Americans have a strong affinity for local government, as evidenced by the 61 percent favorable view reported by the Pew Research Center in December 2023. This sentiment towards local government contrasts starkly with the unfavorable 77 percent view held towards the federal government. However, beneath this facade of goodwill lies a grim reality: local government is fueling a housing crisis that is driving up rents, stifling economic mobility and productivity, and impeding wage growth.
Today’s episode of Good on Paper presents a unique discussion featuring two distinguished guests. Yoni Appelbaum, Deputy Executive Editor of The Atlantic, and David Schleicher, a Yale Law professor, join forces to explore the decline of the American housing market.
In a collection of deeply insightful reporting compiled in “On the Housing Crisis: Land, Development, Democracy,” these experts dissect the underlying causes of the housing crisis and uncover the inherent flaws in local democracy responsible for perpetuating it.
The conversation delves into the intricacies of American housing markets and the detrimental effects a broken housing system can have on individuals, communities, and the economy at large. From rising rents and limited economic opportunities to the erosion of community ties and the obstacles faced by vulnerable populations, the housing crisis touches every aspect of American life.
The discussion unravels the complexities of local governments’ role in exacerbating the crisis. David Schleicher aptly points out the challenges posed by the lack of accountability, the dominance of interest groups, and the dearth of information available to the public concerning local governance. He sheds light on the structural problems plaguing local democracy and emphasizes the need for reform to address the pressing housing crisis.
While discussing the rise of YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) groups and the push for legislative changes at the state level to counteract local opposition to housing developments, the conversation underscores the importance of collective action and institutionalized advocacy in effecting real change.
In conclusion, the episode underscores the urgency of addressing the systemic issues perpetuating the housing crisis and emphasizes the need for transformative reforms in local governance and housing policies. By fostering greater transparency, accountability, and public engagement at the local level, we can pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable housing ecosystem that benefits all Americans. Let’s work together to build a future where housing is a source of stability, opportunity, and growth for all.
