Paul Shigley

<p>California's Central Valley is a distinctive place - a farm belt with many small towns featuring classic downtowns. <em>California Planning &amp; Development Report</em> rates the best of these downtowns.</p>

<p>Is a statewide cap on driving in the works? Bill Fulton says a regional driving limit may be the only way that California is able to reach its self-imposed mandates for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.</p>

<p>The fate of industrial properties is the subject of a huge, ongoing battle in Los Angeles. City planners and economic development boosters want to prevent conversions to residential uses — much to the consternation of free-market advocates.</p>

<p>The sudden end to a hot housing market and planners' response to climate change were the top land use stories of 2007, according to California Planning &amp; Development Report.</p>

<p>California voters are likely to decide on two eminent domain initiatives in 2008. One is a very limited measure backed by local government organizations, while the other is a far-reaching measure that would also prohibit rent control.</p>