A Focus on housing and neighborhoods

Prioritizing Reinvestment

The answer is not simply to ‘just build more’ but rather to work smarter with what we already have: a large supply of existing housing stock in need of targeted reinvestment. Akron should prioritize rehabilitation of existing homes and infill construction on vacant lots. This preserves the character of neighborhoods and allows the city to make scaled improvements in an efficient manner. We need a comprehensive survey of housing conditions at the block and neighborhood level, with a centralized system to match existing needs with available resources.

Promoting Housing Stability

We should scrutinize the influx of corporate landlords, real estate speculators, and house flippers—often from out-of-state—who have been buying up increasing numbers of Akron homes and rental units in recent years. Our city government should be proactive in ensuring that housing market dynamics are not being exploited for profit. Additionally, we must explore added protections for renters and pursue implementation of stronger housing codes. 

Strengthening Neighborhoods

In order for our city to thrive, all 24 of its neighborhoods must be strong and connected. We should promote the operation of community development corporations and neighborhood organizations across all of them. City Hall should assist each neighborhood in defining a comprehensive plan for itself to integrate goals around housing, preservation, and development. Neighborhood placemaking should emphasize enhanced access to parks, robust local business districts, and accessible public spaces.