Berkeley's City Council has unanimously voted to abolish a long-standing single-family zoning policy, permitting small apartment buildings across most neighborhoods. This pivotal change, led by Councilmember Rashi Kesarwani, aims to enhance housing opportunities for young families and middle-income individuals, especially among historically marginalized groups. While acknowledging community opposition focused on the potential impact on quality of life, supporters argue that expanding housing options is essential for maintaining a vibrant and inclusive city. The new ordinance balances building size, covering 60% of lots and controlling height to mitigate neighbors' concerns about light.
"We are actually trying to create more starter-home opportunities for middle-class workers, for people of color, for people who have historically not had an opportunity to own a home and build multi-generational wealth," Kesarwani said.
"There are a lot of people who want to keep it as a necropolis for current homeowners, people who bought in the '60s and '70s," Horbinski said. "Is it a tomb or is it a living community?"
"What is a bigger hit to our quality of life: losing a few hours of direct sunlight in the winter or losing our children to another state when they can't afford a home in California?" - Mark Humbert.
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