Tag Archives: California

California lawmakers block transit-oriented housing density bill

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities California’s controversial Senate Bill 50 has been tabled until 2020. The bill was killed when Sen. Anthony Portantino (D), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that it would not be discussed in committee this legislative session session. Portantino reportedly opposed SB 50, because its policies would override local government zoning rules. Many neighborhoods in California zone entire neighborhoods for single family homes only. For analysis of the pros and Continue ReadingCalifornia lawmakers block transit-oriented housing density bill→

The slow, painful deaths of HOA & condo associations

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities HOA-industry trade groups promote housing development governed by homeowners and condominium associations as sustainable communities. But don’t be fooled. Those claims are nothing more than public relations and marketing hype. The truth is, most “community associations” succumb to a variety of problems and crises that lead to their slow, painful decline and ultimate death. Today I’ll highlight two examples.   Camelot burns to the ground, but HOA still collects Continue ReadingThe slow, painful deaths of HOA & condo associations→

Could state law override single-family zoning in California?

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities A highly controversial affordable housing legislative proposal, SB 50, is making waves in California. This week, the legislation introduced by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) cleared its first Senate committee, with some amendments. If the hotly debated legislation passes both houses and gets Governor Newsome’s approval, SB 50 could increase property rights and remove local control of cities and counties. According to an LA Times report, several provisions of SB Continue ReadingCould state law override single-family zoning in California?→

California HOA Legislation: fair elections and management accountability (April 2019)

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities Homeowner advocate alert: three California HOA bills to be debated in Legislative committees. SB434 and SB754 were heard in committee for the first time this week at the Capitol. Now both are set for a second hearing, along with SB323 at 1:30 PM on April 30th. If you live in California, now is your chance to let your lawmakers hear from you. SB323 HOA elections This homeowner-friendly bill is Continue ReadingCalifornia HOA Legislation: fair elections and management accountability (April 2019)→