Costa Mesa Council approves 70 affordable housing units at Senior Center site

In the heart of Costa Mesa, a vibrant discussion unfolded at the City Council meeting on March 18, 2025, as community members rallied around a proposed affordable housing project at the senior center. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as residents expressed their support for the initiative, which aims to provide 70 units of affordable housing for seniors in a city where nearly 40% of older adults are renters and many live on limited incomes.

One passionate advocate, who lives just two blocks from the proposed site, shared her excitement about the project, emphasizing the importance of utilizing city land for affordable housing. She highlighted the pressing need for such developments, noting that 62% of seniors in Costa Mesa fall into low or extremely low-income categories. Her heartfelt plea resonated with many in attendance, as she urged the council to adopt staff recommendations and move forward with the project.

County Supervisor Katrina Foley, who has been a long-time supporter of the initiative, echoed these sentiments. Reflecting on her personal experiences, she shared the challenges faced by seniors in finding affordable housing. Foley detailed the county's financial commitment to the project, including a substantial investment of $13.5 million, which will help ensure that these new units remain affordable for decades to come.

The meeting also featured voices from various community organizations, including Alejandro Santiago from United to End Homelessness, who stressed the critical need for affordable housing options for seniors. He pointed out that a significant portion of the county's homeless population is over 55, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

While the majority of comments were supportive, some concerns were raised regarding the project's location and potential parking issues. A resident expressed skepticism about the impact on parking availability for the senior center, suggesting that the project might exacerbate existing challenges.

Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment in the room was one of hope and determination. Many attendees recognized the project as a vital step toward addressing the housing crisis in Costa Mesa, particularly for its senior population. As the council deliberated, the community's collective voice echoed a clear message: the need for affordable housing is not just a policy issue; it is a matter of compassion and community well-being.

As the meeting concluded, the council members were left with the weight of their decision, knowing that their vote could significantly impact the lives of many seniors in Costa Mesa. The path forward remains uncertain, but the commitment to affordable housing has never been clearer, and the community stands ready to support this crucial initiative.