SMC Commits Over $41 Million To Housing Projects Claiming To Be Affordable

REDWOOD CITY, CA — San Mateo County Supervisors approved over $41 million from the Affordable Housing Fund for nine new affordable housing developments at their Oct. 7 meeting.

The Board authorized $41,146,469.75 to fund 636 new affordable homes in eight cities and communities. These projects, chosen competitively after a June 2025 Notice of Funding Availability, target low-income families, seniors, homeless individuals, farmworkers, first-time homeowners, and people with disabilities.

“This is a major step forward in our work to ensure that San Mateo County remains a place where all people — regardless of income — can live, work and thrive,” said Ray Hodges, Department of Housing director. “These funds will help get shovels in the ground and directly result in new homes for low-income families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and residents experiencing homelessness.”

Since 2013, the County's Affordable Housing Fund has allocated over $305 million in 12 rounds, creating or rehabilitating 4,939 affordable units, officials said. Of these, 2,875 are occupied, 899 are under construction, and 1,165 are in predevelopment, officials said.

“This is a vital investment in the future of San Mateo County and reinforces our commitment that everyone should have access to safe, stable and affordable housing,” said David Canepa, SMC Board president.

Projects are primarily funded by over $37 million in voter-approved Measure K revenue, a half-cent sales tax. Additional funding comes from the state, the Mental Health Services Act, and Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention Funds. Each dollar of Measure K funding generates $16.6 in other affordable housing resources.