What’s Happening
New Orleans is facing an affordable housing crisis, but there’s a new initiative on the horizon that could reshape the city’s landscape. We sat down with Councilmember Lesli Harris, who represents District B, to discuss the city’s bold steps towards creating affordable housing through a Housing Trust Fund and what it means for New Orleans.
Why It Matters
With increasing housing costs and limited options, New Orleans is struggling to keep its residents in the city. The Housing Trust Fund could provide the stability needed to support affordable rental housing, maintain workforce housing, and even expand homeownership opportunities. The big question on the ballot this November? Whether 2% of the city’s general fund should be dedicated to this cause every year.
Councilmember Harris: In Her Own Words
- On the Housing Trust Fund: “This isn’t just a one-time thing. We’re talking about a steady source of income going into the Housing Trust Fund year after year, regardless of who is in power. It’s about creating a legacy of affordable housing for New Orleans,” said Harris.
The Council has already seeded $17 million into the fund. This is just the beginning, with the fund set to create affordable rental and workforce housing, and foster homeownership opportunities. - On Attracting Private Investment: “If we, as a city, are putting our own money in, it’s a signal for private entities to get involved. We’ve seen that when public dollars are invested, private money follows,” Harris explained.
Harris shared an inspiring example of a recent project—an old firehouse transformed into affordable housing and a childcare center—illustrating how public-private partnerships are being leveraged to address the housing crunch. - On the Council’s Long-Term Vision: “I’m taking my political capital and asking the public to support this. We need to ensure that New Orleanians stay here and aren’t pushed out by rising costs,” said Harris. “Our aim is to build up the kind of housing that raises all ships and keeps our community intact.”
What’s Next?
The Council has outlined three priority areas for the Housing Trust Fund: affordable rental housing, maintenance of workforce housing, and homeownership. If the amendment passes, an advisory board will guide the allocation of funds, ensuring flexibility to adapt to future housing trends and challenges.
Harris emphasized the importance of adapting New Orleans zoning regulations to match the city’s evolving needs. As the city looks at updating its Future Land Use Map (FLUM), it’s clear that vertical development and mixed-use projects will play a crucial role in the solution.
The Bottom Line
This initiative is about keeping New Orleans a place where people want to stay and invest in their futures. By dedicating a portion of the city’s funds to affordable housing, the city is betting on a more stable and prosperous future for all residents.