Beverly Hills Planning Commission Approves Streamlined Permit Process

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New construction projects in Beverly Hills under the Builder's Remedy initiative.

News Summary

The Beverly Hills Planning Commission has approved a draft resolution that introduces a streamlined permit process for Builder’s Remedy projects. This initiative aims to expedite construction approvals for developers who adhere to certain building standards while addressing the city’s need for affordable housing. The resolution, which received unanimous support, allows developers to bypass lengthy reviews by scaling back project sizes. However, the new regulations face opposition from local unions concerned about potential misuse of affordable housing provisions, highlighting ongoing debates about housing development in Beverly Hills.

Beverly Hills – The Beverly Hills Planning Commission voted unanimously on May 5 to approve a draft resolution that establishes a streamlined permit process for Builder’s Remedy projects. This new initiative is designed to fast-track approvals for developers willing to comply with specific building standards set by the city, allowing them to bypass a typically lengthy discretionary review that could last six to twelve months.

The ministerial permit process aims to expedite the approval of construction projects in exchange for developers scaling back the size of their proposed developments. Currently, 14 Builder’s Remedy projects are awaiting consideration in Beverly Hills, which were submitted during a period when the city lacked an approved housing element.

The Builder’s Remedy is a state law that permits developers to circumvent local development codes as long as a certain percentage of affordable housing units is included in their projects. However, many of these proposed projects in Beverly Hills do not align with existing zoning regulations. This has led to significant opposition from residents and city officials who argue that such developments conflict with the character of the city.

The City Council had previously addressed the need for a ministerial approval process on January 28, responding to community concerns about the impact of large developments. Under the new permit process, any projects that secure approval will be exempt from public hearings and will not require review under the California Environmental Quality Act. Moreover, these projects can avoid potential fines associated with development delays.

The new framework establishes specific standards, including a cap of 85 feet on building heights. Additional restrictions cover visibility from residential zones, limitations on late-night outdoor activities, and the use of amplified sound. Notably, only two of the 14 current Builder’s Remedy projects are designated as hotels, according to city staff statements made during the commission meeting.

Despite these new regulations, UNITE HERE Local 11, a union representing hospitality workers, has voiced strong opposition to the current version of the ministerial process. The union argues that the existing framework may create a loophole for hotel developers to misuse the affordable housing provisions, leading to an increase in hotel constructions instead of addressing the urgent need for affordable housing. This union is actively lobbying the Planning Commission to close this loophole to ensure the legislation truly supports the creation of affordable housing units.

Commissioner Gary Ross remarked that the ministerial permit process might offer advantages for both developers and residents by simplifying project approvals while also enhancing housing opportunities in the area. The draft resolution is set for review by the City Council, who will provide final approval after the commission’s initial recommendations.

Beverly Hills is currently processing a considerable number of development applications under the Builder’s Remedy, driven by pressure from state housing authorities as California grapples with a historic housing shortage. The city has faced ongoing challenges in reconciling local interests with state-mandated housing requirements and has endured criticism regarding its approach to new housing developments.

This draft ordinance aims to better align proposed Builder’s Remedy projects with prevailing architectural styles and community needs, seeking to balance the objectives of housing development with the preservation of Beverly Hills’ unique character. With ongoing debates surrounding affordable housing and development in the area, the outcome of this new permit process will likely be closely monitored by both city officials and community members alike.