As many of you read in Thursday’s eNews, San Mateo County has proposed to purchase the Coastside Inn, 230 Cabrillo Highway S, in Half Moon Bay, to provide shelter and support to homeless individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The County would use Cares Act Funding from the Federal Government to finance the purchase.
After being notified of the project in mid-November, the Half Moon Bay City Council held two public meetings to discuss the proposal (November 19 and December 1). County leadership participated in both meetings. Hundreds of community members attended those meetings (virtually), and many shared their strong opinions, both for and against the proposal.
The City has sent a letter of support in response to the County’s action to purchase the Coastside Inn. The letter can be viewed here.
While the City is supportive of the project, Council members share many of the community’s concern and hold high expectations for collaboration between the City, the County, local non-profits and businesses, and the community at large. The support letter to the County outlines the commitments that the City is seeking from the County related to this project.
It should be noted that while the City has no regulatory authority over the acquisition and proposed use (due to the County’s emergency powers through the Cares Act and state legislation), we are committed to working closely with the County to ensure local residents have a voice, if the County moves forward with the acquisition. The City Council and staff will continue to advocate for the community and work with the County to ensure the project is successful – getting our homeless residents into stable and affordable housing where they can overcome challenges in their lives and achieve self-sufficiency, while maintaining the safety and health of all residents and visitors in Half Moon Bay and the Coastside.
The Board of Supervisors will consider approval of the acquisition at their regular meeting on December 8, 2020. The agenda for that meeting, as well as information on how you can participate and share your views on the proposal is now posted on their website.
