KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Kalamazoo has been trying to fix its housing crisis for several years now but many, including some local officials, feel they still aren’t doing enough.
Despite the housing millage, and local governments sinking tens of millions into the effort, the number of the homeless continues to rise, home prices are rising faster than salaries, and housing continues to become less affordable.
That’s why Kalamazoo County Housing Director Mary Balkema is asking for a larger commitment.
She laid out a framework for a full scale and coordinated effort by the county to get a handle on housing this week.
It calls for moving away from being reactive and to being proactive.
One of the toughest groups to assist is the population that needs the help the most, those earning less than 80% of the average median income. Commissioners Monteze Morales and Tami Rey want assurances they won’t be left out.
Board chair Jen Strebs is all for it.
At this point, it’s just an outline for a plan to create a strategy. Balkema says she will be back next month with the next steps.
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