San Ramon Advances Affordable Housing Deal, Budget Fixes and New Police Hiring Path

San Ramon City Council's Jan. 13 meeting laid groundwork for 161 new affordable apartments, cleaned up millions in internal accounting, and created a novel pipeline to grow the police force—all while grappling with new state rules that will reshape how residents can participate remotely in future meetings.

• 161-unit affordable apartment project moves forward with $765,000 commitment for Iron Horse Trail improvements; final vote set for Jan. 27.

• Council approves $6 million budget clean-up to eliminate negative fund balances; General Fund projected at $28.9 million.

• New Police Officer Trainee classification created at $55/hour to recruit candidates while they attend the academy.

• SB 707 briefing previews major changes to teleconferencing, ADA accommodations, and meeting disruption policies—effective dates range through July 2026.

• Mid-year budget holds steady with reserves at 41.7%, well above the city's 36% policy floor.

• Residents urge return of two-way remote access after earlier removal following disruptions in other Bay Area cities.

The Council introduced an ordinance for the Canopy BR8 Affordable Site development agreement, a public-private arrangement that would deliver a 161-unit, 100% affordable apartment complex through Eden Housing at income levels ranging from 30% to 80% of Area Median Income.