Tucson Council Set to Debate Bold Housing Overhaul and March Sales Tax Vote

The Tucson City Council is set to evaluate significant zoning changes that aim to address the city’s growing housing crisis. As local government agendas shift, the council faces pressing issues, including a sales tax election in March and ongoing discussions in Sahuarita regarding community prayer practices.

A housing emergency declaration has been recommended by the University of Arizona’s urban development institute, which also seeks decisions to facilitate the establishment of transitional housing for those experiencing homelessness. This initiative follows a year-long analysis of Tucson’s land-use policies, directed by Councilmember Kevin Dahl and former Councilmember Steve Kozachik.

The report will be presented to the City Council in an upcoming study session, and it proposes a departure from Tucson’s longstanding zoning traditions. The Drachman Institute’s plans challenge conventional notions of single-family homes being the default in urban design, advocating for options such as boarding houses and row houses to meet current demands.

Kenny Wong of the Drachman Institute shared insights on how diversifying housing types is essential. “We’ve got to look at diversifying what we can build and how we can build it,” Wong stated. He pointed to successful examples from cities like Minneapolis and Austin, which have adapted their housing strategies to counteract rising costs.

Tucson has witnessed a staggering 180% increase in home prices since 2012, with rents soaring 67% since 2017. The median home price has become practically unattainable for families earning the median household income of $51,281 in 2022, further underscoring the urgency for reform.

The implications of Tucson’s housing landscape have serious consequences; a substantial rise in homelessness—36%—has occurred during a strong economy. In contrast, the Great Recession saw the maximum unemployment benefits cover average rents. Concerns loom that a future economic downturn could exacerbate these issues without adequate measures in place.

Ineffectiveness in adapting local policies has contributed to the housing crisis. Currently, single-family homes dominate 39% of Tucson’s land use, while apartment complexes only occupy 24%. Transitioning away from traditional models could present new opportunities for mixed-use developments.

Historically, Tucson’s development policy has struggled to adjust to contemporary needs. However, cities like Minneapolis serve as a beacon of successful change. Increased density and mixed housing solutions could free Tucson from its existing quagmire. Urban density limits can also combat climate change by reducing vehicle trips and energy consumption.

In a related context, the Tucson City Council will assess a potential half-cent sales tax to fund affordable housing initiatives and enhance public safety. This proposal reflects a proactive strategy to generate significant revenue—potentially up to $800 million—for local developments.

Additionally, the Council will deliberate on plans to create more efficient water usage strategies aligning with Tucson’s allocation of Colorado River water as drought conditions fluctuate. Forthcoming charges for Central Arizona Project water are set to increase from $1 to $1.25 per hundred cubic feet in response to rising costs.

In Sahuarita, discussions about formalizing a policy for opening council meetings with prayer reflect wider community values. While debates about religious invocation persist, the council seeks to create an inclusive approach that does not favor specific faiths.

The Vail Unified School District has introduced the Saguaro Creek Sidewinders as its official mascot, symbolizing a blend of community engagement and environmental consciousness. School leaders aim to foster connection, selecting green and copper colors to reflect local landscapes.

In the educational sphere, amendments are underway across various school districts, addressing equal hiring procedures and outlining ethical conduct standards for employees. As these changes roll out, ensuring transparency and accountability remains paramount.

The updated policies and proposed zoning changes in Tucson highlight a transformative approach to modern challenges. Embracing diverse housing configurations and strategic planning could shape a more sustainable and inclusive urban future.