Ventura Invites Public Review of Draft Prohousing Designation Application

The City of Ventura released its draft application for the California Prohousing Designation Program on July 2, opening a 30-day public comment period from July 8 through August 8, 2026, according to a city press release.

The Prohousing Designation Program is a voluntary state program that recognizes local governments that have adopted policies to support housing opportunities and reduce barriers to development. Cities and counties that receive the designation become more competitive for certain state grant funding programs supporting infrastructure, transportation, housing, parks, and other community improvements.

"The City is committed to providing a transparent process and meaningful opportunities for public participation," Community Development Director Rachel Dimond said in the July 2 release. "We encourage community members to learn more about the Prohousing Designation Program, review the draft application, and share their feedback before the application is finalized."

The draft application summarizes Ventura's existing housing-related policies, programs, and actions that align with the state's criteria. Many of these come from the city's 2021-2029 Housing Element. The application does not propose new development projects, amend existing zoning or land use regulations, or establish new housing requirements, according to the release.

Ventura will host a Prohousing Designation Community Workshop on Wednesday, July 8, at 6 p.m. in the Community Meeting Room at Ventura City Hall, 501 Poli Street, Second Floor. The workshop will provide an overview of the program, explain the draft application, and offer attendees an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback.

Additional public review opportunities include the Housing and Homelessness Subcommittee Meeting on July 13, the Planning Commission Meeting on July 22, and the City Council Meeting on August 25, where the final application will be presented for consideration before submission to the California Department of Housing and Community Development.

Beginning July 8, the draft application, frequently asked questions, workshop information, and instructions for submitting comments will be available at cityofventura.ca.gov/ProHousing. Comments may be submitted through an online form or by email to HousingServices@cityofventura.ca.gov. Spanish translation will be available with prior registration.

The Prohousing Designation is separate from the city's housing element and general plan obligations. It functions as a competitive advantage for state funding rather than a regulatory requirement. Several California cities have pursued the designation since the program launched, with HCD evaluating applicants on criteria including land use policies, zoning practices, permitting processes, and anti-displacement measures.

Ventura's application comes as the city works to meet its Regional Housing Needs Allocation of nearly 4,000 units for the current planning cycle ending in 2029. The city recently approved the 75-unit Thompson Court Apartments project on East Thompson Boulevard and has several other multifamily developments in the pipeline.

The public comment period closes August 8. All comments received will be considered before the application is finalized and presented to the City Council on August 25.