The Kingston Community Development Advisory Board is grappling with the pressing issue of attracting developers to the city, particularly for affordable housing projects. During a recent meeting on January 6, 2025, board members expressed concerns over the lack of development activity in Kingston, questioning why developers are hesitant to invest in the area.

One board member highlighted the urgent need for affordable housing, emphasizing that despite the clear demand, there has been minimal interest from developers. The discussion centered around understanding the barriers that prevent development, with a call for input from developers themselves to identify realistic solutions. The board member stressed the importance of not making changes to zoning regulations without first comprehensively understanding the reasons behind the stagnation in development.

The conversation also touched on the potential for subsidizing projects to incentivize developers. While the board is considering measures to encourage affordable housing construction, there remains uncertainty about whether any developers will step forward to take advantage of these opportunities.

As Kingston continues to seek solutions to its housing crisis, the board is committed to engaging with developers to uncover the underlying issues and explore effective strategies for fostering growth in the community. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the future of housing in Kingston, making it a critical focus for city officials moving forward.