Why We Advocate

Working with the city

The cost of land, materials, and labor make building affordably a challenge. However, there are steps that the city can take to make developing affordable housing more viable. HRB advocates for policies that help bridge the gap between the cost to build and operate low-income housing and the revenue generated from renting or selling it. We recognize that nonprofits such as HRB cannot meet the demand for affordable housing alone and that private developers can be part of the solution.

We seek policies that maximize the number of affordable units within market-rate developments and remove barriers to affordability, and we seek zoning that creates opportunities for environmentally low-impact affordable housing through greater density.

HRB remains a steady, harmonious, and effective voice for affordable housing on Bainbridge—in the community and at City Hall. We regularly offer public comment at City Council and Planning Commission meetings, serve as resident expert on housing issues, and convene community stakeholders around the need for affordable housing.

If you are looking for information or support for legal advocacy for personal housing issues, please reach out to the Housing Solutions Center or the NW Justice Project.

How you can be an advocate too

• Sign up for our mailing list. When an issue related to affordable housing is on the City Council or Planning Commission agenda, we send out an Advocacy Alert with a brief explanation and our perspective so that you too can speak up for housing. We’ll also let you know about upcoming HRB trainings and conversations about advocacy.
• Write to City Council and Planning Commission and watch the meetings. Click here to find meeting agendas, minutes, and recordings.
• Keep the conversation going. Talk about housing with your friends and family members, neighbors and colleagues. Tell them why it matters to you and the Bainbridge community, listen to their concerns and questions, and help them find the resources they need.

Why your voice matters now more than ever

In 2022, the city will be drafting a housing action plan that will direct development on the island for years to come. There will be multiple meetings, inviting community input.