Marin County recently decided to transfer a former Coast Guard property in Point Reyes Station to Tamalko Homes Limited Partners. The plan is to develop 54 affordable homes there.
For at least five years, the county will operate a new wastewater treatment facility at the site. This move has big implications for West Marin residents, from Point Reyes Station out to Woodacre and beyond.
The project involves more than just new housing. Tamalko Homes Limited Partners—a joint venture between Eden Housing and the Community Land Trust of West Marin—plans a mixed-income development with units for low- and extremely low-income households.
They’re also building a modern wastewater treatment facility to serve both the new homes and nearby properties. The hope is that this combination will help the project stand out in the next round of federal low-income housing tax credits.
County officials say their involvement shows a long-term commitment to operating and maintaining the facility. Some people worry this is a big ongoing liability, but others believe it’s necessary for the project to succeed in West Marin’s tough landscape.
The county wants to expand affordable housing in places like Point Reyes Station, Fairfax, and Novato. They also want to address environmental needs and upgrade infrastructure in West Marin.
Financing, Construction, and County Operations
- Building the wastewater treatment facility will cost about $2.5 million.
- Tamalko Homes will pay around $60,000 a year toward running the plant.
- The county estimates total annual operating costs at about $250,000, so they’ll need to cover roughly $190,000 per year after Tamalko’s share.
- The county will handle operation and maintenance for at least five years.
- After five years, both sides will discuss cost-sharing, but any changes need a written amendment approved by both.
- County staff say the system will be “state-of-the-art” and require careful oversight. They note that permitting agencies usually want a public entity to run these facilities.
The county believes that its direct involvement and ownership will help Tamalko compete for more than $20 million in federal tax credits. If it works, this approach might inspire other coastal counties looking for ways to blend housing, infrastructure, and public oversight.
Funding, Grants, and Housing Allocation
The full development will cost about $55.4 million. The county already put in $9.4 million from local housing trust and Measure W funds.
Discover hand-picked hotels and vacation homes tailored for every traveler. Skip booking fees and secure your dream stay today with real-time availability!
Browse Accommodations Now
The project also secured over $11 million from the state’s Joe Serna Jr. Farmworker Housing Grant Program. Because of this state grant, 15 of the 54 units will be set aside for agricultural workers.
- 15 units reserved for agricultural workers
- Developers plan to use “affirmative marketing” to reach applicants who’ve been left out in the past
- Tamalko is chasing big federal tax credits to add to local and state funding
Woodacre and West Marin: Community Voices and Funding Gaps
In Woodacre, people keep urging the county to fund an environmental impact report and a wastewater project. Their goal is to fix failing septic systems and stop creek contamination.
So far, the county hasn’t made a firm funding commitment, even though neighbors and supporters in towns like Bolinas and Corte Madera have spoken up.
Officials admit these concerns are real. Woodacre and other small towns want better planning and infrastructure, but the county has to weigh lots of competing needs.
Honestly, the debate in Woodacre shows how tough it is for Marin to deliver both environmental protection and resilient housing. Every step forward comes with challenges, especially in a region where new development can be both a blessing and a risk for the watershed and creeks near Olema.
Looking Ahead: A Turning Point for Marin County’s Housing Strategy
Marin’s Point Reyes Station project tries to blend affordable housing, environmental stewardship, and public accountability. The Tamalko development centers around a public wastewater facility and a multi-year county operating role.
With this approach, Marin wants to boost federal tax-credit competitiveness and deliver 54 homes in a landmark West Marin community. Folks in San Rafael, Mill Valley, and the wider Marin County area are keeping a close eye on how this model might scale.
Woodacre and nearby towns keep pushing for related environmental investments. Maybe—if all goes well—this plan could set a new template for rural Marin communities that want to expand housing without sacrificing watershed health or public services.
Here is the source article for this story: Marin County makes key moves on housing plan in Point Reyes
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
Cities and Towns in Marin County
Things to Do in Marin County
Places to Stay in Marin County
