ADDRESSING THE ROOT CAUSES OF OREGON'S HOUSING CRISIS
Housing affordability has become one of the most pressing issues facing Oregon, particularly in Central Oregon, where the dream of homeownership is slipping further out of reach for many families. While governments at all levels have attempted to address the issue with tax credits, bond measures, and statewide rent control, these efforts have often failed to tackle the underlying problems that drive up housing costs.
THE CORE ISSUES:
Oregon’s housing prices are among the highest in the nation, largely due to aggressive land-use policies that limit the availability of developable land. These "anti-sprawl" measures, while aimed at preserving the environment, have created an artificial scarcity of land, driving up housing costs. From 1992 to 2007, Oregon’s housing prices rose 32% faster than incomes, making it the least affordable state in the country.
In Central Oregon, these policies have exacerbated the housing shortage, as rapid population growth meets a constrained housing supply. The result is soaring home prices and a lack of affordable options for families.
A PATH FORWARD: PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS
To solve Oregon’s housing crisis, we need to rethink our approach:
Expand Urban Growth Boundaries: Thoughtfully expanding these boundaries, while balancing the preservation of farmable land and environmental concerns, can increase the supply of land for development, helping to stabilize housing prices.
Lower Fees for Builders: Reducing excessive fees can encourage more workforce housing projects, making it easier for builders to create affordable homes.
Encourage Diverse Housing Types: Promoting a variety of housing options, including multi-family units and affordable single-family homes, will make homeownership accessible to more people.
Foster Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with the private sector can lead to innovative solutions and increased housing availability.
Assess New Regulations' Impact on Costs: Any new regulations should undergo a thorough fiscal impact analysis, similar to what the state legislature requires, to ensure they don't inadvertently raise the cost of construction and further exacerbate the housing crisis.
Reevaluate Anti-Sprawl Policies: It’s time to strike a better balance between conservation and development, aligning policies with the realities of population growth and housing demand.
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THE MICHAEL SUMMERS COMMITMENT
"As a father of four and a small business owner, I’ve seen how Oregon’s housing crisis affects families. In the Oregon Senate, I will fight to expand urban growth boundaries, lower fees for builders, foster public-private partnerships, and promote diverse housing options. Additionally, I will advocate for a careful assessment of any new regulations to ensure they don’t unintentionally raise housing costs. By addressing the true causes of this crisis, we can make homeownership a reality for more families and ensure that Central Oregon remains a thriving community for all."
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