Why are you two known as the odd couple?

Scott Sherman: Where do we start? We’re polar opposites when it comes to the political spectrum. David is a liberal Democrat and I’m a conservative Republican, and we are both very vocal about our opinions.

Tell me about the housing legislation you guys teamed up on.

David Alvarez: We’re working on a series of proposals. It includes easing of granny flats beyond what state law required, and there are more proposals that we are bringing forward: Reducing regulations on infill housing, and the other (proposal) is about the nuisance of (environmental) appeals. The simple way of saying it is that we have streamlined the process to build more units and to not incentivize those who are looking to block construction.

So, your political disagreements aside, you both believe housing is over-regulated in California?

S.S.: Yes.

D.A.: Yes. I think people underestimate the costs that result from time delays. Keeping people waiting for years to build units does not make sense.

Tell me about your personal connections to housing costs.

S.S.: My daughter moved to Arizona because housing is cheaper. I want to make sure my kids and grandkids can come back to San Diego and afford to live here. It’s a moral imperative.