This is a common question I ask when hearing people talk about affordability for homeowners in the current market. The answer that I get back from many people is “No.”

Mount Pleasant Town Council met on Tuesday, March 12, to discuss an amendment to zoning for the hopeful Carolina Park housing development by Prosperity Builders. The council chamber was filled with voices who spoke in opposition of the development, citing concerns over increased traffic, crowded schools and safety for kids. A resident of the Gregorie Ferry development spoke about how she was able to purchases a home that was closer to her job. She thanked the developers and urged council to consider the benefits of having attainable housing in an area where housing prices continue to soar out of reach for many people who may want to live in the town.

Council members were charged with discussing the proposed zoning change. Councilman Brownstein stated that “the price point was important for young professionals to move to the town” and that attainable housing is a tremendous asset to the community. The development passed 8-1, with the motion to amend the zoning from light industrial to residential. This is the first reading for the project and the second reading will happen next month.

As more projects like these are developed, we must remember that housing is a basic right for everyone. Thriving communities must consist of diverse populations and workforce housing can serve as a conduit to make these communities a reality.