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RESOLUTION NO. 85-22
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
UKIAH ADOPTING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 1984-AA,
HOUSING ELEMENT CHANGES
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted public hearings on May 9 and
23, and June 13 and 27, 1984 at which time the Land Use area "Talmage Road
North" and documentation changes to the Housing Element, comprising General
Plan Amendment 1984-AA, were considered and recommended for action to the
City Council, and
WHEREAS, the City Council has held public hearings on July 18 and August
15, 1984 and found the Housing Element documentation changes to be consistent
with the goals, policies and objectives of the General Plan, and
WHEREAS, the City Council has found the Negative Declaration for this
portion of the General Plan Amendment adequate and complete.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of
Ukiah adopts General Plan Amendment 1984-AA modifying the General Plan as
follows:
Changing the Housing Element to read as attached Exhibit A.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of August, 1984 by the following roll call
vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Henderson, Kier and Hickey
NOES: Mayor Myers
ABSENT: Councilmember Kelley t-' .
MAYOR
ATTEST
C ITI~'CLERK
HOUSING
PERSPECTIVE AND PREVIOUS ACTIONS RELATIVE TO HOUSING
The City supports and actively participates in many programs related to
housing though not itself becoming the prime agency. Because of the
limited staff and the belief that additional layers of government should
not be created to implement housing, the City has depended on various
community agencies for the actual implementation and administration of
appropriate housing programs. It has been, and continues to be, the
City of Ukiah's position that the specific provision of housing is the
responsibility of the private sector and organizations established for
that sole purpose.
In 1979, in cooperation with the Mendocino County Community Development
Commission and Housing Authority (CDC), a $110,000 Federal Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) grant for housing rehabilitation was received.
These funds were utilized to rehab 22 units in the "Waggonseller's
Addition", a development built around the turn of the century. The
following year the City applied for, again in cooperation with the
Housing Authority, a grant to provide drainage and street improvements
in that same area. This application was not awarded by HUD because the
necessary improvement costs exceeded available funds. In 1984, again in
conjunction with CDC, the City applied for $360,000 CDBG Rehabilitation
Funds. 30 units were proposed for this project. The same grant also
included $35,000 for Bonita House, a mentally handicapped center. This
grant was not awarded to the City.
Prior to receipt of the 1979 rehabilitation grant, the City had applied
for two other similar grants, but was unsuccessful. The City is not
Urban Development Action Grant (UDAG) eligible. The City is
concentrating efforts toward job creation so individuals can upgrade
their housing themselves, in addition to government subsidy assistance
programs of other agencies.
The City has approved specific projects for targeted groups constructed
by both local and out of town developers. A 48 unit senior citizens
housing complex on North Bush Street was built in 1978 by Rural Commu-
nities Housing Development Corporation (RCHDC). This was accommodated
by rezoning the property from R-1 to R-2. RCHDC has also completed
another 44 units of senior citizen housing and 40 family units on
Waugh Lane. A General Plan Amendment changing the property from Medium
Low to Medium High Density was approved to allow these projects.
In 1978 and 1979, the City approved three different Farmer's Home
Administration projects totalling 66 "for sale" townhomes and 112
apartment units by Hunt Construction of Sacramento. Planned Development
(PD) zoning was instrumental in allowing the site design necessary to
develop these units. In 1983, Rooftree, Inc., of Rockton, Illinois
completed 38 Farmer's Home Administration RRH 515 multi-family rental
umits. This was accommodated with a density bonus approved pursuant to
State statute. These projects alone have accounted for 60.4% of the
total number of new units built within the City since April 1978. Table
A illustrates the housing activity since 1970 with senior citizen and
low and moderate income projects specifically identified. The City has
not placed special standards upon housing program developers, nor set
aside specific sites for assisted housing. The areas already developed
though were completed with City rezonings, relaxation of zoning require-
ments and site development approvals. Manufactured housing is also
allowed in any residential zone of the City.
The City has additionally, where property was purchased for the exten-
sion of Main Street and for airport clear zone, offered any living units
on the sites for sale at very minimal costs with moving of the structure
the responsibility of the purchaser. These buildings have not generated
much interest from individuals or agencies.
As further support for the provision of low and moderate income housing,
the voters of the City in the June 1982 election, by a 1,006 vote margin
(64.9% yes vote), approved 100 Article 34 units. This is seen as a very
positive indication of the community's commitment to housing for ali
economic levels.
It should be noted also that in the 1981 comprehensive General Plan
amendment approximately 160 acres were redesignated to Medium High and
High Density for a total allowed increase in housing units at build out
of between 1378 and 2436. The 160 acres are not necessarily available
vacant acreage, but the number reflects the change in total potential
land use capacities.
A recent survey by the League of California Cities, indicates that
statewide housing approvals by local governments, between 1979 and 1981
were approximately 516,000, while the actual construction was only
116,000. Just within the City of Ukiah since January 1980, approvals
have been granted for 415 units which have not yet been commenced. The
study and City experience reveal that it is not the decision making
bodies that are holding down the new housing stock, but economics.
Local governments with limited resources, which are being further
depleted by State and Federal actions, cannot provide the sole solutions
to housing issues.
TABLE A
CITY OF UKIAH
HOUSING UNIT CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY
(BASED UPON ISSUED BUILDING PERMITS)
Year
Single Family Multiple Units Total
Senior Citizens
& Low/Moderate
Income (SCLMI)
1970 28 10 38 0
1971 25 16 41 0
1972 30 69 99 0
1973 70 112 182 0
1974 15 22 37 0
1975 26 188 214 9
1976 41 58 99 0
1977 21 65 86 0
1978 22 247 269 112
1979 16 26 42 0
1980 80 64 144 116
1981 7 4 11 0
1982 6 50 56 50
TOTALS 387 931 1318 287
SENIOR CITIZENS AND LOW/MODERATE INCOME (SCLMI) UNITS
Since 1978
Single Family Multiple Family
Total Units constructed:
SCLMI units:
% SCLMI of total
Total
131 391 522
68 210 278
51.9 53.7 53.2
The percentages for 1980 and 1982 greatly exceed the 50% average, being
80.6% and 89.3% respectively. Government constraints have been pointed
out as key issues in housing production. It should be noted that
Councils and Boards respond to the expressions of the populace. Those
areas which are generally seen as constraints to housing, i.e., park and
recreation dedication requirement, infrastructure placement, school
replacement because of overcrowding, general aesthetic improvements and
"delays" in processing through public hearings and interested party
input are matters deemed necessary by the community and therefore
implemented by the Council. It is not a government constraint so much
as a community demand to be in control of development within the juris-
diction.
The Commission and Council have revised the Zoning Ordinance lessening
several development requirements. Though these help decrease spiraling
costs, they are not the significant factors in the housing situation.
In 1983, the City adopted an ordinance allowing second units on R-1
zoned lots. Minimum lot size remains the standard 6,000 square feet,
with minimal other criteria to insure compatibility with the adjacent
properties.
The City also views expansion of housing opportunities in the form of
annexation. In 1979, a 701 Planning Grant was received and a study
completed which provided an annexation policy within the sphere of
influence. The Council approved the "Westside Strategy" wherein the
future City expansions should be west of the freeway both north and
south of the City. The vast majority of available land for potential
development and existing suburban development is found here. Since 1979
the City has annexed more than 350 acres, approximately 30 acres of
which remain vacant residential. Some areas have already been developed
with more than 180 Farmer's Home Administration sale and rental units
and 55 acres has received Planned Development approval for 348 residen-
tial units of mixed types. The later project includes 32 units which
must be affordable for low and moderate income persons.
The process of this General Plan Amendment has included four public
hearings (two each) by both the Planning Commission and the City Council
during which considerable opportunity was provided for input from all
sectors of the community.
During the comprehensive amendment in 1981 over 25 different public
hearings were considered, with four of those specifically designated for
the Housing Element. Further, the City is represented on the County of
Mendocino Housing Task Force and has attempted to coordinate the issues
and responses from the County's General Plan to its General Plan to
provide consistent application of housing programs throughout the City
sphere of influence and participate equitably in the regional housing
issue.
Discrimination in housing practices has been a major issue discussed at
all governmental levels. During the Amendment process in 1981, much
concern was expressed that non-discrimination documentation should be
written into the City General Plan. The City Council opted to depend on
the Federal and State mandates regarding discrimination, and simply
stated this General Plan does not contain discriminatory actions, nor is
it inconsistent with State laws. However, issues, not specifically
addressed in the State and Federal Laws, shall be reviewed to determine
if local mitigation measures are necessary.
The City recognizes and supports those agencies charged with implementa-
tion of discrimination regulations. The City will maintain appropriate
data regarding these agencies and provide referral services to Redwood
Legal Assistance, Mendocino County District Attorney, and Fair Employ-
ment Practices Commission for those people requesting this information.
Condominium conversions is not viewed as a significant issue within the
City. In the past seven years there have only been three conversion
applications of existing apartment complexes. One was denied because
the physical condominium standards, another has just been applied for
and one is presently being processed with initial Planning Commission
approval. The housing need in the area is for both rental and owner
housing. Conversion of existing apartments will allow lower cost
ownership units. The converted units would undoubtedly be from the
higher rent apartments since the cost of upgrading to meet condo stan-
dards would not be economically feasible for the low rent complexes.
The following portions of the Housing Element assess existing and
projected needs, programs and effort. Again though, the basis for these
programs and the intent of the City is to insure that appropriate
housing is provided through fully utilizing existing available re-
sources. The time frame for this element is 1983 to 1990. Pursuant to
State law, it has been developed in response to comments by the
California Housing and Community Development Department and State
requirements for Element compliance by July 1984.
The key General Plan consistency question is with the land use element
which will provide the appropriate sites for development. As noted
earlier the previous amendment changed many area designations.
HOUSING NEEDS, SITES AND CONSTRAINTS
While the population of the City of Ukiah increased by 26.04% between
1970 and 1983, the housing stock grew 48.2%, a total of 1,690 units.
(See Table B). The types of units are indicated in Table C which
demonstrates a significant change in the density make up of the communi-
ty. In 1970 more than 80% of the housing units were single family, with
apartments and mobile homes being relatively equal. By 1983 single
family units dropped to 64% with duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes
doubling and large complexes almost tripling; mobile homes remained
approximately the same. This same trend was exhibited in the County,
though mobile homes, increased significantly.
TABLE B
POPULATION
--1960 (U.S. Bureau of the Census): 9,990
--1970 (U.S. Bureau of the Census): 10,096
--1974 (Department of Finance, Special Census): 10,606
--1980 (U.S. Bureau of the Census): 12,035
--1983 (Dept. of Finance, Annual Estimate): 12,725
HOUSING UNITS & HOUSEHOLD SIZE
--1969: 3426 units - 3.05 persons/household
--1970: 3505 unJ~ts - 2.88 persons/household
--1974: 3960 units - 2.69 persons/household
--1980: 4871 units - 2.48 persons/household
--1983: 5195 Units - 2.50 persons/household
TABLE C:
COMPARISON OF YEAR ROUND HOUSING TYPES IN UKIAH
AND MENDOCINO COUNTY: 1970 AND 1983
1970 1983
City County City County
Housing Type % No. % No. % No. % No.
Single Family 80.4 2845 83.0 15699 64.4 3345 65.7 20277
2 - 4 Units 5.5 195 4.3 813 10.3 535 9.2 2842
5 or More Units 6.9 244 4.3 813 17.6 917 10.3 3195
Mobile Home 7.2 255 8.4 1589 7.7 398 14.8 4561
5195 30,875
TOTAL 3539 18914 5195 30875
According to the 1980 National Census there were a total of 164 occupied
housing units which were considered to be overcrowded; i.e., a unit in
which more than one person occupies a room. This was broken down to
1.01 to 1.5 persons per room in 120 units and 1.5 or more persons per
room in 44 units. The total number of persons involved in housing of
this type was 947. 153 units had 6 or more persons in them. This is
3.4% of the housing units and 7.9% of the population. When compared to
1970 socio-economic census data, the situation has improved; since
there were 227 or 6.6% overcrowded units within the City then.
Mendocino Council of Government (MCOG) predictions indicate an increase
of 644 units is necessary to accommodate growth anticipated to 1990
(January 1983 as the base). During 1983 and in the first month of 1984,
92 units have been constructed; 78 of them are specifically designated
for low/moderate income (LMI) persons.
Four agencies which have provided targeted housing in the past were
surveyed to indicate proposed construction activity over the next seven
years. These are:
Rural Communities Housing Development Corporation (RCHDC) - 10 HUD
self help units, currently designed and approved in Las Casas-
to be completed in 1984.
Rooftree Inc., - 38 Farmer's Home Rural Rental Housing 515 - to be
completed in 1984.
Mendocino County Housing Authority/Community Development
Commission - No specific commitments; Do not know what programs
will be available.
Hunt Construction - No specific commitments
The Las Casas developer, through a density bonus provision accepted by
the City, must also provide 22 units to persons meeting low and moderate
income standards. Thus, a total of 148 low and moderate income units
have been committed to meet the demand of 399 units projected by the
Department of Finance as needed to be added by 1990.
Utilizing the most recent County Assistance Plan data, the special needs
for the handicapped, elderly, large families and female headed house-
holds were calculated. The plan indicated that of all lower income
households in need of assistance, 31% were elderly or handicapped, 53%
were female headed and 16% were large families. The number of very low
and other lower households within the City in 1983 totalled 2031. Thus,
the estimate of current needs by category is:
Household Type
Number of Units
Elderly or handicapped
630
Female head 1076
Large family 325
TABLE D: HOUSING CONDITIONS, CITY OF UKIAH, JUNE 1979
Data from housing survey conducted by consultant
Enum. Sound Needs
Dist. Minor
Number Imprv.
Needs Beyond Under Unde- Unable Total
Major Repair Const. velop- to
Imprv. ed Survey
39 99 22 1 0 0 0 1 123
percent 80% 18% 1% 0 0 0 1%
40 136 154 50 13 0 0 1 355
percent 38% 43% 14% 4% 0 .5% .5%
41 324 10 0 0 0 0 0 334
percent 97% 3% 0 0 0 0 0
42 287 85 27 2 2 3 18 424
percent 68% 20% 6% .5% .5% 1% 4%
43 206 108 38 1 0 3 6 362
percent 57% 30% 11% .5% 0 1% 2%
44 536 449 37 2 0 0 0 1024
percent 52% 44% 4% .5% 0 0 0
45 354 133 37 3 1 0 0 528
percent 67% 25% 7% .5% .5% 0 0
46 20 10 4 1 0 0 0 35
percent 57% 29% 11% 3% 0 0 0
47 146 83 28 3 0 2 0 262
percent 56% 32% 11% 1% 0 1% 0
48 231 151 29 1 0 1 16 429
percent 54% 35% 7% .5% 0 .5% 4%
49 459 61 9 1 0 1 5 536
percent 86% 11% 2% .5% 0 .5% 1%
TOTAL 2978 1266 260 27 3 11 .17 4412
PERCENT 63.4% 28.7% 5.9% 0.6% 0.1% 0.2% 1.1%
The quality of housing within the City is quite good. The number of housing
units which lack complete plumbing is only 24 (1980 census); less than .5%
of the units in the City. In a survey completed in 1979, (see Table D) by a
consultant for the City, it was determined that approximately .6% of the
total units within the City were beyond repair, with 260 available for
rehab. The City has, through a Federal rehab grant, assisted 22 units in
the Wagonseller's Addition, located within the enumeration district having
the greatest need. During the early stages of the rehabilitation program,
it was very difficult to garner home owners and renters to participation in
the program because of the uncertainties relative to it. After a
considerable outreach program the funds were expended, however.
The measured vacancy rate continues to be higher than "perceived" in the
community area, thereby providing opportunities to meet various housing
housing needs. The 1980 rate according to the U.S. Census was 4.2% (203
units) while 1983 rate was 4.68% (243 units) according to DOF estimates.
AFFORDABILITY
The census data indicates that the median value for owner-occupied units in
1980 was $67,300 and median contract rent was $230. In 1970 the median
value for owner-occupied units was between $15,000 and $20,000, with median
monthly rent of $80 to $100. It is obvious to see that costs for both owner
and renter occupied units substantially increased during that 10 year period
(236.5% for owner). As has been the case throughout the country, the
private construction industry has not been able to meet the housing demands
for affordable housing within the City of Ukiah. The median income in 1970,
for all families, was $8,271 which produced a purchasing power (2.5 times
yearly income) of $20,678, above the average value of owner occupied units
at $17,500. The average family income (2.5 persons per family) for 1981,
average of all joint returns, was $11,440, which provided a purchasing power
(2.5 times yearly income) of $28,600, less than 43% of an average home
purchase price of $63,700.
The Community Development Commission of Mendocino County currently operates
HUD Section 8 Existing and Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation Programs within
the City of Ukiah.
Section 8 HUD standards for income eligibility as administered by the County
Housing Authority as of February 1984 are:
Family size/
Income limits 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Very low
Other lower 12,900
Moderate 19,300
Not Available
14,700 16,550 18,400 19,550 20,700 21,850 23,000
22,100 24,850 27,600 29,350 31,050 32,800 34,500
10
HUD'S Section 8 Fair Market Rental Rates are:
0 Bedrooms: $267
1 Bedrooms: $334
2 Bedrooms: $408
3 Bedrooms: $546
4 Bedrooms: $597
The Farmer's Home Administration (FMHA) has extended loan approval
authority for the City of Ukiah even though the City has exceeded the
10,000 maximum population threshold. It is uncertain how much longer the
City will be eligible for FMHA Loan Programs.
The FHA Section 515 and 502 Loan Programs have been utilized in the City
construct housing for low to moderate income households.
There has been very little contractor built Section 502 single family
housi activity in recent years due to the high cost of building in the
area. RCHDC is currently planning to build 10 single family homes
utilizing 502 loans under their Self-Help program.
Recent changes in the 502 loans eligibility guidelines may have an adverse
on the ability of RCHDC to utilize this program. The current change
mandates that 40% of all 502 loans be granted to families in the very-low
income category as defined by HUD.
All applicants in the low income category must have adjusted incomes of
$18,00 year or lower to qualify for this program.
RCHDC will need help in seeking land write down and fee waivers in order to
bring the Self Help housing cost within the repayment ability of very-low
income applicants. If RCHDC is unable to make 40% of their proposed units
available to very-low income applicants they will be unable to utilize the
502 program in Ukiah.
The 502 loan program is the only program available in Ukiah which would
enable very-low and low income families to purchase single family homes.
Due to the rapid acceleration of housing costs, many financial institutions
and commercial money lenders have developed ceilings for determining the
amount of family income to be spent on housing. A generally used rule puts
a limit of 30% of gross monthly income for mortgage payments. If the buyer
does not have any other long term (six months or more) monthly payments the
bank may allow up to 35% of the income for a mortgage payment. With the
current housing market asking well above the $63,700 value found in the
1980 census, it is obvious that the average City resident is priced out of
the buying market. This is even true for joint wage earners (average 1980
per capita income was $6,921) at the 35% figure. Young families and first
time purchasers are extremely limited in their opportunity to purchase
houses within the City. This is, of course, no different from Mendocino
County nor most of the remainder of California. Tables E and F document
1983 housing costs, which actually decreased from 1982 levels.
11
TABLE E. TYPICAL RENTAL RATES, 19823
Houses Apartments
1 Bedroom N.A. 0 Bedroom 210
2 " 390 1 " 260
3 " 425 2 " 305
4 " 500 3 " N.A.
As of March 31, 1984, there were 181 rental units assisted under the
Section 8 Existing Housing Program in Ukiah. Of these, 59 were elderly,
disabled or handicapped, and 122 were families. As of the same date, there
were 324 eligible applicants for Section 8 Rental Assistance in the City of
Ukiah. Of these, 46 were elderly, disabled or handicapped, and 278 were
families. Based on the total County figures, 70% of families eligible for
Section 8 assistance are female-headed households. Using 1983 D.O.F.
household figures for Ukiah, 14% of Ukiah renter households are on the
Section 8 waiting list.
TABLE F
AVERAGE PURCHASE PRICE FOR
HOUSING IN MENDOCINO COUNTY (NOT RESTRICTED TO NEW CONSTRUCTED)
SOURCE: MENDOCINO COUNTY BOARD OF REALTORS MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE
1976 1977 1978 1979 1981 1982 1983
Single Family Dwelling
1 Bedroom N/A $ 16,750
2 Bedroom $ 24,086 $ 36,370
3 Bedroom $ 33,156 $ 47,946
4 Bedroom $ 48,750 $ 61,300
1 Bedroom
2 Bedroom
3 Bedroom
N/A $ 26,250 N/A N/A N/A
$ 46,625 $ 53,112 $ 59,800 $ 65,516 $56,833
$ 58,887 $ 66,458 $ 87,783 $ 81,621 $ 77,06¢
N/A $ 73, 650 $ 98,750 $103,311 $ 89,642
Mobile Homes
N/A N/A $ 6,800 N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A $ 11,833 $ 28,083 N/A N/A N/A
$ 27,500 N/A $ 24,500 $ 40,875 N/A N/A N/A
Based upon the Mendocino County Housing Needs Plan adopted by the
Mendocino Council of Governments (MCOG) in December 1983 the income
groups within the City are: 26% very low, 15% other lower; 21%
moderate, and 38% above moderate. The total number of 1983 households
within each category are tabulated in Table G.
12
TABLE G HOUSEHOLD INCOME DISTRIBUTION - 1983
Number
Category of Households Percent
Definition - % of Median
Income for County
Very low 1288 26 Below 50%
Other lower 743 15 51-80%
Moderate 1040 21 81-120%
Above Moderate 1881 38 Above 120%
TOTAL 4952 100
The same needs plan utilized State Department of Finance projections and
established the requirements for 1990. The actual increases in number of
households per income group and the 1990 percentages are: very low: 10,
23%; other lower: 160, 16%; Moderate: 258, 23% and above moderate:
265, 38%. Total households in 1990 is estimated to be 5,645.
INCOME GROUP
TABLE H
HOUSEHOLD PROJECTIONS FOR 1990
HOUSEHOLDS
PERCENTAGE
Very Low 1,298 23
Other lower 903 16
Moderate 1,298 23
Above moderate 2,146 38
TOTAL 5,645 10--~
Special needs groups within the City include the low and moderate income,
elderly, handicapped and female head of household. The low and moderate
income and senior citizens have been addressed by most of the subsidy
housing developed in the City. Large families and farm workers are
groups for which detailed information is relatively unknown. The 1980
census indicates all housing is termed "Inside urbanized areas." Fur-
ther, the City does not encompass large agricultural tracks which would
provide on-site migratory or farmworker housing. The large family
situation can only be speculated at by the statistic that 153 units had
six or more persons per unit in 1980. The handicap issue is one being
addressed through building codes of which the City has adopted the 1979
edition. The city remains current on the applicable regulations and
continues to update the requirements. Again, the agencies most suited
for the issues will be supported in their efforts toward solutions.
13
EMERGENCY HOUSING
The Need*
The need for emergency housing encompasses a large range of situations.
Families otherwise able to provide themselves with adequate housing are
suddenly and unexpectedly faced with the need for emergency shelter as a
result of fire or family break-up. Other families only marginally able
to meet their housing needs are left without shelter when their present
housing is sold, when a s~ared housing arrangement breaks down, from an
inability to pay rent, or a number of similar reasons. Finally, there is
a transient population, composed of both families and individuals, that
has emergency shelter needs.
The need for emergency shelter is by its very nature difficult to assess.
The results of a survey completed in May 1980 by the Emergency Housing
and Special Housing Problems Subcommittee of the County Housing Task
Force showed the combined estimate for the number of persons in need of
emergency housing in a year's time, countywide, as approximately 1500.
The breakdown between individuals and persons in families was about 900
individuals and 600 persons in families. The County average of 3 persons
per family, would indicate approximately 185 families per year face this
need. The survey also showed that the three most cited problems related
to securing emergency housing were small children, health problems or
handicaps, and lack of funds. Lack of money and lack of available
emergency housing were cited over 800 times each. The number of local
residents in need totaled 1000, while transients account for the remain-
der.
The proportion of this need within the City of Ukiah is not precisely
known. However, it might be considered greater than the population
percentage comparison between the City and the County because of the
location of a major transient corridor and the concentrated, more urban
nature, of the locale. The strict population percentage factor (17.4% of
County population withinin the City) would indicate an annual need in
excess of 260 cases.
*This information was provided by the Mendocino County Housing Task Force.
Resources
Agencies attempting to deal with emergency housing problems find that
while their resources remain static, the availability of emergency housing
declines and the demand for this service is on the increase.
Non-Governmental groups such as the Emergency Action Team and the
Ministerial Association find that they simple run out of funds. Even when
a person in need is eligible for it, the County's General Relief (GR)
Program is often unable to solve the problem because of the unavailability
of space in the few motels which will accept County vouchers. Families on
public assistance, ineligible for General Relief or supplemental funding,
cannot cover the extra expense of renting motel rooms, even when units for
families are available.
14
Many marginal housing units, which had been used in the past as de-facto
emergency housing units are being converted to permanent housing or have
been torn down. The rehabilitation of the Palace Hotel alone removed 65
low cost units from the temporary housing market. The pressure to find
permanent housing has in effect eliminated the temporary housing that was
available in the past. Finally, the emergency housing situation becomes
even more difficult as more motels refuse to accept County General Relief
Vouchers and Ministerial Association Chits.
Guest House has been established as an emergency shelter; however, it has
very limited capacity and cannot assist the major unmet need in emergency
shelter which is for families.
The solution to the problem of insufficient emergency shelter facilities
will come only as a result of a community wide effort involving
government, private agencies and such organizations as the Emergency
Action Team, the Ministerial Association and local churches.
A possibility that may be pursued is the development of a Rescue Mission
in Ukiah. Based on a well tested and proven approach, churches in Ukiah
area can learn from the experience of other Missions. This approach is
healthy in that it draws its support and direction from the community.
Rescue Missions do not rely on governmental funding, in fact, their
religious nature means they cannot receive tax monies. Because their
types of facilities are generally oriented toward individuals, unmet
family needs may not be addressed by this program.
The current emergency shelter services in the Ukiah area are provided by:
Ukiah Community Center (UCC) - Federal assistance (soon to be depleted)
UCC & Alcohol Rehabilitation Center (ARC) - Guest House
Ministerial Association
Salvation Army
During the 12 month period from May 1983 through April 1984 the number of
shelter bed days were:
UCC (Federal Emergency Management Act) - 144+
UCC (other) - 4400+
Guest House - 1200+
Proposed facilities and/or programs for emergency facilities include:
UCC/Guest House - New facility on Luce Street for family mission -
single men
Business Mens Group/Two family unit
UCC - Bonita House/SSI, Six permit unit
Santa Rosa Rescue Mission
15
SITE AVAILABILITY
Projects with 415 units, including condominiums, single family, duplexes and
multiple family, have been approved, but not yet been constructed. These are:
Number of
Units and Unit Approval
Project Density Zoning Type Type Comment
Park West
Wabash
So. Oak
Bush/Cooper
Las Casas
Jones-Low Gap
25 i/AC PD Condo Final Map
10 15/AC R-3 Condo Use Per.
10 23/AC C-1 Condo UP & Map
4 8/AC R-2 Condo Use Per.
348 7/AC PD Subdv. UP & Map
18 15/AC R-2 Apart. Site Dev.
Above Mod. Income
Attached Units
Attached Units
Indiv. Structures
SFD, Dup, Apt.
Attached Units
Not included are the miscellaneous individual lot development which may
occur. Based upon previous average annual figures of 100 units, this
number would account for approximately four years of housing absorption.
Further, there currently exists the following vacant acreages of res-
identially general planned and zoned land with the potential for devel-
opment. Utility mains and urban services are available for developer
connections. These figures are only for property within the corporate
City limits. Considerable land is available in adjacent county areas
both north and south of the City.
TABLE I
VACANT, NOT COMMITTED, LAND
FEBRUARY, 1984
Zone
R-i:H-4
R-i:H-2
Maximum
Density Gen. Plan Net Potential
Per Acre Design Acreage Lots Units
1 Hillside 22 N/A 22
4 Low Den. 4 N/A 16
R-1
R-2
R-3
PD
Total
7
14
28
14
28
Med. Low. 28 52 248
Med. High 4 6 70
High Den. 5 N/A 140
Med. High 13 N/A 182
High Den. 9 N/A 252
930
16
The 286 potential units in the R-i:H-4, R-i:H-2 and R-1 zones would likely be
only affordable to above moderate income levels with the 38 hillside imots being
very expensive to develop. The remaining 644 potential units could be afforded
by other lower and moderate families depending on the specific project or avail-
able program.
The rate at which housing is produced in these areas is strictly a function of
the market place. Though residential use is allowed in the C-1 zone, vacant
commercial property has not been tabulated because of the uncertainty of such
uses. Redevelopment potential is seen as low because of the economic situation
and remaining available vacant land.
Government is viewed as a constraint in all forms of development. When the
private sector is unable to produce the demanded commodity at a viable price or
at the terms predetermined to be appropriate, government constraints are viewed
as the cause. Within the City of Ukiah residential proposals have run the gamit
from 30 day approvals to year long "battles". These depend on the complexities
of the development issues and the perceived impacts within the neighborhood.
Beyond these project specific concerns, the Council has tried to view regulations
from a rationale perspective and determine those standards necessary to preserve
the life style standards appropriate to Ukiah and eliminate the superfluous.
During the recent review of the Zoning Ordinance many changes were made. These
include elimination of required covered off-street parking (savings of
approximately $6,000 per unit), reduction of the front setback from 20 feet to 10
feet, elimination of the maximum percentage of lot overage and greater flexibil-
ity in lot splits and condominium provisions for existing units. Where possible
the Council has relaxed standards which thus increasing opportunities for afford-
able housing while not compromising health and safety requirements. Because of
the urban nature of the City and the significant effects such minimal standards
would have within the City, Class K provisions cannot be allowed. Some
development development provisions in the City may, however, be viewed as con-
straints to development and are thus analyzed here.
The City's residential zoning allows densities ranging from I unit per acre
(R-i-H-4) to 28 units per acre (R-3). Projects providing targeted units have
primarily utilized R-2, R-3 and PD zoning. PD zoning requires development to
occur at the density specified in the General Plan. As noted in the Land Use
element that ranges is one to 28 units per acre. Just discussed in the last
paragraph, several land use control issues have been eliminated. Presently the
zoning does require a 20 foot setback for garages, five feet side setbacks and 15
and 10 foot rear setbacks. Height limits are 30 feet (2 story capability) in the
R-1 and R-2 zones with a 40 foot limit in R-3. Minimum parcel sizes for each
zone is 6,000 square feet with corner lots 7,000 square feet. Existing parcels
to 4500 and less square feet may be developed with a Site Development Permit
(6,000-4,4,500) or a Use Permit (less than 4,500). New developments proposing
smaller than 6,000 square foot lots, variation in setbacks or other design
modifications can be accommodated through the Planned Development zone. The City
uses the Uniform Building Code for its construction requirements. Though the
1979 edition is currently utilized, the 1982 edition is to be adopted immediately
after State authorization. Enforcement of the code is strict. The City is
preparing a survey of historic and architectually significant structures which
will allow use of the State Historic Building code for rehabilitation.
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Site improvements required include curb, gutter, sidewalks and street paving
where necessary and complete utility connections by the property owners. Hookup
fees and capital improvement fees for each unit are required, with payment
necessary prior to use and occupancy. The utility fees and changes for typical
residential development are:
Fees or Charges
Water Sewer Electricity
Capital Capital Capital
Type of Unit Improvement Connection Improvement Connection Improvement Connection
Single Family 660 At Cost 500 10 *625 150
Detached
Duplex 660 At Cost 1,100 20 *625 250
Fourplex 1,100 At Cost 2,200 40 *625 500
Ten unit
Apartment
Complex 3,520 At Cost 5,500 100 925 1,000
*Depending upon the project location this charge may be less if a
transformer is not necessary.
The City Council has greatly scrutinized these fees and has determined
they are necessary for operation, maintenance, upgrading and replacement
of the specific systems. Reduction, waiver or other modifications to the
changes are not considered.
It must be noted that the rates for services are lower than those of
adjacent utility providers and thus long term costs to residents lower in
the City. Electric rates are approximately 5% less than P.G.& E., and
the City's water rates are less than ½ those of Millview County Water
District to the north of the City.
Consistent with the Community Facilities Element residential development
is required to provide parkland/open space or pay in-lieu fees pursuant
to the Quimby Act. The requirement is 5 acres/1000 population. Private
open space/reservation facilities may be used. Though school site
reservation is provided for within the City's ordinances, the provision
has not been used. The City depends upon the Ukiah Unified School
District Recommendations to implement this exaction.
Depending upon the complexity of the project, City service can be
completed in less than 60 days. Apartment projects in the proper zone
can be approved by the Planning Commission within 30 days of the City's
receipt of application. Building permits are typically issued within two
weeks of applications. Use Permit projects have a similar time frame.
Condominium projects are usually approved within the same 30 day time
18
period but require an additional 21 days for City Council action on the
tentative map. Final map processing is also 51 days after the engineer-
ing submits it and granted there are not significant errors to be cor-
rected.
Tentative subdivision map can usually be handled in 51 days unless
considerable controversy is raised. Then additional public hearings are
necessary. Only one project in seven years has been drawn out more than
one year prior to approval. That project is a 55 acre Planned Develop-
ment subdivision which required annexation, prezoning, use permit for
development (it was the first Planned Development project in the communi-
ty) and subdivision maps. In addition to the significant time in front
of the Commission and Council before approval, considerable delays were
imposed by the developer in the form of a revised tentative subdivision
map, lawsuit and general non-action on the project.
The City has no statutory control over interest rates, financing, land
costs or construction costs. Though assistance programs, low interest
loans, land write downs and self help activities could be sponsored, the
City cannot embark on such financial packages by itself.
The City has an energy conservation program. A City staff energy Auditor
assisted the residents for 18 months and 475 customers utilized the
service. The City has also embarked upon several projects (NCPA, Lake
Mendocino Hydroelectric, and miscellaneous other, small head hydros) with
the intent of becoming energy self sufficient and passing the'savings to
the consumer. Currently the City rates are 3-5% less than P.G.& E.'s
with greater savings anticipated. Conservation through the auspices of
the auditor and educational data from the Electric Division will allow
even greater savings.
Because of the relatively compact nature of the City residential areas
being within very easy travel distance to work places, walking and
bicycles are common modes of transportation from the westside residential
neighborhoods to downtown. Joint commercial (residential use in down-
town) is also being explored. Planned Development projects, most notably
the Hunt Townhouses, did utilize common wall construction at a density of
12 units per acre and reduced street widths were approved to lower costs
and energy requirements.
LABOR FORCE AND INDUSTRY OUTLOOK
LABOR FORCE OUTLOOK
Mendocino County's employment expansion will be healthy throughout the
forecast period, although gains will be somewhat larger in 1984 than in
1985. Unemployment figures will mirror this trend with a larger decline
being noted in 1984 compared to 1985. The number of jobless began to
drop during 1983 from the 1981-82 recession's peak levels. However, even
by the end of 1985 after over two years of steady improvement, unemploy-
ment will still be considerably higher than pre-recession figures.
19
Mendocino County
Civilian Labor Force, Employment, and Unemployment
December 1982 - December 1985
December***
Forecast
1982 1983 1983 1985
Civilian labor force*
33,000 31,725 32,425 32,975
Employment 26,775 27,100 27,900 28,500
Unemployment 6,225 4,625 4,525 4,475
Unemployment rate** 18.8 14.6 14.0 13.6
*Labor force by place of residence. Employment includes
persons involved in labor-management trade disputes.
**The unemployment rate is computed from unrounded data;
therefore it may differ from rates calculated by using
the rounded figures in this table.
***December figures used in staff report because annual data
not available.
Above information from "Annual Planning Information, Mendocino County
1984-1985", published by the State of California Employment Develop-
ment Department May 1984.
HOUSING PROGRAMS
The performance record of the City in the area of support and approval is
obvious. The items in the action program are geared for implementation
within a five year time frame. We intend for these action items to meet
our goals under the Mendocino County Housing Needs Plan. Dependence on
the agencies already noted, the currently approved projects, the vacant
available land, and the economic situation will dictate the housing
opportunities in this community's future.
The City has established quantified objectives regarding housing within
the corporate limits for the period 1983-1990. As noted previously, all
agencies involved in housing production will be depended upon to meet
these objectives:
New Construction - 900 units
Rehabilitation - 350 units
Conservation - 35 units
2O
ACTION PROGRAM:
1. The City shall continue to review the Zoning Ordinance and
Subdviision regulations to eliminate those items which decrease
housing availability and affordability, but do not affect public
health or safety. These areas are in addition to the recently
adopted modifications to the Zoning Ordinance in which covered
off-street parking was eliminated, setbacks were reduced from 20 to
10 feet, maximum lot coverage was eliminated, mobile homes were
allowed in all residential zones, and the minimum sizes for mobile
home parks was reduced.
2. Continue to cooperate with local housing assistance agencies and the
sector to pursue various avenues of State and Federal funding
assistance.
Be
Property rezoning to PD "Planned Development" shall be encouraged
and expedited to facilitate cost saving development techniques.
o
In accordance with the Mendocino County Council of Governments
(MCOG) "Mendocino County Housing Needs Plan", the City will continue
to pursue with the Mendocino County Housing Authority and with Rural
Communities Housing Development Corporation (RCHDC) and any other
interested parties, those housing programs designed to meet the
documented need. The City will cooperate with MCOG in its review of
these allocations every three years.
5. The City will generate on an annual basis appropriate housing
related information using, as the basis, the various analyses
provided in the 1980 Federal Census and the CRIS Model data for
evaluation of fiscal impacts. Staff shall report progress on
implementation of the Housing Element twice yearly.
6. The City of Ukiah shall support the following programs:
The Mendocino County Housing Authority/Community Development
Commission shall act on behalf of the City in making application to
the Department of Housing and Urban Development for Community
Development Block Grand funds. It will also be responsible for
overseeing and running housing rehabilitation programs, the Home
Ownership/Home Improvement (HOHI), State Housing Advisory Service
Programs, CDBG-funded programs, and other housing programs, It is
the agency with primary responsibility for developing housing
pursuant to Article 34 referendum authorization and it will act as a
source of information regarding various federal and State programs
which make monies available for new construction and rehabilitation
of existing housing. It should emply a person whose function will
be to act as a specialist in housing development and who can advise
individuals and developers of low and moderate income housing of
techniques and available funding to help facilitate government
processing for developments providing low and moderate income
housing.
21
Rural Communities Housing Development Corporation (RDHDC) and/or
other qualified private non-profit corporation will act as a devel-
oper of state and federally financed housing for lower income house-
holds, will provide technical assistance on a contract basis to
developers regarding federal and state programs, and will develop a
management capability, either in-house or by establishing a separate
entity, to manage rental properties providing housing to lower and
low income families. RCHDC will also be responsible for the con-
struction and development of housing which can only be sponsored
and/or owned by private, non-profit entities.
The local churches will be requested to inventory and assess vacant
land owned by church organizations which is appropriate for, and
which might be made available, for meeting housing needs of seniors,
handicapped, and other low income households. They should be asked
to consider acting as sponsors of low income and senior citizens'
housing. They should also play a major role in developing an emer-
gency shelter facility.
Service clubs will be requested to offer assistance such as volun-
teered time, donations of materials, etc. in the development of
specific projects, such as an emergency shelter facility.
7. The City shall through all available means, particularly the monthly
newsletter, educate the community at large and make available perti-
nent information regarding the necessity for affordable housing
projects which may decrease the amount of time required at public
hearings for project approval. Currently the applications are
processed within 30 days from receipt of the applications to the
first public hearing.
0
The City shall implement AB 1151, "Bonus Incentives for Affordable
Housing", Chapter 1207, Statutes of 1979, through the unit density
bonus process and all other appropriate available incentives. The
City shall estalish a policy to implement the density bonus and
resale control provisions of the law by December, 1984.
e
An anti-discrimination ordinance shall be adopted by the City prior
to December 1, 1985 in addition to an actively promoted educational
outreach program.
10. The City of Ukiah will encourage attempts to maintain existing
housing stock through maintenance and rehabilitation grants. Fur-
ther, a procedure should be developed in which demolition permits
are referred to the Mendocino County Community Development Commis-
sion for rehab and other available means of maintaining the unit in
a residential character.
11. The City shall continue to inspect existing rental units upon
written request, but at reasonable cost, with a report presented to
the owners and the occupants outlining health and safety dangers and
requiring compliance with the Housing Code, pursuant to Revenue and
Taxation Code Section 17299 and 24436.5
22
12. City staff will assist the Community Development Commission to
prepare a summary of available rehabilitation loan programs and also
study the feasibility of marketing revenue bonds to raise additional
monies for this purpose.
13. The City will continue to preserve its architectural heritage
through the State Historical Building Code and the Marks Historical
Rehabilitation Act of 1976. An Historical Architectural Committee
has been formed.
14. The City will continue to work with the Community Development
Commission to locate and acquire sites for resale to developers or
owner-builders of housing for low and moderate income persons. The
City's Community Development Block grant Funds may be utilized for
this type of proposal to be administered by the Housing Authori-
ty/Community Development Commission.
15. A study of the utilization of performance standards in zoning and
sub-division regulations, instead of specification standards shall
be completed and reviewed by the Planning Commission and the City
Council by June, 1985.
16. The City shall consider the data developed by the County relative to
"Farm worker" housing and determine appropriate actions to pursue.
This evaluation is to be completed by March 1985.
17. The City shall have a consultant complete an update survey of the
housing conditions within the City by December 31, 1984.
18. The City shall continue to support efforts by the existing Emergency
Housing Task Force and encourages that body to report to the
Planning Commission.
19. The City of Ukiah will notify the school district of any major
development that may have impact on the local school system.
20. Investigate the feasibility of submitting an application for a
mortgage bond allocation from the State Mortgage Bond Allocation
Committee. The feasibility of Mortgage Revenue Bonds for a small
city such as Ukiah is enhanced by participating in a bond pooling
effort with other jurisdictions. The City is then able to use the
bond proceeds to provide low interest rate loans to eligible recipi-
ents to finance the purchase of homes by participating developers.
23