As the mayor of Tacoma, I am deeply concerned about the growing housing crisis affecting our community. The lack of affordable housing is not just a local issue; it’s a statewide problem that demands urgent attention and decisive action. We need legislative action to help address the challenges of housing affordability and skyrocketing rent increases, as well as ways to convert underutilized properties into affordable housing.
Most importantly, we need the state to be able to help fund housing. This is not merely an economic challenge; it is a moral imperative that demands our urgent attention and action.
Our city, like many others across the nation, is facing a housing crisis where demand for affordable housing far exceeds supply . Skyrocketing rents and property prices have placed an immense burden on individuals and families, forcing many to choose between putting food on the table or keeping a roof over their heads. Too many families in our community are living in fear of sudden rent hikes that could force them out of their homes.