Counting the Costs NIMBYism Imposes on Everyone Else
Oct 10, 2023
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Chris Denson of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation discusses the costs of NIMBYism, including the impact on economic development, housing supply, and diverse communities. The podcast explores the consequences of government regulations on single-family homes and the lack of diversity in neighborhoods. It also emphasizes the need for workforce housing and highlights the role of Conservancy Groups in promoting housing diversity.
Excessive government regulation contributes to a shortage of affordable housing and rising prices, impacting the overall prosperity of neighborhoods.
Opposition to new housing development from NIMBYs results in restricted housing supply, forcing families to relocate or be priced out of their own neighborhoods.
Deep dives
High cost of government regulation in housing
A study conducted by the Georgia Public Policy Foundation revealed that government regulation accounts for just under 27% of the cost of a new single-family home. This excessive regulation creates a shortage of housing supply, which in turn leads to rising prices and limited options for potential homeowners. The lack of affordable housing affects not only young families looking to upsize or downsize in their communities but also the overall prosperity and vibrancy of neighborhoods.
The impact of nimbyism on housing development
The podcast highlights the resistance to new housing development from certain segments of the population, including those who advocate for maintaining the status quo in their neighborhoods. These individuals, often described as NIMBYs (Not In My Backyard), assert their preferences for preserving the character and stability of their communities. However, this opposition to new development leads to a restricted supply of housing and leaves many families priced out of their own neighborhoods or forced to relocate due to a lack of housing options.
The need for workforce housing and economic development
The podcast emphasizes the importance of providing workforce housing in areas experiencing economic development. Large-scale industrial projects, such as the SK battery plant and the Hyundai plant, require a significant number of workers. However, housing shortages prevent these workers from finding suitable accommodations in the same communities where they are employed. The podcast suggests that local governments should consider incorporating workforce housing components into their economic development strategies to avoid exacerbating the housing crisis.
It's worth knowing just how costly it is to effectively give the loudest voices at a zoning board meeting the power of the veto. Chris Denson of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation discusses the tax NIMBYs impose on the rest of us.