I am a Charleston native, born and raised, and I have seen the harsh realities faced by my community members, friends, college acquaintances, and church family as we helplessly watch our cherished homes become unaffordable.  I am only 17 years old, but I have noticed  Charleston has changed dramatically, but not always for the better. Today, high rent prices are forcing many people to relocate to the outskirts of our very own city. This problem is not only in Charleston but throughout the state. 

This is the strong-rooted Charleston community which, over generations, has strived to create a warm, inviting and inclusive neighborhood for everyone. In recent years many people have poured into the city, indirectly pushing many locals and hard working citizens to the outskirts. The escalating housing costs have not only disrupted our life, but also have put great psychological strain on many, leaving people disconnected and stressed. Many people drive over 45 minutes to work each day without any other options. Many families and elders, are not able to live in places they need to be due to housing prices. We need homes for everyone!

I believe that the introduction of the Inclusionary Zoning Act, which has shown positive effects in various other cities including New York, San Franciso, and Boston, will be an effective solution to this perpetual struggle. This act requires a certain percentage of new construction on housing over a specific # of units to be affordable for low- and moderate-income households, thereby giving a much-needed ease to the rocketing price scenarios. These apartments will be utilized by anyone in need of a new situation and provide them a safe affordable home. It also puts developers under scrutiny, ensuring they contribute to the sustainability of Charleston and its people by sharing a part of their profits with the community. 

In 2022, SC bill 309 (Inclusionary Zoning Act) was introduced to the state senate by ex senator Marlon Kimpson who was a massive advocate for addressing the affordable housing crisis. However he is now working in the Biden administration and the bill died very quickly. The bill/act has not undergone any focus since Marlon Kimpson

By advocating for the enactment of the Inclusionary Zoning Act in Charleston, South Carolina, we hope to create an environment that is affordable, inclusive and stress-free for all who call Charleston home. We believe it's our right to live without financial stress in the city we were born and raised in. Please join me in this essential cause by signing this petition. Let's unite to promote affordable housing in Charleston, and ensure that our city remains vibrant and accessible for all its residents. In supporting this petition you are showing you want change. I have devoted effort and time to researching the specific details that would ensure that it will meet legal measures. Each day I learn more and I am currently writing a policy memo for city to review. Thus, I need help advocating and the more people with me the more important the issue will be to the city. 

The earlier we implement it the better and once the positives are shown we will fight for the SC state congress to reevaluate the bill. 

If you have any questions about the bill or my work please feel free to reach out!