Public Housing Concerns

Sonora, CA — The City of Sonora heard some of the public’s concerns about the housing situation in the community.

Sonora’s Planning Commission held an open house this past Monday to get public opinion on whether there are any income groups not currently being served. The feedback will aid the city in drafting a Housing Element update for the General Plan.

Community Development Director Rachelle Kellogg called the turn out a “good showing” as about 20 people attended the meeting. She says, “We had residents that were especially concerned about smoking and multi-family housing, including the impact of second hand smoke. We also had individuals that were curious about housing in general. Also we had some involved more with the senior housing issues in the city.”

State law requires communities to identify and analyze existing and projected housing needs in their five years General Plans. The initial Housing Element draft will be reviewed by the Planning Commission at its March meeting. Then State will review it and can make changes. Kellogg says the final draft is expected to go before the Sonora City Counsel in June. The public will be able to submit comments to the City’s Community Development Department throughout the process.

The Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors Housing Policy Committee will also hold a meeting to discuss existing and future housing needs for tomorrow. Click here for more information.