Agenda Item Wording:
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Prohousing Designation Program discussion - Receive an overview presentation on the California Department of Housing and Community Development Prohousing Designation Program, discuss the City of Visalia's potential standing in meeting the application requirements, and provide direction on the filing of an application.
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Agenda Date: 03/16/2026
Prepared by:
Brandon Smith, Principal Planner, brandon.smith@visalia.gov, (559) 713-4636;
Margie Perez, Housing Specialist, margie.perez@visalia.gov, (559) 713-4460;
Paul Bernal, Planning and Community Preservation Director, paul.bernal@visalia.gov, (559) 713-4025;
Department Recommendation:
Receive the staff report and presentation, and provide staff with comments and/or direction on whether to proceed with filing an application for the City of Visalia to receive a Prohousing Designation with HCD. If staff receives direction to file an application, then the City Council will need to provide additional input and direction on which additional Prohousing policies staff shall pursue and complete in order to achieve the total score of 30 points, or more for a jurisdiction to be eligible for a "bonus award" in the Prohousing Incentive Program.
Summary:
The purpose of this work session is to provide the City Council with an overview of the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Prohousing Designation Program, and to seek direction on whether to file an application in order to receive this "Designation". Benefits of receiving a "Prohousing Designation" include earning additional scoring points in many state funding programs, and access to the Prohousing Incentive Program (PIP) which offers exclusive, additional non-competitive funding to assist jurisdictions to assist with implementing housing policies. A Prohousing Designation supports the City's strategic goals of demonstrating economic strength, displaying organizational excellence, and pursuing infrastructure ...
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