News

November 20, 2020

Jay H. Banks

City Council Establishes Framework for Mandatory Inclusionary Zoning Policy

City Council Establishes Framework for Mandatory Inclusionary Zoning Policy

NEW ORLEANS - With the passage of Cal No 33,128, the complete framework for New Orleans' Mandatory Inclusionary Zoning policy is in place. Implementing the Smart Housing Mix has been a years-long process, one that the City will actively continue to work on – up to and even after this policy takes effect on July 1, 2021. With the structure complete, the policy can be reviewed and updated in full context. 

 

Moving forward, Councilmembers Banks and Williams plan to introduce comprehensive amendments to the policy at the Dec. 17th Council meeting. In the coming months, there will be a public effort to bring everyone to the table to ensure that every route to an affordable unit is possible. Special attention will be paid to making the process of creating affordable units as accessible and attractive as possible. Input from stakeholders will continue to be crucial, with a focus on clear legislative directives and policy suggestions.

 

The Smart Housing Mix will not be legislation left on the shelf, but rather a tool that is continuously utilized and improved upon. 

 

“What we need is a real mechanism to get more affordable housing in our city. I accept that this may not do enough in getting us there, but we’re going to continue to work on what we pass today and do all the tweaking necessary to get it right," said District "B" Councilmember Jay H. Banks. "The win today is not passing this or any specific piece of legislation; but creating opportunities to increase access to quality, affordable housing citywide. We cannot succumb to paralysis by analysis and end up with nothing to show for it two years from now. The people that make the magic of New Orleans have to be able to live here, or they’ll leave and take that magic with them." 

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Media Contact:

Jenna D. Burke

Director of Land Use

504-658-1020

Jenna.Burke@nola.gov

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