As some car companies shift toward electric vehicles, Huntington Beach will consider adding more electric car charging stations

The Huntington Beach City Council Monday will consider expanding its electric vehicle charging infrastructure as data show some automobile companies are shifting toward producing more electric cars.

Councilman Patrick Brenden, who proposed the idea, wrote in the staff report that adding more charging stations will help attract businesses to the city, thus helping expand its sales tax base.

Several automobile companies such as Porsche, Jaguar Land Rover and Toyota have announced shifts toward electric vehicles within the next seven years, according to the staff report.

With increasing gas prices, Brenden wrote, electric cars are making more “economic sense” and sales figures demonstrate that consumers agree. As these changes take place, he wrote, the city has the opportunity to take on a leadership role in the shift.

The city currently offers electric vehicle charging stations in the downtown parking structure, City Hall and the Pier Plaza parking area.

Senate Bill 35

In other business, Mayor Mike Posey will direct the city attorney to investigate how Huntington Beach could opt out or take legal action against a new law that forces cities behind on their housing goals to streamline certain housing projects by eliminating some steps in the process.

Senate Bill 35, which Gov. Jerry Brown approved in the past year, removes the requirement for environmental analysis, conditional use permits and other entitlements granted by the Planning Commission, according to the staff report.

Posey wrote it would “behoove” the city to research all options to protect it from developers who could push through housing developments.

Creation of Harbour Commission

The council will also consider approving the creation of a commission to oversee Huntington Harbour.

Located in the northwest corner of the city bordering Seal Beach, Huntington Harbour includes five islands and a network of channels. It connects to Anaheim Bay through a waterway.

The commission would offer input to the City Council on residential, recreational and commercial uses, including watercraft, in the area. It also would work with residents to help the city develop a plan for the harbor.

Monday’s City Council meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the Civic Center at 2000 Main St.

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