Report Prepared by: Leah Brown, Management Analyst, Development Services
Title
SUBJECT: Approval of a Services Agreement with Rincon Consultants, Inc., for Planning and Environmental Review Services Related to the Multi-Jurisdictional Housing Element not to Exceed $109,909
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving a Services Agreement with Rincon Consultants, Inc. for planning and environmental review services related to the Multijurisdictional Housing Element that is not to exceed $109,909.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving the Services Agreement with Rincon Consultants, Inc. not to exceed the cost of $109,909; and,
B. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents; and,
C. Authorizing the Finance Officer to make necessary budget adjustments.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve the Services Agreement with Rincon Consultants, Inc.; or,
2. Deny the Services Agreement; or,
3. Modify the agreement with specific modification; or,
4. Defer to a further meeting.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Sections 200, 405, and 1105.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2023-2024 Adopted Goals and Priorities, Housing & Homelessness.
DISCUSSION
California Housing Element law requires every jurisdiction to prepare and adopt a Housing Element as part of its General Plan. State Housing Element requirements are framed in Government Code, Sections 65580 through 65589, Chapter 1143, Article 10.6. The law requires the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to administer the law by reviewing housing elements for compliance with state law and by reporting its written findings to the local jurisdiction. State housing element law mandates that housing elements be updated every eight years. Additionally, a certified housing element is a key requirement to qualify for numerous state grants and funding.
The City of Merced last adopted and submitted a fifth cycle housing element in September 2016. Th...
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