Southern California Mayors Gather to Address Housing Crisis Solutions and Strategies

On August 4, 2025, four mayors from Southern California convened in Costa Mesa for a pivotal discussion on the housing crisis facing the region. The event was hosted by the Center for California Real Estate (CCRE) and aimed at exploring innovative solutions to combat the ongoing challenges related to housing access and affordability.

The Panelists and Their Insights

The panel featured a distinguished group of civic leaders: Mayor Scott Voigt of Lake Forest, Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen of Westminster, Mayor Pro Tem Cecilia Hupp of Brea, and Mayor Pro Tem John Nielsen of Tustin. Moderated by Phil Hawkins, the CEO of the California Association of Realtors, the mayors shared firsthand accounts of the hurdles their cities encounter while navigating the complexities of state mandates, local resources, and community needs.

Key Topics of Discussion

One of the main areas of focus was the severe impact of state-imposed housing mandates on local municipalities. Mayor Voigt expressed concern about the challenges of meeting ambitious housing targets without straining existing resources and infrastructure. The discussion highlighted the delicate balance between adhering to state requirements and maintaining the character of their communities.

Brea’s Mayor Pro Tem Cecilia Hupp reinforced these challenges by emphasizing the economic barriers faced when constructing affordable housing. She pointed out that the costs of building affordable homes are often significantly higher than market-rate homes, primarily due to state mandates for sustainability features and labor regulations.

Innovative Strategies for Sustainable Housing

Despite the hurdles, the mayors presented various innovative strategies to address these pressing issues. They discussed the potential of adaptive reuse of existing structures, streamlined permitting for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and developing mixed-use areas that can accommodate a greater number of residents while preserving community aesthetics. The increasing utilization of pre-approved plans for ADUs was also emphasized as a means to expedite housing development without abrupt disruptions to neighborhoods.

Mayor Voigt highlighted the success of Lake Forest, which has already met its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) goals, showcasing proactive planning initiatives, such as the redevelopment of the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro into a large residential area.

The Importance of Infrastructure

Infrastructure planning was another critical point brought to the forum. Mayors noted that adequate water access and management are necessary for supporting housing growth, especially in regions susceptible to droughts and wildfires. Tustin’s Mayor Pro Tem John Nielsen stressed the collaboration with various water districts to ensure that new projects have sufficient water access to maintain public health and safety.

Wildfire Preparedness Initiatives

With the increasing risks of wildfires in Southern California, mayors are now prioritizing wildfire preparedness. They shared proactive measures being implemented in their cities to bolster safety and mitigate risks. Initiatives included mandating defensible space around homes and collaborating with fire departments for community education on fire prevention. Hupp provided insights on Brea's policies to maintain safety zones, which have become vital in urban settings prone to fire threats.

Addressing Homeowners Insurance Challenges

As the discussion progressed, Hawkins drew attention to another pressing concern: the homeowners insurance crisis affecting California. With many insurance companies exiting the market, the panelists acknowledged the growing challenges for homeowners in securing affordable coverage. The groups recognized these discussions' urgency at both community and state levels.

Conclusion: A Call for Collaboration

The forum concluded with a passionate plea for collaborative efforts between local governments, REALTORS®, and residents to devise sustainable housing policies. Mayors emphasized that real reform requires a united front to navigate the complexities of zoning laws and housing demands effectively. The active involvement of REALTORS® was deemed essential in advocating for community interests and driving solutions that address these pressing housing issues.

For ongoing dialogues and resources on overcoming California's housing challenges, visit CCRE.