In a landmark decision last week, the community of Mountain House in San Joaquin County has overwhelmingly voted to incorporate, becoming the first new city in California since 2011. Over 90% of voters in the primary election supported the move, marking a significant milestone for what was once just a Gold Rush pit stop outside Tracy.
Mountain House has experienced rapid growth, transforming into one of the state's fastest-growing areas. Salah Salah, a resident and realtor in Mountain House for the past ten years, has witnessed the community's journey from the 2008 recession, where it was one of the most underwater communities in the nation, to a real estate boom during the pandemic where home prices surged by 20% in just six months. Despite the recent price increases, Mountain House remains more affordable compared to the Bay Area.
The push for incorporation, the first since Jurupa Valley in Riverside County in 2011, is largely driven by the desire for greater local control. Matt Disko, a current board member poised to become Council Member Disko, highlighted the benefits of incorporation. The new city status will allow Mountain House to retain a larger share of sales revenue, oversee local planning, issue rezoning and building permits, and make decisions without county approval or raising taxes.
This greater autonomy is deemed essential as Mountain House embarks on another period of substantial growth, with plans to convert golf courses into additional housing. Approximately 5,200 new homes are expected to be developed, further expanding the community.
Incorporation aims to empower Mountain House to navigate its expansion while maintaining the qualities that have made it an attractive place to live. With a current population of over 29,000 and an expected growth to 45,000 within the next decade, becoming a city represents a new chapter for Mountain House. The official incorporation will take effect on July 1, with a celebratory ceremony planned for the Fourth of July, marking a new beginning for the community and its residents.
