RSG Insider

Join us for this special edition of RSG Insider, hosted by Carol Ieromnimon, alongside Jessica Gonzales, one of RSG's newest Directors. In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative work of Community and Neighborhood Development and how it shapes equitable, sustainable, and resilient communities. This episode features highlights from leaders across California, showcasing real-world success stories in improving economic well-being and quality of life for underserved populations. You'll hear from Rochelle Mills (Innovative Housing Opportunities), Monica Robles (Asociación de Emprendedoras), Dave White (Opportunity Stanislaus), and Amber Tarrac (Founder Fuego). From grassroots involvement to collaborative city partnerships, discover how these efforts foster inclusion, economic growth, and lasting change.

In another engaging episode of RSG Insider, Tara Matthews hosts RSG federal funding compliance expert Cindy Blot to walk through the ins and outs of managing Federal funds for housing and community development. Cindy provides a brief overview of the requirements for key programs, sharing the high stakes of getting it right—and the serious consequences if you don’t. She explains what a Consolidated Plan is and the vital role of community input in the planning process. Cindy also offers practical advice on avoiding common pitfalls and maximizing the impact of Federal dollars.

Step into the world of residential and commercial relocation with Tara Matthews and Alex Lawrence in this episode of RSG Insider. They cover the reasons for relocation, state and federal relocation requirements, and the types of assistance provided to impacted residents and businesses. Alex shares insights on how RSG helps guide clients through relocation projects, highlighting the importance of navigating complex laws and the effect these regulations have on redevelopment efforts. The conversation also touches on how proper planning as well as compassion can ensure a successful relocation. For more relocation content, check out our next two episodes focusing on mobile home parks and residential relocation!

RSG Principal Tara Matthews and Director Suzy Kim explore the topic of residential relocation in Episode 13 of RSG Insider. Suzy describes the in-depth process of residential relocation and offers practical advice for planning a relocation project. They also discuss some of Suzy’s most memorable projects and how she connects with residents during what can be an overwhelming and emotional transition. With high housing costs in California, Suzy shares her tips for relocating low-income tenants and reflects on how relocation has evolved over the years.

In our next episode of RSG Insider, Tara Matthews and Dominique Clark discuss the intricacies of mobile home park relocation. They dive into how mobile home ownership differs from traditional homeownership, the reasons why residents may need to relocate, and the California-specific laws governing both permanent and temporary relocations. Dominique shares RSG's role as an independent relocation specialist, what it's like engaging with residents, and the unique challenges of mobile home relocation compared to other types of residential relocation. Plus, hear personal stories from Dominique about why this work is so meaningful to her.

Tara Matthews brings in RSG's Alex Lawrence to break down the Surplus Land Act (SLA) and its impact on the affordable housing landscape for public agencies. They begin by providing an overview of the SLA, its history, and how it affects agencies looking to dispose of or acquire land. Alex mentions the detailed process agencies must follow to remain compliant, explains the differences between surplus and exempt surplus options, and shares creative ways to support housing and economic development projects. They also highlight RSG’s holistic approach when advising on the SLA to help facilitate both transactions and future projects.

Learn about the relationship between real estate and local governments with Jim Simon and Mark Sawicki on this episode of RSG Insider. They answer why real estate is such a critical and strategic asset for cities, touching on how RSG helps them unlock their potential to foster economic development, improve fiscal health, and boost housing production in their communities. Mark shares real-world examples of cities being proactive with their land and discusses how the Surplus Land Act (SLA) has both shaped and constrained public agencies' ability to leverage real estate for public benefit and keep community development goals on track.

Listen in on another insightful episode of RSG Insider, where Jim Simon sits down with Dominique Clark to unpack the complexities of tax increment financing.   They break down the terminology and how tax increment financing districts (TIF districts) are formed, like Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts (EIFDs) and Community Revitalization and Investment Authorities (CRIAs). Dominique discusses the significant changes to the tax increment financing landscape in California since 2012 and explains how these financing tools function today. They also get into RSG’s role in helping cities and counties navigate whether to form these districts or not, including valuable tips.

Tune in to this special episode of RSG Insider, where Principals Jim Simon and Tara Matthews offer a behind-the-scenes look at RSG and their passion for community development. Jim and Tara share personal stories about their background, what inspired their careers, the memorable projects that shaped their journey, and how their work has impacted both them and the local communities they serve. They also reflect on the future, expressing gratitude for the colleagues, mentors, and clients who have supported them along the way.

Jim Simon is joined by Carol Ieromnimon in this episode of RSG Insider to discuss the importance of Local Agency Formation Commissions (LAFCOs) in California. Carol explains what LAFCOs are, their primary functions, and the purpose of Municipal Service Reviews (MSRs), which play an essential role in evaluating local agency services. Learn about the challenges LAFCOs face during the MSR process and how these reviews contribute to long-term planning and development for cities and counties. Carol also shares current LAFCO projects at RSG as well as future trends and obstacles for the MSR process.

Get into the latest trends in commercial real estate in California with Jim Simon and Brandon Fender in our next episode of RSG Insider. They cover the demand for industrial spaces, life science and tech office developments, hotels, and housing, including how these trends affect what different cities and counties are experiencing. RSG supports local governments in navigating these market changes, as no two sites, development projects, or communities are identical.

Jim Simon and Jenny Benitez break down the topic of community benefits in local development projects across California in Episode 4 of RSG Insider. They discuss the basics of what community benefits are, how cities can secure these public benefits from developers, and explain the mechanisms that make this possible. Jenny emphasizes the mutual advantages for both cities and developers due to the voluntary nature of these agreements and the importance of city-established priorities. Plus, Jenny shares why this is some of her favorite work.

In this episode of RSG Insider, Tara Matthews and Dominique Clark share the ins and outs of affordable housing underwriting.  They start by defining what underwriting means in the context of affordable housing and why public agencies might need to contribute financially to affordable housing projects. Dominique talks about the specific factors RSG analyzes during the underwriting process and what sets our team apart in this field. You'll also hear what Dominique enjoys most about underwriting and her perspective on the future of affordable housing.

Join RSG Principal Tara Matthews and Director Dominique Clark as they walk through the world of rent stabilization petitions. Dominique explains what a rent increase petition is, shedding light on their significance within the rent stabilization framework. She breaks down the various types of petitions, including Fair Return, Consumer Price Index, and Capital Improvement Petitions, as well as Tenant Petitions which request a rent decrease. Learn about RSG's experience and role in the petition process and why cities often hire consultants like RSG. Dominique also shares valuable advice for communities looking to establish or strengthen their petition process and what typical outcomes of petitions can look like.

Join RSG Principal Tara Matthews as she sits down with Sara Court, a seasoned expert in rent stabilization for local jurisdictions, to discuss the intricacies of program design and administration for rent stabilization measures. In this episode, they explore why the term "rent stabilization" is becoming more prevalent and provide an overview of rent stabilization ordinances and their role in housing policy. Sara offers insights into the critical factors cities should consider when implementing these policies as well as the legal frameworks that support sound policy development and ensuring compliance with local regulations. She also shares her experiences with the challenges of rolling out rental registries and discusses the complexities and funding of these programs.