Minutes 2003 0121 - Laserfiche WebLink

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M I NIJTES Pagc ] City ~~r San Leandro City Council m~d San Lca.ndro Rcdcvelopnlcnt Agency Join!Meeting- Jallu~ry 21, 2003 The Hearing was then opened to the public, Elaine deColi~ny, Executive Director of Building Futures with Women and Children, addressed the City Council, commending Community Development Director Hanson I lorn, Planner Matt Tomas, consultant Barry Miller and the advisory committee for their work on the Housing Element. Ms. DeColigmy noted the economic diversity of the community and urged the City Council to make its own commitment to making affordable housing a reality. Lou Filipovich, 15376 LaVerne Drive, addressed the City Council in support of the previous speaker's comments. Me rilipovich stated the Housing Element docs not address the problem of senior citizens on fixed incomes who need assistance with the increasing cost orhome repairs. Mr. rilipovich commented that some BZA and Planning Commissioners have potential conJlicts of interest on some of their decisions and objected to officials running from "safe scats". There being no further comments rrom the public, and without opposition, the Public Hearing was closed. The City Attorney gave a brief presentation on group homes located in residential areas, noting the City's role is lirnited by federal and state [air housing laws. Councilmembers asked several clmi(ying questions and made comments regarding the l-Iousing Element. Counci Imember Grant pointed out the need lor Council and stafr to work proactively on the aClordable housing issue, noting there are many residents rotating out or the County's Welfare-to-Work program. Councilmernber Nardine expressed concem regarding the recently-completed assisted living complex on Davis Street which currently only has five occupants due to lack of a[[ordability. Community Development Director Hanson Hom described the City's ctforts to increase the availability or affordable housing units for seniors. Councilmember Santos made several comments and suggestions regarding the Housing Element. He also asked if San Leandro could help satisfy another city's housing requirement. Mr. Miller responded that the Association of Bay Area Governments encouraged cities to "trade" units, but no city has yet offered to assume another city's aCllxdablc unit requirement. Councilmember Stephens expressed pride in his assoclatlOn on the Housing Element committee and complimented staff and the consultant on the fine job. Councilmember Stephens noted 35-4m-;) of residents are considered low-income and 60(10 own their own homes. He suggested the Council set a goal of 75% home ownership and improve the quality of shelter for all residents.