August 15, 2017: The El Cerrito Affordable Housing Strategy (Strategy) was adopted by City Council (Resolution 2017-61). The Strategy was developed based upon an evaluation of the City’s existing affordable housing programs and resources and it aimed to proactively identify programs and policies that could be advanced in the near- and medium-term to meet the City’s housing goals, as articulated in the City’s 2015-2023 Housing Element and San Pablo Avenue Specific Plan. The goals of the Strategy set the framework over the next five years to ensure that the City advances policies and programs to produce, protect and preserve housing at all income levels.

The Strategy identified the following four policy pillars to guide the City’s affordable housing efforts:

August 21, 2018: City Council held a Study Session to discuss the Strategy, Pillar B: Reduce the Risk of Displacement and Help Stabilize At-Risk Populations. There were near-term tools identified (could be adopted 90-120 days) and medium-term programs (1-2 years) identified for City Council's consideration. Council directed staff to proceed with the near-term tools for implementation that include: 1) Rent Review Program; 2) Minimum Lease Term; 3) Termination of Tenancy; and 4) Tenant Relocation Assistance triggered by demolition, remodel, renovation or re purposing of a property.

November 8, 2018: Staff hosted a workshop for the public to provide feedback on the four draft ordinances for City Council consideration at the December 18, 2018. Click here to view the flyer.

December 18, 2018: The first reading of four ordinances was introduced to City Council.

January 15, 2019: The second reading of three ordinances returned to City Council. Given that the four ordinances introduced on December 18 were part of an integrated package and in consideration with Council’s direction to return with Just Case Eviction and Rent Registry, action was deferred. In the interest of maintaining an integrated package of Tenant Protection Ordinances and conservation of staff resources for implementation and administration, including providing consistent and clear support to tenants and landlords, staff believes that it would be appropriate for the City Council to defer action on the Tenant Relocation Assistance Ordinance until after the Council has had an opportunity to evaluate it along with a Just Cause Eviction ordinance and Rent registry ordinance. Click here to view the packet.

February 2019: Citywide postcard mailed to all the residents and business license holders announcing the February 19th study session. Click here to view the postcard.

To access the City Council Agenda and packet, click here.