10/26/23 – David Zyskowski

David and I met at a recent City Council meeting, where he expressed desire to talk about his experience with housing in Aurora at large.

This conversation has been edited for clarity.

Welcome, and thank you for joining us to discuss the multifaceted housing crisis in Aurora. Today, we aim to cover a broad range of topics, from the impact of investment properties on the local housing market to community-driven solutions. Let’s start with your personal experience. How has the housing crisis in Aurora affected you or your community?

Thank you for having me. The housing crisis in Aurora has deeply affected both my family and our broader community. We’ve seen rent prices soar to unprecedented levels, driven in part by the influx of investment properties. This has made it increasingly difficult for average families to find affordable housing. Additionally, the competition for available homes has become fierce, often pushing long-time residents out of neighborhoods they’ve lived in for years.

The challenge of balancing investment interests with community needs seems ongoing. Have there been any recent developments or discussions at the city level addressing this issue?

Yes, there have been significant discussions recently, particularly focusing on regulating short-term rentals and investment properties to ensure they don’t exacerbate the housing shortage. The city is exploring policies that would limit the conversion of potential long-term rentals into short-term vacation properties. While these discussions are a step in the right direction, implementing effective regulations that protect the housing market for local residents remains a complex challenge.

It’s encouraging to hear that these issues are being addressed. Moving on, how have community actions or initiatives contributed to tackling the housing crisis in Aurora?

The community response has been remarkable. Various grassroots organizations have mobilized to provide support to those most affected by the housing crisis. From setting up housing cooperatives to launching advocacy campaigns for more affordable housing developments, these initiatives are making a tangible difference. Community gardens and collective housing projects have also sprung up, aiming to create sustainable and inclusive alternatives for residents facing housing insecurity.

The creativity and resilience of community initiatives are truly inspiring. Given the broad range of challenges, what specific policies or changes would you like to see implemented to address the housing crisis more effectively?

There are several key areas where policy changes could make a significant impact. First, expanding affordable housing incentives for developers could help increase the supply of affordable units. Second, strengthening tenant protections to prevent unfair evictions and rent hikes is crucial. Finally, investing in public infrastructure and services in underdeveloped neighborhoods could alleviate some of the pressures driving displacement and gentrification. These changes, coupled with a commitment to community-led development projects, could begin to turn the tide on the housing crisis.

Those are comprehensive and impactful suggestions. As we look to the future, what message do you have for policymakers, community leaders, and residents of Aurora in the fight against the housing crisis?

My message is one of urgency and unity. The housing crisis in Aurora is not just a policy issue; it’s a human issue that affects us all. Policymakers and community leaders must work together with residents to develop and implement solutions that address the root causes of the crisis. It’s time for bold action and innovative thinking. For the residents of Aurora, I encourage you to get involved, support local initiatives, and make your voices heard. Together, we can build a more equitable and sustainable future for our city.

Thank you for sharing your insights and for highlighting the importance of collective action in addressing the housing crisis. Your dedication to fostering positive change in Aurora is an inspiration to us all.

Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these vital issues. I’m hopeful that by continuing to work together, we can overcome the challenges facing our community and pave the way for a brighter future in Aurora. Let’s keep the momentum going and ensure that everyone has access to safe, affordable housing.