Policy
All posts explaining and simplifying policy that impacts local development.
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Hollister Faces State Enforcement Over Housing Element. Here’s What It Means
California has intervened in Hollister’s housing non-compliance, resulting in a legally binding agreement that mandates the city to adopt a compliant Housing Element by April 2026. The settlement restricts the city’s ability to deny housing projects, establishes a $300,000 housing trust fund, and imposes potential monthly fines starting in 2025 if terms are not met. Continue reading
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Builder’s Remedy: SBHSD Proposes 1,000-Unit Mixed Development at Best Road
The San Benito County High School District is proposing a 1,000-unit multifamily workforce housing development, predominantly affordable, alongside retail and community facilities. A preliminary SB 330 application has been filed to preserve existing development standards. The project prioritizes housing for district employees and remains eligible for the Builder’s Remedy amid ongoing compliance efforts. Continue reading
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Unincorporated County’s Housing Element Unlocks Potential 4,400 Homes In and Around Hollister
The San Benito County Board of Supervisors adopted its 6th Cycle Housing Element on May 20, 2025, addressing a need for 168 lower-income units. A rezone strategy will create a new “Residential High” designation across 12 sites, allowing 25-40 units per acre. The county must complete rezoning by December 2025 to maintain compliance. Continue reading
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County Proposes Urban Zoning Reform & Revisions of Rural Livestock Rules
The San Benito County Planning Commission will discuss zoning reform and rural livestock rules on June 4th. Proposed changes include eliminating single-family zoning, setting density limits for new developments, and mandating commercial components near major roads. Additionally, new restrictions on livestock types and density limits will be reviewed during the meeting. Continue reading
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LAFCO, What It Is and Why You Should Be Paying Attention.
LAFCO, or Local Agency Formation Commissions, regulates local government agencies, aiming for orderly development and adequate public services. Recent updates in San Benito County include commissioner changes and a focus on a wastewater MSR. Attention to LAFCO is vital, as its decisions affect local governance and service provisions. Continue reading
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The Housing Element Part 2: Builder’s Remedy and The Cost of Non-Compliance
This is part 2 of a multi-part series that dives into state housing policy and its local impact on San Benito County. Part 1 can be located here. Once again we invite you to get comfortable with your beverage of choice and learn along with us! Builder’s Remedy Overview A quick refresh on Builder’s Remedy.… Continue reading
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The Housing Element Part 1: What is It?
The post discusses San Benito County’s housing policy and its impact, highlighting the Housing Element’s role as a state-mandated blueprint for local housing needs. Currently, all local jurisdictions are non-compliant, risking funding losses and potential legal actions, while introducing the Builders Remedy for eligible housing development projects. Continue reading
The San Benito Blueprint 