Opinion: Still more evidence that Encinitas is failing to meet its housing obligations

Re “State-mandated study finds it’s tough to be a renter in Encinitas” ( March 18 ): Encinitas leaders cannot ignore the harsh displacement realities revealed in the state’s mandated analysis. The data shows over half of renters are rent-burdened due to lack of new supply. From 2010-2020, only 800 units were added despite soaring prices. Median home values have doubled since 2015 to $1.8 million, far outpacing incomes.

These affordability challenges disproportionately impact younger, minority and lower-income residents. The Hispanic population faces heightened displacement risk given its lower median incomes.

Rather than disputing facts or overly focusing on short-term rental policies, the city must increase its housing supply through proven solutions: streamline approvals, allow multifamily zoning near jobs/transit, incentivize affordable units. A vacancy tax on empty investment homes could generate $12 million annually for housing funds.

Encinitas can enact these policies itself or wait for the state to inevitably intervene. The choice is clear.

— Saad Asad, Mission Hills

This story originally appeared in San Diego Union-Tribune .