City Council approves surplus land transfer for Wavecrest project

During the Half Moon Bay Planning Commission meeting on April 8, 2025, key discussions centered around the transfer of surplus properties and the management of the mitigation fund. The meeting highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to address land use and financial accountability in the wake of previous tax defaults.

A significant topic was the city's decision to donate certain parcels that serve a public purpose while selling others to recoup funds for the mitigation fund. This approach aims to ensure that the financial resources initially used to acquire the properties are returned to the community. Notably, there was no appraisal conducted on these parcels, which raised questions among commissioners about the valuation process.

Commissioner Hernandez pointed out that the city council had already approved the transfer of these surplus properties. However, discrepancies in the legal descriptions of two parcels were identified, prompting the city to work with the county to correct these deeds. This correction process is currently underway, ensuring that all legal documentation aligns with the intended land transfers.

The meeting also touched on the Pacific Ridge funding, with approximately $1.4 million remaining unspent. The commissioners discussed how the sale of the surplus properties would contribute to replenishing this fund, further emphasizing the importance of financial transparency and responsible management of public resources.

In conclusion, the Planning Commission's discussions reflect a proactive approach to land management and fiscal responsibility in Half Moon Bay. The approval of the resolution to transfer the properties marks a step forward in addressing community needs while ensuring that financial obligations are met. As the city continues to navigate these issues, the outcomes of these decisions will likely have lasting implications for local development and public trust.