In America’s ‘salad bowl,’ farmers invest in guest worker housing, hoping to stabilize workforce

The disparity between temporary farm workers and long-term residents in Monterey County highlights a critical housing challenge. Temporary workers receive support through programs like Fresh Harvest, but long-term residents struggle with overcrowding and limited affordable housing. The repeal of a local rent increase ordinance has exacerbated these issues, prompting calls for policies that protect against excessive rent hikes. Efforts to address funding gaps are underway, emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions involving community initiatives, tenant protections, and alternative funding sources to ensure equitable housing for all agricultural workers.