3/23/23 – Jared May

Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to share your insights with us today. Our focus is on the nuanced relationship between urban development, local small businesses, and affordable housing in Aurora. Can you share your personal or professional journey that highlights the interplay of these elements?

Thank you for having me. My journey into understanding the complex relationship between urban development, local small businesses, and affordable housing began when I opened a small café in one of Aurora’s older neighborhoods. This area was known for its affordable housing and vibrant community, which attracted a diverse group of residents and entrepreneurs. However, as urban development projects increased in the area, I witnessed firsthand the impact on local small businesses like mine and the broader implications for affordable housing and community character.

Initially, the development brought optimism, with the promise of revitalized spaces and increased foot traffic. But soon, the challenges became apparent. Rising rents and property values, driven by new developments, put pressure on small businesses struggling to keep up with the increased costs. Similarly, long-time residents faced displacement as affordable housing units were replaced with higher-priced alternatives, eroding the community fabric that had defined the neighborhood for decades.

That’s a compelling perspective on the challenges small businesses and communities face amidst urban development. How do you see this dynamic affecting the availability of affordable housing and the character of communities in Aurora?

The dynamic of urban development in Aurora, particularly its impact on small businesses and affordable housing, presents a dual-edged sword. On one side, development can lead to economic growth and revitalization. On the other, it can exacerbate housing affordability issues and alter the community’s character. Small businesses often serve as the heart of a community, offering unique services, creating local jobs, and fostering a sense of belonging. As these businesses struggle or disappear, the community loses more than just economic activity; it loses part of its identity.

Moreover, the pressure urban development places on housing affordability can lead to a homogenized community, where only those with higher incomes can afford to live and shop. This shift not only displaces long-time residents but also changes the demand for local businesses, pushing out those that served the original community in favor of those catering to a wealthier demographic. The result is a loss of the diverse, vibrant community fabric that characterizes many of Aurora’s neighborhoods, replaced by a more uniform, less inclusive environment.

Recognizing these challenges, what initiatives or policies do you believe are necessary to support local small businesses and preserve affordable housing and community character in the face of urban development?

To navigate the challenges of urban development while supporting local small businesses, preserving affordable housing, and maintaining community character, a multifaceted approach is needed:

• Zoning and Land Use Policies: Implement zoning and land use policies that encourage mixed-use developments, combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. This approach can help preserve the character of neighborhoods while accommodating growth. Policies should also protect areas with cultural and historical significance from being overtaken by development that doesn’t align with the community’s character.
• Small Business Support Programs: Develop and expand support programs for local small businesses, offering financial assistance, access to affordable commercial spaces, and resources for navigating the challenges of urban development. Encouraging partnerships between developers and local businesses can also ensure that growth benefits the existing community.
• Affordable Housing Initiatives: Strengthen and expand affordable housing initiatives to ensure that development does not come at the expense of housing accessibility. This includes incentives for developers to include affordable units in new projects and support for housing cooperatives and community land trusts.
• Community Engagement: Foster strong community engagement in the planning process, ensuring that residents and local business owners have a voice in shaping the future of their neighborhoods. This participatory approach can help balance development with the preservation of community character and needs.
• Economic Diversity Programs: Implement programs aimed at maintaining economic diversity within neighborhoods, such as grants for startups that serve the local community or tax incentives for businesses that provide essential services to low- and middle-income residents.

As we contemplate these solutions, what message do you hope to convey to the community and policymakers about balancing urban development with the needs of local small businesses, affordable housing, and community preservation?

The message I want to convey is one of balance, inclusivity, and forward-thinking. Urban development, when done thoughtfully and inclusively, has the potential to uplift communities, support local economies, and enhance the quality of life for all residents. However, it requires a commitment from policymakers, developers, and the community to prioritize the preservation of what makes neighborhoods unique—their small businesses, affordable housing, and diverse character.

To policymakers and developers, consider the long-term impact of development projects on the community and work collaboratively with residents and business owners to create spaces that reflect and support the existing community. To the residents of Aurora, engage with the development process, advocate for policies that support local businesses and affordable housing, and champion the preservation of your community’s character.

Together, we can ensure that Aurora grows in a way that enriches our city without sacrificing the essence of our communities.

Thank you for sharing your insights and for highlighting the importance of mindful urban development that supports local small businesses, affordable housing, and community character. Your perspective is a valuable contribution to the conversation about Aurora’s future.

Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important issue. I’m hopeful that by raising awareness and encouraging active participation in these discussions, we can guide Aurora’s development in a direction that benefits everyone. Let’s keep working together to build a city that remains vibrant, diverse, and inclusive for generations to come.