restorations to existing buildings or structures, including residential, institutional, commercial and industrial development (referred hereinafter in this section as “development”) does not have an adverse aesthetic, health, safety or architecturally related negative impact upon existing adjoining properties, or the city in general.

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• Ensure appropriate site planning techniques in order to promote future development of adjacent properties by providing for such techniques as reciprocal access, integrated parking, building and siting.
• Minimize the effects of grading by discouraging mass grading to ensure that the natural character of terrain is retained.
• Encourage improved drainage from lots directly to a street storm drain, or through public or privately maintained easements.
• Encourage the use of a variety of housing styles, split level grading techniques, varied lot sizes, site design densities, varied setbacks, maintenance of views and arrangement, and spacing to reduce impacts on adjacent developed.
• Encourage the use of energy conservation techniques in all new development. • Assist private and public developments to be more cognizant of public concerns for the aesthetics of development.

Authority for approval of site plan review/design review shall be vested in the Planning Commission. In the case of residential development, if findings can be made that the project complies with the objective design and land use objectives and standards set forth in Chapter 4 (Residential) or an approved specific plan, the authority for preliminary approval shall be vested in the planning director.

Following review and consideration of an application, the planning director, planning commission, the city council on appeal, may approve a site plan review/design review application in whole or in part, with or without conditions, provided the planning commission prepares a written decision which contains the findings of fact upon which the planning commission’s decision is based. In preparing this written decision, all the following findings of fact must be made in an affirmative manner:
• The proposed use is permitted within the subject zone district pursuant to the provisions of this section, complies with all applicable provisions of this title, is consistent with the goals, policies and objectives of the general plan, and is consistent with the applicable development policies and standards of the city; and
• The proposed use would not impair the integrity and character of the zone district in which it is to be established or located; and
• The site is suitable for the type and intensity of use or development proposed; and • There are adequate provisions for water, sanitation, public utilities and services to ensure public health and safety; and
• The proposed use will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare, or materially injurious to properties and improvements in the vicinity; and • The proposed use would not result in a significant effect on the environment, unless overriding considerations outweigh the potential impacts.

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• For projects that fall under Director’s Site Plan Approval, the Director finds with certainty the project is consistent with the land use and design criteria outlined in Chapter 4 or within an approved specific plan.

To date, the Site Plan Review/Design Review process has not constrained housing development. However, in reviewing the findings for Site Plan Review/Design Review, some language may be interpreted to be subjective and could thereby impact approval certainty. Therefore, Program 5.q. Objective Findings will amend approval language for the Site Plan Review/Design process to be more objective and thereby promote approval certainty for housing projects.

Director’s Permit
Section 6-2-10 establishes the procedures for the Director’s Permit. The Director’s Permit (DP) enables the Planning Director to administratively review the location, site development, and/or conduct of certain land uses. DPs are not the automatic right of any applicant. An approved DP goes with the land and is non-transferrable to another location.

DPs are required for some land uses, subject to the permit requirements of the applicable zone district. A DP may only be issued in accordance with zone district requirements and with this section. Projects that seek ministerial approval shall comply with applicable Objective Design Standards contained in Chapter 4 (Residential). The Director shall have the responsibility to approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove an DP. The Director may also decline to take action and forward the application for action to the Planning Commission at a public hearing.

DPs are reviewed and approved administratively by the Director and require no public hearing unless an appeal is filed. The Director may approve, conditionally approve, or deny a DP application after making the following findings.
• Approval of the DP would not result in detrimental impacts to adjacent properties or the character and function of the neighborhood.
• The design, development, and conditions associated with the DP are consistent with the goals, policies, and intent of the General Plan, the purpose and intent of the applicable Zone, the Objective Design Standards contained in Chapter 4 (Residential), and the character of any applicable Specific Plan.
• The land use allowed in conjunction with the DP is compatible with the existing and future land uses of the applicable Zone, and the general area in which the proposed use is to be located.

To date, the Director’s Permit process has not constrained housing development.

Subdivision and Parcel Maps
Title IX establishes the City’s Subdivision Ordinance in accordance with the Subdivision Map Act. The Subdivision Ordinance is adopted to achieve the following objectives:
• To implement the General Plan of the City and its elements thereof, as adopted, and revised from time to time, by the Council.

6.0 2023-2031 HOUSING ELEMENT

CITY OF TAFT GENERAL PLAN
2023 – 2031 HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE (ADOPTED) 6.0 - 207
• To provide lots of sufficient size and appropriate design for the purposes for which they are to be used.
• To provide streets of adequate capacity for the anticipated traffic which would utilize them to ensure that they are designed to promote a safe traffic circulation system. • To accommodate new development in a manner that will preserve and enhance the City’s living environment through skilled subdivision design.
• To provide for water supply, sewage disposal, storm drainage and other utilities and facilities which are required by conditions to enhance the City’s urban environment. • To ensure that the cost of providing rights-of-way, street improvements, utilities and public areas and facilities needed to serve new developments are borne fairly and equitably by the subdivider rather than by property owners of the City at large.
• To protect and enhance real property values.

The Planning Director is charged with the review and approval of certificates of compliance, lot line adjustments and lot mergers of real property. The Project Assistance Team (PAT) makes recommendations to the Planning Commission on all divisions of real property. The Planning Commission shall be the official body charged with approval of parcel map waivers, and approval, conditional approval, or denial of tentative parcel maps. The Planning Commission is also responsible for making investigations and reports on the design and improvements of proposed tentative subdivision maps and to approve, conditionally approve, or deny such tentative subdivision maps. The City Council has the final authority to approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove all tentative subdivision maps and shall take final action on all final maps and parcel maps.