Experts say paradigm shift necessary to solve housing problems

While many barriers to affordable housing exist, local experts are certain that a change in mindset is where solving the shortage begins. 

Every community has different issues that affect their particular iteration of the national housing crisis. In Door County, peninsular geography, limited infrastructure, a seasonal tourism economy, and market pressure from vacation homes and rentals are some of the forces affecting its lack of affordable housing. These factors are largely outside of any agency or individual’s control.  

Of the factors that can be manipulated, affordable housing development faces structural barriers—zoning codes, funding restrictions and state regulations. Getting around these specific roadblocks demands legislative changes, and there is some movement in Wisconsin to that end...