To the editor:

The report prepared by the Town’s consultant, Weston and Sampson, presented to the Town Council at its February 11 meeting, offers persuasive evidence of the housing crisis faced by Warren residents.

The report concludes that “the market is not providing enough housing for renters, seniors, and first-time buyers;” and that “without intervention, affordability gaps will widen, and vulnerable residents will face increased displacement.” [Italics added]

The consultant found a “significant need” for income-restricted housing, and that even the State’s oft-discussed [Low and Moderate Income Act] 10% threshold “does not fully align with Warren’s deeper affordability challenges.” According to the latest figures from Housing Works RI at Roger Williams University, a household income of $157,800 is needed to buy a median priced home in Warren, and an income of $95,800 is needed to rent the average two bedroom apartment. Ordinary workers have been priced out; renters struggle to remain. The crisis is real.

Based on the Times-Gazette’s reporting, the Council’s response to the consultant’s findings was disappointing.

Rather than focus on tools available to address the crisis - inclusionary zoning reform, expansion of ADU availability, density bonuses for income-restricted housing, tax incentives, identification of town-owned property suitable for 100% affordable developments, and proactive solicitation of non-profit developers prepared to build such developments - the Council repeated the charge (often voiced by local housing opponents) that State law “is the biggest barrier to affordable housing.”

While I agree that laws designed to incentivize private development of income-restricted housing will never be enough to solve the problem,

I submit that the focus on the Low-Mod Act is misplaced; had the Town issued permits for just ten affordable units annually since the Act was enacted, the 10% threshold would have been met, and we wouldn’t be discussing it.

I agree with the aspiration expressed by House Speaker Shekarchi, a staunch housing advocate: “I want Rhode Island to be a state where families can have a good life and raise their children, where young people can live near their parents and hometowns, and where seniors can age in place with dignity.”

Well said.

John Mensinger

Water Street