Pima County homeowners urge supervisors to support property tax increase for affordable housing

Homeowners and community advocates rallied at the Pima County Board of Supervisors meeting on May 20, 2025, urging support for a proposed property tax increase aimed at addressing the region's escalating housing crisis. The proposal, championed by Supervisor Hines, seeks to raise property taxes by 3 cents annually, with funds earmarked for affordable housing initiatives.

Local resident and property owner, Miss Putney, passionately endorsed the tax increase, emphasizing its potential to provide much-needed solutions for affordable housing and homelessness services. "I would love to see more solutions," she stated, advocating for a housing bond to further tackle the crisis. Putney highlighted the importance of using the funds not only to preserve existing affordable housing but also to lift individuals out of homelessness.

Glenda Avalos, another community member, echoed these sentiments, sharing her family's struggles and the urgent need for affordable housing. "The housing crisis is the second moral issue of the day," she declared, calling for development that prioritizes people over profit. Avalos urged the board to implement a truth and bond to ensure accountability in how the funds are used.

Dr. Keith Bentley from the Tucson Alliance for Housing Justice presented alarming statistics, revealing a dramatic drop in affordable homes available to median-income households—from 75% in 2020 to just 38% in 2023. He stressed that the proposed tax increase is a modest yet necessary response to a growing crisis, stating, "Increasing the amount of affordable housing is one of the most efficient ways to lower both homelessness and poverty."

The meeting also featured voices from individuals with personal experiences of homelessness, reinforcing the urgent need for action. As the board deliberates, the community's call for a proactive approach to housing affordability and homelessness prevention remains clear. The outcome of this proposal could significantly impact the future of housing in Pima County, with advocates hopeful for a positive decision that prioritizes community welfare.