Public Land Policy

What is Happening?

The City of Richmond wants your input as it develops a Public Land Disposition Policy. This policy aligns with regional goals for the re-use of public land and complies with updated State law, under AB 1468, Surplus Land Act (Government Code sections 54220 –54234).

Staff plans to bring forth policy options to inform both process and priorities for the use of its City-owned property. These priorities may include:

1. Developing affordable housing (as required by state law) and maximizing public benefit.

2. Ensuring community engagement through a transparent and accountable process.

3. Selling or leasing land below fair market value for projects that maximize affordability in order to support project feasibility.

Background

Currently, the City does not have a comprehensive policy to inform both process and priorities for the use of its property. The status quo public land disposition process is not sufficiently accountable nor inclusive of the many diverse communities and entities that may be impacted by the sale or lease of parcels.

The City would benefit from an established policy whereby the public and City staff have a common framework, considering Richmond resident housing needs, for how City-owned property will be utilized to achieve the public benefit.

This effort is required to comply with California State Law called the Surplus Land Act.

The Surplus Land Act – updated by AB1486 in 2020 – requires that unused public land be prioritized for affordable housing while reducing cost barriers to housing development. The bill defines “surplus” as land owned by any local government agency that is not necessary for the agency’s use. The government agency must then make land available for affordable housing before selling or leasing the land for another purpose.

We want to hear from you.

● What is your ideal outcome for the development of affordable housing on public land?

● How do you want to be engaged in the noticing, disposition, and development process?

● What types of committee oversight should be happening on development proposals?

● Would you participate on a committee to evaluate development proposals?

Stay Informed

To sign up for an interest list about this topic and to learn about upcoming opportunities to provide input on policy development. Then confirm your email subscription.

Stay tuned for an upcoming Public Land Fair & Educational Event!