The question posed in one panel at the California Chapter, American Planning Association, conference last week was whether the California Environmental Quality Act should live or die. Everybody had a paddle – not to swat each other, but to vote yes or no. And despite the fact that most of the people in the room make their living as CEQA practitioners, the vote was surprisingly close.

A roundup -- and explanation -- of all the relevant planning and legislation that will beome law this year.

Governor said the legislation had too many bells and whistles on it.

Newsom now has 30 days to sign or veto the bills.

The proposed Esmeralda development in Cloverdale hopes to realize a large-scale New Urbanist Vision

Up and down the state, lifeless '60s City Halls and other buildings are being connected to existing activity districts

SANDAG used a different methodology and therefore did not include Solana Beach and downgraded Oceanside Transit Center. YIMBYs say the methodology did not follow state aw.

Although the federal government doesn't directly control land use, the new law contains many provisions that California planners need to know about -- including a CDBG penalty if housing isn't produced. Here's the rundown.

San Francisco and San Jose have gotten their alternative plans approved. Los Angeles and San Diego took the deferral route.

The city was supposed to adopt the Baylands Specific Plan by May 18 but now says it won't be able to do so until fall. HCD has threatened fines and other enforcement action.

The city finally approved its 2021-2029 housing element. But compliance depends on whether a judge and HCD will accept a vastly increased overlay system.

Affordable housing developers say it helps them. But economic development folks say it hurts their efforts and may actually decrease the amount of housing built.