Council Opposes Controversial Housing Bill

PLEASANTON, CA — The Pleasanton City Council said it would not support a controversial bill introduced for the third year in a row, which would force communities to build more, denser housing in areas near public transportation and housing, unless it is amended, Pleasanton Weekly reported.

Critics of Senate Bill 50, authored by Democratic state Sen. Scott Wiener of San Francisco, argue local governments would have less control over housing. Weiner contends that the bill will help the Golden State address its housing shortage, make rents cheaper, reduce traffic and lower greenhouse gas emissions, CalMatters reported.

"If our community members were asked to vote on SB 50, which would allow four-plexes in both of your neighbors' properties, along with the threat to our historic downtown and parking restrictions, I know my community would not support this," said Councilwoman Julie Testa, Pleasanton Weekly reported.

Councilmembers worried the bill would make it harder for them to legislate and force additional housing downtown, since it is near an Altamont Corrdior Express stop, Pleasanton Weekly reported.

Read more at Pleasanton Weekly.