Kern County 2015-2023 Housing Element Update

The County of Kern has updated the Housing Element of the General Plan in accordance to State law for the planning period 2015-2023. The Housing Element provides an identification and analysis of existing and projected housing needs and a statement of goals, policies, and implementation programs that enable Kern County to meet its share of Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), including the needs of special needs groups and all economic segments of the County.

The Housing Element of the General Plan has two purposes:

1. To provide an assessment of both current and future housing needs and constraints in meeting resident’s needs.
2. To provide a strategy that establishes housing goals, policies, and programs.

This Housing Element represents Kern County’s long-term commitment to the development and improvement of housing. This element identifies strategies and programs that focus on:

1. Preserving and improving housing and neighborhoods.
2. Providing adequate housing sites.
3. Assisting in the provision of affordable housing.
4. Removing governmental and other constraints to housing investment.
5. Promoting fair and equal housing opportunities.

Certified Housing Element 2015-2023 (13.2 MB)

Additional Public Meetings

The Planning and Natural Resources Department is holding public meetings to receive additional comments from the community regarding the Housing Element Update at the following locations:

Public Meetings

The Kern County Planning and Community Department is holding a public meeting of the Draft Housing Element for review and to receive comment.

Previous Community Outreach

The Planning and Natural Resources Department conducted a series of community outreach meetings throughout the County at the locations listed below.

Please note – The address for the July 20, 2015 meeting at the Wasco Veteran’s Hall has been revised.