Chula Vista, California – The Chula Vista City Council is set to deliberate on the potential implementation of Senate Bill 10, a controversial state law that permits up to 10 housing units on a single property in transit-rich areas. This Tuesday, the council will weigh the pros and cons of adopting certain provisions of the legislation, ensuring careful consideration of the potential drawbacks.
Over the course of the past eight months, city officials have diligently reviewed whether the city could embrace aspects of the law without facing adverse consequences. While SB 10, which took effect in 2022, remains optional for local governments, interested parties have until January 2029 to either fully adopt the ordinance or selectively incorporate portions of the law.
San Diego, California – the first city to consider opting in to SB 10 – decided to abandon the legislation from its housing package following a recommendation from its Planning Commission. Concerns were raised as to the difficulty of retracting from SB 10 once implemented.
SB 10 essentially allows property owners to construct up to 10 housing units on specific parcels, regardless of existing zoning regulations. Advocates argue that this law is crucial to expanding the housing inventory and potentially lowering rental and home prices. However, critics express apprehension that the law may alter the character of their neighborhoods, increase traffic congestion, and impact property values.
In Chula Vista, approximately 69,000 parcels, constituting 97 percent of properties, could be eligible for densities of up to 10 units per parcel under the state law. However, the city has the authority to cap the number of allowed units at a lower amount and regulate the location and scale of multifamily developments.
Despite potential modifications, the Chula Vista Planning Commission remains opposed to adopting SB 10. In December, commissioners unanimously voted against implementation, expressing concerns over the impact on neighborhoods with accessory dwelling units. Furthermore, they feared that the law could disproportionately affect properties on the city’s west side, where developers might exploit larger lots to add more housing units.
After conducting a comprehensive analysis, a city staff report recommended against Chula Vista opting into SB 10. The report encourages engaging in a thorough public outreach effort in conjunction with a detailed analysis of the city’s areas where SB 10 could be appropriate. Additionally, the report suggests further examination of limitations, such as height and density, that Chula Vista may wish to impose on SB 10-eligible properties.
Ahead of the council meeting, opposition has already surfaced from concerned residents, including Sandra Hodge, a long-time resident who anticipates disruptions to the “bedroom” community, with parking challenges becoming a nightmare and the sense of a “family” neighborhood being disturbed.
The City Council’s decision is highly anticipated, as it is expected to provide direction to city staff on whether to proceed with SB 10. Residents and stakeholders will be closely following developments as the meeting convenes at 5 p.m. in the council chambers located at 276 Fourth Ave.