ELK GROVE, Calif. – The City of Elk Grove is poised to make a crucial decision this week regarding the Oak Rose apartments. This affordable housing project, consisting of 67 units, has been at the center of controversy after the state’s attorney general accused the city of violating state law by rejecting the project. The Elk Grove officials are now urging the City Council to reconsider their previous rejection and approve the development, which would serve as the city’s first permanent housing option for low-income families transitioning out of homelessness.
The dispute over the Oak Rose apartments has been ongoing for months. In both September and October, the Elk Grove City Council postponed their decision regarding the development, leaving the project in limbo. However, now the city must confront the legal challenges it faces. Oak Rose LP, the developer of the project, filed a lawsuit against the council’s rejection of their proposal in July 2022. Additionally, California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a separate suit last May, accusing Elk Grove of violating state housing laws and repeatedly disregarding Senate Bill 35, the legislation mandating cities to expedite affordable housing projects.
City officials had hoped to find an alternative site and offer incentives to gain ownership of the project, but no agreement has been reached so far. This week, during the public City Council meeting, Elk Grove will put forth their arguments in favor of approving the Oak Rose apartments. The meeting, streaming live on the city’s website, will commence at 6 p.m.
In conclusion, the City of Elk Grove is at a crossroads regarding the Oak Rose apartments, with a decision expected this week. The dispute has been marred by legal battles and accusations of violating state housing laws. If approved, the development would provide much-needed permanent housing for low-income families. The outcome of this decision will have significant implications for Elk Grove’s approach to affordable housing and addressing homelessness in the city.