The Prohousing Designation application consists of:
- Appendix 1: The formal resolution authorizing the City to apply for a Prohousing Designation (Note: this will be completed at the conclusion of the public comment period)
- Appendix 2: Proposed policy completion schedule (for programs not yet completed)
- Appendix 3: Project proposal scoring sheet (and sample project proposal scoring sheet)
- Appendix 4: Examples of prohousing policies with enhancement factors
- Appendix 5: Any additional information and supporting documentation
The scoring sheet evaluates policies across the following categories:
- Favorable Zoning and Land Use
- Acceleration of Housing Production Timeframes
- Reduction of Construction and Development Costs
- Providing Financial Subsidies
A minimum of 30 points must be reached to achieve a Prohousing Designation.
Public Comment and Application Process
The draft Prohousing Designation Application was first posted for a 30-day public comment from June 2 through July 2, 2025. During that time, the City received informal feedback from the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) that resulted in updates to the application and inclusion of Appendix 5: Homelessness. As a result of these further revisions, the application was posted for a second 30-day public comment period, from July 8 through August 8, 2025.
The City Council conducted a public hearing to consider and authorize transmittal of the application on August 19, 2025. The agenda, minutes, and meeting video can be accessed at www.ci.benicia.ca.us/agendas.
