On Friday, Governor Newsom announced a lawsuit against the city of Huntington Beach because of its failure to meet housing goals.

I have spent the weekend discussing this issue with the Governor's office and with the Councilmembers of Huntington Beach. Following these conversations, I am hopeful that we can resolve this issue outside of the courts.

The City of Huntington Beach has affirmed their commitment to work with the California Department of Housing and Community Development regarding meeting the City's Regional Housing Needs Assessment.

Nearly all the cities and counties in California - 97.6 percent based on the state's latest report - are failing to meet their housing goals. When 97 percent of cities and counties in the state are failing to meet our goals, it's clear that we need a new approach to housing. In that assessment, Governor Newsom and I are aligned. But we disagree on the best way to address this crisis.

I believe that this lawsuit is contrary to the thoughtful, deliberate and strategic approach that is required if we are to genuinely address California's housing crisis.

To address our housing crisis, we need big ideas and bold leadership, but we do not need to waste time and taxpayer dollars in the courts.

I will continue to work with Governor Newsom, Attorney General Becerra and the city of Huntington Beach to negotiate a fair and productive resolution.

As always, my commitment is first to my constituents, if you have any concerns about this lawsuit - or any state-related issues - please reach out to my office (714) 668-2100.

Yours faithfully,
Cottie Petrie-Norris
California State Assemblywoman, AD74