Tulare City Council
August 18, 2026

Blackstone Street Lyndale Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
Brentwood Street Cross Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
Cherry Street Tulare Avenue (SR 137) to Prosperity Avenue Continental Avenue K Street to Blackstone Street
Corvina Avenue Hillman Street to Laspina Street
Cross Avenue M Street to Blackstone Street
Laspina Street to Mooney Boulevard (SR 63)
E Street Tulare Avenue to Pleasant Avenue
Gail Avenue Northridge Street to E Street
Gem Street Prosperity Avenue to Sandra Avenue
Hillcrest Avenue Hillman Street to Laspina Street
Hillman Street State Highway 99 to Leland Avenue
J Street Owens Avenue to Cross Avenue
Kern Avenue O Street to Blackstone Street
La Dawna Street Pleasant Avenue to Berryhill Avenue
Laspina Street Prosperity Avenue to Bella Oaks Avenue
Levin Avenue K Street to Blackstone Street
Laspina Street to Durango Court
Leland Avenue 300’ N/o Outlet Entrance to Hillman Street Lincoln Street Cross Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
M Street Tulare Avenue to Cross Avenue
Milner Street Capistrano Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
Morrison Street Bardsley Avenue to Alpine Avenue
Nelder Grove Street Bardsley Avenue to Alpine Avenue
O Street Tulare Avenue to Cross Avenue
Paige Avenue Blackstone Street to Laspina Street
Pratt Street Bardsley Avenue to Inyo Avenue (SR 137)
Prosperity Avenue Blackstone Street to Hillman Street
Rankin Road (Avenue 200) I Street to State Highway 99
Sacramento Street Cross Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
Spruce Street Bardsley Avenue to Birch Avenue
Sunrise Street International AgriCenter Way to Foster Drive (D) Forty mph.

Street Location
Bardsley Avenue Pratt Street to H Street
ORDINANCE 2026-07

Blackstone Street to Laspina Street
Blackstone Street South end to Paige Avenue
Tulare Avenue (SR 137) to Lyndale Avenue
Corvina Avenue Retherford Street to Hillman Street
Cross Avenue West Street to J Street
Blackstone Street to Laspina Street
De La Vina Street Corvina Avenue to Pacific Avenue
E Street South end to Inyo Avenue (SR 137)
Pleasant Avenue to Zumwalt Avenue
H Street Cross Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
Laspina Street Paige Avenue to Bardsley Avenue
M Street Cross Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
Sandra Avenue to Cartmill Avenue
Martin Luther King Jr.

Avenue K Street to Blackstone Street
Morrison Street Alpine Avenue to Tulare Avenue (SR 137) Oaks Street Pleasant Avenue to M Street
Pacific Avenue De La Vina Street to Mooney Boulevard (SR 63) Paseo Del Lago All segments
Pleasant Avenue West Street to H Street
J Street to M Street
Prosperity Avenue West Street to Blackstone Street
Hillman Street to Laspina Street
Seminole Avenue Mooney Boulevard (SR 63) to Spyglass Street Tulare Avenue West Street to J Street
West Street Bardsley Avenue to Pleasant Avenue
(E) Forty-five mph.

Street Location
Bardsley Avenue Enterprise Street to Pratt Street
H Street to Blackstone Street
Laspina Street to Road 132
Blackstone Street Paige Avenue to Tulare Avenue (SR 137) Foster Drive Laspina Street to Mooney Boulevard
K Street Rankin Road (Avenue 200) to State Highway 99 N/B Ramps Bardsley Avenue to Owens Avenue
ORDINANCE 2026-07

Laspina Street Bardsley Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
M Street Prosperity Avenue to Sandra Avenue
Mooney Boulevard Foster Drive to Wagonwheel Avenue
O Street Continental Avenue to Tulare Avenue (SR 137)
Paige Avenue I Street to Blackstone Street
Pleasant Avenue Enterprise Street to West Street
Pratt Street Paige Avenue to Bardsley Avenue
Prosperity Avenue Laspina Street to Mooney Boulevard (SR 63) Retherford Street Leland Avenue to 2000’ S/O Cartmill Avenue Seminole Avenue Spyglass Street to Morrison Street
West Street Pleasant Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
(F) Fifty mph.

Street Location
Akers Street Cartmill Avenue to north city limits
Cartmill Avenue Albers Place to Mooney Boulevard
Hillman Street Leland Avenue to Corvina Avenue
J Street Cross Avenue to Prosperity Avenue
K Street 1720’ N/O Rankin Road (Avenue 200) to Industrial Avenue Paige Avenue to Bardsley Avenue
Morrison Street Tulare Avenue (SR 137) to Prosperity Avenue Oakmore Street Bardsley Avenue to Tulare Avenue (SR 137) Prosperity Avenue West city limits to Milner Street
Retherford Street 2000 feet S/O Cartmill Avenue to Cartmill Avenue Tulare Drive Cross Avenue to West Street
Turner Drive International AgriCenter Way to Foster Drive West Street Paige Avenue to Bardsley Avenue
(G) Fifty-five mph (posted).

Street Location
Cartmill Avenue West city limits to Albers Place
Hillman Street Corvina Avenue to north city limits
J Street Prosperity Avenue to north city limits
K Street Rankin Road (Avenue 200) to 1720’ N/O Rankin Road Industrial Avenue to Paige Avenue
Laspina Street Hosfield Drive to Tex Drive
ORDINANCE 2026-07

Mooney Boulevard Wagonwheel Avenue to Tulare Avenue (SR 137) Prosperity Avenue Mooney Boulevard (SR 63) to Morrison Street Tulare Avenue Enterprise Street to Cross Avenue
(H) Sixty-five mph.

Street Location
Laspina Street Tex Drive to Paige Avenue
SECTION 2. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this ordinance is, for any reason, held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the other remaining portions of this ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 3. Pursuant to Section 15 of the Charter of the City of Tulare, it is ordered that a summary of this ordinance be issued in a daily newspaper of general circulation in the City of Tulare for one day and that the ordinance be available in at least one public place at the City offices. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect 30 days from and after the date of its adoption.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Tulare this XX day of XXXX 202X, by the following vote:

Ayes:

Noes:

Absent:

Abstain:

Patrick Isherwood, President of the Council
and Ex-Officio Mayor
ATTEST:

Melissa Wilcox, City Clerk
The presence of an electronic signature certifies that the foregoing is a true and correct copy as approved by the Tulare City Council.

Passed to Print:

Published:

Effective:

Item #: 9.1
General Business
Staff Report
City Council
Date: August 18, 2026
Department: Finance
Submitted by: Mark Roberts, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer Agenda Title: Investment Performance Review by PFM Asset Management

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Receive a presentation from PFM Asset Management regarding performance of the City’s actively managed investment portfolio for the one-year period ending June 30, 2026.

ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Organizational Excellence

SUMMARY
The City acquired the services of PFM Asset Management (“PFMAM”) to manage a portion of the City’s surplus funds investment portfolio in November. The presentation reflects the investment performance of those funds since the assets were fully transferred for management by PFMAM.

FISCAL IMPACT & FUNDING SOURCES
There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This action does not constitute a “project” pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

POTENTIAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Staff is not aware of any conflicts of interest.

LEGAL REVIEW
This item does not require legal review.

PUBLIC NOTICE
This item does not require a public hearing and was noticed as a part of the agenda.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
No action is necessary. This report is for informational purposes only.

ATTACHMENTS
None
Reviewed/Approved: MM
Item #: 9.2
General Business
Staff Report
City Council
Date: August 18, 2026
Department: Finance
Submitted by: Mark Roberts, Chief Financial Officer
Agenda Title: Authorization to Proceed with Refinancing Process for Sewer Revenue Bonds

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Authorize City staff and the City’s Municipal Advisor (NHA Advisors) to proceed with the next steps necessary for evaluating and executing a refinancing (known as a “refunding”) of the City’s 2015 and 2016 Sewer Revenue Refunding Bonds.

ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Organizational Excellence

SUMMARY
The City of Tulare’s Sewer Enterprise currently has approximately $132 million of outstanding debt. All of the outstanding bonds were issued to refund prior bonds, most of which originally financed the expansion of the wastewater treatment facility in 2009. As noted in the table below, the City’s 2015 and 2016 Sewer Revenue Refunding Bonds are currently prepayable (“callable”) at no penalty. The 2020 Series A and B issues are not callable until November 15, 2028, and November 15, 2030, respectively, and are not being contemplated as part of this refinancing strategy.

City of Tulare
Sewer Enterprise Fund Debt
Series 2015 2016 2020A 2020B
Par Issued $84,555,000 $58,265,000 $20,170,000 $17,210,000 Par Outstanding $48,810,000 $53,820,000 $16,790,000 $12,200,000 Outstanding Coupon Range 5.00% 3.00-5.00% 4.00-5.00% 1.80-2.79% Optional Call Date (No Penalty) 11/15/2025 11/15/2025 11/15/2028 11/15/2030 Overall, the City is currently paying approximately $10 million/year in debt service through FY 2046 on all its Sewer Enterprise debt in aggregate.

The authorization requested at this time is preliminary and does not authorize the issuance of new bonds or execution of a final refinancing. Rather, it will allow staff and NHA Advisors to continue developing a refinancing strategy intended to produce cost savings to the City’s Sewer Enterprise and help offset future rate increases for residents. It will also allow the City to engage the financing professionals necessary to prepare legal and disclosure documents, underwrite the bonds, complete the credit rating process, and perform other work necessary to position the City to execute a refinancing if favorable market conditions exist.

Throughout this process, staff and the financing team will continue monitoring the bond market to determine the most advantageous timing for a potential refinancing. City Council approval will be required before the City may formally execute the refunding, with a final financing plan anticipated to return to Council no earlier than fall 2026.

Current market conditions present an opportunity to refinance all of the 2015 Bonds, and a portion of the 2016 Bonds, to produce interest rate savings. Over the past 9 months, the City and NHA Advisors have been monitoring the bond market and evaluating various strategies to capture these savings for the benefit of the City and its residents. While the potential savings has fluctuated over this time period given volatility in the market, projected savings has always been above $3 million on a present value basis, and over $10 million on a cumulative gross cash flow basis, which includes the early release of the prior debt service reserve funds. Actual savings won’t be determined until the actual bond sale in the future.

Staff would not move forward, or recommend final City Council approval of the refunding, if bond market conditions in the future do not cooperate and minimum savings thresholds are not met.

At this stage, staff is not requesting approval of a specific financing plan or bond issuance. Instead, staff is seeking City Council direction to continue evaluating the refinancing opportunity, which will include refining structuring options (evaluating different ways of realizing the savings), engaging the necessary team members to prepare the necessary legal/disclosure documents and underwrite the bonds, and undertaking a formal credit rating process. Staff would return to City Council for review and approval of the final financing plan prior to any bond sale, if/when positive bond market conditions exist in the future.

At the earliest, this would likely be in October or November of 2026.

FISCAL IMPACT & FUNDING SOURCES
The proposed refinancing would refund all of the 2015 Bonds, and a portion of the 2016 Bonds, replacing them with new bonds at lower interest rates. The refinancing would reduce future debt service without borrowing new money or extending the term of the debt. While borrowing additional funds for other projects is not being contemplated at this time, the City would have the option of doing so as part of the refinancing.

Based on preliminary analysis at current market interest rates, the estimated results of the refinancing are summarized below.
$0
$2
$4
$6
$8
$10
$12
202620272028202920302031203220332034203520362037203820392040204120422043204420452046 Millions
Fiscal Year
City of Tulare
Sewer Enterprise Fund Debt
2015 Sewer Revenue Refunding Bonds 2016 Sewer Revenue Refunding Bonds 2020A Sewer Revenue Refunding Bonds 2020B Sewer Revenue Refunding Bonds Estimated Refunding Savings Statistics
Est. Amount of Bonds Refinanced $71M
Interest Rate on Bonds Refinanced 4.73%
Est. Interest Rate on New Debt 4.06%
Present Value Savings ($) $3.5M
Present Value Savings (%) 5.0%
Total Cash Flow Savings1 $13.5M
Annual Cash Flow Savings $0.68M
Over the past nine months, projected present value savings have fluctuated between $3 million and $7 million and total cash flow savings between $10 million and $15 million. Projected interest rates (including financing costs) for the refinancing have ranged from about 3.50% to 4.10%, demonstrating how variable the bond market can be. In the current market environment, the present value savings are expected to be $3.5 million, representing approximately 5% of the refunded par amount. When considering executing a refunding, a commonly accepted industry standard is to achieve present value savings of at least 3% of the refunded par amount.

The estimated $13.5 million of savings can be realized in a variety of ways – front loaded into the next several years, extended over the life of the bond issue (level savings annually), as well as several other options in between. As part of the upcoming evaluation process, staff and the financing team will continue evaluating all these options and bring back a recommended strategy to Council at a later date. Ultimately, minimizing future rate impacts on residents, while addressing key capital needs for sewer infrastructure, will be key drivers.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This action does not constitute a “project” pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

POTENTIAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Staff is not aware of any conflicts of interest.

LEGAL REVIEW
This item does not require legal review.

PUBLIC NOTICE
This item does not require a public hearing and was noticed as a part of the agenda.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION

1. Approve with changes

2. Deny

3. Table

ATTACHMENTS
None
Reviewed/Approved: MM
1 Includes the release of $6,668,130.58 from the 2015 Debt Service Reserve Fund Item #: 9.3
General Business
Staff Report
City Council
Date: August 18, 2026
Department: Community Development
Submitted by: Mario Anaya, Community Development Director Agenda Title: Progress Report on Housing Element Housing Plan Implementation

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Receive a presentation and provide input and guidance to staff regarding the Housing Element Housing Plan implementation.

ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Housing and Community Development

SUMMARY
This is a presentation on the Housing Plan actions required in the city’s recently adopted Housing Element. The Housing Element was adopted by City Council in May 2026, and staff is still working to obtain final certification approval from the state Housing and Community Development (HCD) Department. However, the Housing Element covers Planning Period 2024 – 2031.

This presentation is a review and response to Council questions and requests about what the City can do to implement the various action items in the Housing Element Housing Plan, including meeting housing production goals identified in the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). The presentation also provides an update on actions already taken to implement the Housing Plan.

FISCAL IMPACT & FUNDING SOURCES
There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This action does not constitute a “project” pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

POTENTIAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Staff is not aware of any conflicts of interest.

LEGAL REVIEW
This item does not require legal review.

PUBLIC NOTICE
This item does not require a public hearing and was noticed as a part of the agenda.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
City Council is not being asked to vote on this item, but rather receive the presentation, ask questions, and provide comments and guidance to staff working on implementing the city’s Housing Plan.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Housing Element Housing Plan
Reviewed/Approved: MM
City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-1
F7 Housing Plan
This eight-year Housing Plan (2023-2031) sets forth a strategy, including goals, policies, and programs, to address housing issues identified in the City of Tulare.

F7.1 Goals and Policies
Goal 1: Regional Collaboration Work collaboratively with jurisdictions in the county to efficiently address housing issues and find regionalsolutions.

Policy 1.1 Proactively coordinate with cities, Tulare County, and other agencies and organizations to create effective policies and programs and respond to opportunities for achieving common housing goals.

Policy 1.2 Participate in, as appropriate, pursuit of state and federal housing funds to address regional housing issues.

Goal 2: Housing Development Provide an adequate supply and range of housing types to meet the diverse needs of residents.

Policy 2.1 Provide adequate sites for new housing development to accommodate the regional housing needs allocation (RHNA) throughout the planning period.

Policy 2.2 Facilitate a range of housing development that will meet the needs of all income levels including extremely low, very-low, low-, moderate- and above moderate households.

Policy 2.3 Encourage a range of housing types and sizes in large-scale development and annexations.

Policy 2.4 Promote infill development on vacant and underutilized sites within developed areas.

Policy 2.5 Encourage higher density and mixed-use residential development along major transportation and transit corridors and/or near existing or planned community facilities and services.

Policy 2.6 Enact programsthat facilitate well-designed, energy efficient development and flexible standards to encourage high quality projects.

Goal 3: Affordable Housing Options Facilitate the development of affordable housing and protect the existing supply of affordable housing to extremely low, very low-, low- and moderate-income households.

Policy 3.1 Provide a range of incentives and tools to encourage affordable housing for all lower-income levels, including extremely low-income.

Policy 3.2 Support the Tulare County Housing Authority (TCHA) by promoting Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) opportunities.

Policy 3.3 Ensure permit processing procedures to ensure streamlining is available for affordable housing development projects (SB 35).

Policy 3.4 Support the development of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as an affordable housing option.

Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-2
Policy 3.5 Promote home ownership for lower- and moderate- income households by pursuing grant funding for downpayment assistance and other homeownership loan programs.

Policy 3.6 Monitor existing affordable housing developments and pursue preservation strategies to maintain their affordability.

Goal 4: Housing and Neighborhood
Preservation
Maintain and improve the city’s existing housing stock.

Policy 4.1 Preserve existing residential neighborhoods by promoting balanced design and architecture.

Policy 4.2 Support code enforcement efforts to work with property owners with repairs and rehabilitation of housing to preserve existing housing stock.

Policy 4.3 Utilize Capital Improvement Programs for repairs and improvements of public infrastructure and facilities in existing neighborhoods.

Goal 5: Housing for Persons with
Special Needs
Support and provide housing and services for people with special needs in the community. People with special needs include, but are not limited to, seniors, families with children, people with disabilities, single-parent families, farmworkers, and people who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.

Policy 5.1 Assist in local and regional efforts that address the housing needs of special needs residents.

Policy 5.2 Provide reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities to access housing opportunities.

Policy 5.3 Support the development of affordable housing units for farmworkers and farmworker families by encouraging the use of federal, state, and local resources.

Policy 5.4 Coordinate with regional agencies and local non-profit/private developers on housing options and services for people who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.

Policy 5.5 Proactively apply for and utilize available resources to provide and maintain housing for special needs groups.

Goal 6: Resource Conservation and
Sustainable Development
Utilize energy conservation and sustainable measures for new and rehabilitated housing.

Policy 6.1 Support and, as appropriate, incentivize the use of green building techniques for new housing and rehabilitation.

Policy 6.2 Promote energy conservation and efficiency in residential developments.

Goal 7: Affirmatively Furthering Fair
Housing
Promote housing opportunities and access for residents
regardless of age, race, religion,sex, marital status, ancestry, national origin, color, disability, or economic level in compliance with local, state, and federal fair housing laws.

City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-3
Policy 7.1 Promote meaningful and informed participation of residents, community groups, and governmental agencies in all local housing and community development activities.

Policy 7.2 Comply with federal, state, and local fair housing anti-discrimination laws ensuring equal access to housing regardless of circumstances as protected by fair housing laws.

Policy 7.3 Provide fair housing services to city residents and ensure that residents are aware of their fair housing rights.

Policy 7.4 Provide residents with housing mobility options by facilitating the development of a variety of housing types and expanding access to housing services.

Policy 7.5 Protect tenants from discriminatory housing practices and displacement.

Policy 7.6 Promote the integration of affordable and special needs housing in existing and planned neighborhoods.

F7.2 Implementing Programs
Program 1: Regional Collaboration
Collaborate with other jurisdictions in the region on housing efforts, including funding opportunities, best practices, and other efforts to address housing, transit, economic development, and homeless issues in Tulare County.

Regional collaboration efforts can include, but are not limited to:
 Affordable housing development opportunities
 Regional housing programs and outreach efforts
 Economic development opportunities
 Creation of a regional Housing Trust Fund
 Coordination on funding applications and administration  Identify transit opportunities and access near new and established residential areas  Develop environmental mitigation that can improve the quality of life for residents  Efforts for the development of emergency shelters, low barrier navigation centers, transitional and supportive housing as well as support services for persons experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless in the county, including participation in the Kings/Tulare Homeless Alliance Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines  Starting in 2025, at least annually, participate in regional meetings related to housing and homeless issues to pursue funding and coordination opportunities. Annually pursue funding opportunities for regional housing issues.
 Starting in 2025, at least annually, partner with the Kings/Tulare Homeless Alliance to proactively address shelter, housing and support services for people experiencing homelessness.
 Collaborate with Tulare County Area Transit (TCaT) and/or TCAG on the 2023 Tulare County Coordinated Human Services Transportation Plan to identify ways to bridge the transit service gap for seniors, persons with disabilities and low-income individuals. Participate in the Coordinated Human Services Transportation Plan’s update scheduled for 2028.  Starting in 2025, utilize the monthly TCAG Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meetings to ensure the effective implementation of the Housing Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-4
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
AFFHGeographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
Element. Topics at these meetings can include resource sharing, implementation of planning strategies and joint efforts to address regional housing needs and achieve the goalsin the Housing Element, including affirmatively furthering fair housing needs and farmworker needs.
 Annually, invite affordable housing developers, Community Based Organizations (CBOs), and other interested parties to discuss affordable housing production in the county.
 Prepare a study on transit and active transportation needs for Tulare residents and identify actions to address those needs, focusing on connecting residents to job centers, and prioritizing residents in Historic West Tulare, Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, and Southeast Tulare.
 Collaborate with the Tulare County Regional Transit Agency (TCRTA) and TCAG to prepare a transit needs study by January 2026 to identify potential actions and how they can be coordinated with the County’s Coordinated Human Services Transportation Plan.
 Hold at least two community workshops in Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, and Southeast Tulare by December 2026 to identify active transportation needs and apply for funding to implement projects by December 2027.

Planning Department
General Fund; federal, state, and local grant funds

1.1, 1.2
 Outreach and Education
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of Higher Resources  Anti-Displacement and Tenant Protection
Citywide
 Increase the percentage of residents commuting by public transit by 5 percent by December 2031 with 2020 data as baseline.
 Implement at least two active transportation projects in Historic West Tulare, Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, and Southeast Tulare by the end of the planning period for increased multi-modal transportation options.

Program 2: Adequate Sites for RHNA and Monitoring of No Net Loss For the 6th cycle Housing Element, Tulare has been assigned a RHNA of 4,749 units, including:
 Very Low Income: 1,435 units
 Low Income: 884 units
 Moderate Income: 677 units
 Above Moderate Income: 1,753 units
The City is committed to ensuring that adequate sites at appropriate densities remain available during the planning period, as required by law. The City has 84 units through a permitted project (East Bardsley Apartments) that will be available during the RHNA projection period. The City also anticipates the construction of 40 Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) over the eight-year planning period. Accounting for these units, the City has a remaining RHNA of 4,625 units (1,435 very low-income, 884 low-income, 677 City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-5
moderate-income, and 1,629 above moderate-income units) that the City must identify adequate sites for potential development.

The City has identified vacant and nonvacant opportunity sites with potential for development, redevelopment, or adaptive reuse of existing uses over the next eight years. These sites are located throughout Tulare. The majority of the sites are vacant, while eight sites are currently used for agricultural purposes.

However, the opportunity sites identified are not adequate to fully accommodate the remaining RHNA.

Under existing zoning, the City can accommodate 4,443 units (1,797 very low, 830 low, 1,816 moderate, and 4,443 above moderate-income units), leaving a shortfall of site capacity by 522 lower income units.

Based on an average density of 22 units per acre, at least 10 acres of rezoning will be needed in addition to the annexation sites identified.

To fully accommodate the remaining RHNA, the City will pursue the following strategies:
 Annexed Sites: Three properties, totaling approximately 222 acres, were annexed during the 6th cycle planning period and are now located within the City’s boundaries. The City is working with the property owners of these sites to facilitate development, including on a portion of land that will be zoned R-M-4, High Density Residential and permits by-right development of an estimated 477 lowerincome units. . Applications for subdivision maps are expected in 2025 and 2026, with construction anticipated between 2026-2031.
 Rezone Site: The City has identified one site for rezoning. This site is located in Northeast Tulare and will be rezoned to facilitate additional residential development. This site will be rezoned from low density residential (maximum of 6.22 du/ac) to high density residential (maximum of 29.04 dwelling units per acre). The total acreage on this parcel is 15 acres, but only 10 of the acres will be rezoned and will accommodate an estimated 217 lower income units.

This program describes the actions the City will take to ensure that adequate sites are designated consistent with Government Code §65583c)(1)(A) and 65583.2. The rezoned sites shall include the following components pursuant to Government Code §65583.2(i):
 Permit owner-occupied and rental multi-family uses by-right for developments in which 20 percent or more of the units are affordable to lower-income households. By-right means approval without discretionary review.
 Permit the development of at least 16 units per site.  Establish a minimum density of 20 units per acre and a maximum density of at least 20 units per acre for all rezone sites to accommodate lower income RHNA.  Ensure that either: a) at least 50 percent of the shortfall of low- and very-low-income regional housing need can be accommodated on sites designated for exclusively residential uses; or b) if accommodating more than 50 percent of the low- and very-low-income regional housing need on sites designated for mixed uses, all sites designated for mixed uses must allow 100 percent residential use and require that residential uses occupy at least 50 percent of the floor area in a mixed-use project.

These strategies will provide a total of 694 potential lower income units, thereby exceeding the 522-unit shortfall in lower income RHNA for the City.

To ensure that the City complies with SB 166 (No Net Loss), staff will monitor the consumption of residential and mixed-use acreage to ensure an adequate inventory is available to meet RHNA Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-6
obligations. To ensure sufficient residential capacity is maintained to accommodate the RHNA, the City will develop and implement a formal ongoing (project-by-project) evaluation procedure pursuant to Government Code Section 65863. Should an approval of development result in a reduction in capacity below the residential capacity needed to accommodate the remaining need for lower- and moderateincome households, the City will identify and if necessary, rezone sufficient sites to accommodate the shortfall and ensure “no net loss” in capacity to accommodate the RHNA.

The City of Tulare is the provider of water and sewer services within the city limits. The City confirms that adequate water and sewer services are available to fully accommodate the RHNA.

Pursuant to SB 1087, as the City’s water and sewer provider, the City has not adopted a policy to prioritize the allocation of water/sewer services to affordable housing projects.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines  Facilitate the development of 789 units over 8 years (1,435 very lowincome, 884 low-income, 677 moderate-income, and 1,629 above moderate-income units).
 To fully accommodate the RHNA shortfall of 522 lower income units:
 Concurrent with Housing Element adoption, complete the rezone the three annexation parcels (222 acres on three sites) to include low-, medium-, and high-density residential zoning, Including by-right for developments in which 20 percent or more of the units are affordable to lower-income households.
 Concurrent with Housing Element adoption, complete the rezone/upzone of the properties as outlined above and detailed in the Housing Resources section of this Housing Element. As part of the rezoning/upzoning, establish appropriate development standards (including parking, height, setback, lot coverage, FAR, etc.) to ensure maximum allowable densities at the respective zones can be achieved. Owner-occupied and rental multi-family uses by-right for developments in which 20 percent or more of the units are affordable to lower-income households.
 By the end of June 2027, if the development is not projected to occur in a timely manner to allow construction during the 6th cycle Housing Element planning period, the City will identify alternative sites for rezoning to maintain adequate sites to accommodate the RHNA by December 2027.
 Maintain an inventory of available vacant and prospective sitesthat can accommodate new housing; update annually. Make this inventory available to the public and interested developers on the City website.  Annually meet with property owners and interested developers to pursue housing development in the city.
 Concurrent with Housing Element adoption, develop a formal procedure to monitor no net loss in capacity pursuant to SB 166.
 By December 31, 2027, adopt a policy to prioritize allocation of water and sewer services to affordable housing projects (SB 1087).

Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
Planning Department
General Fund

2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 3.1
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of Higher Resources N/A
N/A
City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-7
Program 3: By-Right Approval
Pursuant to Government Code Section 65583.2, reusing the following types of sites in the City’s site inventory for lower income RHNA are subject to by-right approval exempt from CEQA and subject only to design review based on objective standards when a project includes 20 percent of the units affordable to lower-income households:

Reuse Sites (No Rezoning Required):
 Vacant sites that were identified in the City’s 4th and 5th cycles Housing Element as sites for lower income RHNA; and
 Nonvacant sites that were identified in the City’s 5th cycle Housing Element as sites for lower income RHNA.

The by-right approval requirement of reuse sites is effective December 31, 2023. Rezoning of sites past the statutory deadline of the Housing Element to meet the lower income RHNA are subject to the byright approval requirement. The by-right approval requirement of rezone sites is triggered by the rezoning.

By-right shall mean the local government’s review shall not require:
 A conditional-use permit
 A planned unit development permit
 Other discretionary, local-government review or approval that would constitute a “project” as defined in Section 21100 of the Public Resources Code.

This provision does not preclude local planning agencies from imposing design review standards.

However, the review and approval process must remain ministerial, and the design review must not constitute a “project” as defined in t Section 21100 of the Public Resources Code.

A total of 14 parcels are subject to by-right approval pursuant to state law and are identified in Table F4.1-10 in Chapter F4.1, Housing Resources.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines  Concurrent with the adoption of the Housing Element ,by update the Development Code to address the by-right approval requirements. The zoning code will be amended to address the by-right approval requirements for lower-income sitesincluded in the site inventory with a proposed zoning change, as well as vacant sites identified in two previous housing elements and non-vacant sites identified in the previous housing element and annexation sites, in compliance with Government Code Section 65583.2(h) and (i), to permit owner-occupied and rental multifamily uses by-right (without discretionary approval) for developments in which 20 percent or more of the units are affordable to lower-income households. Any subdivision of the sites shall be subject to all laws, including, but not limited to, the local government ordinance implementing the Subdivision Map Act.
 Consider expanding the scope of streamlining, including:
 For sites not subject to Section 65583.2 - projects that include 20 percent of the units affordable to homeowners at 60 percent AMI or to renters at 50 percent AMI; and/or
 100 percent affordable projects on any Housing Element sites.

Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Planning Department
General Fund
Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-8
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes

2.1, 2.2, 3.1
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of Higher Resources Northeast Tulare and Citywide
N/A
Program 4: Replacement Housing and Displacement Protections Development on non-vacant sites with existing residential units is subject to replacement requirements, pursuant to AB 1397. Specifically, AB 1397 requires sites with a residential use within the last five years the replacement of units affordable to the same or lower income level as a condition of any development on a non-vacant site consistent with those requirements set forth in state Density Bonus Law.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Concurrent with the adoption of the Housing Element amend the Zoning Code to address the replacement housing requirements.
 By 2027, establish a comprehensive Anti-Displacement Strategy to address displacement risk in the neighborhoods at risk of displacement (Historic West Tulare, the southern part of Downtown and Historic East Tulare, and the northern portion of South Tulare, identified in Figure F5- 25 in Chapter 5, Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Analysis). The strategy will include the following actions:
 Engagement with fair housing service providers to improve upon and expand the dissemination of information on tenant protections and available fair housing resources
 Engagement with residents and property ownersto solicit community input on displacement risk factors and potential solutions  Evaluation, consideration, and adoption of local policies or regulations to address displacement risk, including but not limited to:
 Work with local HUD-approved housing counselorsto provide foreclosure prevention counseling in areas at risk of
displacement;
 Coordinate with Housing Authority to seek funding for emergency rental assistance for tenants;
 When permits are applied for repair or rehabilitation of occupied rental units, contact fair housing providers to begin counseling process for tenants of the subject property to ensure they know their rights;
 Local regulations that establish a “first right of return” for tenants displaced by redevelopment, rehabilitation, of properties with existing occupied residential units.

The feasibility of each of these actions will be presented in a public forum and will assess legal, financial, administrative, and equity considerations.

Planning Department
General Fund

2.2, 3.6
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of Higher Resources  Anti-Displacement and Tenant Protection
City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-9
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
Citywide and areas at risk of displacement (Historic West Tulare, the southern part of Downtown and Historic East Tulare, and the northern portion of South Tulare)
N/A
Program 5: Accessory Dwelling Units
ADUs provide an important affordable housing option in the City. Currently ADUs in Tulare are permitted by-right in the R-A, R-1, and PD zoning districts and conditionally permitted in the R-M district.

Self-Help Enterprises is a community development organization that offers a variety of programs for low-income families in the region, including ADU construction and repair assistance.

The City will continue to encourage the production of ADUs and work to provide affordable units for lower income households.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
 Amend the Zoning Code in compliance with state ADU laws by July 2025  Beginning in January 2025 facilitate the production of ADUs through efforts including, but not limited to:
 Updating ADU webpage to include available resources for ADU production, such as grantsfor pre-development costs available to lower-income homeowners through California Finance Agency (CalHFA).
 Offering expedited reviews for ADU applications.
 Promote the development of ADUs, prioritizing Northeast, South, and Southeast Tulare.
 Conduct three educational workshops, campaigns, or outreach events to promote ADU development in the city to residents, with at least two events targeted to residents and developers in Northeast, South, and Southeast Tulare, by the end of the planning period.  Implement strategiesto streamline the ADU permitting process.  Develop an ADU application checklist and publish the checklist on the City’s website by January 2026.
 Add information on the ADU permitting process, as well as available resources and incentives, on the City’s website by January 2026.  Adopt pre-approved ADU plans, potentially using SJV REAP’s Template ADU Program and SJV REAP Tool: Pre-Reviewed Plan Set, by January 2026, and publish on the City’s website.
 Determine and implement strategy to promote ADUs for moderate- and lower-income households.
 Prepare a report on potential strategiesto encourage affordability of ADUs for moderate and lower-income households, including but not limited to, promoting the use of HCVs or development of cost incentive programs or no-interest loan program for ADU developers in exchange for income restrictions. Prepare report by January 2026 and present to City Council for adoption by August 2026. If adopted, implement pilot program by January 2027.

Planning Department
General Fund

2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.4
 Outreach and Education
Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-10
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of Higher Resources Northeast, South, and Southeast Tulare
 Support the development of at least 10 ADUs in Northeast, South, and Southeast Tulare during the planning period.

Program 6: Zoning Code Amendments
In order to facilitate a variety of housing types, especially housing for lower-income households and those with special needs, the City will remove constraints to housing development by amending the Zoning Code.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines  Include the following Zoning Code Amendments by the end of 2025, unless otherwise indicated:
 Development Standards: Concurrent with Housing Element adoption, Review and revise the City’s following development standards, particularly in relation to higher density affordable housing:
– Increase the maximum site coverage percentage for the R-M-4 zone from 50 percent to 60 percent.
– Amend parking requirementsfor studios and one-bedroom multifamily units and affordable multifamily units. The requirement shall be no more than one space per unit.
 Objective Design Standards: Revise the findings in the City’s Residential Design Guidelinesfor multifamily housing to be objective, removing the requirement for multiple-family infill housing to be compatible in appearance with existing residences.
 SB 35 and SB 330 Procedures: Concurrent with the Housing Element adoption, revise the Zoning Code to address updates to state law and create a written procedure for SB 35 and SB 330.
 Manufactured Homes: Amend the Zoning Code to allow for manufactured housing in the same zones and same restrictions as single-family homes.
 Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Housing: Revise the Zoning Code to add a definition of SROs and allow the development of SROs in zones allowing multifamily uses and/or commercial zones allowing hotel and motel uses. Also, establish a procedure to encourage and facilitate SRO development in the allowable zoning district(s), including development standards.
 Transitional and Supportive Housing (AB 2162): Revise the Zoning Code to permit Permanent Supportive Housing without discretionary action in zones that permit multifamily housing and comply with Government Code section 65621, including but not limited to, processing and parking requirements for projects located within halfmile from transit. In addition, revise the Zoning Code, as appropriate, to permit transitional/supportive housing as a residential use in all zones allowing residential uses and only subject to those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone.
 Emergency Shelters: Revise the Zoning Code for emergency shelters for more than 13 persons in the R-M and/or C-4 zones without a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), and revise requirements for parking at emergency sheltersto comply with AB 2339. Also make the following changes to comply with recent state law changes:

City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-11
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
– Expand the definition of emergency shelters per AB 2339 to include interim housing options such as navigation centers, bridge housing, and respite and recuperative care.
 Low Barrier Navigation Centers (LBNC): AB 101 requires a Low Barrier Navigation Center be permitted by-right in areas zoned for mixed uses and nonresidential zones permitting multifamily uses if it meets specified requirements. Revise the Zoning Code to address the provision of LBNC.
 Farmworker: Review and revise the Zoning Code to ensure compliance with the Employee Housing Act (H&S Code Section 17021.6 and 17021.8), which requires that any farmworker housing consisting of no more than 36 bedsin a group quarters or 12 units or spaces designed for use by a single family or household shall be deemed an agricultural land use for the purposes of this section. For all local ordinances, farmworker housing shall not be deemed a use that implies that the farmworker housing is an activity that differs in any other way from an agricultural use. No conditional use permit, zoning variance, or other zoning clearance shall be required of this farmworker housing that is not required of any other agricultural activity in the same zone. The permitted occupancy in farmworker housing in a zone allowing agricultural uses shall include agricultural employees who do not work on the property where the farmworker housing is located.
 Employee Housing: Review and revise the Zoning Code to ensure compliance with the Employee Housing Act (H&S Code Section 17021.6), which requires that housing provided by an employer for up to six employees is considered a residential use, subject to the same standards as single-family residences. Also revise the Zoning Code to ensure compliance with H&S Code Section 17021.8, which permits proposed projects on agricultural land to be allowed a streamlined review process (if certain criteria are met).  Definition of “Family”: Revise the Zoning Code definition of “family” to mean all persons, related and unrelated, who occupy a single housing unit.
 Group Homes: Concurrent with the Housing Element adoption, amend the Zoning Code to remove the CUP requirement for group homes for seven or more persons in all residential zones similar to other residential uses of the same type in the same zone. In addition, the parking requirements for group homes with seven or more persons shall be reviewed.by December 2025.

Planning Department
General Fund

2.2, 3.1, 3.4, 5.2, 5.3, 7.4
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of Higher Resources  Anti-Displacement and Tenant Protection
Citywide
 Facilitate the development of 20 units for special needs populations during the planning period.

Program 7: Facilitating Affordable Housing Development
The City is committed to expanding affordable housing options for households of all income levels using development tools such as density bonus provisions, potentially waiving development fees and Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-12
streamlining the application process. The City will monitor the State Department of Housing and Community Development’s website for Notices of Funding Ability (NOFA) and, where appropriate, coordinate with developers to submit applications for HOME funds, tax credits and other financial assistance programs for construction of houses affordable to lower-income households.

On a case-by-case basis, the City will facilitate affordable housing by public, private and non-profit groups by coordinating off-site improvements and physical infrastructure as Capital Improvement Projects. Assistance provided by the City may include traffic, street and sewer upgrades as well as other pedestrian and mobility improvements.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines  Starting in 2025, annually pursue funding at the local, regional, state, and federal levels such as State CDBG, CalHome, PLHA, and Project Homekey funds.
 Work with other jurisdictions in Tulare County to create a regional list of affordable housing developers by 2026. Annually conduct outreach to these developers with information on potential sites, available regulatory concessions and incentives, and potential funding opportunities (please also refer to Regional Collaboration Program above). Continue to meet with developers (e.g., Self-Help Enterprises and developers from out of the area) quarterly to share information on development opportunities.

Maintain membership in the San Joaquin Valley Housing Collaborative.  By December 31, 2025, revise the Density Bonus Ordinance in compliance with state law (Government Code §65915) to equally provide for density bonuses in all zoning districts where residential uses are permitted and to include provisions relative to density bonuses, incentives, and concessions as required by state law.
 Starting in 2025, facilitate the development of affordable housing by allowing improvements to be negotiated.
 Proactively build relationships with the building community, including nonprofits, and establish an array of regulatory and financial tools to assist residential development with a nonprofit, including utilizing local trust funds and other local financial resources, donating land, supporting funding applications, assisting entitlements, and expediting permit processing (please also refer to Regional Collaboration Program above).  By December 31, 2025, expand on the minimum requirements of state density bonuslaw by offering additional density bonuses, incentives. and concessions.
 By 2028, adopt a land-banking program for future development of housing affordable to lower- and moderate-income households. A landbanking program could include the use of Community Development Block Grant funds to purchase sites as well as city- and county-owned sites.
 By July 2026, establish impact fees based on square footage to appropriately charge for the level of impacts based on the size of the house or housing types (i.e. ADU, single-room occupancy, multifamily, single-family). For example, the sewer impact of an ADU is less than for a 5,000 square foot home.
 By July 2026, adopt ministerial permit procedures for multifamily, transitional housing, and supportive housing in multifamily zones.  Review the General Plan, applicable Specific Plans, and Zoning Code and Zoning Map to evaluate opportunities for removing barriers to housing production, adding housing capacity, and accommodating a greater mix of dwelling types and sizes households (e.g., duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, townhouses, courtyard buildings), prioritizing opportunities and sites in Northeast, South, and Southeast Tulare. Review General City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-13
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
Plan, Specific Plans, and Zoning Code and Zoning Map by January 2026 and implement any changes by January 2027 (see Program 6).  Acquire funds from the state and federal grant opportunities, including the HCD Infill Infrastructure Grant Program, to support the development of affordable housing, housing for special needs, and support service projects. Leverage City funding to partner with affordable housing developer on new affordable housing developments in the city. Prioritize subsidies for financing for rental housing units affordable to extremely low-income households, senior households, farmworkers, persons with disabilities, veterans, large households, and other households with special needs.
 Apply for state and federal funds in 2025 and annually thereafter to facilitate the development of affordable housing, including housing for extremely low-income households and those with special housing needs. Partner with nonprofit housing developers to support the entitlement of at least 100 subsidized housing units affordable to extremely low-, very low-, and low-income households in the city during the planning period, including at least 30 percent of units outside of areas of high segregation and poverty or near public transit and services.
 Develop an affordable housing strategy forsupporting affordable housing throughout the city.
 By the end of 2026, develop an affordable housing strategy and education campaign by conducting surveys of residents and gathering input from community organizations, affordable housing providers, and business owners. Based on that input, the strategy will include:
 Short-term and long-term goals for increasing affordable housing.  Financial and administrative recommendations.
 Outreach and education plan for increasing education and support for affordable housing.
 By July 2027, begin implementation of the affordable housing strategy.

Planning Department
Local, state and federal resources, General Fund, CDBG

2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 4.1, 4.3, 7.4
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of Higher Resources Citywide with emphasis on low resource census tracts.
 Increase the percent of the city’s housing stock that is multifamily from 17 percent to 20 percent by December 2030, using 2020 Census data as a baseline.
 Reduce disparity between census tracts based on median income level and percent of households in poverty.
 Partner with nonprofit housing developers to support the entitlement of at least 100 subsidized housing units affordable to extremely low-, very low-, and low-income households in the city during the planning period, with at least 30 percent of units outside of areas of high segregation and poverty or near public transit and services.
 Facilitate the development of 150 units of a variety of multifamily housing types, e.g., duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, townhouses, courtyard buildings.

Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-14
Program 8: Preservation of At-Risk Housing
The City has 1,045 housing units that are deed restricted as affordable housing for lower income households. Of these units, 49 are at risk of converting to market-rate housing over the next ten years.

The City will work to reserve these at-risk units and will proactively monitor all other units to encourage continued affordability beyond existing covenants and work proactively with owners of affordable units.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
 Preserve 1,045 affordable units, including 49 at-risk units. If the 49 at-risk units cannot be preserved, seek to replace them with new deedrestricted units in at least the same quantity.  Maintain and annually update a database of subsidized affordable projects/units to conserve the existing supply of subsidized and belowmarket rate housing to ensure that affordability is preserved.  Monitor the status of any HUD receipt/approval of Notice of Intent and Plans of Action filed by property owners to convert subsidized units to market rate.
 Ensure tenants are properly noticed by the property owners should a Notice of Intent to opt out of low-income use is filed. Notices must be filed three years, one year and six months in advance of conversion.  In the event of potential conversion, conduct outreach to other nonprofit housing providers to acquire projects opting out of low-income use. As funding permits, assist in funding the acquisition or support funding applications by nonprofit providers.
 Annually contact property owners of affordable housing regarding any change in status/intent or need for assistance, such as rehabilitation assistance. This includes assistance in applying for needed grant funds to preserve the units.
 Maintain the AB 987 database to include detailed information on all subsidized units, including those that have affordability covenants.

Update annually.

Planning Department
General Fund

3.6, 5.5
Anti-Displacement and Tenant Protection
Citywide
 Preserve all affordable housing units.

Program 9: Housing Preservation and Rehabilitation
The City’s Code Enforcement Division estimates that approximately 50 units require major rehabilitation and fewer than 15 units citywide are beyond the point of repair. Concentrated areas of substandard housing in the city are in southern and west Tulare.

The City’s Code Enforcement department conducted 119 inspections in 2018 on affordable housing units and issued citations for corrective action. As a result, effective July 1, 2019, the City partnered with Habitat for Humanity to provide a home repair program to assist low-income homeowners to correct code enforcement violations and provide housing preservation at no cost to the customer. The City utilizes CDBG Entitlement funds to support this program and collaborates on marketing the program to income eligible populations.

City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-15
Self-Help Enterprises is a community development organization that offers a variety of programs for low-income families in the region. The City of Tulare continues to partner with Self Help Enterprises on the administration of the City’s Owner/Occupied Rehabilitation Program.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
 Starting in 2025, coordinate with Self-Help Enterprises to fund rehabilitation efforts in the city. Annually research funding opportunities, such as CHAFA, for rehabilitation grants. Assist with 30 rehabilitation projects over 8 years.
 Advertise available rehabilitation grant programs on the City’s website and provide traditional media notices (flyers, newsletters) to the library and senior center. Ensure that Code Enforcement has the information when addressing enforcement cases, particularly to property owners of lower-income units. Update annually.
 Expand awareness and connect residents to Self-Help Enterprises’ Housing Rehabilitation Program.
 Publish resources on homeowner rehabilitation assistance on the City’s website by July 2026.
 Connect qualified property owners with code violations to Self-Help Enterprises to receive financial assistance through the Housing Rehabilitation Program. Refer at least five property owners with housing units in need of repair to Self-Help Enterprises annually.  Increase participation in the City’s Home Rehabilitation Program. Starting FY 2025/2026, apply for funding (CDBG, HOME, other potential funding sources) to serve at least 50 households with home repairs by the end of the planning period.

Planning Department, Code Enforcement
General Fund

3.6, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.5
 Outreach and Education
 Place-Based Strategy for Neighborhood Improvements
Citywide with emphasis on low resource and low-moderate income census tracts.
 Assist with 30 rehabilitation projectsthrough Self-Help Enterprises over 8 years.
 If funding is acquired, assist 50 households with home repairs through the City’s Home Rehabilitation Program over 8 years.

Program 10: Lower-Income and Special Needs Housing
To assist in the development of housing to meet the needs of extremely low, very low- and low-income households, the Housing Authority of Tulare County (HATC) offers the following programs:
 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCVs): The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program is a federal program offered through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that provides financial assistance to very low-income, elderly, and disabled households. The HATC receives funds directly from HUD and facilitates the HCV Program in Tulare County. Under the HCV Program, participants are free to choose housing that meets the requirements of the program.

Participants receive a fixed subsidy, which is paid directly to the landlord by HATC and the remaining rent is paid by the participant. In most cases, there is a five-year time limit to this type of rental assistance because the fixed subsidy is designed to help families stabilize their housing costs in order achieve self-sufficiency and save for other housing opportunities. The HATC maintains a list of rental Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-16
units in Tulare in which the landlord has indicated they are willing to participate in the HCV Program.

As of April 2024, there are several rental complexes in the city with available units while others are currently accepting applications (https://www.hatc.net/unit-referral-listing.php?city=TULARE).

Furthermore, in 2020, the State passed SB 222 and SB 329 that identify public assistance as a legitimate source of income for housing payments. Landlords are no longer permitted to reject HCV recipients.
 Public Housing: Provides rental assistance to low -income families and individuals. The HATC owns and manages all rental units offered under this program, which are located in communities throughout Tulare County.

The City will continue to work with HATC to obtain HCVs and provide the community with information about HATC’s other available programs. The City will also continue to contract with the Kings/Tulare Continuum of Care on Homelessness, Inc., partner with Family Services for administration of the Tulare Housing First Programs in combination with CDBG entitlement funds, and partner with local organizations such as Kings Rehabilitation and AmVets on the dissemination of information on State, County and local programs and is promoted on the City’s website to interested homebuyers, realtors, and lenders. Additionally, Self-Help Enterprises is a community development organization that offers a variety of programs for low-income families in the region. This includes a Downpayment Assistance program and Home Ownership Education programs.

Additionally, analysis in the Constraints chapter of this Housing Element looked at the City’s planning process, timelines, and fees. The following actions will help reduce potential governmental constraints for the development of housing, including affordable housing.

Please also refer to Program 1, Regional Collaboration, to see the efforts underway to help with transportation needs for those with special needs (including persons with disabilities, seniors, and lowincome individuals).

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines Unless otherwise indicated, the following actions shall begin in 2025 and updated/annually:
 Continue to support Family Services and other organizationsthat provide transitional and supportive housing.
 When funding is available the City shall apply for grants on behalf of local nonprofit organizations and partner with faith-based programs to assist in providing housing opportunities for the homeless. Prioritize smaller projects that can provide services.
 When possible and resources are available, the City shall assist in applying for the funding of a housing project that caters to lower-income families with children and encourages on-site day care facilities. Funding for senior affordable projects should also be pursued.
 Update City website to provide links to HATC programs, including the HCV program. Work with HATC and Self-Help Enterprises to continue providing assistance in the community. Assist 30 households over 8 years for downpayment assistance).
 Over the 8-year planning period, subsequent to each Point-in-Time Count, conduct workshops for the Planning Commission and City Council to share the data. Invite the Kings/Tulare Homeless Alliance to attend.  When funding is available, the City shall apply for HUD and/or State funding grants on behalf of local nonprofit organizations and partner with faith-based programsto assist in providing housing opportunities for the homeless when funding is available.

City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-17
 Twice annually, in coordination with the County’s Homeless Initiatives Program Coordinator and Tulare CARES, provide outreach to persons experiencing homelessness including connections with available resources. Focus shall be given to encampments along the Union Pacific Railroad corridor.
 Coordinate with the Central Valley Regional Center to implement an outreach program informing residents of the housing and services available for persons with developmental disabilities and make information available on the City website.
 Coordinate with the HATC to explore opportunities for locating farmworker housing within the city. Pursue funding opportunities for the development of farmworker housing.
 By July 2026, provide a link to its Reasonable Accommodations policy on the Housing page of the City website and provide guidance for those seeking assistance, including contact information for City staff responsible for accepting applications for reasonable accommodation.  By June 2026:
 Review the City’s development impact fees to identify and remove constraints to housing development.
 Review and revise the Site Plan review process and findings related to residential development to remove subjective language and provide objectivity and approval certainty.
 Review the CUP findings and revise to be objective and provide certainty, and remove the requirement that "the location of the proposed use and the conditions under which it would be operated or maintained will not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience or welfare, or materially injuriousto properties or improvements in the vicinity.”
 Beginning in July 2025, and every subsequent two years during the planning period, monitor the effects of short-term rentals. If it is determined that regulation of short-term rentals is needed, an ordinance shall be adopted during the planning period.
 Evaluate compliance with the new transparency requirements per Government Code Section 65940.1(a)(1) and make changes as necessary.  Establish an emergency shelter and begin operation by the end of 2027.

Secure funding and award a contract for shelter operation by the end of 2025.
 Assess the need with a report to City Council by July 2026. If warranted, assess potential operators of the safe parking program and funding options and potential sites where homelessresidents can park overnight, preferably in a location with access to other resources such as restrooms and showers. Implement a pilot program for safe parking by January 2027.
 Apply for at least two potential funding sourcesto reinstate the Tenant Based Rental Assistance program by June 2026.
 Apply for grants and work with regional services and development partners to increase the number of transitional and permanent supportive housing beds for persons experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. Focus should be on smaller projects that can provide services. In addition, continue to build a pipeline of relationships with private landlords who have been educated on HCV and TBRA, who are willing to accept tenants who have subsidized rent and security deposits.
 Consistent with State law that mandates the provision of housing for ELI households, the City will prioritize processing and funding allocation for Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-18
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
projects that include units for ELI households, especially farmworker housing.
 Consistent with State law that mandates the provision of housing for special needs households, the City will prioritize processing and funding allocation for projects that include units for special needs households.  Beginning in 2025 and annually thereafter, pursue funding available at the state and federal levels for affordable housing development.

Specifically, pursue funding programs that target the needs of extremely low- and very low-income households.
 Provide letters of support to funding applications by developers if the proposed projects are consistent with the goals and objectives of this Housing Element, as requested.
 The City, County and Tulare collaboration partners will pursue a variety of strategies and funding to encourage the development, rehabilitation and conservation of housing for farmworkers such as funding development, integrating housing for farmworkers into development, developer identification, maintaining an inventory of suitable sites, site development, ensure zoning and development standards facilitate a variety of housing types for farmworker housing needs. The City and collaborative partners will make a specific and at least annual effort to assist in the development of housing for farmworkers and conserve and improve the existing housing stock for farmworkers, including but not limited to:
 Contacting nonprofit developers at least every other year to identify opportunities for the development or improvement of housing for farmworkers. This can include site identification and providing technical assistance on funding applications.
 Coordinating and participating with regional organizations, including non-profit, academic, and employers, to raise awareness, share and employ strategies, or target new resources. This should include annual coordination with the Tulare County Resource Management Agency and the Tulare County Agricultural Committee to determine if any sites in or adjacent to the City of Tulare can be included in the County’s farmworker housing initiatives.
 Coordinating annually with organizationsthat represent orserve farmworkers.
 Providing incentives and other strategies beyond state density bonuslaw to encourage housing for farmworkers, including setting aside housing for farmworkers within developments, supporting funding applications, prioritizing entitlements and establishing appropriate zoning and development standards.
 Targeting code enforcement and other resources to the existing housing stock with the most need for rehabilitation and sanitary conditions that could be more likely to house farmworkers and work with regional or other organizations to improve living conditions for farmworkers.  By June 2026, include additional advertising about the Utility Assistance Program with CSET. This advertising should be in both English and Spanish and include electronic and written materials. Provide materials to libraries and community centers.

Planning Department
HUD, Self-Help Enterprise funding sources

3.2, 5.1, 5.4, 5.5, 7.4
 Outreach and Education
 Housing Mobility
City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-19
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of High Resources
 Anti-Displacement and Tenant Protection
Citywide; Downtown, Historic East, and South Tulare; Homeless outreach Citywide with emphasis along the Union Pacific Railroad Promote, with the goal of expanding the use of HCVs in the city by 10 percent by December 2030, using 2023 data as baseline.
 Assist 450 households through HCVs.
 Provide housing and supportive services to at least 100 individuals in the City’s Temporary Homeless Encampment by January 2025.
 Provide resources and information to 50 persons experiencing homelessness annually through the Tulare CARES efforts.  If sufficient funding is acquired for the Tenant Based Rental Assistance Program, assist at least five households by the end of the planning period.
 Refer 10 households annually to the Utility Assistance Program through CSET.
 Encourage the development of 15 affordable units for farmworkers.

Program 11: First-Time Homebuyer Program
The City of Tulare continues to partner with Self Help Enterprises on the administration of the City's First Time Homebuyer's Program. The City received a 2019 HOME Program grant, $250,000 of the award for homebuyer assistance, through the California’s HCD Department.

The City shall continue, to the extent resources are available, administer the First-time Homebuyers Program to qualified homebuyers, and shall promote the use of homebuyer assistance programs offered by the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA), including the Mortgage Credit Certificate Program, CalPlus Conventional Program, and the CalHFA Conventional Program. The City shall annually monitor funding resources available at the state and federal levels and pursue, as appropriate, to provide homebuyer assistance.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines  Continue, to the extent resources are available, administering the Firsttime Homebuyers Program to qualified homebuyers, and shall promote the use of homebuyer assistance programs offered by the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA), including the Mortgage Credit Certificate Program, CalPlus Conventional Program, and the CalHFA Conventional Program.
 Annually monitor funding resources available at the State and Federal levels and pursue, as appropriate, to provide homebuyer assistance.

Primary Responsible Departments Community Development Department Funding Sources State and Federal Funds
AFFH  Outreach and Education
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of High Resources
 Anti-Displacement and Tenant Protection
Relevant Policies 3.5
AFFH Themes  Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of High Resources
Geographic Targeting Citywide; Downtown, Historic East, and South Tulare AFFH Outcomes  Assist five low-income and 25 moderate-income homebuyers Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-20
Program 12: Public Lands for Housing
The City shall maintain and regularly update its inventory of State-, Federal-, County, and City-owned lands and analyze that land for possible housing sites. If appropriate sites are identified, the City shall approach the land owner, potential developers, and funding agencies to facilitate development of the sites for affordable housing and provide priority permit processing. The City shall sell or lease, as appropriate, City-owned land to non-profit housing organizations or governmental agencies who will construct housing for lower-income households. The City will consider offers from the development community and NPO’s to purchase City-owned properties for the construction of affordable housing.

The City is not required to assist with any type of foreclosure acquisition programs or the like at this time.

Since the disbanding of the RDA, the City has established a property management division, which maintains a listing of City-owned properties. The City’s property management division continues to maintain and regularly review the list of City-owned parcels for opportunities to sell such properties, and continues to consider offers from developers for the development of affordable housing. No such offers were presented during the 5th housing cycle.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
 Maintain and annually review the list of City-owned parcels for opportunities to sell such properties.
 Continue to consider offersfrom developers for the development of affordable housing.
 During the 8-year planning period, create housing opportunities on public lands for 20 very low-income and 30 low-income units.

Planning Department
General Fund

2.4, 2.5, 2.6
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of Higher Resources Citywide
N/A
 Housing Mobility
 New Housing Opportunities in Areas of High Resources
Citywide
 Create housing opportunities on public lands for 20 very low-income and 30 low-income units.

Program 13: Community and Economic Development
Well-maintained infrastructure creates a safe and accessible urban environment, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Moreover, investing in such improvements attracts businesses and investments, contributing to economic growth and ensuring equal access to essential services.

In July 2024, the Board of Public Utilities adopted the Water, Wastewater, and Storm Drain Master Plan Update. This includes a phased Capital Improvement Plan. The City will implement the following actions to expand community and economic development citywide.

City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-21
Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines  Starting in 2025, collaborate with the Tulare Chamber of Commerce, Tulare County Economic Development Corporation, and Workforce Investment Board to attract businesses and jobs to Tulare.  Connect local business owners and interested parties to the Tulare Chamber of Commerce and Tulare County Economic Development Corporation to receive assistance on starting a business, including assistance with permitting, applying for incentives, and finding site locations. Connect at least 10 potential business owners with the Tulare Chamber of Commerce and/or the Tulare County Economic Development Corporation by the end of the planning period.  Partner with the Tulare Chamber of Commerce to host at least one event annually to community members to advertise available programs for local business owners.
 Starting in 2025, collaborate with the Workforce Investment Board and Community Services Employment Training to connect residents to available employment assistance and job training programs.  Host at least one employment workshop annually to assist residents in preparing for local job fairs, develop resumes, and prepare for interviews as well as spreading awareness of available employment, training and job preparation resources through the Workforce Investment Board (WIB) and Community Services Employment Training (CSET).
 Coordinate with the Workforce Investment Board to reach out to local nonprofits who work with underserved populations(i.e. those experiencing homelessness, youth) to provide job training opportunities.
 Starting in 2025, partner with the local employment organizations to connect Tulare residents with job opportunities and workforce training program opportunities.
 Partner with the Tulare County Workforce Investment Board and Employment Connection to host an annual job fair and workforce training event in Tulare.
 Work with TCaT to provide free bus passes to residents attending job fairs and interviews.
 Starting in 2025, partner with the Chamber of Commerce, local business owners, and potential businesses to identify planning and infrastructure needs to support business development in Tulare. Create a report on planning and infrastructure needs for business development by June 2026 and present to City Council. If adopted, implement at least 50 percent of the recommendations in the report by the end of the planning period.
 Annually coordinate with the Public Works Department to review the list of Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) to ensure public facilities and infrastructure are supportive of the needs of underserved communities including street improvements for ADA compliance and Safe Routes to School. As part of the annual CIP update in FY 2026-2027, establish a minimum spending target (75 percent) and report the percent of CIP budget committed to Historic West Tulare, Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, and Southeast Tulare, and sitesthat can accommodate lowerincome housing.  Continue to implement the Public Works Department’s Water, Wastewater and Storm Drain Master Plan. Annually implement and aim to fully implement the master plan during the planning period.

Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-22
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
 Identify improvements to expand walkability throughout the city, with a focus on creating safe routes to schools and routes from transit services to shopping and medical centers, within Historic West Tulare, South, Southeast, and Southwest Tulare. Identify specific pedestrian improvements that can be implemented throughout the city and create an implementation plan that considers cost/benefits of each proposed improvement by January of 2026. Incorporate identified improvement projects in the annual CIP program and begin implementation by January 2027. This coordination should also include efforts underway with the TCAG’s 2022 Regional Transportation Plan that includes increased bike lanes throughout the City and increased transit service, such as ondemand transit that can benefit lower-income neighborhoods. Recent projects include improvements to the Tulare Santa Fe Trail that travels along the abandoned Santa Fe Railroad right-of-way through the middle of the city, including extending the trail at Mooney Boulevard and improving trail crossings at three busy intersections in Historic West, Historic East, and Downtown Tulare.
 SB 244 DUC Analysis: By the end of 2026, amend and/or update the City’s General Plan to incorporate an updated Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities analysis, consistent with Government Code Section 65302.10.(a) (SB 244 [2011]).

Planning Department
General Funds

3.1, 4.4
 Place-based Strategiesfor Neighborhood Improvement
Historic West Tulare, Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, and Southeast Tulare.
 Complete 5 CIP projects during the planning period. Two of these shall increase walkability in the Historic West Tulare, South, Southeast, and Southwest Tulare communities.
 Bring in 5 new businesses during the planning period.  Improve CalEnviroScreen scores citywide by December 2031.

Program 14: Energy Conservation
The City provides referrals to local programs including Community Services Employment Training (CSET) for energy conservation and residential weatherization opportunities. The effort extends into the City’s Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program, which utilizes grant funding and a partnership with Self-Help Enterprises for projects that can include energy conservation projects.

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
 Provide information about energy conservation and weatherization opportunities at City Hall, the library, and community centers as well as through Code Enforcement. Provide information in English and Spanish.  When available, pursue and provide rehabilitation assistance that includes energy conservation and weatherization improvements as eligible activities.

Community Development Department
General Fund

6.1, 6.2
 Place-based Strategiesfor Neighborhood Improvement
Historic West Tulare, Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, and Southeast Tulare.

Refer 5 low-income households to CSET for energy rehabilitation annually.

City of Tulare
Housing Plan
2023-2031 Housing Element F7-23
Program 15: Fair Housing Outreach and Enforcement
The City of Tulare works with HATC, Fair Housing Council of Central California (FHCCC), Legal Aid of Central California, California Rural Legal Aid (CRLA), Central California Legal Services (CCLS), the State Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), HATC, and the Kings-Tulare Area Agency on Aging to provide fair housing information and resources to residents and housing providers. Tulare works with HATC to provide a local Fair Housing Information Program which includes distribution of educational materials to property owners, apartment managers, and tenants, and responding to complaints of discrimination (i.e., in-taking, investigation of complaints, and resolution) by referring the affected party to the appropriate agencies.

The City refers fair housing issues and complaints to FHCCC and the State Department of Fair Employment and Housing. The Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) maintains a record of housing discrimination complaints filed in local jurisdictions.

HATC refers fair housing issues and complaints to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO).

Specific Actions, Objectives and Timelines Unless otherwise indicated, these actions shall begin in 2025 and be implemented annually:
 Coordinate with FHCCC/other fair housing nonprofit organizations to provide fair housing and tenant/landlord services, including investigation of discrimination complaints, fair housing counseling and education, fair housing testing, and tenant/landlord counseling and mediation.  Partner with local organizations to distribute information on fair housing services and homebuyer education programs by distributing flyers, attending local events, social media campaigns, and educational workshops in both English and Spanish.
 Coordinate with non-profit organizations, local community groups, and service organizations to increase awareness of and access to housing resources and fair housing assistance.
 Hold at least three fair housing workshops or pop-up events during the planning period for residents about housing rights and resources, materials in English and Spanish, starting in 2025.
 Starting in 2025, release program in collaboration with fair housing non-profit organizations about housing rights and resources annually, in English and Spanish. The program will include, but not limited to, social media, print media, newspaper, radio, and/or television media outlets.
 Update the City’s website to include links to information on fair housing rights and responsibilities for landlords and lenders. Add a language translation feature to the City’s website. Complete updates by December 2025.
 Add a language translation feature to the City’s website by December 2025.
 Utilize the Technical Advisory Committee at TCAG to coordinate on offering outreach on housing services and opportunities in conjunction with other regional planning efforts. Organize one workshop in Tulare to provide information on housing services and programs in 2025. Please also refer to Program 1, Regional Collaboration.
 Expand awareness of predatory lending practices, fair housing requirements, regulations, and services by distributing educational materials to property owners, realtors, apartment managers, and tenants.

Tulare County Association of Governments
Tulare County Regional Housing Element
F7-24
Primary Responsible Departments
Funding Sources
Relevant Policies
AFFH Themes
Geographic Targeting
AFFH Outcomes
 Distribute printed educational materials to at least 150 property owners, apartment managers, tenants, and realtors during the planning period, prioritizing outreach in Historic West Tulare, Northwest, and Southwest Tulare.
 Ensure that local housing programs respond to the needs of a culturally diverse community that includes multi-generational families, a variety of living arrangements, and Limited English Proficiency households. Plans should ensure collaboration with community groups, including faithbased and nonprofit organizations, to provide outreach on housing resources to all types of households and those households with Limited English Proficiency. Create a fair housing marketing plan and review every two years to ensure compliance with current City policy to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing and make necessary changes within six months.
 Distribute brochure on housing rights and responsibilities with ADU applications, at the planning counter, and on the City’s website. Publish fair housing guide with ADU applications starting In January 2026.  Beginning in 2025, provide annual training to City staff on how to refer residents for fair housing complaints.
 Annually, conduct outreach and education on water conservation measures through a social media campaign.

Planning Department
General Fund

3.1, 4.4
 Enforcement and Outreach
Citywide with emphasis on Historic West Tulare, Northwest, and Southwest Tulare.
 Assist at least 10 residents and landlords with fair housing services annually, throughout planning period.
 Distribute printed educational materials to at least 150 property owners, apartment managers, tenants, and realtors during the planning period, prioritizing outreach in Historic West Tulare, Northwest, and Southwest Tulare.

F7.3 AFFH Actions Summary
Government Code §8899.50 requires “meaningful actions” well beyond combating discrimination to overcome patterns of segregation and foster inclusive communities. Actions to affirmatively further fair housing include:
 Enhancing housing mobility strategies
 Encouraging development of new affordable housing in high resource areas  Increasing fair housing enforcement and fair housing outreach capacity  Improving place-based strategies to encourage community conservation and revitalization, including preservation of existing affordable housing
 Protecting existing residents from displacement
Actionsto affirmatively furthering fair housing are summarized below.

Item #: 9.4
General Business
Staff Report
City Council
Date: August 18, 2026
Department: City Clerk
Submitted by: Melissa Wilcox, City Clerk & Public Affairs Director Agenda Title: Designation of Voting Delegate and Alternate for Annual Cal Cities Conference

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Designate one voting delegate and up to two alternate voting delegates to represent the City of Tulare at the League of California Cities 2026 Annual Conference and Expo General Assembly, scheduled for September 25, 2026, in Anaheim, California.

ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Not Applicable

SUMMARY
The League of California Cities (Cal Cities) will hold its 2026 Annual Conference and Expo September 23 through September 25, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center.

As part of the Annual Conference, Cal Cities conducts its General Assembly, during which representatives from member cities consider and vote on resolutions that establish Cal Cities policy. Each Cal Cities member city is entitled to one vote on matters presented to the General Assembly.

To participate, each city must formally designate one voting delegate and may designate up to two alternates. The voting delegate and alternates may be elected or appointed City officials. Cal Cities requires the voting delegate and alternates to be designated through formal City Council action.

For 2026, Cal Cities received one resolution by the July 25 submission deadline. Information regarding the proposed resolution is provided below for Council's information.

The City's voting delegate designation must be submitted to Cal Cities by September 1, 2026.

Voting Delegate
Cal Cities received one resolution for consideration during its 2026 resolutions process.

The resolution, submitted by the City of Murrieta and supported by several other California cities and mayors, is titled:
"A Resolution of the General Assembly of the League of California Cities Calling for a Working Group to Consider a State Constitutional Amendment or Other Form of Initiative to Ensure Final Local Authority Over Housing and Land Use Decisions."
The resolution addresses the balance between statewide housing requirements and local authority over land use and housing decisions.

The resolution expresses concern regarding the increasing number of state housing laws that limit local discretion over matters such as zoning, density, development standards, project siting, and housing development approvals.

If adopted, the resolution would establish Cal Cities' support for further evaluation of strategies intended to restore or strengthen local authority over housing and land use decisions. Potential strategies could include a state constitutional amendment, legislation, policy changes, or a future ballot initiative.

The resolution does not itself amend the California Constitution, change existing state housing law, or place a measure on the ballot. Instead, it calls for Cal Cities to consider establishing a statewide working group or other appropriate committee to further evaluate potential approaches.

Under the resolution, the State would retain authority over broad statewide housing goals as well as constitutional and civil rights protections, fair housing requirements, building and life-safety standards, and generally applicable environmental protections.

The proposed effort would focus on protecting local discretion over matters such as general plans, housing elements, zoning, density, design and development standards, project siting, and housing development approvals, particularly when a city has planned in good faith to accommodate its Regional Housing Needs Allocation and maintains adequate housing capacity.

If a working group is established, its activities could include legal, fiscal, and policy analysis; engagement with cities and other stakeholders; development of a statewide coalition; and consideration of potential legislative or ballot-based strategies. The resolution references the November 2030 General Election, or another appropriate timeframe, as a possible target should a future ballot strategy ultimately be pursued.

Cal Cities Review Process
The resolution has been referred to Cal Cities' Housing, Community, and Economic Development Policy Committee, which is scheduled to consider the resolution on September 17, 2026.

The Cal Cities Resolutions Committee is then scheduled to consider the resolution and the Policy Committee's recommendation on September 24, 2026. The committees may approve, disapprove, amend, take no action, or refer the resolution for further study.

If advanced through the resolutions process, the resolution would be presented to the General Assembly for consideration on September 25, 2026.

Because resolutions may be amended during the Cal Cities review process, the version ultimately presented to the General Assembly may differ from the resolution included with this staff report.

The resolution is provided to the City Council for informational purposes so that Council is aware of the policy matter that may be considered during the General Assembly.

FISCAL IMPACT & FUNDING SOURCES
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with designating a voting delegate or alternates.

Cal Cities' analysis indicates that the proposed resolution itself would not have a significant direct fiscal impact. Any future actions resulting from the proposed effort, including development of a statewide ballot initiative, would be subject to further evaluation and could involve additional costs.

Any costs associated with City representatives attending the Annual Conference and Expo will be paid from the applicable adopted City budget in accordance with City policy.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This action does not constitute a “project” pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

POTENTIAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Staff is not aware of any conflicts of interest.

LEGAL REVIEW
This item does not require legal review.

PUBLIC NOTICE
This item does not require a public hearing and was noticed as a part of the agenda.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION

1. Approve with changes

2. Deny

3. Table

ATTACHMENTS

1. 2026 Cal Cities Voting Delegate Information Packet

2. 2026 Cal Cities Resolution Packet
Reviewed/Approved: MM
1400 K Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814 • 916.658.8200 • calcities.org DATE: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
TO: Mayors, Council Members, City Clerks, and City Managers RE: DESIGNATION OF VOTING DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES
League of California Cities Annual Conference and Expo, Sept. 23-25, 2026 Anaheim Convention Center
Every year, the League of California Cities convenes a member-driven General Assembly at the Cal Cities Annual Conference and Expo. The General Assembly is an important opportunity where city officials can directly participate in the development of Cal Cities policy.

Taking place on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 the General Assembly is comprised of voting delegates appointed by each member city; every city has one voting delegate. Your appointed voting delegate plays an important role during the General Assembly by representing your city and voting on resolutions.

To cast a vote during the General Assembly, your city must designate a voting delegate and up to two alternate voting delegates, one of whom may vote if the designated voting delegate is unable to serve in that capacity. Voting delegates may either be an elected or appointed official.

Action by Council Required. Consistent with Cal Cities bylaws, a city’s voting delegate and up to two alternates must be designated by the city council. Please note that designating the voting delegate and alternates must be done by city council action and cannot be accomplished by individual action of the mayor or city manager alone.

Following council action, please submit your city’s delegates through the online submission portal by Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026. When completing the Voting Delegate submission form, you will be asked to attest that council action was taken. You will need to be signed in to your My Cal Cities account when submitting the form.

Submitting your voting delegate form by the deadline will allow us time to establish voting delegate/alternate records prior to the conference and provide pre-conference communications with voting delegates.

Conference Registration Required. The voting delegate and alternates must be registered to attend the conference. They need not register for the entire conference; they may register for Friday only. Conference registration opens June 2.

For a city to cast a vote, one voter must be present at the General Assembly and in possession of the voting delegate card and voting tool. Voting delegates and Council Action Advised by September 1, 2026
alternates need to pick up their conference badges before signing in and picking up the voting delegate card at the voting delegate desk. This will enable them to receive the special sticker on their name badges that will admit the voting delegate into the voting area during the General Assembly.

Please view Cal Cities’ event and meeting policy in advance of the conference.

Transferring Voting Card to Non-Designated Individuals Not Allowed. The voting delegate card may be transferred freely between the voting delegate and alternates, but only between the voting delegate and alternates. If the voting delegate and alternates find themselves unable to attend the General Assembly, they may not transfer the voting card to another city official.

Seating Protocol during General Assembly. At the General Assembly, individuals with a voting card will sit in a designated area. Admission to the voting area will be limited to the individual in possession of the voting card and with a special sticker on their name badge identifying them as a voting delegate.

The voting delegate desk, located in the conference registration area of the Anaheim Convention Center, will be open at the following times: Wednesday, Sept. 23, 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and Thursday, Sept. 24, 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. On Friday, Sept. 25, the voting delegate desk will be open at the General Assembly, starting at 7:30 a.m., but will be closed during roll calls and voting.

The voting procedures that will be used at the conference are attached to this memo.

Please share these procedures and this memo with your council and especially with the individuals that your council designates as your city’s voting delegate and alternates.

Once again, thank you for submitting your voting delegate and alternates by Tuesday, Sept. 1. If you have questions, please contact Zach Seals at [email protected].

Attachments:
• General Assembly Voting Guidelines
• Information Sheet: Cal Cities Resolutions and the General Assembly 1400 K Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814 • 916.658.8200 • calcities.org General Assembly Voting Guidelines

1. One City One Vote. Each member city has a right to cast one vote on matters pertaining to Cal Cities policy.

2. Designating a City Voting Representative. Prior to the Cal Cities Annual Conference and Expo, each city council may designate a voting delegate and up to two alternates; these individuals are identified on the voting delegate form provided to the Cal Cities Credentials Committee.

3. Registering with the Credentials Committee. The voting delegate, or alternates, may pick up the city's voting card at the voting delegate desk in the conference registration area. Voting delegates and alternates must sign in at the voting delegate desk. Here they will receive a special sticker on their name badge and thus be admitted to the voting area at the General Assembly.

4. Signing Initiated Resolution Petitions. Only those individuals who are voting delegates (or alternates), and who have picked up their city’s voting card by providing a signature to the credentials committee at the voting delegate desk, may sign petitions to initiate a resolution.

5. Voting. To cast the city's vote, a city official must have in their possession the city's voting card and voting tool; and be registered with the credentials committee. The voting card may be transferred freely between the voting delegate and alternates but may not be transferred to another city official who is neither a voting delegate nor alternate.

6. Voting Area at General Assembly. At the General Assembly, individuals with a voting card will sit in a designated area. Admission to the voting area will be limited to the individual in possession of the voting card and with a special sticker on their name badge identifying them as a voting delegate.

7. Resolving Disputes. In case of dispute, the credentials committee will determine the validity of signatures on petitioned resolutions and the right of a city official to vote at the General Assembly.

Sixty days before the
Annual Conference
and Expo, Cal Cities
members may submit
policy proposals on
issues of importance
to cities. The resolution must
have the concurrence of at least
five additional member cities or
individual members.

How it works: Cal Cities
Resolutions and the General Assembly
General Assembly
General Resolutions Policy Committees
Developing League of California Cities policy is a dynamic process that engages a wide range of members to ensure Cal Cities represents cities with one voice. These policies directly guide Cal Cities’ advocacy to promote local decision-making, and lobby against statewide policies that erode local control.

The resolutions process and General Assembly is one way that city officials can directly participate in the development of Cal Cities policy. If a resolution is approved at the General Assembly, it becomes official Cal Cities policy. Here’s how resolutions and the General Assembly work.

The petitioned
resolution is an
alternate method
to introduce policy
proposals during
the annual conference. The
petition must be signed by
voting delegates from 10% of
member cities, and submitted to
the Cal Cities President at least
24 hours before the beginning
of the General Assembly.

Petitioned Resolutions
The Cal Cities
President assigns
general resolutions
to policy committees
where members
review, debate, and recommend
positions for each policy proposal.

Recommendations are forwarded
to the Resolutions Committee.

Who’s who
The Resolutions Committee
includes representatives
from each Cal Cities
diversity caucus, regional
division, municipal
department, and policy
committee, as well as
individuals appointed by
the Cal Cities president.

Voting delegates
are appointed by each
member city; every city
has one voting delegate.

The General Assembly is a
meeting of the collective
body of all voting
delegates —one from
every member city.

Seven policy committees
meet throughout the year
to review and recommend
positions to take on bills
and regulatory proposals.

Policy committees include
members from each Cal
Cities diversity caucus,
regional division, and
municipal department,
as well as individuals
appointed by the Cal
Cities president.

During the General Assembly, voting delegates
debate and consider general and petitioned
resolutions forwarded by the Resolutions
Committee. Potential Cal Cities bylaws
amendments are also considered at this meeting.

Cal Cities policy
development is a memberinformed process,
grounded in the voices and
experiences of city officials
throughout the state.

For more information visit www.calcities.org/general-assembly Prior to the Annual Conference and Expo
Resolutions Committee
The Resolutions
Committee considers
all resolutions. General
Resolutions approved1 by
either a policy committee
or the Resolutions Committee are next
considered by the General Assembly.

General resolutions not approved, or
referred for further study by both a
policy committee and the Resolutions
Committee do not go to the General
Assembly. All Petitioned Resolutions
are considered by the General
Assembly, unless disqualified.2
During the Annual Conference and Expo
1 The Resolution Committee can amend a general resolution prior to sending it to the General Assembly. 2 Petitioned Resolutions may be disqualified by the Resolutions Committee according to Cal Cities Bylaws Article VI. Sec. 5(f). 2025-2026

CAL CITIES OFFICERS
President
Gabe Quinto
Mayor
El Cerrito
First Vice President
Teresa Acosta
Council Member
Carlsbad
Second Vice President
David Cohen
Council Member
San Jose
Immediate Past President
Lynne B. Kennedy
Mayor Pro Tem,
Rancho Cucamonga
Executive Director
and CEO
Carolyn M. Coleman
1400 K Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814 • 916.658.8200 • calcities.org August 10, 2026
TO: Cal Cities Members

RE: Cal Cities 2026 Resolution Packet
Sixty days before the Cal Cities Annual Conference and Expo, Cal Cities members may submit resolutions on issues of importance to cities. This year, Cal Cities received one resolution by the July 25 deadline.

The attached packet contains the proposed resolution, background information, supporting letters from cities and city officials, and an analysis of the resolution by Cal Cities. The packet includes detailed information on the resolution process and the next steps for the resolution.

We encourage each city council to consider the resolution and determine a position so your voting delegate can represent your city’s position on the resolution.

Voting Delegates: City councils must appoint a voting delegate to vote during the General Assembly. Each city may also appoint up to two alternate delegates. If your city has not already done so, please appoint your voting delegate by Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026. The voting delegate packet contains more information.

The 2026 General Assembly will be held Friday, Sept. 25, at 8:30 a.m. in the Anaheim Convention Center during the Annual Conference and Expo.

For questions about resolutions, voting delegates, or the General Assembly, please contact Zach Seals.
2026
Resolution
Packet
2026 Resolution Packet
Information on 2026 Resolutions Process
Consideration by Policy Committee (pre-conference)
Per the Cal Cities bylaws, Cal Cities President Gabe Quinto has referred the submitted resolution to the Housing, Community, and Economic Development Committee. The committee will meet on Thursday, Sept. 17, at 10 a.m. via Zoom to review the resolution and make a recommendation that will be sent to the Resolutions Committee. A public comment period will be held during the meeting. Register for the meeting here.

A list of recommendations the policy committee may make during its meeting is on page two of this packet.

Consideration by Resolutions Committee (during conference) On Thursday, Sept. 24, at 1:00 p.m. the Resolutions Committee will meet to review the resolution and the recommendation of the policy committee.

The Resolutions Committee consist of one representative from each of Cal Cities caucuses, departments, divisions, and policy committees, as well as up to ten additional appointments made by the Cal Cities President. A public comment period will be held during the meeting. Refer to the onsite conference program for the location.

A list of recommendations the Resolutions Committee may make during its meeting is on page two of this packet.

Consideration by the General Assembly (during conference) The General Assembly will convene on Friday, Sept. 25, at 8:30 a.m. to consider any resolutions the Resolutions Committee has forwarded. To vote during the General Assembly, voting delegates must have checked in at the voting delegate booth.

Conference attendees will receive materials for the General Assembly on the evening of Thursday, Sept. 24. For more information on voting and discussion procedures during the General Assembly, see page three of this packet.

Petitioned Resolutions (during conference)
The petitioned resolution is an alternate method to introduce policy proposals during the annual conference. To initiate a petitioned resolution, voting delegates from 10% of member cities must sign the petition. The resolution and signatures are due at least 24 hours before the beginning of the General Assembly. Voting delegates who have checked in at the voting delegate booth can receive more information on petitioned resolutions at the booth onsite. 1 2026 Resolution Packet
Policy Committee and Resolutions Committee Actions
The submitted resolution will be heard by the policy committee to which it was assigned, and the Resolutions Committee. The table below shows what recommendations these bodies may make on the resolution.

Policy Committee Actions Resolutions Committee Actions
Approve Approve
Disapprove* Disapprove*
No Action No Action
Amend and approve Amend and approve
Refer to appropriate policy committee
for further study*
Approve as amended
Refer as amended to appropriate
policy committee for further study*
Refer to appropriate policy committee
for further study*
Refer as amended to appropriate
policy committee for further study*
Approve with additional
amendment(s)
Additional amendments and refer to
appropriate policy committee for
further study*
*If a resolution is disapproved or referred for further study by all policy committees to which it is assigned and the Resolutions Committee, it will not proceed to the General Assembly. 2 2026 Resolution Packet
General Assembly Voting and Discussion Procedures
Discussion Procedures:

Discussion procedures during the General Assembly are guided by two calendars:
the Consent Calendar and the Regular Calendar. As seen below, resolutions are calendared by the recommendations they receive from policy committees and the Resolutions Committee.

For General Resolutions:

Policy Committee
Recommendation
Resolutions Committee
Recommendation Calendar
Approve Approve Consent Calendar
Approve Disapprove or refer Regular Calendar
Disapprove or refer Approve Regular Calendar
Disapprove or refer Disapprove or refer Does not proceed to General Assembly
For Petitioned Resolutions:

Policy Committee
Recommendation Resolutions Committee Action Calendar
N/A
Approve Regular Calendar
Disapprove or Refer Regular Calendar
Disqualified Does not proceed to General
Assembly
Items on the Consent Calendar will be presented as one motion during the General Assembly from the Resolutions Committee chair. Unless an item on the Consent Calendar is set aside by the majority of the General Assembly, a vote will be taken on the whole calendar. If an item is set aside, it will be opened for discussion, followed by a vote.

Items on the Regular Calendar will be presented individually by the Resolutions Committee chair. After a recommendation is presented by the Resolutions Committee chair, the resolution will be opened for discussion by the General Assembly. A vote will take place following discussion.

Voting Procedures:

Per Cal Cities Bylaws Article XII, Sec. 2, all votes will be conducted by voice vote first. If the presiding official cannot determine the outcome, a vote will be taken by an alternative method, typically a raise of voting cards by voting delegates. A roll call vote may be called for by delegates of ten percent or more of the General Assembly.
3 2026 Resolution Packet
2026 Resolution

1. Resolution No. 1 submitted by City of Murrieta
• Letters of concurrence submitted by:
i. City of Banning;
ii. City of Calimesa;
iii. City of Canyon Lake;
iv. City of Moreno Valley;
v. City of Norco;
vi. City of Torrance;
vii. Crystal Ruiz, Mayor, City of San Jacinto;
viii. Jessica Alexander, Mayor, City of Temecula
• Referred to Housing, Community, and Economic Development Committee
• Policy Committee Recommendation:
• Resolutions Committee Recommendation:
4 2026 Resolution Packet
Resolution No. 1
Submitted by City of Murietta
5 2026 Resolution Packet

1. A RESOLUTION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES

CALLING FOR A WORKING GROUP TO CONSIDER A STATE CONSTITUTIONAL

AMENDMENT OR OTHER FORM OF INITIATIVE TO ENSURE FINAL LOCAL AUTHORITY OVER

HOUSING AND LAND USE DECISIONS
Source: City of Murrieta
Concurrence of five or more cities/city officials
Cities/city officials: City of Banning; City of Calimesa; City of Canyon Lake; City of Moreno Valley; City of Norco; City of Torrance; Crystal Ruiz, Mayor, City of San Jacinto; Jessica Alexander, Mayor, City of Temecula
Referred to: Housing, Community, and Economic Development Policy Committee WHEREAS, California cities have historically been responsible for adopting general plans and zoning regulations, reviewing housing development proposals, and providing or coordinating the streets, water, wastewater, public safety, parks, transportation, and other infrastructure and services necessary to support responsible, environmentally sound, and well-planned residential growth; and
WHEREAS, the League of California Cities is dedicated to protecting and expanding local control for municipalities across the state to ensure their orderly growth and development; and
WHEREAS, the League of California Cities recognizes that local zoning is a primary function of cities and an essential component of home rule, and that a city’s general plan should guide its land use planning and strategic decision-making free from pre-emption by the state; and
WHEREAS, increasingly prescriptive statewide housing mandates and development approval requirements can override locally adopted plans, zoning standards, and public review procedures without adequately accounting for differences that exist in each unique jurisdiction in infrastructure capacity, water availability, wildfire and evacuation risks, environmental constraints, fiscal impacts, public service needs, and community priorities; and
WHEREAS, California’s housing goals can be more effectively advanced through state funding, streamlined environmental requirements, and voluntary partnerships that support housing production while preserving the authority of locally elected officials to determine how and where housing is best planned and approved; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities, assembled during the Annual Conference in Anaheim, California, on September 25, 2026, that the League of California Cities support the development and advancement of a state constitutional amendment or other legislative, policy, or ballotbased strategies that restore and strengthen local authority over housing and land use matters within municipal boundaries, including general plans, housing elements, zoning, density, design and development standards, project siting, and the approval or denial of housing development applications; and
6 2026 Resolution Packet
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any constitutional amendment or alternative strategy should preserve the State’s authority to establish broad statewide housing goals and enforce constitutional and civil rights, fair housing requirements, building and life-safety standards, and generally applicable environmental protections, while protecting cities from state actions that compel, through funding conditions or state law, the approval of housing developments that are inconsistent with locally adopted requirements; override local zoning or density standards; or invalidate locally adopted housing or land use decisions when a city has planned in good faith to accommodate its regional housing needs allocation and maintains adequate capacity for housing at all income levels; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the League of California Cities consider establishing a statewide working group or other appropriate committee(s) to evaluate and develop a proposed constitutional amendment or other legislative, policy, or ballot-based strategies to restore and strengthen local authority over housing and land use matters including but limited to: conducting appropriate legal, fiscal, and policy analyses; engaging cities and other stakeholders; and building a statewide coalition of proponent supporters in preparation for; the November 2030 General Election, or within another reasonable time frame as determined by the working group.
7 2026 Resolution Packet
Resolution No. 1: Background
Information
8 2026 Resolution Packet
Background Information for Resolution
Source: City of Murrieta
Background:

California cities are responsible for planning residential growth, adopting general plans and zoning regulations, reviewing development proposals, and providing or coordinating the infrastructure and public services necessary to support new housing. Since 2010, the State has enacted more than 500 housing-related laws that have increasingly shifted housing and land use authority away from local governments. These laws have expanded by-right development, limited locally adopted standards and review processes, and established enforcement mechanisms, including the builder’s remedy, that may override local plans and zoning. Although these measures are frequently presented as solutions to housing affordability, many increase development capacity or restrict local review without delivering the meaningful production of housing needed to address the housing crisis.

At the same time, the State has continued to prioritize increased development capacity without adequately accounting for the infrastructure, public services, economic realities, and safety measures necessary to support housing growth.

State mandates often fail to reflect local conditions, including roadway and utility capacity, water availability, wildfire exposure, environmental limitations, fiscal impacts, and the availability of essential services. Cities are consequently required to accommodate additional housing while receiving no funding or assistance to address the resulting infrastructure and service demands.

Local elected officials are directly accountable to the residents who experience the effects of development decisions and are responsible for balancing housing production with infrastructure capacity, public safety, environmental protection, fiscal sustainability, and community needs. Cities of all types in California have been grappling with this dynamic, ranging from urban to rural, coastal to inland, small to large, northern to southern, voicing concerns to legislative representatives with minimal responsiveness. This is an issue of statewide concern that needs the strength and diversity of the League of California Cities to pursue a long-term solution.

The proposed resolution directs the League of California Cities to establish a statewide working group to evaluate a constitutional amendment or other legislative, policy, or ballot-based strategies to restore and strengthen local authority over housing and land use decisions. The working group would be tasked with developing a more balanced framework that preserves the State’s role in establishing broad housing goals and enforcing constitutional, civil rights, fair housing, building, life-safety, and environmental requirements, while restoring meaningful local authority to allow cities to determine how statewide housing 9 2026 Resolution Packet
objectives should be implemented in a manner that reflects local conditions and community priorities while continuing to support responsible housing production.

As the primary statewide organization representing California cities, the League is uniquely positioned to lead this effort. Its established policy, legal, legislative, communications, and advocacy networks enable it to convene municipalities, evaluate potential strategies, conduct legal and fiscal analyses, build consensus, engage stakeholders, and coordinate with statewide decision-makers. League leadership would help ensure that any recommendation reflects the collective interests of California municipalities and would provide the credibility, organizational capacity, and statewide reach necessary to advance a viable strategy.
10 2026 Resolution Packet
Resolution No. 1: Letters of
Concurrence
11 12
13 July 23, 2026
President Gabe Quinto
League of California Cities
1400 K Street, Suite 400
Sacramento, CA 95814
Subject: Support for a Resolution Establishing a Working Group to Evaluate a State Constitutional Amendment or Other Initiative to Restore Local Housing and Land Use Authority Dear President Quinto,
The City of Murrieta is sponsoring a resolution for consideration by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities to establish a statewide working group to evaluate a constitutional amendment or other legislative, policy, or ballot-based strategies to restore and strengthen local authority over housing and land use decisions.

The proposed resolution, together with the required background materials, will be submitted to Cal Cities for consideration at the 2026 Annual Conference in Orange County on September 24 and

25. The resolution would direct the League to convene a working group to evaluate potential approaches for addressing the increasingly broad and prescriptive state mandates affecting local housing, zoning, development standards, and project approval authority.

On behalf of the City of Canyon Lake, this letter confirms our support for the City of Murrieta’s submission of the proposed resolution and its consideration by the League of California Cities General Assembly at the 2026 Annual Conference.

Sincerely,
Arron Brown
City Manager
City of Canyon Lake
14 July 23, 2026
President Gabe Quinto
League of California Cities
1400 K Street, Suite 400
Sacramento, CA 95814
Subject: Support for a Resolution Establishing a Working Group to Evaluate a State Constitutional Amendment or Other Initiative to Restore Local Housing and Land Use Authority Dear President Quinto,
The City of Murrieta is sponsoring a resolution for consideration by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities to establish a statewide working group to evaluate a constitutional amendment or other legislative, policy, or ballot-based strategies to restore and strengthen local authority over housing and land use decisions.

The proposed resolution, together with the required background materials, will be submitted to Cal Cities for consideration at the 2026 Annual Conference in Orange County on September 24 and 25. The resolution would direct the League to convene a working group to evaluate potential approaches to address increasingly broad and prescriptive state mandates affecting local housing, zoning, development standards, and project approval authority.

On behalf of the City of Moreno Valley, this letter confirms our support for the City of Murrieta’s submission of the proposed resolution and its consideration by the League of California Cities General Assembly at the 2026 Annual Conference.

Sincerely,
Brian Mohan
City Manager
City of Moreno Valley

15 July 22, 2026
President Gabe Quinto
League of California Cities
1400 K Street, Suite 400
Sacramento, CA 95814
Subject: Support for a Resolution Establishing a Working Group to Evaluate a State Constitutional Amendment or Other Initiative to Restore Local Housing and Land Use Authority
Dear President Quinto,
The City of Murrieta is sponsoring a resolution for consideration by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities to establish a statewide working group to evaluate a constitutional amendment or other legislative, policy, or ballot-based strategies to restore and strengthen local authority over housing and land use decisions.

The proposed resolution, together with the required background materials, will be submitted to Cal Cities for consideration at the 2026 Annual Conference in Orange County on September 24 and 25. The resolution would direct the League to convene a working group to evaluate potential approaches for addressing the increasingly broad and prescriptive state mandates affecting local housing, zoning, development standards, and project approval authority.

On behalf of the City of the Norco, this letter confirms our support for the City of Murrieta’s submission of the proposed resolution and its consideration by the League of California Cities General Assembly at the 2026 Annual Conference.

Sincerely,
Kevin Bash
City Council Member
(951) 768-8981
16 17
18 19
20 July 23, 2026
Mr. Gabe Quinto, President
League of California Cities
1400 K Street, Suite 400
Sacramento, CA 95814
Subject: Support for the City of Murrieta's Resolution Establishing a Working Group to Evaluate a State Constitutional Amendment or Other Initiative to Restore Local Housing and Land Use Authority Dear President Quinto:

I am writing in my individual capacity as Mayor of the City of Temecula to express my strong support for the City of Murrieta's proposed resolution for consideration by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities at the 2026 Annual Conference.

The proposed resolution presents an important opportunity to thoughtfully evaluate the appropriate balance between California's statewide housing objectives and the constitutional principle of local governance. Establishing a statewide working group to examine a potential constitutional amendment, legislative reforms, or other policy initiatives will provide a meaningful forum to assess how local authority over housing and land use decisions can be strengthened while continuing to address the State's housing challenges.

Cities are uniquely positioned to understand the needs, opportunities, and constraints of their communities. Local elected officials are accountable to the residents they serve and are best equipped to make land use decisions that reflect a community's character, infrastructure capacity, economic development goals, environmental stewardship, and long-term vision. Equally important, local governments bear the primary responsibility for protecting public safety. Decisions regarding housing density, transportation, emergency access, wildfire preparedness, evacuation routes, police and fire service capacity, water availability, and critical infrastructure are inherently local matters that require the knowledge and judgment of those who serve their communities every day.

While the State has an important role in addressing California's housing needs, a collaborative approach that respects local expertise and preserves meaningful local discretion will produce stronger, safer, and more sustainable communities. The proposed working group offers an opportunity to evaluate policies that achieve these shared objectives while restoring an appropriate balance between state direction and local authority.
21 Mr. Gabe Quinto, President
League of California Cities
July 23, 2026

Although this letter reflects my personal position and is not an official action or policy of the City of Temecula or the Temecula City Council, I respectfully endorse the City of Murrieta's submission of this resolution and encourage its favorable consideration by the League of California Cities General Assembly.

Thank you for your leadership and your thoughtful consideration of this important issue.

Respectfully,
Jessica Alexander
Mayor, City of Temecula
Signing in her individual capacity
and not on behalf of the City of Temecula
or the Temecula City Council.
22 2026 Resolution Packet
Resolution No. 1: Staff Analysis
23 League of California Cities Staff Analysis on Resolution No. 1 Staff: Brady Guertin, Legislative Advocate
Committee: Housing, Community, and Economic Development Summary:

Resolution No.1 states that the League of California Cities (Cal Cities) will:

1. Support the development and advancement of a state constitutional amendment or legislative, policy, or ballot-based strategy that restores and strengthens local authority over housing and land use matters, including general plans, housing elements, zoning, density, design and development standards, project siting, and the approval or denial of housing development applications.

Pursuant to the resolution, the strategy should preserve the state’s authority to set broad, statewide housing goals and enforce civil rights, fair housing, building safety, and environmental standards while protecting local control by preventing the state from compelling the approval of developments that conflict with local requirements, override local zoning or density standards, or overturn local land use decisions where a city has planned for and maintained sufficient capacity to meet its housing obligations.

2. Consider establishing a statewide working group or other appropriate committee(s) to evaluate and develop a proposed constitutional amendment or other legislative, policy, or ballot-based strategies to restore and strengthen local authority over housing and land use matters.

The resolution states: “conducting legal, fiscal, and policy analyses; engaging cities and other stakeholders; and building a statewide coalition of proponent supporters in preparation for the November 2030 General Election, or within another reasonable time period.” Background:

As provided in the background information, the city of Murrieta is sponsoring this resolution in response to concerns over state laws that have increasingly reduced city discretion over housing and land use decisions, including legislation that requires ministerial or by-right approvals for housing projects, limits the application of local development standards, and strengthens state enforcement mechanisms against local governments.

Additionally, the city of Murrieta, in its background information, maintains that these legislative efforts have not resulted in sufficient housing production to address California's housing shortage and have not adequately accounted for 24 local infrastructure, public service needs, public safety, market, and fiscal considerations.

The resolution states that California’s housing goals are better advanced through state funding, streamlined environmental requirements, and voluntary partnerships, while preserving local authority over how and where housing is best planned and approved.

Consideration of the resolution may be informed by a brief examination of how the California Constitution allocates authority between the state and cities with respect to land use decisions.

The constitution grants cities the power to adopt local laws to protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare. This grant is called the “police power,” which is the basis for local land use regulation. The constitution grants charter cities the additional power to adopt local laws affecting “municipal affairs.” This power, commonly referred to as “home rule,” is based on the principle that a city, rather than the state, is in the best position to identify and satisfy the needs of the local community.

The constitution’s broad grant of police power contains a significant limitation.

Local law adopted under the police power is not valid if it “conflicts” with state law. A local law “conflicts” with state law when it regulates the same “field” in which the Legislature has stated its intent to occupy. In that case, state law is said to “preempt” the local law and it cannot be enforced.

An ordinance adopted by a charter city under the municipal affairs power cannot be enforced if it affects a “matter of statewide concern.” The subjects that have been identified as “matters of statewide concern” have changed over the years due to economic, social, and political circumstances.

Since the 1960s, the state has enacted numerous laws that limit or preempt aspects of local land use and zoning authority. These laws include the Fair Employment and Housing Act, Housing Element Law, Housing Accountability Act, Density Bonus Law, Permit Streamlining Act, accessory dwelling unit laws, California Environmental Quality Act, and others. In recent years, the state has enacted several laws that Cal Cities was the leading opposition force against, as many of the proposals pre-empted local land use authority, limited public review, and constrained local flexibility. In support of its housing and land use legislation, the Legislature has cited a statewide housing crisis and the need for increased housing production at all income levels while asserting that a uniform approach to local land use decision-making is required. 25 Discussion:

The resolution does not prescribe a specific policy mechanism. The eight letters in support recommend creating a working group or committee to evaluate potential approaches, including legislative proposals, constitutional amendments, or ballot initiatives to strengthen local authority over housing and land use matters.

A discussion of a strategy to restore and strengthen local authority over housing and land use matters will need to consider the California Constitution’s framework for both preemption of police power enactments and municipal affairs, discussed above. It will also need to determine whether changes to the California Constitution will be proposed, and whether they constitute an amendment or a revision, which require different processes.

A constitutional revision is a multistep process blending legislative consensus, voter support, and on occasion, a constitutional convention. It requires significant public engagement.

A constitutional amendment would require a ballot initiative, which includes gathering enough valid signatures to qualify for the ballot, building large coalitions to support election efforts, and campaigning to voters to support the initiative. This process can involve significant costs. In the last major election for ballot initiatives in 2024, proponents spent $8-$18 million to qualify for the ballot and spent nearly $700 million for the full election cycle, averaging out to about $100 million per ballot initiative.

Cal Cities has been engaged in ballot advocacy for over 20 years. In the early 2000s, Cal Cities developed a ballot advocacy infrastructure that included forming an issue political action committee, fundraising, establishing a network of regional managers, and building a coalition with other organizations to ultimately advocate on a ballot measure. Ballot advocacy requires the approval of the Board of Directors with a supermajority vote.

In the Legislature, Cal Cities plays an active and influential role to ensure that local flexibility and autonomy in the land use and housing space is maintained by engaging on dozens of bills every legislative session to ensure that cities' voices are heard at the state Capitol. Below, you will find Cal Cities “Existing Policy” on local control, housing, and land use policies.

Fiscal Impact
The resolution itself would not have a significant direct fiscal impact. However, depending on what actions follow, the fiscal costs could be significant. 26 Existing Cal Cities Policy
Vision
To be recognized and respected as the leading advocate for the common interests of California's cities.

Mission Statement
To expand and protect local control for cities through education and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for all Californians.

We Believe
• Local self-governance is the cornerstone of democracy. • Our strength lies in the unity of our diverse communities of interest. • In the involvement of all stakeholders in establishing goals and in solving problems.
• In conducting the business of government with transparency, openness, respect, and civility.
• The spirit of honest public service is what builds communities. • Open decision-making that is of the highest ethical standards honors the public trust.
• Cities are vital to the strength of the California economy. • The vitality of cities is dependent upon their fiscal stability and local autonomy.
• The active participation of all city officials increases the League's effectiveness.
• Partnerships and collaborations are essential elements of focused advocacy and lobbying.
• Ethical and well-informed city officials are essential for responsive, visionary leadership and effective and efficient city operations.

Zoning
Cal Cities believes local zoning is a primary function of cities and is an essential component of home rule. The process of adoption, implementation and enforcement of zoning ordinances should be open and fair to the public and enhance the responsiveness of local decision-makers. State policy should leave local siting and use decisions to the city and not interfere with local prerogative beyond providing a constitutionally valid procedure for adopting local regulations. State agency siting of facilities, including campuses and office buildings, should be subject to local notice and hearing requirements in order to meet concerns of the local community. Cal Cities opposes legislation that seeks to limit local authority over parking requirements.

Housing Element
Housing issues should be addressed in the general plan as other planning issues are. The housing element should be prepared for the benefit of local 27 governments and should have equal status with the other elements of the general plan.

Encourage Full Community Participation
Foster an open and inclusive community dialogue and promote alliances and partnerships to meet community needs.

Well-Planned New Growth
Recognize and preserve open space, watersheds, environmental habitats, and agricultural lands, while accommodating new growth in compact forms, in a manner that:
• De-emphasizes automobile dependency;
• Integrates the new growth into existing communities;
• Creates a diversity of affordable housing near employment centers; • Provides job opportunities for people of all ages and income levels.

Support:

The following letters of concurrence were received:

City of Banning
City of Calimesa
City of Canyon Lake
City of Moreno Valley
City of Norco
City of Torrance
Crystal Ruiz, Mayor, City of San Jacinto
Jessica Alexander, Mayor, City of Temecula
28