During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing housing crisis in Monterey County, emphasizing the urgent need for affordable housing solutions. Supervisor Leho highlighted the struggles faced by many residents, particularly those in his district, where overcrowded living conditions and soaring rents have made homeownership unattainable for many hardworking families. He pointed out that 70% of the county's population comprises people of color, many of whom are essential to the local economy yet unable to find suitable housing.

Leho argued against reducing the number of potential housing sites, stating that the current planning efforts should not only meet the minimum requirements but strive to exceed them. He expressed strong support for maintaining the UCMbest property as a potential housing site, asserting that it has been underutilized for years and should remain part of the county's housing strategy.

Supervisor Adams echoed the sentiment that while more housing is necessary, it must be the right kind of housing. She stressed the importance of developing affordable units for service workers and first responders, who often cannot afford market-rate housing. Adams commended county staff for their efforts in drafting the housing plan and suggested that creative solutions be explored to facilitate the development of affordable housing.

Supervisor Lopez shared insights from a recent event in Sacramento, emphasizing the economic benefits of housing development and the need for market-rate housing to attract investments and support local job growth. He insisted that the county must not remove housing sites without ensuring that equivalent units are included elsewhere, as community demand for housing remains high.

The discussion also touched on the importance of collaboration with local cities, particularly Marina, which has been proactive in planning for housing development. Supervisor Askew noted that Marina is making strides in delivering affordable housing and suggested that the county should support these efforts by considering alternative sites proposed by the city.

As the meeting progressed, there was a consensus among supervisors that while the housing crisis is complex, it is crucial to move forward with a comprehensive plan that addresses the diverse needs of the community. The board agreed to continue discussions and community engagement to refine the housing strategy, ensuring that it aligns with the county's goals for growth and affordability.