WATCH: Opportunity Housing explained

It’s one of the most contentious housing policies to circulate the halls of San Jose City Hall.

The plan, called Opportunity Housing, would allow developers to build up to four homes on a single parcel in neighborhoods limited to single-family homes.

Supporters hail it as a fix for the South Bay’s crippling housing shortage, saying the policy will increase the city’s housing supply and alleviate rising rents. Opponents say it will exacerbate existing problems with parking and traffic, and call it a threat to suburban, single-family neighborhoods.

Passions are high on both sides. In a panel discussion moderated by San José Spotlight editor Nick Preciado, we heard from proponents, opponents, neutral city leaders and an official from the city of Sacramento, which recently adopted a similar policy. Plus, we answered questions from you, our readers.

Panelists included: San Jose deputy manager Rosalynn Hughey, Sacramento planning manager Matt Hertel, San Jose Neighborhoods for All leader Kiyomi Honda Yamamoto and Compass realtor Roberta Moore.

Here is the full video of the panel.