The Board of Equalization (BOE) in California convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss pressing issues surrounding disaster recovery and affordable housing in the wake of recent wildfires. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for innovative housing solutions to assist communities affected by these disasters.

A significant focus of the discussion was the potential for modular homes as a viable option for rebuilding in fire-ravaged areas. Board members emphasized that the speed of reconstruction is crucial for helping neighborhoods recover. They noted that many residents may not have the financial means to rebuild their homes as they were, suggesting that modular housing could provide a more affordable alternative. These homes can be produced off-site and assembled quickly, potentially reducing costs by 20 to 30% compared to traditional construction methods.

Member Vasquez, who has been actively working on this issue, proposed an informational hearing to further explore modular housing options and other construction alternatives. He pointed out that the average cost of new housing units in California is unsustainable, often ranging from $700,000 to $800,000. This financial barrier has hindered developers from engaging in affordable housing projects.

The meeting also addressed the ongoing challenges faced by communities recovering from the Palisades fire, where over 12,000 parcels were destroyed. As of mid-May, only a limited number of rebuilding applications had been processed, highlighting the slow pace of recovery. Board members expressed the need for a collaborative approach to expedite the rebuilding process and ensure that affected residents have safe and stable housing.

In addition to modular homes, the discussion included the importance of involving the state building trades council to ensure that construction projects meet quality standards and provide fair wages for workers. The board aims to incorporate various perspectives in future hearings to develop comprehensive solutions for the housing crisis exacerbated by natural disasters.

The BOE plans to hold an informational hearing on July 29, 2025, to gather insights from experts in modular housing and discuss potential policy implications. This meeting is seen as a critical step in addressing the housing needs of Californians affected by wildfires and other disasters, as well as tackling the broader housing crisis in the state.