T
he Fullerton City Council is facing a January 31 deadline to approve a plan that would accommodate around 13,000 new residential units, a 30% increase in housing stock. The city has already lost an appeal against the state's mandate and is at risk of lawsuits, fines, and loss of state funds if it fails to comply. Mayor Nick Dunlap acknowledged the significant increase, but the council remains uncertain about approving the rezoning plan.

    The city planners have proposed a "housing incentive overlay zone" that would allow residential projects in areas currently zoned for commercial or industrial use. However, one condition is that at least 10% of units must be affordable housing, which some council members consider insufficient. Councilmember Ahmad Zarha expressed concerns about the affordability requirement, saying it should be higher.

    Residents have also raised concerns about traffic congestion expected with denser housing. The City Council has asked staff to draw up plans to reduce density in affected areas and review them at a public meeting next month. Councilmember Fred Jung requested more precise numbers and options before presenting the plan to the state. The next council meeting is scheduled for December 3.