Re: Aug. 7 guest commentary.
Contrary to Lakewood Mayor Adam Paul’s premise, continuing along the “new growth” path of reckless development will not promote affordable housing. Most of Lakewood’s new (and proposed) units are luxury by design. When one-bedroom rentals start at $1,800 or more, who exactly benefits?
The recently filed growth initiative is likely not the best way to address the problem of overdevelopment, but its proponents can hardly be blamed for trying to solve what is seen by most as an out-of-control culture of build, build, and build some more. Despite a lot of talk about “smart” and “sustainable” growth in Lakewood, the current majority in city hall has been ineffective in addressing the consequences of their misguided policies.
We need to actually enforce zoning rules, close loopholes allowing developers to skirt open space requirements, and focus on the tens of millions of dollars in backlogged infrastructure projects. We wouldn’t need a growth initiative if the city would put the interests of its residents above those of developers.
ٲ쾱Բ, Lakewood
The writer is running for Lakewood City Council in Ward 4.
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