Council Candidate Forum

The following responses were received prior to the deadline for answering the first forum question: How would you resolve the state’s goal for adding
affordable housing units in Mission Viejo?

James Edward “Jim” Woodin: I would place the Citizens Initiative allowing voters the right to vote on high-density housing in commercial zones on the ballot as a first measure of business if I were elected to the council. Additionally, the solution to affordable housing in Mission Viejo lies in the after- sale market through apartment and condominium conversions in our built-out city.

Michael Ferrall: Future affordable housing should come from converting existing market-rate units. I oppose any new construction of affordable welfare housing that other owners and taxpayers end up paying for. The push for new high-density affordable housing does not represent the “Mission Viejo Promise” that attracted homebuyers during the last 40 years.

Councilman John Paul Ledesma: In meeting state requirements my bias is towards having the least impact on current home values, ownership over rentals and conversion of existing units as opposed to changing zoning. I ‘m legally obligated, and I will fairly consider all proposals.

Councilwoman Trish Kelley: California State Law specifies the required contents of a City’s housing element. When the State determines that a housing element satisfies the law, they "certify" it via the Department of Housing and Community Development. The State rescinded the City’s certification as they felt the City had not lived up to the rezoning promises that were made in the Housing Element. The City is working to satisfy the State on two fronts. The City, by action of the City Council is approving beneficial projects that offer first class, high quality affordable housing. The City Council has approved two townhome projects, in different parts of Mission Viejo. Each of these townhome
neighborhoods will offer a number of affordable, home ownership units, for a combined total of 60 affordable units. This leaves 96 units the City must provide in order to meet the State mandated number to bring us into compliance. I would like to meet part of that obligation through the renovation of existing apartment buildings, and the State would allow 25% of our additional units to be met through qualified renovations. Further the staff will be recommending revisions to the Housing Element. The City is studying other locations where
we may consider approving additional units. While we are nearly built out, the mandate is very real and non-compliance may make us vulnerable to litigation by housing advocacy groups.

We commend all of these candiates for providing their responses. The voters of Mission Viejo thank you!