Seaside was fairly early to recognize the needs of seniors as a group. Seaside provides amenities for seniors such as housing at Villa Del Monte and a number of senior specific programs (education, swimming, arts + crafts, etc.) through its Recreation programs and in partnership with local schools.
Currently there is at least one significant senior related issue facing Seaside: there is simply not enough low and moderate income housing specifically dedicated to Seniors. For example, Villa Del Monte has only 80 units in a city with over 11,000 dwelling units.
In approximately one year the mortgage on Villa Del Monte will be paid off. Without a plan in place (i.e. if the City does nothing) we risk losing federal HUD funding for this property. The Paul Davis partnership and Monterey County Housing authority are preparing a feasibility study investigating options with regards to this property.
Proposed Solutions:
Additional senior housing units must be built. We can investigate building additional units on the Villa Del Monte site or, preferably elsewhere in the City. A good target area would be the West Broadway Village which focuses on mixed use. Seniors in the area would add a much needed pedestrian presence to get this area quickly enlivened and more attractive to the retail commercial sector.
Once more units have been built, (at least enough to temporarily or permanently house the residents of Villa Del Monte) the City could completely redevelop the Villa Del Monte property at higher density and with modern, environmentally sensitive and sustainable methods.
Acting on this or a similar basis heightens the likelihood that federal funds are not lost. Indeed, a proactive plan increases the possibility that Seaside will receive more needed federal grant funding.
Paid for by Felix For Seaside City Council