By Jacky Lee | 1.5-minute read
The best part of my job is meeting Oregonians around the state who are changing the conversation around housing and pushing for transformative solutions. And I can’t think of a better example of local innovators than the grassroots organizers who launched the Astoria Housing Initiative.
What’s happening in Astoria?
The Astoria Housing Initiative is a grassroots ballot initiative to create a locally-controlled community housing fund, funded by taxing empty homes. Here’s the problem: Astoria has a shortage of homes that working residents can afford—yet they have hundreds of homes voluntarily left empty for most of the year.
Taxing empty houses will encourage property owners to sell or rent their homes, creating more opportunities for locals and working families. Those who choose to leave their homes empty can instead pay a tax, which supports locally-governed housing programs.
For the past year, grassroots organizers and volunteers have been working hard to engage the community, collect signatures, and get the initiative on the ballot. And it paid off: This November, Astoria voters will have the opportunity to vote yes on Measure 4-247.
Why does this matter for the rest of the state?
An empty homes tax might sound like an obvious strategy for raising funds to meet housing needs while ensuring that second homeowners support the local economy, yet no other city in Oregon has attempted it.
Why? Essentially, because there are powerful (and rich) lobbying interests that heavily oppose these programs, and no city is willing to face the threat of a lawsuit.
If Astoria is the first in the state to pass an empty homes tax, it will set a powerful precedent for other communities struggling with similar issues. And in this time of housing instability, cities need every option to provide attainable housing for their residents.
How you can support
Right now, this campaign needs funding to combat big-money interests that oppose the campaign. Supporters are working hard to raise $5,000 to put up yard signs, send out mailers, and knock on doors. And you can be a part of this effort:
- Learn more and donate.
- Contact Oregon for Everyone Manager Jacky Lee for other ways to get involved.