Father Jose Corral urges Half Moon Bay to exclude church land from housing element

During the Half Moon Bay City Council meeting on March 18, 2025, community members voiced significant concerns regarding the future use of a vacant church-owned property. Father Jose Corral, pastor of Our Lady of the Pillar Church, addressed the council, emphasizing the church's commitment to enhancing Catholic education rather than pursuing housing developments on the site. He reiterated that the church's intentions have been clearly communicated through multiple letters to the city, requesting the removal of the property from the housing element designation.

Father Corral's appeal highlights a broader issue in Half Moon Bay, where the demand for housing is increasingly pressing. However, the church's stance reflects a desire to prioritize educational initiatives over residential projects, which could impact local planning and development strategies.

Following Father Corral, Juliet Kuda, a local business owner and parishioner, also spoke in support of the church's position, reinforcing the community's interest in maintaining the property for educational purposes. This discussion underscores the tension between housing needs and community values, as local leaders navigate the complexities of urban planning in a growing city.

The meeting showcased the importance of community input in shaping local policies, particularly as Half Moon Bay grapples with balancing development and preserving the character of its neighborhoods. As the council considers these perspectives, the outcome could significantly influence future land use decisions and community development efforts.