California gubernatorial candidates Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton are presenting contrasting housing strategies to address the state’s ongoing affordability crisis, each proposing different approaches to accelerate development and reduce costs.
Hilton’s Proposal: New Cities and Fee Caps
Steve Hilton plans to establish 10 new cities, with counties competing to host their construction. He argues this approach would lessen opposition by allowing municipalities to opt out of participation. Each proposed city would center around employment hubs like universities or research centers, according to his campaign materials.
Hilton identifies the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as a major barrier, proposing reforms to prevent housing projects from being delayed by private lawsuits. He also opposes transit-oriented development laws like Senate Bill 79, criticizing top-down state mandates on city building permissions.
The candidate emphasizes single-family housing and first-time homebuyers, suggesting fee reductions could significantly lower costs. He claims government fees add approximately $200,000 to new single-family home prices and proposes capping these fees at $50,000. On his first day in office, he would direct his administration to identify cost reductions through legislative and administrative reforms.
Becerra’s Strategy: Emergency Declaration and Accountability
Xavier Becerra would declare California’s housing shortage a state of emergency, directing his administration to find ways to reduce building costs. He supports expanding the benefits of SB 79 by seeking to end exclusionary zoning around additional transit and high-opportunity areas.
Becerra advocates for laws enabling “missing middle” housing options such as duplexes and condos, traditionally lower-cost alternatives. He plans to maintain pressure on cities failing to meet housing targets, continuing actions taken during his tenure as state attorney general. His campaign supports Proposition 37, a $25 billion down payment assistance program, and Proposition 1, an $11.3 billion affordable housing bond.
Proposition 1 allocates most funds, $7.2 billion, to low-interest loans for purchasing, constructing, or renovating rental housing, requiring some units to remain income-restricted. It also supports supportive housing for individuals transitioning from homelessness, as noted by the state Legislative Analyst’s Office.
Both candidates acknowledge that fees, approval delays, and permitting issues contribute to high housing costs, yet each proposes distinct systemic changes to address the problem.
