Plans to build workforce housing in the town of Yountville, Napa Valley, are facing opposition from renowned chef Thomas Keller, owner of The French Laundry—one of the world's most acclaimed dining destinations.
During a Yountville Town Council meeting on March 4, Keller urged local officials to pause a service industry workforce housing project slated for construction about two blocks from his restaurant.
Addressing the council in his chef's whites, Keller said he had repeatedly reached out to council members but received no response.
He also rejected the notion that he is entirely opposed to the project.
"I support workforce housing," Keller said. "But I support a housing model that is actually appropriate and effective."
The project, named Youville Commons, plans to convert an old elementary school into a multi-unit housing complex for workers in the restaurant, hospitality, and wine industries in the area.
According to plans, the project could cost approximately $60 million.
Critics of the project raised concerns about parking, an excessive number of studio apartments, and high construction costs.
Keller argued that the dormitory-style design with many studio units would not suit workers in Yountville.
"Don't spend too much money. Do it right," he told the town council.
Meanwhile, local leaders stated that the housing development plan was developed after years of surveys and community consultations to address the growing housing shortage in this famous valley region.
Officials noted that many workers operating the restaurants, hotels, and wineries in Napa Valley cannot afford the local cost of living.
The proposal for Youville Commons will continue to be reviewed by the Yountville Town Council in the coming months after careful consideration of the project's budget costs.
The French Laundry, acquired and developed by Keller since 1994, is famous for its high-end tasting menu, starting at approximately $425 per guest.
