Hello Neighbors,
As we near the end of this election cycle, it's crucial that we continue discussing the key issues facing our district and county.
Santa Cruz Local recently published an article comparing the candidates' positions. One question addressed multi-family housing in the Santa Cruz Mountains. I support more multi-family housing in this area, while my opponent expressed support except for areas reliant on septic systems or had poor roads.
This stance overlooks the reality that most of the Santa Cruz Mountains relies on septic systems, and road quality is a widespread concern throughout the county. These very issues were used to hinder many fire-affected families from rebuilding. Dismissing multi-family housing in these areas is shortsighted.
Multi-family housing comes in various forms. While we won't see high-rise apartments in downtown Boulder Creek, allowing duplexes and similar structures on parcels with adequate septic systems is reasonable. We should proactively invest in our roads rather than use their condition as an excuse to block construction that could help alleviate our significant housing crisis.
This perspective reminds me of the challenges faced by the CZU Fire community during recovery. Rebuilding permits require approval from three departments: Geology, Environmental Health (septic), and Cal Fire (roads). Repeatedly, septic and road issues became major obstacles for people trying to move forward.
We must shift away from the notion that people shouldn't live in these mountains. Instead, we need to support our communities and address the high cost of living by facilitating housing construction where feasible and expediting the rebuilding process for fire-affected families.
Perspective matters.
In Community, always.
Christopher
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