Recently, council heard a report from the consultants who completed a Worthington housing assessment. The consultants confirmed everything we already know about Worthington housing: housing prices are high and stock is limited.
The consultants reported “demand for additional housing in Worthington exceeds 2,000 units…” They went on to report 783 new houses were needed priced below $250,000 and 462 new apartment units priced below $1,200 per month. Due to central Ohio market forces, and specifically because Worthington is a desired location, the consultants admitted that it’s not realistic. Unfortunately, some members of the community, including some council members, continue to advocate for building thousands of units regardless the price point. They believe the slight increase of housing stock will decrease housing prices. This is simply not true (read here for a good case study).
The report also mentions “displaced” residents more than 30 times. The consultants use the term loosely – not residents who have been displaced out of Worthington, but non-residents who might like to live in Worthington if they could find housing.
So, what can be done?
The consultants did provide some interesting data points to consider along with some options that might be suitable for Worthington.
Aside from opening the flood gates of developers by sections of neighborhoods and commercial properties to turn into high-density apartments, the accessory dwelling units (ADU “mother-in-law suites”) seem to be an option worth considering. Another is to provide builders construction incentives in targeted areas to help contain construction costs for cottage-style homes and duplex-type housing.
I’m not sure what discussions have occurred between council members since the consultant’s report, but I encourage residents to share thoughts about what – if any – housing development should occur throughout Worthington.
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