Astoria councilor says housing costs force resignation, effective Nov. 1

Councilor Lomp announced during the Oct. 6 Astoria City Council meeting that he will resign his seat effective Nov. 1, 2025, citing the city’s rising housing costs.

"The price today is a 161% of what it was 7 years ago when I originally bought it, an increase so high that I can't afford to live in my own house," Lomp said, explaining that no homes in his ward are in his price range and that typical rents now exceed what many working households can pay. "So effective 11/01/2025, I will be resigning from the Astoria City Council." (Councilor Lomp)

Why it matters: Lomp framed his resignation as a signal to the council and community that housing affordability remains Astoria’s most pressing issue, affecting workforce retention, small businesses and long‑term community diversity. He urged the council to prioritize policies to retain working‑class residents.

Details and context: Lomp said average one‑bedroom rent in Astoria now exceeds $1,400 per month and described local rental and purchase options that fall well outside his budget. He tied housing pressures to broader local problems including homelessness and the loss of service providers that support historic housing stock.

Council response and next steps: Mayor Mary Fitzpatrick and other members acknowledged Lomp’s statement and said the council would discuss how to fill the Ward 4 vacancy under the city charter. City Manager Scott Spence reminded the council they have 60 days after the resignation becomes official to act on a replacement or to call a special election, and Stated staff will bring options to a future meeting.