During a recent Monroe County government meeting, community members voiced their concerns regarding the escalating housing crisis and the implications of proposed changes to the County Development Ordinance (CDO).

Several speakers highlighted the challenges of affording housing in the area, particularly for young residents and employees. One local business owner lamented that many of his employees are forced to live outside the county due to high housing costs, emphasizing the need for accessible housing options. Lindsey Boswell, a resident and development director with Habitat for Humanity, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of affordable housing for attracting and retaining a diverse workforce. She warned that the current draft of the CDO could further limit housing availability and affordability, urging the planning commission to prioritize strategic growth.

Another resident, Anne Marie Thompson, raised concerns about the value of green spaces and the need for a balanced approach in the CDO that considers both environmental conservation and economic growth. She questioned whether increasing density is the sole solution to affordable housing and called for a deeper understanding of the long-term benefits of preserving land.

Bernie Gertas, a Monroe County resident, pointed out that the planning commission holds significant power in addressing the housing supply issue. He noted that high land costs and development standards contribute to the affordability crisis, linking property taxes and market values to the overall housing situation.

The discussions underscored a community grappling with the dual challenges of maintaining its natural resources while ensuring that residents have access to affordable housing. As the planning commission reviews the CDO, the voices of residents reflect a pressing need for solutions that balance growth with sustainability.