US EditionConnecticut Churches Back Bill to Speed Affordable Housing on Church Land
Supporters say the bill would cut church-housing approvals to 90 days and could help address a 120,000-unit affordable housing gap.
- Rev. Ellis Miller of Granby Congregational Church is advocating for House Bill 5396, which would expedite affordable housing development on religious-owned land through a streamlined "summary review" process.
- Connecticut faces a critical shortage of about 120,000 affordable housing units, with Granby's stock at just 5% affordability, prompting religious leaders to offer church land as a solution.
- The Planning and Development Committee advanced the bill last month on a 13-8 vote, establishing a 90-day decision deadline for municipalities and requiring at least 30% of units to be affordable.
- Opponents argue the legislation could erode local governance, with some committee members citing concerns over "preferential treatment" for religious groups during debate.
- Modeled after successful "YIGBY" initiatives in San Diego and California, the bill now awaits consideration in the full House and Senate before reaching the governor's desk.
9 Articles
9 Articles
Associated Press News
Connecticut churches aim to add affordable housing, ‘Yes in God’s backyard’
The Rev. Ellis Miller pointed toward six acres of flat fields covered in dry grass, shrubbery and brush — land, in the backyard of Granby Congregational Church on Salmon Brook Street, where Miller envisions their ministry could provide new affordable housing for anyone in the community who needs it.
CT churches aim to add affordable housing, 'Yes in God's backyard'
The Rev. Ellis Miller pointed toward six acres of flat fields covered in dry grass, shrubbery and brush — land, in the backyard of Granby Congregational Church on Salmon Brook Street, where Miller envisions their ministry could provide new affordable housing for anyone in the community who needs it. Only 5% of the housing stock in Granby is considered affordable. There are two senior affordable housing complexes in town, but both have extensive…
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