Solutions for Inclusive Communities

Introductory remarks by

Jeffrey LubellDirector of Housing InitiativesAbt Associates

Solutions 2013 ConferenceAtlanta, GA

September 16, 2013

1. What do we mean by inclusion?

2. What are theprincipal housingstrategies for achieving inclusion?

3. What housing policy levers can help achieve inclusion?

Source: http://cci.utk.edu/diversitycharge

Inclusive Housing Strategies

1. Expand affordable housing in existing communities of opportunity

2. Preserve and include affordable housing within new development in changing or growing communities

3. Improve housing quality and expand housing options in underserved communities as part of comprehensive community development

1. Expand affordable housing in existing communities of opportunity

Lexingon, MA – Ranked #1 in Boston Area for best schools by Boston Globe(Zillow: median home value, $724,200 in July 2013)

Image: http://www.lexingtonhouses.com/lexington.asp?txttown=lexington:ma

1. Expand affordable housing in existing communities of opportunity

Housing Policy Options

• Housing Voucher Mobility efforts• Fair Share Goals – Builder’s Remedy• Fair Housing Litigation• Housing Trust Funds• Overlay Zones and

other Flexible ZoningStrategies

• Inclusionary Zoningw/ right of purchasefor PHAs & long-termaffordability

2. Preserve and include affordable housing within new development in changing or growing communities

Pearl District, Portland, OR.

Image: http://www.portlandbridges.com/portland-neighborhoods/00-The%20Pearl%20District.html

Housing Policy Options

• Rental Housing Preservation• Inclusionary Zoning w. right of purchase by PHAs & long-

term affordability• Link Zoning Changes to Affordability Requirements• Joint Development w/ Transit

& other development on Publicly Owned Land

• Innovative Financing:– Tax Increment Financing– Linkage Fees– Service Tax Districts – Housing Trust Funds– Tax abatements

• Community Benefit Agreements

• Accessory Dwelling Units

2. Preserve and include affordable housing within new development in changing or growing communities

3. Improve housing quality and expand housing options in underserved communities

Mt. Pleasant Neighborhood, Cleveland, OH

Image: http://photos.cleveland.com/plain-dealer/2012/08/zack_reed_has_dreams_of_bringi_6.html

3. Improve housing quality and expand housing options in underserved communities

Housing Policy Options• Code Enforcement / Demolition• Grants / Loans for Housing Rehab• New Affordable Rental Housing Can Raise Standards• Homeownership Initiatives:

– $1 home initiatives– Homeownership zones– Section 8 homeownership

• Efforts to Attract Middle- & Higher-Income Households

Match with Other C-D Initiatives:• Schools, Parks• Crime, Arts• Economic Development• Asset-Building• Anchor Institutions