Colorado Springs Waives Affordable Housing Rights, Raising Concerns for Local Families

In a move that has drawn criticism from housing advocates, the Colorado Springs City Council recently passed Ordinance No. 24-100, effectively waiving the rights of first refusal and first offer created by state-level House Bill 24-1175. This controversial decision could have significant implications for the availability of affordable housing options for Colorado families.

The Impact on Colorado Springs and Beyond

House Bill 24-1175, approved by the state in May 2024, granted local governments the ability to exercise rights of first refusal and first offer when qualifying multifamily properties went up for sale. The goal was to preserve long-term affordable housing and promote mixed-income developments. However, the Colorado Springs City Council's new ordinance exempts residential sellers within the city's jurisdiction from these requirements, potentially limiting the city's ability to intervene and retain affordable units.

"This decision by the city council is deeply concerning for Colorado Springs families struggling to find affordable housing options," said local resident and community organizer, Sarah Wilkins. "It undermines the state's efforts to address the affordable housing crisis and could price even more hardworking Coloradans out of our community."

Concerns for Colorado's Affordable Housing Landscape

• Reduces the city's ability to preserve existing affordable housing units and create new mixed-income developments
• Limits opportunities for local governments to intervene and ensure the availability of affordable housing options
• Potentially exacerbates the affordable housing crisis impacting Colorado Springs, Denver, and other communities across the state

As Colorado grapples with rising housing costs and a shortage of affordable units, the Colorado Springs City Council's decision to waive these important rights has raised concerns among housing advocates and community members alike. Residents and local businesses will be closely watching to see how this move affects the availability and accessibility of affordable housing in the region.

Read the full text of Ordinance No. 24-100

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