In the world of local decision-making, most things move fairly slowly so it’s easy to lose track of what’s happening and where policies and decisions are in the process. Most of it can be cumbersome and complicated. As a means to keep you up-to-date on what WakeUP is working on and what is happening in our community, I’ll be doing a monthly WriteUP to help you keep tabs on all things related to Wake County’s efforts toward equitable and environmentally aware development. It’ll summarize the major decisions and give some perspective on the issues as they are being discussed.
New Bern TOD Update:
As the Executive Director observing the Raleigh City Council meeting on March 5, 2024, significant strides were made in the New Bern Station Area Planning. The council deliberated on rezoning options, placing emphasis on Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) while considering concerns about historic properties and state-owned land.
TOD Approval:
- The council collectively endorsed TOD, emphasizing areas devoid of Neighborhood Conservation Overlay Districts (NCOD), historic sites, or state-owned properties.
- A unanimous vote solidified the commitment to TOD with exceptions, particularly for the 600 New Bern Avenue site.
Key features to note:
Overall, the City Council demonstrated substantial progress in advancing the New Bern Station Area Planning, emphasizing TOD, rezoning specifics, and addressing concerns related to affordable housing. The proposed schedule and actions reflect a strategic and organized approach to the ongoing development process.
By attending public hearings, we can ensure all voices are heard and contribute to the decision-making process, helping to shape a fair and sustainable future for the New Bern Station area along with the next set of TOD planning for Western and Southern.
Next steps we are planning:
Community Engagement:
- Host public meetings and attend hearings to gather input.
- Collaborate with housing advocates and community groups.
Transit-Overlay Development (TOD):
- Work with transportation agencies for transit-friendly projects.
- Prioritize affordable housing in development plans.
Preservation and Zoning:
- Protect historic sites while updating zoning laws.
- Advocate for diverse housing options and sustainable businesses.
Inclusive Planning:
- Ensure decisions reflect the needs of all community members.
- Form diverse groups to guide development strategies.
Advocacy for State Properties:
- Engage state leaders for responsible development of state-owned land.
- Advocate for collaboration between city and state entities.
For the Southern and Western Corridors:
- Focus on transit-oriented projects to improve accessibility.
- Address affordable housing needs through targeted initiatives.
- Preserve local history while encouraging sustainable growth.
- Collaborate with community leaders and stakeholders to ensure inclusivity.
- Advocate for responsible development practices and equitable access to resources.
YIMBYtown 2024 was a captivating experience that celebrated inclusivity, exposing me to a diverse array of housing advocates from various regions and backgrounds.
In my reflective journey following YIMBYtown 2024, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between the diverse perspectives I encountered and the broader narrative outlined in Jerusalem Demsas’s Atlantic article, “The Only Force Stronger Than Polarization? Rising Home Prices.” Demsas astutely observes that checking Zillow is not an ideological activity, but rather a pragmatic acknowledgment of the universal impact of rising housing prices. This sentiment resonates deeply with the discussions and insights shared at YIMBYtown. I was able to be interviewed by her after some conflicting positions were presented in a morning plenary.
At YIMBYtown 2024, I found myself immersed in a dynamic tapestry of ideas and experiences, where the focus was not on ideological divides but on finding practical solutions to the pressing issue of housing affordability. As I engaged with housing advocates from various regions and backgrounds, I witnessed firsthand the power of inclusivity and collaboration in addressing complex challenges.
Listening to influential figures like former Secretary of Housing Julian Castro and Mayor of Austin Kirk Watson further reinforced the notion that effective housing policy requires a nuanced understanding of both local dynamics and broader state-level initiatives. Their perspectives added depth to the discussions and highlighted the importance of state leadership in driving meaningful change.
The forums and plenaries I attended provided valuable insights into the strategic approaches needed to tackle housing affordability, particularly in regions like Texas where unique challenges abound. By delving into the intersection of state policies and local market dynamics, I gained a deeper appreciation for the collaborative efforts required to address housing issues effectively.
YIMBYtown also offered unparalleled networking opportunities, fostering connections with individuals who shared a passion for abundant housing and a commitment to driving positive change. These connections, I realized, were instrumental in building a supportive community that extends beyond the confines of the event.
However, amidst the enriching experiences, I found myself grappling with the complexities of the movement, particularly when confronted by dissenting voices. As mentioned in the article, I was quoted discussing my experience in a room with protestors who called out panelists for their contributions to anti-homelessness legislation and displacement in East Austin communities. This encounter forced me to confront the inherent challenges and contradictions within the housing advocacy movement, prompting a deeper reflection on my own role and responsibilities.
It was very serendipitous given the morning walk over to the conference with my colleague Chris Herdon. We discussed the conflicts between this movement and the housing justice movement for only a few moments and were confronted with every conversation we had prior in the form of a protest.
In conclusion, my YIMBYtown 2024 experience served as a microcosm of the broader narrative outlined by Demsas. It was a testament to the power of rising home prices as a unifying force, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to work towards a common goal of creating equitable and sustainable housing solutions, while also challenging me to confront the complexities and nuances of the movement.
Being a Part of the Conversation
In The Atlantic’s recent article discussing the complexities of housing advocacy in the United States, I highlighted the importance of bipartisan collaboration in addressing housing issues. Despite political polarization, I emphasized that housing affordability remains a critical issue that transcends party lines. As I mentioned, “I’m in the South, red state. This can be a bipartisan issue.”
I laid out some ways to move forward which I will highlight here:
