The editorial notes that the “traditional policy kit” of demand-side solutions like rent control, eviction moratoriums, and subsidies is largely useless, yet politicians across the country continue to tout them. Correctly pointed out. Rent control particularly harms renters because it exacerbates the very problems it seeks to solve.
When it comes to how to encourage housing construction, facts matter. As we saw with Arlington County’s “Missing Middle” law, we can start by updating decades-old zoning codes that are often rooted in discrimination. It could also speed up permits, ease parking requirements and encourage development near transportation centers. These are all popular ideas supported by many governors of both political parties.
At the National Governors Association’s winter meeting last month, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte (R) said the key question is “do we want our nurses, our teachers, our police officers to live in the communities where they work?” Stated. Colorado’s Jared Polis (D) and many other governors of both parties agreed. they are right. Now their voters need to closely monitor what these leaders are helping to build.
Sharon Wilson Geno, Washington
The author is the president of the National Multifamily Housing Council.