NIMBYism rears its ugly head again.
A recent news snippet from the Journal Times of Racine, WI reported that New Berlin, WI Mayor Jack Chiovatero pulled his support for a proposed multifamily/seniors housing project that would have included workforce housing, after sharp criticism by opponents. Those against the project, it seems, were worried that the development would increase crime and drugs in the area.
So, the Mayor stopped backing the project and sent an email to one of its supporters, stating, “Our City is filled with prejudice and bigoted people who with very few facts are making this project into something evil and degrading.”
In the world of the Inter-webs, unfortunately, the message was seen by far more than its intended recipient. Needless to say, his comment wasn’t taken lightly, and the Mayor is now trying to repair the damage done.
But that’s not the story. His comment, to a degree, might be warranted. Think about how many affordable housing projects are stopped in the early stages due to NIMBY opposition. Even certain traditional apartments are criticized by residents who don’t want to overtax the local schools and resources.
As enlightened as we hope our country has become, there are still those who view multifamily development in a less-than-positive light. And if that project has an affordable component, even a workforce component—which isn’t necessarily the same thing—the backlash is even worse.
NIMBYism was certainly a major issue a decade or two ago. But if you look at the reality in many parts of the country, I don’t think we’ve come too far in making the average citizen understand the benefits of multifamily housing, no matter the income of the residents. Which is unfortunate, since the markets most in need of apartments (and I’m talking mostly suburbs here) are usually those that would likely oppose them.
Your thoughts?
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