Report Prepared by: Leah Brown, Senior Planner, Development Services
Title
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution for a Categorical Exemption and Adoption of the Senate Bill 244 Analysis
REPORT IN BRIEF
Consider adopting a resolution adopting Categorical Exemption 15306 and the Senate BIll 244 Analysis and Environmental Review #26-0077
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Adopting Resolution 2026-45, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, adopting the SB 244 Analysis and Environmental Review #26-0077 (Categorical Exemption); and,
B. Adopting Categorical Exemption 15306 Information Collection; and,
C. Adopting the SB 244 Analysis.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by Staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to conditions other than recommended by Staff (identify specific findings and/or conditions amended to be addressed in the motion); or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Continue to a future meeting (date and time to be specified in the motion).
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Sections 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2026-27 Adopted Goals and Priorities.
DISCUSSION
California Senate Bill 244 (SB 244) requires cities and counties to identify and evaluate disadvantaged unincorporated communities (DUCs) when updating their Housing Element or General Plan. The purpose of the legislation is to ensure that disadvantaged communities are considered during long-range planning efforts and that opportunities to improve infrastructure, municipal services, and future annexation are evaluated.
To efficiently address regional housing needs, coordinate planning efforts, and reduce costs, the City of Merced elected to participate in the Merced County Multi-Jurisdictional Housing Element (MJHE) effort in partnership with the County of Merced and the Cities of Atwater, Dos Palos, Gustine, Livingston, and Los Banos. The City Council first considered participation in the collaborative effort during meetings hel...
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