Too often, housing policies are developed without meaningful input from the communities they impact most—exacerbating inequities and limiting the effectiveness of policy solutions. The Policy Fund, a core program of the Partnership for the Bay’s Future, is changing that by fostering deep collaboration between local governments and community-based organizations to co-create policies that protect renters, prevent displacement, and expand access to affordable housing. This panel will explore how the Policy Fund’s approach has helped pass 14 equity-centered housing policies across the Bay Area by ensuring community leadership is at the heart of the policymaking process. Speakers will share insights on best practices for government-community collaboration, common challenges in developing and implementing housing policies, and strategies for ensuring policies reflect the needs and priorities of those most impacted by the housing crisis. Join us to learn how this model is creating stronger, more equitable housing policies and what it takes to make community-driven solutions a reality.
– Moderator: Ella Zimbalist, SFF/PBF
– Hannah Tinsley, Housing Authority of the County of Contra Costa
– Joseph Villarreal, Housing Authority of the County of Contra Costa
– Princess Robinson, RichmondLAND