What's Happening?
The Foothill-De Anza Community College District has approved the purchase of 50 affordable apartments for its staff, costing approximately $54.5 million. This acquisition is part of an agreement with the Mountain View Whisman School District, which owns the 144-apartment complex. The purchase aims to address the unmet housing needs of the college district's employees, as the school district struggled to fill the apartments reserved for its staff. The acquisition is funded by Measure G, a bond passed in 2020, and is seen as a more financially feasible option compared to constructing new housing.
Why It's Important?
This development is significant as it addresses the housing affordability crisis faced by educators in Santa Clara County. By securing affordable housing, the college district aims to retain and support its workforce, which is crucial for maintaining educational quality. The move also highlights the broader issue of housing shortages in high-cost areas, where educators often struggle to find affordable living options. The collaboration between the college and school districts exemplifies innovative solutions to workforce housing challenges, potentially serving as a model for other regions facing similar issues.
What's Next?
The college district is in the process of finalizing paperwork and determining rent and prioritization requirements for the apartments. The focus will be on ensuring that households earning less than 150% of the area's median income are eligible. The district plans to continue exploring additional housing solutions to further support its employees, indicating ongoing efforts to address housing affordability in the region.
