City of Saratoga launches ambitious housing development initiative

During a recent city council meeting in Saratoga, officials discussed the advancement of the city's housing element implementation, focusing on agreements with Urban Planning Partners (UPP) and Lisa Wise Consulting. These partnerships aim to facilitate the next phase of the housing element, which was adopted by the council on March 20, 2024, covering the reporting period from 2023 to 2031.

Community Director Brian Swanson outlined the role of these consultants in supporting the city’s efforts to address current and future housing needs. Lisa Wise Consulting will help codify guidelines in the single-family residential design review handbook and develop objective design standards for converting existing single-family homes into duplexes and triplexes in designated residential zones. This initiative specifically targets areas outside of the Wildland-Urban Interface and regions classified as having very high fire hazard severity.

Meanwhile, UPP will assist in creating new ordinances, policies, and programs, as well as enhancing community outreach and education. Key programs identified for development include lot consolidation, pre-approved plan sets for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and modifications to design review findings to ensure objectivity. Additionally, the city aims to improve housing options for individuals employed in Saratoga, promote shared housing, and develop housing for extremely low-income households. A new fair housing webpage is also in the works to support these initiatives.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing housing challenges and enhancing community engagement as part of its strategic planning efforts.