BIA Presentation at Planning Commission

on 2026 LDC

The 2026 Land Development Code (note, this was renamed to align with the expected year of adoption) went to Planning Commission on February 19^th. The BIA presented a number of priority items via an organized presentation, and we want to express our sincere thanks to the members who graciously attended to cede time to Urban Council Chair John Allen and CEO Aimee Faucett. Commissioners were overwhelmingly responsive to the feedback provided in our letter, a coalition letter we signed on to, and our presentation which resulted in positive outcomes for the future of building in the City. Changes made in the hearing include removal of the transition plane language, removal of confusing plant preservation language, and significant amendments to the DIF waiver for small units and setback requirements. We are grateful to the Commissioners and Planning Department staff for a collaborative discussion that demonstrated a real understanding of our concerns and the need to prioritize clarity. The LDC is expected to be before Land Use & Housing on March 5^th.

Preservation & Progress Package A Success

Following a lengthy policy development process originating with the Historic Resources Board Policy Subcommittee, the first half of historic reform, titled Preservation & Progress passed out of Council on a 5-1 vote. While the proposal did not include the more substantive reforms that would protect our projects from 11^th hour, unfounded historic challenges, it does streamline and update the governance of the historic process and is a valuable first step. The BIA was present and vocal at every public hearing for the item and was pleased by the pro-housing sentiment from the majority of Councilmembers. Of note, Package B, which will include the more important proposals, is expected to begin formulation later this year. Tyler Martin of the Urban Council will lead the ad-hoc group that will analyze and engage on that package and interested parties are encouraged to reach out to him or BIA staff.

San:San Diego Loosens Rules for Historic Homes, Hoping to Boost New Housing

"Developers and city officials praised the changes as modest and sensible reforms that will boost the impact of dozens of pro-housing updates and policies the council has approved in recent years."

"Stefanie Benvenuto of the Building Industry Association said the changes will help avoid projects getting delayed or abandoned because of confusion about how city policies work. “What our industry looks for is certainty, predictability and clarity,” Benvenuto said. “This is a very modest but very important step forward in that process and will help enhance all of the pro housing work this council and administration have already done.”"

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