Key Players

Elected and Appointed Officials. Ultimately, elected or appointed officials (city, county, or state) adopt IZ policies. Establish good working relationships with public officials and their key staffers by having clear community goals and providing an analysis of the economic and social impacts of a proposed IZ policy. Build relationships with the planning department to garner support and technical assistance.

Residents, Nonprofit Developers, Community Organizations, and Labor Unions. Building a base of support for an IZ policy is critical. In addition to organizations and individuals committed to affordable housing, there are other natural allies for mounting an inclusionary zoning campaign. Environmentalists and smart growth advocates have been strong advocates of inclusionary zoning, since higher density developments create less sprawl and help preserve open space. Labor unions whose members identify affordable housing as a key need can lend significant political clout to an IZ campaign.

Developers and the Real Estate Community. In developing an IZ campaign, it is important to identify developers who potentially can support the initiative. Most communities can anticipate opposition to inclusionary zoning from developers and the larger real estate community. The Home Builders' Association and related developer groups often form part of the organized opposition. An open dialogue about developer compensation may prove useful in addressing concerns. In some instances, however, developers may oppose all IZ ordinances and only a strong pro-IZ coalition may prove effective.

Not all developers oppose inclusionary zoning. In fact, some support IZ since such policies provide density bonuses, fast tracking of construction permits, and other mechanisms that streamline the development process. In Name Montgomery Type County , although the inclusionary zoning requirements apply to developments of 35 or more units, some builders with smaller developments voluntarily comply because of the flexibility that is allowed in clustering of units. During the 1980's recession, developers in Name Montgomery Type County built the affordable units within a development before the market rate units because they had a known buyer - the Public Housing Authority.

Other Influential Organizations. Other organizations play important roles in land use decisions and obtaining their support for an IZ policy can be helpful. These include city, county, and state agencies concerned with redevelopment, economic development, housing, community development, transportation, budget and finance divisions, and the offices of the Mayor, City Council and Tax Assessor.