Pacifica resident raises concerns over infrastructure funding for proposed housing developments

In the heart of Pacifica, a local resident voiced urgent concerns during the recent City Council meeting, highlighting the pressing challenges facing the community as it grapples with a local emergency in West Sharp Park. The resident, a self-identified YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) advocate, passionately discussed the need for increased housing while simultaneously addressing the infrastructure demands that such growth would entail.

With a proposal for a thousand new housing units on the horizon, the resident raised critical questions about how the city plans to manage the accompanying surge in demand for essential services like sewer, power, and water. “How does Pacifica intend to fund this?” they asked, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with San Mateo County, the state, and even the federal government to secure necessary resources. The possibility of a local bond measure or monetizing the pier were suggested as potential funding avenues.

The discussion also touched on the city’s recent decision to restrict the use of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), which the resident argued could provide much-needed rental income for homeowners and help aspiring buyers like themselves. “The only way I can possibly consider buying a house here, which is going to be over a million dollars for a three-bedroom, two-bath, would be to add an ADU to my property,” they lamented.

As Pacifica stands at a crossroads, the balancing act between expanding housing and ensuring robust infrastructure remains a focal point for city leaders. The resident’s heartfelt plea underscores the urgency of addressing these interconnected issues, as the community looks toward a future that accommodates growth while safeguarding its residents' quality of life.