DEL MAR, Calif. (KGTV) - Renting or owning a home in Del Mar is way out of reach for most San Diego families.
But unlike other coastal cities, Del Mar has zero affordable apartments. Instead, Del Mar subsidizes rent for six low-income families.
On Monday, the county's smallest city could get on the way to offering affordable homes.
The Del Mar City Council could move to take advantage of a new state law that streamlines permitting for accessory dwelling units, like a granny flat in the backyard or a separate apartment within a house.
The city may ask families who build those units to commit to leasing them to low-income families for thirty years. In exchange, the homeowners would get an additional 500 square feet of space above current zoning when they want to add on to their properties.
“There is nothing that brings me to life or makes me feel more at home than being near the coast, and I think it's a blessing and wonderful opportunity,” said Kari Arendsen, who was visiting Dog Beach.
The city is hoping to start the program with two homeowners, but ultimately aims to get 22 affordable homes on line.
The affordable homes would be for families earning at least 80 percent of the median income, so a family of two earning about $58,200 a year would qualify. An individual could earn as much as $50,950; a family of three could earn up to $65,600, and a family of four $72,750.
