In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the current status of Salinas' inclusionary housing ordinance and its implications for affordable housing development. Luis Ochoa, senior community development analyst, highlighted the city's commitment to producing both rental and ownership housing under the affordable housing plan, which aligns with the inclusionary ordinance approved by the city council in 2017.

The ordinance stipulates that the city may issue building permits for up to 70% of market-rate units before allowing permits for affordable units. However, this percentage can increase if developers collaborate with affordable housing partners. Ochoa emphasized that a recent site agreement with Stonebridge Homes and the Sina's Housing Justice Coalition goes beyond the minimum requirements, mandating that Stonebridge will not utilize the in-lieu fee option for ownership projects in the central area. Instead, they will construct affordable units directly within their development.

The agreement specifies that for every six market-rate building permits issued, one permit for an inclusionary ownership unit must be obtained. This arrangement is expected to yield 355 designated affordable units, including 67 very low-income units, 134 low-income units, and 67 moderate-income units. Ochoa noted that historically, the city has struggled to meet its Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) goals, particularly for moderate and workforce housing. However, the current plan is anticipated to make significant progress in addressing these needs.

The development will consist of 1,674 total units, with 487 designated for single-family homes and the remainder for condominiums and rental apartments. This shift towards a more diverse housing stock is seen as a crucial step in meeting community demands for varied housing options.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the inclusion of open space amenities in the development, with plans for six parks across ten lots, further enhancing the livability of the new housing project. The discussions reflect a proactive approach by Salinas officials to tackle housing affordability and diversity in the community.