HCD Announces a New Dashboard for Housing Element Implementation Reviews Currently Underway

The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is excited to launch the Housing Accountability Unit’s new Housing Element Implementation Dashboard. The Dashboard tracks the local jurisdictions that HCD is currently reviewing to ensure they are implementing key 6th Cycle Housing Element programs. 

What are housing element programs, and why are they important?

As a critical part of the Housing Accountability Unit, the Housing Element Implementation team systematically monitors implementation of the key program actions that each jurisdiction identified and committed to taking in their adopted housing elements. These programs are essential strategies for cities and counties to promote housing production at all income levels, preserve existing affordable housing, and protect tenants from displacement across the state. The timeframe for HCD’s review varies depending on complexity of the jurisdiction’s housing element programs.

What happens when a local jurisdiction has not implemented its programs?

If HCD identifies programs that a local jurisdiction has not implemented, HCD may request additional information and a reasonable timeline for completion and will provide technical assistance as needed. If a local jurisdiction fails to take timely corrective action, HCD may progress to enforcement, including potentially revoking its finding of Housing Element compliance. If a jurisdiction does not have a compliant housing element, it is subject to the “Builder’s Remedy,” is ineligible for certain state funding programs, and may be subject to statutory penalties.