Long Beach · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Long Beach public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Commission Workplan Priorities
Commissioners brainstormed what the Technology and Innovation Commission should tackle in 2027, with AI governance, cybersecurity, data sovereignty, vendor data requirements, and public GIS dashboards emerging as leading themes. A new ad hoc committee will turn these ideas into a formal workplan by December.
Battery energy storage systems citywide policy
The city's zoning code doesn't mention battery storage facilities, so the commission affirmed they'll be treated like electrical substations — requiring conditional use permits in most zones. Commissioners added requirements for project-specific risk analyses and early coordination with fire and other departments, especially for applicants using the state's opt-in program that bypasses local zoning.
Inclusionary housing in the coastal zone
The council accepted Coastal Commission-required changes to the inclusionary housing ordinance so affordable housing rules can finally take effect in the coastal zone — a process that takes another year or two of state review.
Cannabis special events regulation
The council advanced rules letting cannabis event organizers host permitted events, capped at 12 per organizer per year. It passed 6-2 after residents raised safety, staffing, and transparency concerns.
Just Cause Eviction Policy and Tenant Protections
At least 217 tenants have been displaced through substantial-remodel evictions since the policy passed. Committee members are exploring higher relocation assistance, rights of first return, and narrowing exemptions — but staff cautioned enforcement would require new staffing and funding.
Downtown plan rezoning gap for Anaheim Street corridor parcels
The project site hasn't been rezoned to match its high-density general plan designation; it's using PD-30 standards by right under SB 330 until the downtown plan update rezoning happens later this year.