The Stoop

Annemarie Gray discusses recently getting the "City of Yes" initiative across the finish line in New York City — the city's first major reform on housing in recent history. Gray, who has a background in architecture and planning policy, highlights the importance of zoning reform as part of a broad package that must include other measures to build abundant, affordable homes. City of Yes, which passed with a 31-20 vote, includes measures like universal affordability preferences, residential conversions, and accessory dwelling units. Despite cuts, it still aims to add 80,000 homes over 15 years. Gray emphasizes the role of grassroots organizing and the need for continued advocacy at both city and state levels.

Sterling Higa discusses a recent legislative campaign that resulted in substantial state-level wins that will help alleviate the housing crisis in Hawaii. Despite opposition, these reforms passed due to a fierce legislative champion and a diverse coalition, spanning a wide ideological range and covering many areas of technical expertise. Higa encourages activists to be bold in their proposals and build a strong coalition to move policy across the finish line.

Graham Downey discusses his journey into housing advocacy, starting with a law school class on land use and leading to his work in Anchorage. He highlighted the success of eliminating mandatory parking minimums in Anchorage, Alaska — which can increase housing supply and reduce costs. This reform, supported by a diverse coalition under the Anchorage Housing Club banner, passed unanimously. Graham emphasizes the importance of defining problems clearly to find effective solutions and fostering shared values in housing policy.

Kirin Goff and Jake Hinman discuss the Arizona Neighborhood Project's efforts to advocate for pro-housing policies in a deep purple state with a divided government. They share stories of big wins and hard-fought challenges — including from opponents to their bills among local administrators and other officials. They emphasize the importance of removing policy barriers to give residents the freedom and ability to build their communities.

Felicity Maxwell, an advocate and planning commissioner in Austin, Texas, dives into the city's housing and transit transformation. She shares her journey from Brooklyn to Austin, discussing the fight for affordable housing and transit reforms. Felicity highlights key policy wins, like eliminating parking minimums and enhancing middle housing options. She addresses the historical challenges of racial and class exclusion while envisioning an inclusive future through urban activism. Her insights reflect the vital role of community in shaping a more equitable Austin.

Dan Reed, the first guest on "The Stoop," discusses their journey into housing advocacy, beginning with their childhood experiences with housing insecurity and through their recent, successful housing policy campaigns. As the regional policy director for Greater Greater Washington, they focus on housing and land use policy in Maryland and Northern Virginia. Their insights into relationship building, strategy, and leveraging networks can benefit all of us.

Cutter González (they/them) introduces "The Stoop" podcast, a project of the Welcoming Neighbors Network. On the show, you'll hear the stories of activists, policymakers, and thought leaders working to create abundant and affordable housing through policy campaigns across the U.S. Each episode will feature hour-long interviews, blending policy and advocacy discussions with personal stories.