We noted that the real action County-wide and State-wide in the Fall election is in the propositions and initiatives since the candidate voting is pretty much a given. B'game will have a real race or two, but outside our little town there is a lot of fait accompli. But one controversial move that will not be on the ballot is the County land grab for "affordable housing". The DJ is noting that the Supes, in their wisdom, have decided to "pause" their land grab.
Despite a poll suggesting majority voter support, San Mateo County will not be placing a measure on November ballots allowing the development of low-income housing units without voter approval, in pursuant of Article 34 of the state Constitution. The measure, initially presented at a special meeting of the board July 22, would have provided authorization for the county and other public agencies to construct or acquire affordable rental housing for low-income residents — up to 1% of total existing housing units — without voter consideration.
Although Chief Executive Officer Mike Callagy maintained Article 34 “has no place in this county,” he did not ask the Board of Supervisors to consider approving such a measure placement this election cycle.
One has to wonder what other bits and pieces of the state Constitution have no place in San Mateo County? Perhaps we could get a list? The usual blather about "racism in homeownership" and "constituent confusion" and wanting to be "collaborative" with local cities and not "usurp their authority" ensued. The reality is the November ballot is already stuffed with pork. So much so that voters are likely to Just Say No to the whole lot. Half Moon Bay and Millbrae led the public charge against this land grab. Here's hoping B'game electeds did so quietly but firmly.
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