In a groundbreaking effort to tackle the Bay Area’s ongoing housing crisis, Antioch is taking concrete steps to ensure more residents can access affordable housing. The city council recently approved a draft ordinance that would require developers to dedicate 15% of new housing units as below market-rate, signaling a commitment to creating more inclusive urban spaces.

The proposed ordinance, which has been in discussion since July 2024, aims to address longstanding socio-economic disparities by mandating that new residential projects with 11 or more units include affordable housing options. Mayor Ron Bernal emphasized the importance of developing housing solutions that cater to all income levels, calling it a “long overdue step” in community development.

Under the proposed regulations, developers will have multiple pathways to comply. They can either directly include affordable units in their projects, pay into an in-lieu fee program, or contribute to a newly established housing trust fund. These mechanisms are designed to create flexible yet meaningful approaches to increasing affordable housing stock.

The ordinance’s framework goes beyond mere unit allocation. It includes provisions for ongoing income verification to ensure that affordable housing benefits genuinely reach those who need them most. Interim Community and Economic Development Director David A. Storer explained that the system will require residents to report their income, preventing individuals who have significantly increased their earnings from continuing to occupy below-market-rate units.

This initiative aligns with broader regional goals, including compliance with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s Transit Oriented Communities policy. By implementing these regulations, Antioch is positioning itself as a progressive leader in addressing housing inequity.

Public hearings will be scheduled to allow community input, reflecting a transparent and collaborative approach to policy-making. The city council’s proactive stance suggests a commitment to creating stronger, more economically diverse neighborhoods that can serve residents across different income brackets.

As the Bay Area continues to grapple with skyrocketing housing costs, Antioch’s proposed ordinance represents a promising model for municipal action in making housing more accessible and equitable.