California’s housing crisis is at the center of a legal dispute between the state and Huntington Beach, as a recent development puts the lawsuit back on a fast track. A three-judge panel at California’s 4th Circuit Court of Appeal has instructed a lower court to expedite proceedings, asserting that Huntington Beach’s status as a charter city does not exempt it from the state’s efforts to address the housing shortage, according to a report from the Los Angeles Times.
Led by Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta, Governor Gavin Newsom and the state Department of Housing and Community Development, the lawsuit alleges that Huntington Beach violated state law by rejecting a plan designed to accommodate the region’s anticipated population growth. The City’s refusal to comply with state laws addressing the housing crisis has drawn repeated criticism.
The legal battle began when Huntington Beach voted against zoning for approximately 13,400 additional housing units, prompting the city to seek federal protection. In federal court, the City argued that state-mandated housing assessments infringed on its authority as a charter city, violating constitutional rights. However, a federal judge rejected these claims, leading to the resumption of the state lawsuit.
The 4th Circuit panel emphasized that charter cities, like Huntington Beach, must adhere to state law in adopting general plans, including a housing element. While the recent action doesn’t determine the case’s merits, it sets the stage for an expedited continuation, unless the city convinces the courts to halt the lawsuit on other grounds.
Huntington Beach City Attorney Michael E. Gates disputes the court’s interpretation, stating that the City will challenge rulings applying state law to charter cities. Despite the legal hurdles, the City remains determined to defend its position.
The court’s decision reaffirms that all cities, including charter cities, are subject to the same legal standards in addressing housing issues. The outcome of this legal battle will have broader implications for cities across California as they grapple with housing challenges. A hearing on allowing the state’s lawsuit to proceed is scheduled for Jan. 26.
