Lincoln residents speak out on the need for affordable housing

During the city council meeting Monday, many Lincoln residents took the podium to speak on behalf of those who are in need of more affordable housing.

A member of Collective Impact Lincoln, a partnership which works towards creating positive change in Lincoln’s core neighborhoods, read off a list of stats in the hopes of helping council members better understand the housing dilemma. 

“About 34,000 families in Lincoln are dealing with housing inadequacy issues and increasing rents,” Jose Lemus said. “This can range from skyrocketing rents to being forced to live in rat-infested apartments.”

They also asked the city council to create legislation expanding inspections for all rental properties.

Some who spoke said they’ve felt the impact of having a lack of affordable housing.

“My senior year of high school, we ended up moving into a friend’s basement so we could save money,” Katharen Wiese said. “My mom was sleeping on a bunk bed in a craft room for over a year and she gave up the full room so I could have a space of my own.”

Council members said they’re always exploring different option to provide affordable housing opportunities.