Neighbors for More Neighbors A2

Neighbors for More Neighbors A2 supports Ann Arbor for All. We stand up for secure, abundant homes for everyone in Ann Arbor. 

We envision a future where we all find secure, affordable homes in neighborhoods we choose. We support an Ann Arbor in which people of all ages, ethnicities, and income levels--whether renters or owners--can enjoy our neighborhoods. We support abundant, safe, affordable housing in walkable communities with access to transit, shopping and jobs. 

Zoning isn't just policy. It's a moral question: Who gets to belong in our neighborhoods? Who gets left out?

Zoning is moral storytelling through maps. It regulates what can be built, where, and for whom. In Ann Arbor, 36% of or our land is zoned R1 & R2, or single family homes exclusively.

Zoning has a past--and it's not neutral. Our current zoning originated to segregate by race and class. It reinforces patterns of exclusion, even today. Exclusion by design results in injustice by outcome.

The housing shortage impacts Ann Arbor in many ways: The average home price is 5 times the median area income. Workers commute by car from outside. Seniors can't afford to age in place. Families can't afford to stay. Public school enrollment is in decline.

Our Comprehensive Land Use Plan is an opportunity to make space at the table. Ethical zoning looks like: More housing options. More homes, more families. Density encourages sustainability and justice.

Our call to action: Let's rewrite the map with justice in mind. Speak up for inclusive zoning. Don't fear density--fear exclusion. Make room--in policy, in practice, in heart.

Learn about the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and City's ongoing engagement process!

How do I get involved?

So glad you asked! You can write an email to City Council (citycouncil at a2gov dot org) and Planning Commission (planning at a2gov dot org) sharing your story of housing in Ann Arbor and expressing support for more housing--including duplexes, triplexes, townhomes and small apartment buildings--in the residential neighborhoods that are close to downtown and close to public transit. Share what housing abundance means to you.

Attend (in-person or virtually) a City Council or Planning Commission meeting. 
https://www.a2gov.org/city-council/council-meetings-overview/

https://www.a2gov.org/planning/development-review/city-planning-commission/