The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the $9 million purchase of approximately 50 acres of land as a way to secure more affordable farmworker housing.
The coastside area, part of which was previously home to the century-old Bay City Flowers establishment, was identified as a prime location for the development of homes accessible to workers who often experience precarious living conditions. Conversations over the past year were largely spearheaded by District 3 Supervisor Ray Mueller, whose district comprises the impacted property, as well as Assemblymember Marc Berman, D-Palo Alto, who helped secure funding at the state level. The land sits in both Half Moon Bay and on unincorporated county property.
Residents offered their input during the meeting Tuesday, Jan. 9, largely encouraging the board to adopt the resolution, which would ensure affected workers have the peace of mind of a stable roof over their heads.
“On this property is where Bay City Flowers was located, a nursery that provided jobs for many people in Half Moon Bay and surrounding areas, people that actually worked there for over 40 years. Don’t you think this would be the perfect place to provide housing for these people?” resident Rocio Avila said through a translator while speaking during the public comment period. “We also need dignified housing for ourselves and our kids. A place we can afford. A place we can call home without fear of being asked to leave and asked to go somewhere else.”
Another resident said the community has been fighting for a long time for just housing and hopes the county can make good on their promises to do so.
Discussions on coastside workers’ lack of housing safety and accessibility was accelerated earlier this year after a mass shooting last January killed seven residents and caused the displacement of 18 families — most were immigrant farmworkers — and shined a light on the squalid conditions many agricultural workers endure.
“This project will provide farmworkers and workers on the coast with safe, healthy housing and also support our farmers and ranchers supporting the economy. … I also want to thank my colleagues on the board. There’s been a lot that has happened in the last year, and there’s been a lot of work that’s come together,” Mueller said, adding he is also thankful for the residents of the area who made their voices heard over the course of numerous county supervisor meetings and conversations.
The property is located on the northeast corner of Cabrillo Highway South and Miramontes Point Road.
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