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San Mateo County is under investigation by the Civil Grand Jury for converting five hotels into housing units for over 500 unhoused individuals.
In a report, the Grand Jury evaluated the successes and challenges of this initiative, known as the Hotel Plan, which was funded through the state’s Project Homekey program.
The Grand Jury acknowledged the County’s swift action during the COVID-19 pandemic. This action allowed the rapid acquisition and renovation of hotels in Redwood City, Half Moon Bay, and San Mateo, creating 315 housing units at a cost of 43% less than new construction, according to the report. The properties include permanent housing for seniors and individuals from the streets and interim housing meant to transition residents to permanent solutions.
But despite its successes, the Grand Jury said the Hotel Plan has faced operational issues such as inadequate facilities, pest problems, and the difficulty of transitioning individuals directly from homelessness to permanent housing. Nonprofit organizations managing these properties have encountered challenges coordinating renovations and services with the County.
The Grand Jury’s recommendations focused on improving communication, developing performance metrics, and ensuring proper property maintenance. In the report, they urged the County to establish a long-term strategic plan for the ongoing operation and funding of these housing units.
