In a recent government meeting, officials provided an update on the city's affordable housing strategy, initially adopted by the city council in December 2022. The strategy outlines four major priorities, including the establishment of a \"live or work\" preference for affordable housing and targeted development in areas such as Smoky Hollow, the west side of Pacific Coast Highway, East Imperial, and downtown.

City staff reported that they have engaged a consulting firm, RSG, to assist in implementing the strategy. This partnership follows the termination of a previous agreement with Many Mansions, an affordable housing provider, due to changes in state legislation that rendered the contract ineffective. RSG specializes in advising municipalities on affordable housing policies and compliance.

The city is focusing on effectively utilizing a $5.3 million local affordable housing trust fund, seeking to leverage these funds through matching grants from state and federal programs. Officials highlighted the importance of maximizing this funding to support various housing projects, noting that rising construction costs necessitate innovative financial strategies.

Additionally, the city is considering the establishment of its own local housing trust fund, as previous efforts to create a regional fund among South Bay cities have stalled. The meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing affordable housing challenges and the proactive steps being taken to enhance funding and development opportunities in the coming years.