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completed. He added that additional Zoning capacity is available in Downtown, EI Camino, and Veterans corridor but the truth is that increases in supply are not enough given the demand. Mr. Aknin also explained the Stay in Place Programs, Fire Safety First Program and the Accessory Dwelling Unit process. He then covered all the Affordable Housing projects/initiatives which include: One Marina Housing Development, Partnership Redwood City, the Community Benefits (which will include Affordable Housing), participation in a Countywide Nexus Study, the Bradford Street Site (Downtown), and the EI Camino Area Plan. He also added that the State Take-Away is impacting Redwood City and the City continues to pursue $10 Million in Affordable Housing Funds taken away by the State. Mr. Aknin explained the possibilities around the Habitat for Humanity project and the City participation in a Downtown Redwood City affordable housing development project. The final strategy shared was the Utility Users Tax (UUT) and its potential use of expanded UUT for the provision of Affordable Housing. Dr. Bell clarified details about the UUT proposal and how the funding would be limited. He also spoke about the Stay in Place Programs covering the possibility of a partnership with California Tri-County Apartment Association and property owners to stabilize rents. Public Comment Joshua Hugg, Program Manager with the Housing Leadership Council, commended the City Council on the work being considered here and complimented staff on doing a good job. He commented that demand seems insatiable and there is a deficit on the affordable end for housing. Stacy Laumann, representing Habitat for Humanity for Greater San Francisco area, acknowledged the work and discussion about the Housing Plan and how it is needed. She spoke of her positive experience and working relationship with staff. One Council Member inquired about the Stay in Place Programs. Mr. Aknin explained what is currently in the books and Dr. Bell explained that on the Fire Safety Program the rent would be stabilized for the renter in the units that have the sprinklers. Dr. Bell said that staff is trying to incentivize the landowners to opt into the program for their benefit. One Council Member inquired if there has been enough marketing of the program. This Council Member also asked about the Accessory Dwelling Units and Mr. Aknin said that it will come back around the summer time. One Council Member inquired if the Fire Safety Program has been tried in other communities and Dr. Bell said that this seems to be a first. One Council Member said that she spoke with Rhovy Lynn, Tri County Apartments, and she would like to work as much as possible with Redwood City. She suggested inviting that organization to come to a meeting and invite them to partner with us. Another Council Member thanked the Mayor and the City Manager for bringing this forward. He said that Redwood City has had a great history of Affordable Housing and he is excited to see the tradition continued. He commented positively on the First Safety program. JOINT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD February 9, 2015 MEETING MINUTES MINUTE BOOK NO. 65 PAGE 5 Page No. 330