GEORDIN HILL-LEWIS

Geordin Hill-Lewis recently spoke out against policies aimed at manipulating the rental market, emphasizing that such measures only lead to fewer available accommodation options. He highlighted the negative repercussions of rent control policies, noting that they do not work and instead exacerbate inequalities. In a radio interview, Hill-Lewis heard Rebecca Davis proposing alternatives to rent control, such as implementing caps on annual rent increases. However, he argued that these alternatives still amount to market manipulation, ultimately deepening inequalities within the housing market.

Despite both Hill-Lewis and Davis sharing the goal of promoting more affordable housing, especially in urban areas, Hill-Lewis stressed that there are no shortcuts to achieving this. He cautioned against policies that promise immediate solutions, emphasizing the importance of increasing housing supply to meet demand as a sustainable strategy. Hill-Lewis outlined various approaches being taken to address housing affordability, such as easing planning regulations, streamlining approval processes, reducing fees for emerging developers, enabling township micro-developers, and releasing discounted municipal land for affordable housing purposes.

Moreover, efforts are being made to ensure that all short-term rentals are subject to commercial rates and tariffs rather than residential rates. A forthcoming by-law aims to facilitate this transition, ensuring a level playing field between short-term rentals and hotels. Hill-Lewis also highlighted the potential negative consequences of market manipulation policies, emphasizing that artificially controlling rental prices ultimately leads to a decrease in available accommodation options. This, in turn, drives up prices for non-controlled properties, further limiting housing accessibility for those in need.

Hill-Lewis criticized the advocacy of certain groups for policies that inadvertently deepen inequalities, pointing out the detrimental effects of rent control on housing markets. He underscored the importance of supporting sustainable solutions that focus on increasing housing supply to address affordability challenges effectively. By promoting meaningful interventions and avoiding populist housing policies, Hill-Lewis believes that significant progress can be made in accelerating the development of new housing in Cape Town.