Cities prepare suit against SB9
by Garth Meyer Redondo Beach City Attorney Mike Webb is drafting a lawsuit to block SB 9, the state law that allows single-family lots to be split, for development of two to four houses. The city council voted unanimously in December to file the suit, which Carson and Torrance have agreed to join. Webb anticipates filing within six weeks. “SB9 is just a giant upzoning across the entire state,” said Redondo Beach Mayor Bill Brand, who is leading an initiative effort to overturn SB 9. Historically, cities have controlled local zoning. SB 9 proponents contend state action is necessary because cities have failed to zone for adequate affordable housing. “The state has the right to make rules on municipal affairs, only as a matter of statewide concern,” Webb said. “A (policy like SB9) has to be narrowly tailored to avoid interfering with local government. And I don’t think SB 9 is either of those things.” The new law does not mandate affordable housing be built on split lots. Its supporters contend property values will fall as a result of an increase in the supply of housing. Opponents contend that Southern California’s high property values discourage development of affordable housing…
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