Residents of Half Moon Bay expressed strong concerns during a recent government meeting regarding the proposed construction of a new Hyatt hotel in the town. Many speakers voiced their apprehensions about the potential impact on the community's character, traffic congestion, and overall quality of life.

One resident, who has lived in Half Moon Bay since 1980, highlighted a growing unease about the town's development trajectory, particularly with the introduction of multi-story buildings that could obstruct views and alter the town's aesthetic. They argued that the addition of a hotel would not effectively reduce traffic, as promised, and questioned the necessity of more hotel rooms given the existing inventory.

Another speaker, Anne Morey, echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the decision to build the hotel should have been put to a public vote to ensure broader community involvement. She raised concerns about the city's reliance on hotel revenue, noting that fluctuations in occupancy rates could jeopardize the city's financial stability. Morey advocated for earmarking any potential hotel tax revenue for recreational improvements, emphasizing the lack of adequate parks in the area.

Brent Turner also expressed skepticism about the need for additional hotel accommodations, citing the current underutilization of existing hotels and the importance of preserving the town's unique charm. He warned against compromising the town's character for short-term financial gains.

In contrast, former council member Naomi Patridge defended the project, arguing that Half Moon Bay is designated as a visitor-serving community and that the hotel would stimulate local commerce by attracting tourists to downtown shops and restaurants. She emphasized the financial necessity of such developments, given the city's current budget deficit and reliance on transient occupancy taxes (TOT) for funding essential services.

Chrislyn from the Chamber of Commerce supported Patridge's view, stating that the town lacks mid-range hotel options, which are crucial for attracting weekday visitors and corporate groups. She highlighted the importance of hotel revenue for maintaining local services, including law enforcement.

The meeting underscored a divide among residents regarding the future of Half Moon Bay, with some advocating for development to support economic growth, while others urged caution to preserve the town's character and quality of life. As discussions continue, the community remains engaged in weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks of the proposed Hyatt hotel.