Ann Arbor community leaders urge comprehensive housing plan amid crisis

Residents of Ann Arbor are calling for urgent action to address the city's housing crisis, as highlighted during the recent City Planning Commission meeting on April 1, 2025. Community members expressed strong support for increasing housing density, urging city officials to "build higher, build taller" to meet the growing demand for affordable housing.

One resident, Barry Chekhway, a long-time Ann Arbor resident and former Planning Commission member, emphasized the importance of community engagement in the planning process. He commended Councilwoman Disch and Councilperson Dharma Ackman for their efforts to inform the public through newsletters, which outline the comprehensive planning process and encourage citizen participation. Chekhway noted that many residents are eager to contribute their ideas, indicating a desire for more involvement in shaping the city's future.

However, Chekhway also raised concerns about the quality of community participation, suggesting that it has been lacking in recent planning efforts. He criticized an anonymous flyer circulating in the community, which he described as filled with misinformation. Chekhway urged residents to seek out accurate information and engage constructively in the planning discussions.

The meeting underscored the pressing need for effective solutions to the housing crisis, with residents advocating for transparency and collaboration in the planning process. As Ann Arbor continues to navigate these challenges, the call for increased housing options and community involvement remains a central theme in the city's development strategy.