Monday, March 17, 2008

Emerging Issue: The Governor's Strategic Growth Council

The Governor has proposed the creation of a “Strategic Growth Council.” This builds upon a concept that emerged last year in the Legislature: the Sustainable Communities Council.

As proposed, the Council would manage funding programs, including $90 million Urban Greening and $90 million Land Use Planning Incentives from Proposition 84, as well as a new proposed water bond.

Chaired by the Director of the Office of Planning and Research, the Council will consist of the Secretaries from four state agencies (Resources; Environmental Protection; Business, Transportation and Housing; Food and Agriculture). The five-member Council will help state agencies allocate Strategic Growth Plan money in ways that best promote efficiency, sustainability, and support the Governor's economic and environmental goals.

As proposed, the Council would:

· Award and manage grants and loans from Proposition 84 funds to support the development of sustainable communities. The Council's responsibilities will include establishing application requirements and evaluation criteria

· Coordinate the four member state agencies as they undertake infrastructure and development projects to encourage sustainable land use, protect natural resources, improve air and water quality, increase the availability of affordable housing, improve transportation, and meet the goals of the Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32)

· Recommend policies to the Governor, the Legislature, and state agencies that encourage sustainable development

· Collect and provide data to local governments to help them develop and plan sustainable communities. While the state has little direct say in local land-use planning, the Council will provide leadership and support for locals

This Council idea is being carried forward in Senate Bill 732 (Steinberg). We will be tracking this as it moves through the Legislature and will let you know when there is an opportunity to engage in the development or progress of this concept.

More information can be found here: Strategic Growth Plan

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