Every eight years, each city and county in California is required to submit its “Housing Element” to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (“HCD”). The Housing Element is essentially a blueprint that sets forth how each city and county plans to meet the housing needs of current and projected future residents of all income levels. In February 2023, the City of Oakland received State approval for its Housing Element.

The Housing Element is a complex document, and many jurisdictions have had trouble securing approval of their plans if HCD determines that the plan will not create enough housing for a city’s residents. The legal advice and counsel provided by attorneys in the Land Use and Real Estate Units of our Office’s Advisory Division was instrumental in securing approval of Oakland’s Housing Element. The Housing Element is consistent with my firm belief that housing is a human right and that every Californian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home.