Housing

The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works begins the process of untangling the bureaucratic red tape of permitting to speed the pace of infrastructure improvements and housing initiatives which often leverages bond proceeds.

San Francisco's commercial real estate struggles, Oakland's looming bankruptcy concerns, and the broader economic headwinds facing the Bay Area take center stage in this episode. Chris Thornberg of Beacon Economics and public policy analyst Marc Joffe join senior reporter Keeley Webster to discuss the impact of hybrid work trends, housing shortages, tax policies, and what it will take for these cities to stabilize their financial futures.

Gloria's pointed comments about the county's responsibility caused a stir in the days since he delivered the speech, which sets the table for budget talks in coming months.

As the Trump administration fills out it cabinet positions, advocates for housing affordability are feeling hopeful but cautious.

Kotek has spent the past month working on a very busy agenda involving housing, fires, transportation and construction labor agreements.

The groups are taking advantage of the Committee's invitation to address tax teams.

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle support some level of encouraging cities and states to revamp local zoning codes to encourage more affordable housing.

The estimated $100 million raised annually from the 0.5% tax increase on the Nov. 5 ballot could be used to back bonds for affordable housing.

The possibility of moving stalled housing bills forward combined with promises of down payment assistance is offering hope to housing advocates.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom fast-tracked the first $3.3 billion of a bond measure approved by voters in March.