Affordable Housing

Linkage Fee Nexus Studies

Since 1986, DRA has been a nationally recognized expert in the creation and economic analyses required for the adoption of commercial development linkage fees in support of local housing trust funds. DRA has assisted more than 30 jurisdictions in conducting linkage fee analyses consistent with the provisions of state law, as well as the United States Supreme Court decisions in Nollan v. California Coastal Commission and Dolan v. City of Tigard. DRA has conducted commercial development nexus analyses and drafted linkage fee ordinances to support local housing trust funds. DRA provided expert economic litigation support to defend the adoption of nexus fees before the U.S. Supreme Court.

City of San Diego Nexus Study

DRA led the effort by the City of San Diego to conduct an economic nexus analysis and housing assistance policy study to support a fee on commercial development to mitigate resultant demand for affordable housing. DRA assisted the City in complex, technical analysis and extensive negotiations with a citizens' advisory task force. DRA performed a detailed housing affordability gap analysis, provided the overall housing policy framework for structuring the linked development fee ordinance and housing assistance programs supported by linkage fee revenue, drafted the City ordinance, and provided guidance and strategic planning assistance for the City citizens' advisory task force and the City Council. The Council adopted DRA’s recommendations.

City of Oakland Nexus Study

DRA completed a nexus analysis for the creation of a commercial linkage fee for the City of Oakland. DRA conducted an affordable housing gap analysis, developed justifiable nexus fee calculations and economic impact analyses, and projected potential revenues from a commercial linkage fee. The City of Oakland adopted its commercial linkage fee ordinance in 2002, based on DRA’s analysis, in a contentious political environment.