Affordable Housing

Portland cannot reach its full potential unless working people can afford to live here. We need more housing, but our current approval process too often favors large, speculative developments while making it difficult for homeowners and local builders to create the neighborhood-scale housing our city needs.

Streamline ADUs and Cut Red Tape

The fastest way to add affordable housing is to make it easier for homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Today, converting a garage or adding a backyard cottage can cost $10,000 to $25,000 in architectural plans, engineering, surveys, and permit-related expenses before construction even begins. After that, homeowners may wait one to six months or more for approvals before a single nail is driven.

I will work to create a fast-track approval process for ADUs, reduce unnecessary permitting costs, simplify regulations, and establish firm review timelines so local families can build housing instead of getting buried in paperwork.

Reform the Development Process

Portland's development process should encourage practical, neighborhood-scale housing instead of creating obstacles that only the largest developers can afford to navigate. The Planning Board should focus on timely, predictable decisions that help address our housing shortage while preserving neighborhood character.

Support Local Builders

When possible, the City should encourage projects that hire local contractors, purchase Maine-made materials, and use environmentally responsible building practices. Keeping housing investment local strengthens our economy while creating quality homes.

Hold Developers Accountable

Developers who receive approvals should follow through on their commitments. The City should explore reasonable measures to discourage speculative land banking and projects that leave valuable housing sites vacant for years while our housing shortage grows.

Use Existing Housing More Effectively

We should examine practical ways to encourage housing to be used as homes instead of sitting vacant for much of the year, while respecting private property rights and balancing the needs of our community.

Portland can create more affordable housing without sacrificing the character of our neighborhoods. By cutting red tape, empowering homeowners, supporting local businesses, and holding developers accountable, we can build a city that remains affordable for the people who live and work here.