2 housing affordability measures in Santa Cruz to be placed in November ballot

Santa Cruz will present two housing tax measures to voters this November, highlighting a critical need for affordable housing in one of the nation's priciest rental markets. The Workforce Housing Affordability Act, backed by Mayor Fred Keeley, seeks to implement a parcel tax of $96 and a transfer tax on home sales over $1. 8 million to fund affordable housing initiatives. Conversely, the real estate industry-supported Workforce Housing and Climate Protection Act proposes a lower parcel tax of $50 and aims to address climate impacts alongside housing needs. Both measures emerged following significant community support during signature-gathering efforts.

Advocacy groups stress the urgency of addressing high housing costs, with Keeley’s measure positioned as a direct solution. Local Realtor Peter Eubank pointed to the critical need for affordable housing in the area. Exemptions for low-income households and senior citizens will remain in place under both proposals. If both measures are approved, the one receiving the highest votes will be implemented.