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Dear Generation,
November has been challenging for many, as the election results brought mixed emotions and uncertainty about the road ahead. Many in our community are grappling with fears about how broader changes might impact their lives, families, and futures. Our Executive Director, Jen Klose, has shared our reflection on this moment—an invitation to embrace the power of our collective voices, the influence of our local leadership, and the hope inspired by our shared commitment to building an equitable and vibrant North Bay.
We encourage you to read her post here and join us in moving forward with unity, determination, and hope.
One promising example of local leadership in action came on November 12, when the Santa Rosa City Council unanimously approved a pilot program to incentivize the development of more affordable housing. This 6-0 vote is a testament to what we can achieve together when our leaders prioritize solutions to our housing crisis. A special thank you to all the housing advocates who showed up to make public comments—your voices made an impact.
But the work doesn’t stop there! Mark your calendars for January 14! The Board of Supervisors will be considering a similar proposal. Your voice matters, and public testimony on the importance of affordable housing makes the difference! Let us know you are coming—sign up to make public comment here.
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Action Alert: 1/14/25 Board of Supervisors Meeting | |
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On Tuesday, January 14, the Board of Supervisors will consider and take action on a policy we have proposed that we are confident will jumpstart housing production. It’s critical that we show up and demonstrate to our elected officials that our Housing Action Plan has community support.
Our goal is to reach 750 signatures on our Housing Action Plan petition before January 14, and we need yours today! Will you take 2 minutes to add your name to our petition?
Your signature will show local elected officials that we need change NOW because we can't afford to wait for actionable housing solutions in the North Bay.
And don't forget to join us in person for the Board of Supervisors meeting and make a public comment in support of solutions to the housing crisis!
Sign the Housing Action Plan petition here.
Add a reminder for BOS Meeting to your calendar here.
Stay tune for meeting details, talking points, and how to sign up here.
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2024 Housing Solutions Summit Panel Highlight | |
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The spirit of collective action was at the heart of our recent Housing Solutions Summit, where local leaders, advocates, and community members came together to explore bold strategies for addressing the housing crisis. The day was filled with inspiring discussions and actionable insights. We invite you to read our 2024 State of Housing in Sonoma County report.
Even before Generation Housing officially opened its doors, we’ve been watching Minneapolis closely as they’ve built a successful pro-housing movement through bold local policies. At the October 11 North Bay Housing Solutions Summit, Generation Housing brought together some of the key players behind those efforts. Moderated by Jennifer Palmer, Director of Housing & Homeless Services in Napa County, the panel featured Minneapolis City Council Member Jeremiah Ellison, former Minneapolis City Council Member Jeremy Schroeder, Tram Hoang Senior Associate, Housing, with Policy Link, and Andrea Riehl with Neighbors for More Neighbors. Together, they discussed how their community approached housing reform, the challenges they faced, and how their experiences can inform housing policy work here in the North Bay.
Here are a few key takeaways from our Minneapolis panelists:
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Key Policy Wins
When asked about key policies that have made a difference, Riehl pointed to the elimination of exclusionary zoning, which was pivotal. She noted that removing parking minimums was another significant step, despite opposition from environmental groups. Hoang added that the Developer Technical Assistance Program (DTAP) provided crucial support for smaller, often marginalized developers, ensuring more inclusive development.
Building for the Future
The panelists agreed that while Minneapolis’ housing challenges are far from over, the city has laid a strong foundation. Ellison pointed out that some fears about "missing middle" housing—like the idea that triplexes would end single-family homes—were unfounded. Schroeder urged a shift in perspective: "When someone is drowning, you don’t ask, ‘How much oxygen will prevent them from drowning?’ The answer is always just more."
Lessons for Other Communities
In the context of other cities like Sonoma County, Hoang suggested that there’s an opportunity to leap ahead by taking bolder steps. "You don’t have to go through the checklist that will make you even more behind," she said. Riehl emphasized the importance of leveraging local connections to create a sense of urgency. Ellison added, "There’s no point at which you can’t eliminate parking minimums. There is no right time—you’ll be waiting for another recession, another crisis."
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Get ready for a festive evening of fun and creativity at our December House Party, co-hosted by our friends at the CoLAB. We’ll be decking the halls with gingerbread and frosting, competing for the best Multifamily Gingerbread House. Invite your friends & enjoy festive holiday nibbles and beverages. | |
Thank you to our all our Members!
Become a member today!
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During this month of thanks, we at Generation Housing would like to take a moment to express our gratitude to all current Generation Members! Thank you for your continued support and advocacy; we cannot do this work without YOU. It is only when we work together that we drive lasting change in our community.
If you are not already, we encourage you to be part of that power by joining Generation Housing as a member, or gift a membership to someone who shares our vision. Remember, memberships start at just $5/year – a small investment for a significant impact. Our membership structure allows us to be inclusive, and provides an opportunity for each of you to join at a level that is financially feasible and personally meaningful and reflective of your commitment to housing solutions.
Why Your Support Matters Now More Than Ever
Your involvement is crucial. Whether it's your first time joining or you're gifting it to someone else, each membership fuels our mission to advocate for affordable, diverse, and sustainable housing. Your support means we can push harder, reach further, and advocate louder.
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Get Your Free Generation Housing Yard Sign | |
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Join us by showing your support for affordable housing action now with a free Generation Housing yard sign.
Our future begins with home, and by displaying one of these signs, you're showing your commitment to ensuring that everyone in Sonoma County has access to safe and affordable housing.
Ready to join the movement? Click the link below to request your free yard sign today!
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**Get up to $100,000 of Down Payment Assistance!**
Our partners at Burbank Housing can help make your dream of homeownership a reality!
- Up to $100K for downpayment assistance for eligible buyers
- Program is designed for first-time homebuyers
- Income limits apply and are based on household size*
- Interested Buyers must be pre-qualified for a loan before applying for assistance
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Stay Informed | Get Involved | |
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Be part of the SOLUTION!
Sign up to volunteer at community events to meet people, talk about housing, and engage them in our work.
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ICYMI: Latest Housing News | |
Thank you to our Catalyzing Members | |
Thank you to our Movement Partners
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