Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statement today, urging the Half Moon Bay Planning Commission to cease their delay in approving a 40-unit project designed to provide affordable housing for senior farmworkers. This call comes in the wake of a deadly shooting last year that revealed the harsh living conditions of farmworkers in the area.

"Last year a deadly shooting brought to light the squalid living conditions of farmworkers in Half Moon Bay. Rather than do the right thing and approve badly needed housing for the workers who feed us, a 40-unit complex for low-income seniors is being stalled by local officials. This delay is egregious and jeopardizes the well-being of Californians. The state’s Housing Accountability Unit is reviewing the city’s actions and will take all necessary steps to hold Half Moon Bay accountable if the project does not move forward as state law requires," said Governor Gavin Newsom.

In 2023, immediately after the Half Moon Bay shooting, Governor Newsom met with survivors and personally observed the unacceptable living conditions of agricultural workers in this region. In response, he has allocated millions in funding and resources to ensure that those working in agriculture receive adequate support from the state.

Moreover, Governor Newsom has advocated for greater accountability and implemented innovative strategies to address California's need for more housing. Under his administration, the highly effective Housing Accountability Unit (HAU) was established to collaborate with locals and hold jurisdictions responsible for their fair share of housing. Since its establishment, HAU has facilitated the construction of over 23,000 units of housing that might otherwise not have been built.

The Half Moon Bay Planning Commission has an opportunity to advance this crucial housing project at their next meeting on Tuesday, May 14.