Since learning about the Project Homekey Proposal in early November, RSCA has offered our community information, and asked many questions of San Mateo County leaders, about the plans affecting our community.

Following is an update printed in the January 2021 PILOT, including links to the RFQ and some answers provided by SMC. We will continue to update the community as the county shares information and provides clarity.

TownePlace Suites / Project Homekey Update

In December, the San Mateo County Housing department drafted the Request For Proposal (RFP) to identify a facility operator for the TownePlace Suites on Twin Dolphin Drive in Redwood Shores. This property was selected to house ‘extremely low income’ seniors in its 95 units and must have a portion of those units occupied within 90 days of the purchase. “The County anticipates residents at the Property will include senior citizens, 62+ years in age, with ELI incomes (defined as up to 30% of the Area Median Income) and seniors who may have experienced homelessness or be at risk, which may include seniors currently housed independently in hotel rooms leased by the County, seniors receiving wrap-around services through programs like the County’s Whole Person Care program, medically-frail seniors enrolled in the County’s Community Care Settings program, and other vulnerable elders. A primary focus of the SOQ reviews will be on the quality of resident and supportive services that Applicants provide to seniors in the properties they currently manage and their experience coordinating enriched services with County agencies and contracted providers.”

RFP highlights include an estimated 10-year lease, and specifically mentions that, “nearby residents care deeply about ensuring the successful operation of the Property as affordable senior housing. Thus, the Operator will be expected to meet regularly with a community advisory committee and the County to provide project status updates and to solicit and discuss community feedback.”

At the time of compiling this edition of The PILOT, officials in San Mateo County have not yet provided RSCA or any other individual community members with answers to the questions submitted in November. RSCA will continue seeking answers to community questions and follow-up on promises from the county and provide updates in The PILOT and on our website.