The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved their first-ever “comprehensive housing plan” to address growing, and continuing, concerns over a housing crisis in the community.
Commission members approved the plan unanimously on Tuesday, according to the county.
Officials said the housing plan will be a guiding framework for the county to “tackle” housing challenges facing residents, including “a significant increase in housing costs, a lack of sufficient local resources, and a shrinking supply of affordable rental units.”
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DeKalb County said more than 50% of all renters in DeKalb were considered cost-burdened, meaning they are paying more than 30% of their monthly income for housing.
“We’re at a critical juncture in DeKalb County’s history,” said Commissioner Michelle Long Spears, who championed the plan. “The housing crisis is affecting families across our community, and we need a comprehensive, coordinated approach to address it. This housing plan is our roadmap to ensuring that everyone in DeKalb has access to a safe, affordable place to call home. It’s about building a future where no one is left behind.”