La Mesa developer wants out of affordable housing deal after receiving incentives

The La Mesa developer Cantera seeks to cancel its obligation to provide affordable housing units after receiving financial incentives from the city. In 2019, the La Mesa City Council had granted waivers for parking and trash requirements in exchange for reserving four of 32 units for low-income residents. The planning commission previously deadlocked on the request, leading to a rescheduled hearing aimed at breaking the tie. Concerns have been raised about the implications of allowing developers to backtrack on commitments made for incentives. A staff report cites COVID-19 and civil unrest in 2020 as factors that prolonged construction and increased costs, impacting the developer's financial returns.

Most units in the project have already been sold, raising questions about the necessity of maintaining affordable housing commitments. Former council member Kristine Alessio contends that the project should have initially received waivers without needing the affordable bonus program. The outcome of this decision could influence future affordable housing initiatives in La Mesa and beyond.