Lisa Hughet has lived in Raleigh for nearly 30 years and says “my activism really kicked into high gear during the pandemic. Ironically, coinciding with a new City Council who appears not to have the residents of Raleigh as their highest priority. I’m also active in affordable housing matters and animal rescue.”
Lisa Hughet delivered the following comments to Raleigh City Council at the December 12, 2023 meeting:
‘Twas the night before council, and all through the city, Affordable units demolished, oh what a pity.
The ADU pilot awaited support with care, In hopes that affordable units soon would be there.
The developers nestled all snug in their beds, With visions of profits and luxury spreads.
Affordable housing, a dream sought in pain, At 30-50% AMI, the plea seemed in vain.
Yet new council members, with courage aflame, Took up the challenge, in the city’s name.
Accountability they sought from developers’ domain, Funding for units, for those with less gain.
Preserving the city’s character and history, New members stood tall.
A beacon for victory. A concern in their hearts, for a city’s soul, As development surged, they aimed for control.
The missing middle policy, in need of reform, Yet the Mayor held fast, leaving the norm.
Sensible revisions, a call in the air, To notify neighbors and preserve neighborhood flair.
Oh, council members, heed the call, For Raleigh needs housing, affordable for all.
Drive expectations with developers, strong and clear, That diverse homes are what our city holds dear.
History and character, don’t let them fade, In the rush for progress, don’t let them evade.
Balance the future with a nod to the past, Make Raleigh a city that will forever last.
So rise, city council, to the challenge we face, Prioritize housing for every citizen’s grace.
Let workforce housing flourish, let funding flow, A city united in diversity will surely grow.
And on this night so near, listen to the voices that are sincere.
“Happy Holidays to all, and to all a good-night.”
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