Why are we voting?

SunCal needs us to vote on its ballot initiative, called Initiative to Revitalize Alameda Point, because Alameda’s city charter prohibits the building of any residential buildings larger than a duplex. This clause in the charter is commonly referred to as Measure A(1973) The actual text of what is known as Measure A is article 26 of the Alameda City Charter. It reads as follows: "Sec. 26-1. There shall be no multiple dwelling units built in the City of Alameda. Sec. 26-2. Exception being the Alameda Housing Authority replacement of existing low cost housing units and the proposed Senior Citizens low cost housing complex, pursuant to Article XXV of the Charter of the City of Alameda. Sec. 26-3. The maximum density for any residential development within the City of Alameda shall be one housing unit per 2,000 square feet of land. This limitation shall not apply to the repair or replacement of existing residential units, whether single-family or multiple-unit, which are damaged or destroyed by fire or other disaster; provided that the total number of residential units on any lot may not be increased. This limitation also shall not apply to replacement units under Section 26-2." , which is what it was called on the ballot when it was passed over three decades ago. SunCal wants to build apartments and condominiums, along with single-family homes, and they need voters to amend the charter to allow this to happen.