Seven cities will now get preference for state housing programs -- and more cities will soon be designated.

Local governments must put together a report each year on progress toward housing goals. The state uses them to monitor the locals. But can locals use this information to their advantage too?

Agency official says HCD has more open complaints about San Francisco than any other city in the state.

Auditor calls for clarification of methodology on vacancy rates and household formation -- the two factors that have been most controversial in pushing up the housing targets.

CP&DR spoke with HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez about whether the new Prohousing program can turn jurisdictions that are anti-housing into pro-housing communities.

The designation will give "prohousing" jurisdictions a leg up on some housing grant programs. But will it fundamentally change how any cities approach the housing question?

Embarcadero Institute says RHNA numbers are too high and the state should focus on affordable housing. The truth is we need both: more housing and more affordable housing. >>read more

New HCD data shows California knows how to build for the top of the market -- and nobody else. >>read more

Only 29 jurisdictions statewide are completely exempt from the new law -- including several small affluent cities. >>read more