Commission forwards ordinance to permit low-barrier navigation centers as a by-right use

On May 19 the Placerville Planning Commission unanimously forwarded zoning ordinance amendment ZOA 26-04 to the City Council. The amendment would define low-barrier navigation centers (LBNCs) in the zoning code and list them as a use by right in several commercial and mixed-use zones that allow multi-family housing, consistent with AB 101 and Government Code sections 65660 and 65668.

Planning staff explained ZOA 26-04 implements housing element program B-4 by adding a definition and a new section with objective standards: participation in the county coordinated entry system, participation in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), a required service plan with case management, a 30-day completeness review, and a 60-day ministerial approval timeline. Staff also noted the ordinance is statutorily exempt from CEQA under government code section 65661(b) and ministerial exemptions for approvals under CEQA guidelines.

Commissioners asked operational questions—particularly who typically builds and operates LBNCs—and staff replied they are usually developed by nonprofits or private operators often using state or federal grants. No public comment was offered at the hearing. After discussion the commission voted 3–0 to forward the ordinance to the City Council.