Story perspectives

Berkeley Approves High-Rises Amid Labor Protests and Controversy

2/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Berkeley City Council approved two high-rise developments on February 24, 2026, using density bonus law to bypass health-care and apprenticeship mandates by Collab Home and Laconia Development.
Union officials say exemptions exploit workers; developers argue compliance would raise costs.
Protests preceded the vote as unions urged Berkeley to uphold labor standards.
State Senator Jesse Arreguín plans to propose legislation to close the density bonus loophole.

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Story summary

The Berkeley City Council approved two high-rise developments on February 24, 2026, using density bonus law to bypass health-care and apprenticeship mandates by Collab Home and Laconia Development.
Union officials say exemptions exploit workers; developers argue compliance would raise costs.
Protests preceded the vote as unions urged Berkeley to uphold labor standards.
State Senator Jesse Arreguín plans to propose legislation to close the density bonus loophole.