Half Moon Bay Planning Commission Elects New Leadership, Forms Ad Hoc Committee

The Half Moon Bay Planning Commission kicked off 2026 with its annual reorganization, handing the gavel to a new chair, seating a veteran commissioner as vice chair, and standing up an ad hoc committee — all in a brisk session that also touched on new housing permits and the progress of a major Highway 1 repaving project.

• David Gorn elected Planning Commission chair in unanimous 4-0 vote, succeeding Steve Ruddock

• Rick Hernandez tapped as vice chair after brief debate over whether to proceed without an absent commissioner

• Ad hoc committee established by resolution; two commissioners appointed, one contingent on confirming participation

• Former school at Monte Vista Lane moving toward residential conversion with ADUs under newly approved coastal development permits

• Highway 1 repaving on track for spring, with accessibility upgrades wrapping up first

Why it matters: The chair sets the agenda tone, manages hearings, and serves as the commission's public face — a role that shapes how Half Moon Bay handles its land use and development pipeline for the year ahead.