Meeting Overview

The Berkeley City Council held a special meeting on September 30th to discuss the findings and recommendations of a social housing study. The meeting was led by Mayor Adena Ishii and attended by council members from Districts 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, and 8. District 3's Ben Bartlett and District 5's Shoshana O'Keefe were absent. The session focused on a work session regarding social housing, directed by Mike Uberte from the housing and community services division, with insights from consultants Janet Smithheimer and Jessica Hitchcock.

Main Agenda Items

The meeting centered on the social housing study initiated in 2023 to explore opportunities for social housing in Berkeley. The study involved a needs assessment and a review of social housing models from both national and international contexts, aiming to develop feasible strategies tailored to Berkeley. The core principles of social housing discussed included public or mission-driven ownership, permanent affordability, income diversity, and tenant rights protection.

Key topics included the challenges of the current housing delivery system, heavily reliant on the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which targets a narrow income band and involves complex implementation. The study presented case studies from Vienna, Denmark, and Montgomery County, Maryland, illustrating different approaches to social housing, including public and nonprofit ownership and tenant governance.

The consultants recommended a mix of acquisition-rehab and new construction projects, emphasizing acquisition-rehab as more cost-effective and quicker. Short-term recommendations included strengthening partnerships, promoting tenant governance, and launching a social housing pilot. Long-term suggestions involved developing a strategic affordable housing plan aligned with potential state funding.

The council also discussed the underproduction of moderate-income housing and the importance of mixed-income approaches. The potential for social housing to address housing needs was emphasized, alongside the need for long-term funding, cost containment, and resident governance.

Decisions Made

The meeting concluded with an emphasis on exploring social housing as a viable solution to Berkeley's housing challenges. While no immediate decisions were finalized, the council expressed interest in developing a new bond measure to replace Measure O for continued funding of affordable housing initiatives. The council also recognized the importance of aligning local efforts with state and federal resources to maximize public investment impacts.

Council members highlighted the need for a multifaceted approach, including both new construction and strategic acquisition of existing properties. The discussion acknowledged the complexity of Berkeley's housing challenges and the necessity for innovative solutions, such as community land trusts and tenant governance, to create sustainable and equitable housing.

The meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing the diverse housing needs of Berkeley residents through social housing initiatives, with a focus on long-term planning and immediate actions. The session concluded with a unanimous decision to adjourn, with council members expressing gratitude for the comprehensive study and the opportunity to explore innovative housing solutions.