The Hayward City Council shifted direction last week and a majority of the elected board now supports retaining the by right fee option for the provision of affordable units to meet the city’s inclusionary requirements. The change of heart was the direct result of testimony from BIA|Bay, Eden Housing and other housing groups who pointed out that the city needs the fee revenues as local matches for county and state affordable housing programs. The councilmembers also voiced support for a substantial increase in the city’s in-lieu fee to $20 per sq. ft. and agreed to discuss grandfathering projects already in the development pipeline. Developers who have pending applications in Hayward are encouraged to contact the city immediately to discuss grandfathering options. The council is scheduled to take up a draft ordinance on Nov. 7, 2017. If adopted, the new regulations would go into effect before the end of the year. For questions for comments, contact Lisa Vorderbrueggen at 925-348-1956 or lvorderbrueggen@biabayarea.org.
