Press Release
Thursday, July 16, 2026City of Turlock Provides Housing Element Update Following State Legal Filing
TURLOCK, CA | July 16 - The City of Turlock is aware of the legal action recently filed by the California Attorney General regarding the City's Housing Element. While the legal process will proceed independently, the City also believes it is important that residents understand where the Housing Element process stands today.The City remains focused on achieving compliance with California Housing Element Law by adopting a Housing Element that meets state requirements while supporting the long-term needs of the Turlock community.
Over the past several months, City staff have made significant progress in advancing the Housing Element through the State review process. HCD's most recent review confirmed that the City's revised Housing Element addresses the statutory requirements identified in the Department's previous review. The remaining step before HCD can make a finding of substantial compliance is completion and adoption of the required rezoning necessary to implement the Housing Element.
Housing Element compliance is a multi-step planning process that includes technical review, revisions, public hearings, implementing zoning actions, and final review by HCD. Throughout that process, City staff have continued refining the Housing Element, preparing the required rezoning actions, and advancing the work necessary to complete the process.
The required rezoning package is anticipated to be presented to the Planning Commission on August 6th for recommendation, followed by public hearing on August 11th and final consideration on August 25th.
"The City has made significant progress toward Housing Element compliance, and we have a clear path forward. This process has involved a substantial amount of planning and technical work, and City staff have worked diligently to bring us to this point. Our focus now is on completing the remaining public process, achieving Housing Element compliance, and continuing to plan responsibly for Turlock's long-term future."
— Dr. John J. (J.J.) Murphy, City Manager
To provide additional context for residents and members of the media, the City is releasing HCD's most recent correspondence regarding its review of the Housing Element. The letter reflects the progress made to date, outlines the remaining procedural steps before a finding of substantial compliance can be made, and provides additional context regarding the path toward Housing Element compliance.
The City looks forward to completing the remaining public process in the coming weeks and achieving Housing Element compliance.
###
Download PDF version of this press release
Back to Press Releases