In a recent city council meeting, officials addressed the pressing issue of affordable housing amid concerns that over 65,000 residents have left the state in 2022. Council members expressed frustration over the challenges of retaining local families, with one member sharing personal experiences of relatives who have relocated to the mainland. The council is actively seeking solutions to keep residents, particularly younger generations, from being priced out of their hometowns.

A significant point of discussion was the reluctance of developers to construct affordable housing. Council members acknowledged the need for incentives to encourage development, suggesting that increased density allowances could be a potential solution. However, they also recognized the community's mixed feelings about where such housing should be built, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive planning strategy to identify suitable locations.

Council member Cordero highlighted the importance of infrastructure capacity in relation to housing development, particularly in the context of the planned rail extension. The discussion included the concept of \"breaking up super blocks\" to improve connectivity and facilitate better urban planning. This approach aims to enhance the area's infrastructure and support future housing initiatives.

The council members underscored the necessity for collaboration between the city and the community to prioritize and invest in these goals. They acknowledged that effective planning and investment are crucial to creating a livable environment that accommodates both current and future residents. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore these issues and develop actionable plans to address the housing crisis.