2/14/21 – Serenity Gleason

Welcome, and thank you for joining us today. We’re here to explore a critical issue that touches the lives of many in Aurora: the quest for affordable housing amidst a backdrop of economic and demographic shifts. To start, could you share with us your personal story and how it brought you to the forefront of this issue in Aurora?

Absolutely, and thank you for having me. My journey into the heart of Aurora’s affordable housing crisis began when my family decided to move here, attracted by its promise of community and opportunity. Initially, we were filled with optimism, but that quickly waned as we faced the reality of the housing market. Despite both of us working full-time jobs, the options available to us were either substandard or far beyond our financial reach. We found ourselves in a constant cycle of moving, each time further from the city center, distancing us from our jobs, schools, and the community we sought to join.

This experience was a wake-up call. I realized that our struggle was not unique but shared by many in Aurora, leading me to become involved in local housing advocacy. The issue of affordable housing, I learned, was intertwined with broader economic forces, zoning laws, and historical patterns of development that have shaped Aurora. My mission became not just to find a stable home for my family but to fight for policies and programs that could provide that same stability for all of Aurora’s residents.

Your story is a powerful testament to the challenges many face in Aurora. Reflecting on your experiences, how do these personal challenges mirror broader systemic issues within the city?

My family’s journey through Aurora’s housing market is indicative of systemic issues that affect a significant portion of our community. The city has experienced rapid growth, attracting a diverse population in search of opportunity. However, this growth has not been matched with a proportional increase in affordable housing stock, creating a supply-demand imbalance that drives up prices and rents.

Additionally, zoning laws and land-use policies in Aurora have historically favored single-family homes and suburban development, limiting the density needed to support affordable housing developments. This, coupled with the rising costs of land and construction, has made it increasingly difficult for developers to build affordable units without substantial subsidies.

Another systemic issue is the gentrification of historically lower-income neighborhoods, where investment and development lead to rising property values, displacing long-time residents. These neighborhoods, often the last bastions of affordability, are becoming inaccessible to those who once called them home.

The broader economic landscape also plays a role. Many residents of Aurora, like my family, find themselves squeezed by stagnant wages and the rising cost of living, making affordable housing an elusive goal. This situation is compounded for those with additional barriers, such as single parents, elderly residents, and people with disabilities, who face even greater challenges in securing housing that meets their needs.

Considering these interconnected challenges, what solutions or approaches do you believe are necessary to address Aurora’s affordable housing needs?

Tackling Aurora’s affordable housing crisis requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. There’s a critical need for policy reform to encourage the development of affordable housing. This includes revising zoning laws to allow for greater density and a mix of housing types, as well as implementing inclusionary zoning policies that require a percentage of new developments to be affordable.

Financial incentives for developers can also play a key role. These might include tax abatements, expedited permitting processes, or direct subsidies to make affordable housing projects financially viable. Public-private partnerships could leverage the strengths and resources of both sectors to address the housing shortage.

Preservation of existing affordable housing is equally important. This could involve programs to renovate and maintain older buildings or policies to protect tenants from displacement due to redevelopment or gentrification.

Community land trusts and other alternative ownership models offer promising solutions as well. By taking land off the speculative market, these models can preserve affordability in perpetuity, giving residents a stake in their communities and protecting against the forces of displacement.

Engagement and advocacy are crucial. Empowering residents to participate in the planning process ensures that development reflects the needs and desires of the community. Building a broad coalition of stakeholders, including residents, advocates, developers, and local officials, can create the momentum needed for change.

As we look to the future, what message do you hope to convey to policymakers, developers, and the Aurora community about the importance of affordable housing?

The message is clear: affordable housing is the foundation upon which strong, vibrant communities are built. For Aurora to thrive, it must ensure that all residents, regardless of income, have access to safe, stable, and affordable homes. This is not just an economic issue but a moral one, reflecting our values as a community and our commitment to inclusivity and equity.

To policymakers, I urge a bold reimagining of housing policy that prioritizes affordability, sustainability, and community. To developers, I advocate for a partnership approach that recognizes the long-term value of investing in affordable housing. And to the Aurora community, I call for unity and action in support of policies and programs that address our shared housing challenges.

Thank you for sharing your insights and personal story. Your advocacy shines a light on the path forward for Aurora, highlighting the importance of community, collaboration, and commitment in addressing the affordable housing crisis.

Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this critical issue. While the challenges we face are significant, I remain hopeful that by coming together as a community, we can create innovative solutions that ensure Aurora is a place where everyone has the opportunity to live, work, and thrive. Let’s continue to work towards a future where affordable housing is a reality for all.