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Affordability is discussed a lot in our community. How do you define affordability?

Justin Jacobson

City Council, District 3

Affordability should encompass the total costs for housing, transportation and quality of life factors including proximity to one’s work, school, child or elder care, and community services. A base line of housing and transportation cost being no more than 30% of income is a good starting point, with the added quality of life components there is a more enhanced concept of affordability. A percentage of one’s income is not holistic enough nor does it fully speak to those struggling to find housing that fits into their budget and lives. Affordability requires to also think about who we are talking about.