Solving the Housing Crisis Locally
I, Michael Burgess, as mayor will advocate for the formation of a Sunshine Coast Housing Corporation
I will stand for mayor at the March 16th, 2024 election over the next few weeks I will release a number of policy initiatives that should be the core of what is talked about during the campaign
A local initiative that can be a local solution to our town's housing crisis
An idea for here, council under-utilised land, private finance with different dwelling formats like start-up or partial houses?
This idea can not be considered radical since it is essentially the same as that being proposed by Property Council
A recent letter I received from the Property Council made my "Optimistic Guy with a Skeptical Eye" persona go on full alert
"In response to the ongoing housing crisis, several councils and the state government have partnered with the property sector to unlock underutilised council-owned land. The Property Council stands ready to work with the incoming Sunshine Coast Council to investigate suitable land that can help deliver critical community benefits while supporting the need for more housing."
Sounds too good to be true, well you know what they say if it does it is. Perhaps the outcome of this type of paradigm needs to be more bias towards good outcomes for the community & less so for the Speculators
Why should the council get involved?
In fostering inclusive and diverse communities, local government-sponsored housing corporations play a pivotal role in addressing housing needs. These entities advocate for a wide range of housing types, catering to the unique demands and demographics of their communities. The concept involves local decision-making paired with federal financing, creating a dynamic synergy that allows for flexibility and responsiveness to local needs
Not one size fits all, multiple formats & solutions
At the heart of this approach is the recognition that housing is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different communities have different housing needs, shaped by factors such as demographics, economic conditions, and cultural considerations. Local government-sponsored housing corporations act as intermediaries between the federal government, which provides financial support, and the local communities, which decide on the most suitable housing options for their residents.
Deciding locally is a fundamental principle in this model. Local governments, being intimately acquainted with the nuances of their communities, are better positioned to understand the diverse housing requirements of their residents. These housing corporations, often established or supported by municipal authorities, engage in extensive community consultations to identify specific needs, preferences, and challenges related to housing.
By actively involving community members, local governments can make informed decisions about the types of housing that will best serve their residents. This may include a mix of affordable housing, rental options, senior housing, and developments that align with the unique character of the community. Deciding locally fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment among residents, as they actively participate in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.
Not council financed, local, private equity & other levels of government
While the decision-making process is local, the financial support comes from the federal level. Federal financing is crucial for the success of this model, providing the necessary resources to implement diverse housing solutions. By leveraging federal funds, local housing corporations can embark on ambitious projects that address the specific needs identified through community engagement.
The federal government's role extends beyond financing. It involves creating a supportive policy framework that encourages local decision-making and innovation in the realm of housing. Federal agencies can collaborate with local authorities to streamline regulations, provide technical assistance, and share best practices to ensure the success of housing initiatives.
Moreover, federal financing allows local housing corporations to access economies of scale, making large-scale housing projects more economically viable. This is particularly important for addressing pressing issues such as affordable housing shortages, as local governments can pool resources and collaborate with private sector partners to create housing solutions that might not be feasible at the local level alone.
The synergy between local decision-making and federal financing creates a model that is both adaptable and sustainable. It allows for the development of housing policies that respond to changing local needs, economic conditions, and demographic shifts. This dynamic approach contrasts with a one-size-fits-all federal policy that may not adequately address the specific challenges faced by individual communities.
In conclusion, local government-sponsored housing corporations that advocate for a wide range of housing types, decided locally and financed federally, represent a pragmatic and community-driven approach to addressing housing needs. This model empowers local communities to shape their housing landscape while leveraging federal resources to implement diverse and innovative solutions. By fostering collaboration between local and federal entities, we can build inclusive, resilient, and vibrant communities where housing meets the unique needs of every residen
Posted on 04 Feb 2024, 4:23 - Category: Housing - The Sunshine Coast Housing Corporation
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