Balance Housing Needs & Protecting Our Environment

New Hanover County is at the center of one of the fastest growing metro areas in the United States. This incredible growth has been good for our community in many ways, but over the last five years Fair Market Rent has increased by over 50%, and over one third of New Hanover County residents are housing cost burdened. 

 

I believe we can continue to grow–responsibly– while making meaningful progress on solving our county’s housing crisis. We need to remember that creating new housing isn’t just building walls and ceilings – we’re creating communities for residents who deserve access to the beauty of New Hanover County’s unique natural environment. 

 

Once elected, I will: 

• Advocate for upzoning requests to undergo environmental impact assessments by the county’s new Sustainability Manager. 

• Consider existing infrastructure  and the adequacy of  community services when reviewing rezoning requests. 

• Recognize the untapped potential for sustainable development in the northern part of the county.  Ensure developments in this area are strategically located near essential resources such as transportation, commercial services, and green spaces. 

• Collaborate with developers to reduce housing barriers and ensure that housing is accessible to all. 

• Support local organizations that are already playing a vital role in supporting our unhoused citizens.

• Work to ensure the next iteration of New Hanover County’s Comprehensive Plan provides a framework and guiding principles to ensure that we address housing needs while protecting our environment.