Across Arizona, mayors and city councils are leading the charge to advocate for more affordable housing. The reason is simple: We recognize the urgent need for increased housing supply that is sustainable for our communities and allows hard-working residents and families to pursue the American Dream.
We are actively working to expedite the approval and construction of new units. Since 2020, Arizona cities and towns have issued permits for more than 255,000 new housing units with another 106,000 units awaiting construction in Maricopa County alone. Our cities are embracing innovative solutions to create more housing options for Arizonans. We are adopting policies that allow for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or casitas to promote urban infill development, reduce minimum lot sizes, and reduce setback requirements. In fact, 37 cities currently allow ADUs and 13 more are actively working toward passing an ADU ordinance.
We are creating zoning districts that allow for duplex and triplex units, known as “middle housing.” These efforts demonstrate our commitment to increasing housing supply and promoting affordability. At the state level, we have been actively engaged in shaping housing legislation that balances the need for increased supply with the importance of preserving neighborhood input, promoting quality development, and ensuring the health and safety of our neighborhoods. We are encouraged by legislation that has been signed into law, including the adaptive reuse of commercial properties and streamlining the approval process for zoning ordinances.
Cities and towns are doing their part in expediting the housing pipeline, by reducing red tape and delays as much as possible. And while we support expediting permit approvals, we must ensure that deregulation doesn't compromise public safety. There are remaining challenges we must face head-on with a collaborative approach. ADUs should be true dwelling units, not targets for out-of-state investors to convert them into Airbnb’s. Middle housing projects should be focused on locations where infrastructure can support them.
Housing affordability is a complex issue influenced by various factors beyond the control of municipalities, such as supply shortages, interest rates, labor costs and workforce challenges. We applaud Gov. Katie Hobbs' commitment to supporting affordable housing across our state with her recent announcement of the “Arizona is Home” and “Home Plus” programs. She understands the barriers to homeownership posed by mortgage rates and down payment requirements.
Mayors stand at the forefront of housing efforts, and we are committed to working with state legislators and the Governor to pass effective pro-housing measures. By making common sense changes to some existing legislation, our communities will emerge from this legislative session knowing that we have taken significant steps to address Arizona's housing needs.
We invite all stakeholders to join us in this effort. Together, we can build a future where every Arizonan has access to safe, affordable, quality housing. Arizona cities and towns are committed to leading the way as champions of housing growth and affordability.
Douglas Nicholls is the mayor of Yuma, Kevin Hartke is the mayor of Chandler, and Mila Besich is the mayor of Superior.
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