Commissioner Andrade proposes 10% affordable housing plan amidst community concerns

The Costa Mesa Planning Commission convened on June 9, 2025, to discuss critical housing developments and their implications for the community. A significant focus of the meeting was the proposal for a new residential project that includes a commitment to affordable housing, reflecting ongoing concerns about housing accessibility in the region.

During the meeting, Commissioner Andrade inquired about the percentage of affordable units in the proposed development. The response indicated that the project would include 10% affordable housing, which aligns with the city’s existing ordinance and density bonus law. This translates to approximately 105 affordable units, exceeding the city’s code requirements by 20%. The decision to maintain this percentage, despite having the option to increase it to 95 units, highlights the developers' commitment to providing affordable housing in a market where costs are rising.

The discussion also touched on the changing definitions of low income in Orange County. Recent data suggests that a family earning $120,000 annually is now considered low income, a shift that underscores the challenges faced by many residents, including educators and support staff. This context emphasizes the importance of the proposed affordable units, as they aim to support a demographic that is increasingly struggling to find suitable housing.

Vice Chair Zick raised questions about the nature of the housing being developed, specifically why apartments were chosen over condominiums. The developer clarified that the decision was influenced by the property owner's desire to retain ownership of the land and generate ongoing revenue through rental properties, as their company specializes in rental developments rather than ownership.

The meeting also included a public comment segment, although no attendees from the public chose to speak at that time. This lack of public engagement may reflect either satisfaction with the proposed plans or a general apathy towards the planning process.

In conclusion, the Costa Mesa Planning Commission's discussions on June 9 highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to address affordable housing needs amid rising living costs. The commitment to maintaining a significant percentage of affordable units in new developments is a positive step towards ensuring that housing remains accessible for all residents. As the city moves forward, the implications of these decisions will be closely watched by community members and stakeholders alike.