Providence City Council establishes housing crisis task force
(WJAR) — Providence City Council passed a resolution Thursday to establish a Housing Crisis Task Force in the city.
Some of the goals include maintaining a diversity of housing options and expanding affordable housing.
Rental costs have increased in the city, with data from the Rhode Island reporting Providence had the fifth highest-year-over-year rental cost increase in the nation.
“The shortage of affordable housing in the city is frightening,” said Councilwoman and Deputy Majority Leader Mary-Kay Harris. “When rent increases above your ability to pay, it forces you to make tough decisions, and often that leads to eviction and then homelessness. I am proud of my council colleagues for recognizing the need to improve our current situation.”
Task force members include Harris, Councilman Pedro Espinal, Councilwomen Althea Graves and Shelley Peterson and Councilor Justin Roias.