Land Use and Housing Committee - 2026-01-14
Meeting Intelligence Preview
Meeting Summary
The Land Use and Housing Committee approved Preservation and Progress Package A, a comprehensive update to San Diego's Heritage Preservation Program, with direction to monitor the new 'findings not supported' appeal standard. The committee also forwarded a one-year contract extension with Ace Parking for the EVJ Parkade at 1265 First Avenue to full council without recommendation due to concerns about last-minute contract renewals.
Key Decisions (2)
Preservation and Progress Package A - Heritage Preservation Program Update
Approved amendments to the Land Development Code, Historic Preservation Element and Appendix F of the General Plan, and Historic Preservation Fund. Key changes include adding a 'findings not supported' appeal standard allowing City Council to reconsider HRB designations, clarifying that Complete Communities housing is allowed in thematic and emerging historic districts on non-contributing parcels, extending HRB chair appointment deadline to April 30th, and focusing preservation fund on equity initiatives.
Ace Parking Contract Extension - EVJ Parkade
First amendment to contract with Ace Parking 3 LLC for parking management services at 1265 First Avenue (Council District 3). One-year extension through February 10, 2027 at $21,685 per month ($260,220 total). Original five-year contract from 2021 expiring February 10, 2026.
Development Activity (1)
Complete Communities Housing in Ocean Beach Cottage Emerging Historical District
Clarification that Complete Communities housing solutions can be utilized on approximately 2,900+ non-contributing parcels within the district boundary. Only 72 parcels (2.4%) are designated contributing resources and remain protected.
Market Signals (4)
Housing Demand
Greater Golden Hill has exceeded its 6th housing cycle goal by more than 100 units three years early, with 1,504 units versus the 1,401 unit target, indicating strong development pressure in communities of concern.
Housing Demand
Public testimony indicated Ocean Beach commercial district has more vacant retail than any other beach community in San Diego, with speakers counting 10-20 vacant storefronts regularly.
Sentiment
Strong community opposition to historic preservation reforms with approximately 100 written comments showing 8-to-1 opposition, though Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve and building industry groups supported the changes.
Infrastructure
Concerns raised about aging infrastructure in historic districts including Greater Golden Hill, with Complete Communities developers exempt from contributing to neighborhood-wide improvements for roads, sidewalks, and utility systems.