Question: Do you agree with the state’s 10 percent goal for affordable housing in each community? What steps would you want the General Assembly to take to improve the housing situation in Rhode Island?

Joseph DePasquale — Independent:

I oppose Rhode Island's 10% affordable housing goal. The state must offer communities incentives rather than zoning penalties that strip local control. Revamping this failing system is a critical legislative priority. Despite spending $644.1 million from 2021 to 2025, plus a potential $150 million November bond, outcomes are unsuccessful with just 7,000 units tracked. I support RIPEC’s analysis, "Rhode Island's Housing Strategy: High Costs, High Subsidies, Low Returns." This must be our baseline strategy; our tax dollars are being wasted.

Nicole Jellinek — Democrat: 

I support affordable housing and ensuring every RI community helps meet our housing needs: our communities should welcome people with limited incomes, seniors and our children who want to settle here. With more than 60 housing laws passed recently, the next steps are to evaluate their effectiveness--before adding new legislation. We should review the state's comprehensive permitting process and work collaboratively with cities and towns to develop evidence-based solutions to address housing challenges.