Pueblo discusses affordable housing requirements and Proposition 123 impact on families

The Pueblo City Council held a work session on May 5, 2025, focusing on the critical issue of affordable housing in the community. The meeting aimed to clarify definitions and explore recent developments in affordable housing projects within Pueblo.

The discussion began with an overview of how affordable housing is defined, particularly in relation to the area median income (AMI). For rental properties, affordable housing is typically classified as units priced at or below 60% of the AMI, while homeownership opportunities are generally capped at 80% of the AMI. For a family of three in Pueblo, this translates to an annual income threshold of approximately $55,000 for rentals and $73,000 for homeownership.

Council members highlighted the evolution of affordable housing, moving away from traditional high-rise projects to more integrated developments that comply with modern building codes. Recent projects mentioned included the redevelopment of the Sangre de Cristo Apartments and the Uplands townhomes, which exemplify the shift towards more appealing and accessible housing options. Other notable developments include Oakshire Trails, a senior complex, and Santa Fe Crossing, both of which offer affordable housing without the stigma often associated with such projects.

The conversation also touched on the concept of "workforce housing," which refers to affordable options for families who are employed but may struggle to find suitable housing within their income limits. For instance, a family of three renting a two-bedroom apartment would pay a maximum of $1,377 per month, including utilities, under the current guidelines.

The meeting concluded with a look ahead to future projects, including the proposed Compass Point Apartments on Pueblo's East Side, which aims to further address the community's affordable housing needs. The council emphasized the importance of continuing to develop housing solutions that meet the diverse needs of Pueblo residents while adhering to the standards set forth by Proposition 123.