Housing: Building a Sustainable Future

In my early twenties, I faced homelessness firsthand after an unexpected eviction. I vividly remember the tough choices—whether to sleep in my car or rely on friends’ couches. Struggling to meet basic needs made improving my situation incredibly challenging. Today, as a proud Monterey homeowner, I empathize deeply with the barriers many face in accessing affordable housing.

The housing affordability crisis has been a top priority for me throughout my tenure on the Council. Ensuring our children and grandchildren can afford to live where they grow up should be a top priority for everyone in our community. Despite challenges posed by scarce resources on the Monterey Peninsula, we cannot shirk our responsibility. Housing is a fundamental right of all people, and we must do our part.

I am proud to have led the City in certifying our 2023-2031 Housing Element. This vital document prioritizes housing in urbanized areas near essential services (jobs, schools, grocery stores, etc.) while streamlining regulations for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Additionally, I championed the council's support for the Madison/Van Buren 100% affordable housing project on city-owned land, adding 42 much-needed units. Construction is also underway at 2300 Garden Road, converting an office building into 64 apartment units.

I spearheaded the creation of the Rental Assistance Program, allocating $250,000 from the General Fund to aid eligible Monterey households facing housing instability.

In 2023, the Council approved a rental inventory program to centralize data on residential rentals in the City. This will monitor rental characteristics, inform policy decisions on market regulation, identify substandard living conditions, and propose remedies. The program aims to foster a fair and transparent rental market, benefiting property owners and tenants alike by enhancing certainty, stability, and fairness.

In the coming year, it's essential that we continue to build on the work we’ve started. . This is crucial for our local workforce, enabling Monterey residents to live near their workplaces, improving quality of life, reducing traffic congestion, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.