Ross council authorizes RFQ seeking partners for nine affordable units at Civic Center, 3‑2 vote
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Summary
Council authorized release of an RFQ to solicit developers or nonprofit partners to deliver nine affordable housing units at the Ross Civic Center (target ≤80% AMI). Supporters cited HCD obligations and long funding timelines; opponents said the town lacks a credible site financing plan and urged more committee work first.
The Ross Town Council voted 3‑2 on Feb. 14 to authorize the town manager to release a request for qualifications seeking development partners to provide nine affordable housing units at the Town of Ross Civic Center site.
David Kelly, the town’s facilities project manager, said the RFQ would solicit statements of qualifications for developers and community‑based organizations that can deliver a small, transit‑adjacent affordable housing project aligned with the housing element (Program 3A). The RFQ targets units affordable at or below 80% of area median income and would be the first step to identify partners before negotiating exclusive terms.
Supporters on the dais emphasized timing and compliance with the town’s housing element and state deadlines. Council member Kercher and others argued that identifying interested, qualified partners now allows the town to begin the months‑long process of funding alignment and exclusive negotiations.
Opponents, including Council member Salter, questioned whether the town has credible financing or a site plan ready and warned that issuing an RFQ too early could deter serious developers if the site requires substantial town‑funded infrastructure (demolition of existing Public Works or Public Safety buildings, road and utility work, or CEQA studies). Salter urged the council to let the newly formed citizens advisory committee develop clearer direction before soliciting outside proposals.
Despite the reservations, the majority said the RFQ is a first, nonbinding step to identify interest and qualifications. The motion to release the RFQ passed 3‑2 (Mayor McMillan, Council member Dowling voted No; Council members Kercher, Salter? recorded No earlier — see roll call; transcript roll call shows Kercher Yes, Salter No, Robbins No), and staff will publish the RFQ and return with responses for review.
Next steps: the RFQ as drafted would be released shortly, statements of qualifications would be due (staff suggested an April deadline), and staff would shortlist proposers and report back to the council for further direction and possible exclusive negotiating agreements.