Priority 2

Policy Goal:

Guarantee that Hopkins grows in a way that is inclusive, sustainable, and fair — ensuring housing options for residents of all income levels while protecting long-time community members from being displaced.

Policy Commitments:

1. Housing for All Income Levels
    
   • Require new developments to include a fair percentage of affordable units.
   • Offer incentives for developers to build mixed-income housing.
   • Support rehabilitation of older properties to preserve affordable options.

1. Protect Current Residents from Displacement
    
   • Expand tenant protections and strengthen anti-eviction policies.
   • Provide property tax relief programs for low- and fixed-income homeowners.
   • Create pathways for residents to purchase and remain in their homes.

1. Smart, Sustainable Growth
    
   • Focus development near transit, jobs, and services to reduce transportation costs for residents.
   • Encourage green building practices that lower utility costs and protect the environment.
   • Promote mixed-use neighborhoods where people can live, work, and shop locally.

Execution Plan:

• Year 1: Pass inclusionary zoning policies to ensure affordable units in all major developments; expand rental assistance programs.
• Year 2–3: Launch a housing preservation fund to prevent the loss of existing affordable housing; incentivize sustainable construction.
• Year 4: Conduct a citywide housing needs assessment to measure progress and update strategies for long-term affordability.

Impact:

By balancing growth with fairness, we will create a Hopkins where residents of all incomes can find a home, families can stay rooted in their neighborhoods, and our city grows in a way that benefits everyone.

If you’d like, I can continue with Priority #4 next so all five priorities are ready for your website in one consistent, professional format.