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What policies and approaches will you advocate to promote neighborhood improvement, and avoid neighborhood protectionism, as Austin changes and grows?

Sabino β€œPio” Renteria

City Council, District 3

https://twitter.com/cm_renteria

I believe that we can implement smart policy solutions that will improve our neighborhoods while still serving the needs of the existing community. Infill tools like Accessory Dwelling Units are a great way to help people afford to stay in their neighborhoods while providing more affordable housing options. The Austin Neighborhoods Council unsuccesfully fought my neighborhood when we wanted to allow more people to build ADUs. I personally built a garage apartment that allowed me to pay rising property taxes and stay in my home. Many other people in my neighborhood have built garage apartments as a way to help them stay in place.

Another tool is the cities Density Bonus Program which can be used to ensure that new development brings more affordable housing to our community, so that we not only welcome new people but bring back the people who have already been displaced.