Bay Area Cities Set Independent Deadlines for Local Governance Matters

Bay Area cities are establishing independent approval deadlines for local governance matters. This move is discussed in the context of environmental review processes, where the author argues that cities should not require permission from Sacramento to set firm deadlines on their own. The author notes that Proposition 45 put a clock on environmental review and subsequent lawsuits.

The trend relates to the long duration of environmental reviews, which have historically stalled housing projects. By setting local deadlines, cities aim to reduce delays and costs associated with the permitting process.