Residents of Tacoma voiced strong concerns during a recent city council meeting regarding the proposed \"Home in Tacoma\" plan aimed at increasing affordable housing. The discussions highlighted significant apprehensions about the impact of high-density apartment complexes on single-family neighborhoods.

One resident, who lives near South 19th and Adams, expressed fears that the construction of a six-unit apartment building next door would drastically reduce natural light in their home, increase street parking congestion, and diminish privacy. They emphasized the emotional toll of potentially losing their neighborhood's character and tree cover, which provides essential shade.

Tom Rickey, another speaker, supported the need for affordable housing but criticized the approach taken by the \"Home in Tacoma\" initiative. He argued that the plan could lead to increased traffic, parking issues, and property crime, drawing parallels to the negative consequences observed in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, where high-density living has not resolved affordability issues. Rickey urged the council to consider alternative housing solutions, such as allowing nonprofits to develop more homes per acre, as seen in California.

Brett Haushens acknowledged the planning commission's efforts but raised concerns about the feasibility of the proposed fee structure for developers. He pointed out that the fees intended to support deeply affordable housing were significantly lower than necessary, suggesting that the plan might ultimately benefit developers at the expense of low-income residents.

The meeting concluded with a motion for a brief recess, but the discussions underscored a growing tension between the city's housing goals and the preservation of community integrity. As Tacoma grapples with the challenge of balancing development and affordability, residents are calling for more inclusive decision-making processes that involve public input.