Colorado’s Housing Bill for Churches Stalls: What It Means for Faith Communities
In a significant turn of events, Colorado lawmakers have decided to halt legislation that would have permitted houses of worship to construct housing on their properties, even in areas where local zoning laws would typically prohibit such development. This proposed legislation, known as House Bill 1169, initially gained momentum after passing the Democrat-controlled Colorado House of Representatives in March. However, it faced an unexpected roadblock in the state Senate, where leadership determined it did not have sufficient votes to move forward.
Shelby Wieman, spokesperson for Colorado Governor Jared Polis, expressed disappointment over the outcome, stating, “This common-sense policy is backed by non-profits, congregations, schools, housing, and conservation organizations. Coloradans are demanding action to cut housing costs, and we remain committed to continuing this important work.”
The intent behind HB 1169 was to streamline the building process for qualifying properties, including those owned by faith-based organizations. The proposed measure aimed to create a pathway for residential developments on properties owned by churches, schools, and state colleges for at least five years, provided these properties did not exceed five acres.
The bill highlighted that faith-based organizations in areas like Denver, Jefferson, Arapahoe, and Douglas counties own over 5,000 acres of undeveloped land. Many of these organizations incur significant costs maintaining these lots—costs that could be better utilized to address the pressing housing needs in the state.
The urgency for more housing in Colorado has been underscored by the growing population and the related challenges of transit, commuting, and workforce demands. Supporters of the bill included the "Yes in God’s Backyard" movement, a grassroots initiative advocating for the use of church properties for affordable housing. This movement emphasizes the potential for faith communities to play a vital role in addressing the housing crisis.
However, the legislation faced criticism from groups like the Colorado Municipal League, which argued that it infringed on local zoning authority. They expressed concerns that the bill would create a privileged class of property owners without adequate safeguards to ensure the development of affordable housing. Critics feared that without strict affordability standards, there was a risk that churches might pursue luxury developments rather than homes for those in need.
As the debate continues, many in the faith community are left wondering how best to balance the needs of their congregations with the urgent demand for housing in Colorado. The outcome of this legislative effort serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in addressing social issues through policy.
For those interested in the intersection of faith and community development, this situation highlights both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As Colorado grapples with its housing crisis, the conversation around the role of faith-based organizations in providing solutions is more relevant than ever.
Stay informed about developments in this area and more by following trusted sources like The Colorado Sun and The Denver Post. Engaging with local news can provide insights into how communities are responding to these challenges and the ongoing efforts to create a more equitable housing landscape in Colorado.