If enacted, this bill could have a significant impact on state housing policy, enabling local governments to better leverage existing real estate assets to meet affordable housing mandates. By allowing municipalities to include existing units in their calculations, the bill aims to increase the perceived availability of affordable housing units, thereby potentially expediting the certification process and encouraging the development of new projects.
Summary
SB00303 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending section 8-30g of the general statutes to enhance affordable housing initiatives within municipalities. The primary purpose of this bill is to allow municipalities to count existing apartments as part of their inventory when applying for a certificate of affordable housing project completion. This change is intended to improve the ability of municipalities to meet affordable housing requirements and facilitate the development of sufficient affordable housing options.
Contention
While the bill seems to promote affordable housing growth, it may also spark debates about the adequacy of current housing policies. Critics might raise concerns over the effectiveness of merely counting existing apartments rather than focusing on the construction of new, dedicated affordable housing units. This approach risks merely ticking boxes rather than addressing the underlying issues related to housing supply and affordability that many communities face.
An Act Concerning The Expansion Of Municipal Sewerage Systems To Promote The Development Of Housing And Requiring The Majority Leaders' Roundtable Group On Affordable Housing To Study The Elimination Of Municipal Design Review Processes.