In a recent government meeting, officials outlined their ongoing efforts to engage the community in discussions surrounding housing and rezoning initiatives. Neighborhood groups are encouraged to reach out to the project team via email to schedule meetings, as the team prepares for future hearings on critical topics such as infrastructure planning, affordable housing, tenant protections, and the state density bonus.

The project team has been actively updating their informational resources on the project website, aiming to educate the public about the housing element and address misinformation regarding the necessity of rezoning. A significant focus has been placed on the potential consequences of failing to meet state laws, including penalties and legal challenges faced by other cities. The website now features an overhaul of frequently asked questions, case studies, and a community story map that highlights personal housing challenges through educational videos and interviews.

The community engagement plan has progressed through three phases, with the current phase focusing on refining feedback as the team prepares for adoption. The outreach strategy has prioritized reaching diverse populations, particularly those facing greater housing challenges, such as renters, low-income residents, seniors, and immigrants. Various tactics, including partnerships with community groups, language translation, and providing childcare at events, have been employed to enhance participation.

Throughout the year, the project team has gathered feedback from thousands of residents, revealing a consensus on the recognition of a housing affordability crisis both locally and nationally. Many participants expressed a desire to strengthen tenant protections and voiced concerns about neighborhood safety. However, opinions diverged on the types of housing needed, with some advocating for affordable housing only, while others questioned the necessity of adding housing at all.

The meeting highlighted the generational divide in opinions regarding housing density, with younger respondents more likely to support mid-rise and high-rise developments compared to older individuals. As the project moves forward, officials emphasized the importance of continued dialogue with community groups to gather targeted feedback and ensure that underrepresented voices are included in the planning process. The team is committed to balancing engagement efforts while being mindful of potential fatigue among community members.