Monterey housing officials aim to address two main concerns in new housing plan

Like many cities across the Central Coast, the city of Monterey is updating their housing plan. It’s something that must be done every 5 years.

Technically called the “housing element,” the plan details how the city provides housing for all income levels.

According to the City Manager’s Office, those creating the new policy are focusing on two main concerns: work force housing and affordable housing.

The first concern refers to companies wanting closer housing opportunities for employees. Some of those companies include Pebble Beach, CHOMP, Monterey Peninsula College,Middlebury Institute of International Studies, and more.

The second concern refers to the issue of homelessness. The city is exploring ways to add more low-income housing to address the issue.

One of the most controversial proposals in the plan would allow residents to build second units at their home. Those against this idea are worried about the traffic and noise impact in neighborhoods. And based on the city’s Twitter feed during the meeting, concerns that the city is already “built out” did come up.

Housing leaders also plan on addressing vacation rentals. Currently banned, city leaders said they knows it’s happening.

The discussion has been continued to March 23.