ICYMI: 'YIGBY' Bill to Increase Affordable Housing Passes Committee
HB25-1169 would allow religious and educational institutions to build affordable housing on their land
DENVER, CO – The Senate Local Government and Housing Committee yesterday passed legislation known as “YIGBY” (Yes in God's Backyard) to increase affordable housing development.
HB25-1169, sponsored by Senators Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, and Julie Gonzales, D-Denver, would allow faith-based organizations, school districts, and state colleges or universities to more easily build affordable housing and other community services on their land.
“Many congregations and faith-based organizations have underutilized properties that they want to transform into housing and community services, but current zoning regulations stand in the way,” said Exum. “At my own church in Colorado Springs, we turned our land into an affordable housing community, and I’ve seen firsthand how this can change lives. Institutions who wish to pursue similar projects and benefit from public-private partnerships should have the opportunity to do so."
“Well over a year ago, I was first approached by constituents who asked me to consider this policy approach,” said Gonzales. “Community pillars – especially when they are centrally located, near public transit, and essential services – should have the freedom to use their own land to meet their communities’ housing needs.”
Under the bill, local governments would have to permit the construction of affordable residential developments on land owned by faith-based or educational institutions through a streamlined administrative approval process. They would still be able enforce infrastructure standards, locally adopted life safety codes, impact fees, inclusionary zoning ordinances, and site design standards. If zoning allows, these residential developments could also include child care centers and facilities that provide recreational, social, or educational services.
The bill only applies to local governments with at least 2,000 people and parcels of land that are five acres or smaller and have been owned by the faith-based or educational entity for at least five years.
California passed a law in 2023 that makes it easier for higher education and religious institutions to build housing on their land, opening up over 170,000 acres of land to be developed into affordable housing or other uses. A church in Washington D.C., built 99 units for low-income families in addition to amenities like office space, a gym, and a culinary arts training program. An Atlanta church plans to build 300 affordable housing units, two schools, and 10,000 square feet of new retail space on their property.
HB25-1169 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track its progress HERE.