03.10.26 Housing and Land Use Committee Meeting of March 10, 2026

The Housing and Land Use Committee of Salinas convened on March 10, 2026, to discuss several key housing and land use issues, including the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report and the city's application for the California Department of Housing and Community Development's Pro Housing Incentive Program (PIP) Round Four. The committee reviewed the city's progress toward regional housing needs allocation goals, noting ongoing development projects and challenges in affordable housing production. They discussed the potential rehabilitation of the El Rey Motel into transitional housing and the expansion of the mortgage down payment assistance program, with a proposed $1.25 million funding request under PIP Round Four. Concerns were raised about the city's role as a property owner and the feasibility of projects, leading to no immediate action on the funding application, pending further staff recommendations. Additionally, the committee received an update on the 2025 General Plan Annual Progress Report and the Vision 2040 General Plan update, highlighting ongoing community engagement efforts and upcoming zoning code amendments. Public comments emphasized frustrations with the pace of housing development and the need for improved community outreach and transparency. The committee approved the Housing Element Annual Progress Report for submission to state agencies and discussed strategies to enhance developer engagement and housing production moving forward.