I am compelled to respond to the Ogden City Council meeting on October 15th, where a concerning commercial rezoning plan was unveiled. This proposal limits multiple-family dwellings in critical commercial zones (C-2/CP-2 and C-3/CP-3), effectively blocking the development of new apartments, rowhouses, and duplexes, save for a few exceptions.

This move not only neglects the pressing need for affordable housing but actively undermines efforts to support our most vulnerable residents. Among the most alarming repercussions of this rezoning is the stalling of Ville 3306, a fully-funded initiative aimed at providing subsidized housing for families in need. This project would serve those at various income levels, including families living at 60%, 40%, and below 30% of the Area Median Income. Currently, there are 40 families on the waiting list for housing in Ogden City, and Ville 3306 could provide homes for them all–and more. By halting this project, we jeopardize a solution that not only addresses immediate housing needs but also offers a comprehensive support system, including case management, therapy, substance abuse counseling, after-school programs, and childcare access.

The Council’s claim of adding over 3,000 affordable housing units is misleading. Most of these units cater to families at 40% or 60% AMI, leaving those at or below 40% without viable options. Given Ogden’s average household income of $66,226 in 2022 and rents averaging $1,240 for a modest two-bedroom apartment, truly affordable options are scarce.

While the Council argued strongly the “where” of housing matters, promoting the idea of walkable neighborhoods equipped with adequate infrastructure, overlooks the immediate needs of families facing homelessness. For those without homes, any safe, stable housing that comes with supportive services is infinitely preferable to living in shelters, cars, or on the streets.

I urge the City Council to reconsider this rezoning plan and to grandfather in Ville 3306. Projects like Ville 3306 do more than provide housing; they offer a vital pathway to stability and success for families in crisis. Ogden must adopt a holistic approach that addresses the full spectrum of affordable housing needs, focusing on creating thriving, supportive communities for all.

Sean Abel

Ogden