A significant discussion on housing and wage issues took center stage at the Santa Fe Governing Body Meeting on September 11, 2025, as community organizer Italia Reyna Aguilar urged city leaders to address the growing housing crisis. Aguilar, representing Chamberaker, an economic and environmental justice organization, highlighted the struggles of low-income residents in Santa Fe, where rising rents have left many tenants burdened.

Aguilar emphasized that over half of the city's tenants are facing rent costs that consume a substantial portion of their incomes. She voiced strong support for a proposed amendment to increase the living wage in Santa Fe, framing it as a crucial step toward alleviating the housing crisis. "Adjusting wages is another method that policymakers can use to close this gap," she stated, underscoring the connection between wage increases and housing stability.

The meeting also featured discussions about the importance of bilingual communication, with plans to provide materials in both Spanish and English to ensure broader community engagement. This initiative aims to foster inclusive dialogue as the city navigates its future planning.

As the meeting progressed, the governing body approved a motion to open the floor for public petitions, allowing community members to voice their concerns directly to city leaders. Aguilar's passionate plea for action on housing and wages resonated with many, as she called for policies that ensure all residents can afford to live in Santa Fe.

The discussions at this meeting reflect a growing urgency among community members and leaders to tackle the intertwined issues of housing affordability and living wages, setting the stage for future policy developments aimed at creating a more equitable Santa Fe.