Half Moon Bay voters consider Measure Q for affordable housing on Kelly Avenue

Supporters of Measure Q marched on Kelly Avenue in downtown Half Moon Bay to rally for a five-story affordable housing project. The building, located at 555 Kelly Avenue, would provide 40 affordable units specifically for current and former senior farmworkers, CBS News Bay Area reported.

The project is backed by ALAS, a Latino-serving community organization supporting farmworkers, and Mercy Housing California. ALAS CEO Belinda Hernández-Ariaga described the effort as years in the making, noting the city council approved permits for the project in 2024. However, a referendum petition has placed the measure on the November ballot for voters to decide.

Opponents, including the group 'Let Half Moon Bay Voters Decide,' have raised concerns about the long-term funding and management of the housing. They questioned what would happen after the 15 years of promised subsidies end, as the lease to Mercy Housing is for 99 years. Hal Bogner, the group's founder, said many questions remain unanswered for the public.

Hernández-Ariaga responded that the project addresses concerns such as building height and parking, pointing out it would be only half a story taller than the tallest building nearby and include 18 parking spaces. She expressed cautious optimism that the community will ultimately support the farmworkers through the vote.

The measure has sparked active discussion among residents, with voices both supporting and questioning the project’s details. The outcome will be determined by Half Moon Bay voters in the upcoming election, CBS News Bay Area noted.