Concerns over affordable housing dominated the Boulder City Council's special meeting on January 9, 2025, as residents voiced strong objections to a proposed ordinance. Margaret Lacomte, a local resident, raised critical questions about the ordinance's potential impact on the city's housing market, arguing that it lacks necessary price caps on rentals and sales for new residential units.

Lacomte emphasized that without these caps, the ordinance could exacerbate the existing housing crisis, leading to higher rents and profits for landlords while pushing out essential community members, including teachers, healthcare workers, and families. "Families are being driven out of Boulder," she stated, highlighting the need for more family-friendly housing options that accommodate children and community spaces.

The discussion also touched on the ongoing construction of thousands of new housing units across Boulder, including developments in Boulder Junction and East Boulder. Lacomte questioned whether these projects truly address the need for "missing middle housing" and criticized the council for not incorporating sufficient community feedback into their planning processes.

As the meeting progressed, support for the ordinance was also expressed by Rosie Pippen, who advocated for the council to approve the 550-foot option within the ordinance. However, the contrasting views underscored a significant divide in the community regarding the future of housing in Boulder.

The council's next steps remain uncertain as they navigate the complex landscape of housing needs and community input, with many residents calling for a reevaluation of the proposed ordinance to better serve families and maintain the vibrancy of Boulder neighborhoods.