12/14/23 – Eric Carter

I met Eric, who moved from Chicago a few years ago and found his footing in Aurora after nearly finding himself homeless, at a recent City Hall meeting where tensions ran high regarding a new proposal to increase funding for the local casino relocation, for which the City is already dedicating massive tax increment financing. So Eric and I wanted to set up a conversation to discuss his personal observations of gentrification and economic development in Aurora and its relation to the City’s current housing shortage.

This conversation has been condensed for clarity.

Welcome, and thank you for joining us today. Our focus is on a pressing yet often overlooked aspect of Aurora’s housing crisis: the impact of gentrification on long-standing communities. Could you begin by sharing how this trend has personally affected you or your community?

Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this. Gentrification has deeply affected my community in Aurora, transforming the fabric of neighborhoods that have been home to generations of families. Personally, my family has lived in Aurora for decades, in a neighborhood that was once affordable and diverse. However, over the past few years, we’ve seen a dramatic shift. New developments and rising property values, while beneficial in some respects, have also led to increased living costs, pushing out long-time residents who can no longer afford to stay.

This change has been bittersweet. On one hand, the investment in the area has brought new amenities and improvements. On the other, it’s disheartening to see the community lose its character and diversity. Friends and neighbors have been forced to move away, breaking apart the tight-knit support networks that have been our foundation for so long.

The personal toll of gentrification is profound. Beyond individual stories, what broader effects do you see this trend having on Aurora?

The broader effects of gentrification in Aurora are multifaceted. Economically, while there’s an influx of investment and development, the disparity in income and access grows wider. The original fabric of the community—often made up of minority and low-income families—is being eroded, leading to a loss of cultural diversity and heritage that once defined these neighborhoods.

Socially, the sense of community and belonging that residents once took for granted is fragmenting. Gentrification has introduced a divide, with newer residents often living alongside long-standing ones without truly integrating, leading to parallel communities rather than a cohesive one.

Environmentally, the push for new development sometimes overlooks sustainable practices and the preservation of green spaces, which further impacts the quality of life for all residents.

These are significant challenges. Have there been any responses or initiatives from the local government or community organizations to address the impacts of gentrification?

There have been efforts to mitigate some of the negative impacts of gentrification. Community organizations are at the forefront, advocating for affordable housing initiatives and policies that protect tenants from being pushed out. Some local government initiatives aim to balance development with the need to preserve affordable housing and maintain the character of neighborhoods. Programs offering property tax freezes for long-standing homeowners are a step in the right direction, as are zoning laws designed to encourage a mix of housing options.

However, the effectiveness of these measures is often limited by the sheer pace of change and the complexity of market forces driving gentrification. It’s a challenging situation that requires a more comprehensive and proactive approach to ensure that the benefits of revitalization are shared equitably among all residents.

Looking forward, what strategies or solutions do you believe are necessary to address the challenges of gentrification in Aurora?

Interviewee: Addressing gentrification effectively requires a multi-pronged strategy. First and foremost, there must be a concerted effort to increase the stock of affordable housing through both preservation and new development. This includes not only low-income housing but also middle-income options to ensure a diverse community.

Second, policies must be put in place to protect existing residents from displacement. This could include stronger tenant protections, assistance programs for those affected by rising rents, and incentives for landlords to maintain affordable units.

Third, community engagement and empowerment are crucial. Development should be done in collaboration with the communities affected, ensuring their needs and voices are central to planning processes. This includes supporting local businesses and cultural institutions that are the backbone of these neighborhoods.

Finally, there must be a commitment to equitable development that prioritizes sustainability, inclusivity, and the preservation of cultural heritage. This means not only looking at the economic benefits of development but also considering its social and environmental impacts.

As we conclude, what message do you have for policymakers, developers, and the community at large regarding gentrification and its impact on Aurora?

Interviewee: My message is one of balance and empathy. To policymakers and developers, I urge a thoughtful approach to development that genuinely considers the long-term well-being of all residents. Gentrification doesn’t have to be a zero-sum game; with careful planning and genuine community engagement, we can revitalize neighborhoods without erasing their soul or displacing their heart.

To the community, I say: stay engaged, stay informed, and support each other. It’s only by coming together, sharing our stories, and advocating for our collective interests that we can influence the future of our neighborhoods.

Gentrification presents significant challenges, but it also offers an opportunity to reimagine and rebuild our communities in ways that reflect our shared values of diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability. Let’s work together to ensure Aurora remains a place where everyone can thrive.

Thank you for sharing your insights and for highlighting the complex issues surrounding gentrification in Aurora. Your perspective is invaluable as we seek to navigate and address these challenges together.

Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this critical issue. I’m hopeful that by raising awareness and fostering dialogue, we can make a positive impact on the future of our communities. Let’s continue the conversation and work towards solutions that honor the spirit and needs of all Aurora’s residents.