Oak Creek residents express worries about planned affordable housing project in the area

Oak Creek residents gathered at City Hall on Monday to express their concerns about a proposed affordable housing development on county-owned land near Highway 32 and E American Avenue. The project, known as the 9050 S. Annette Place Development Plan, aims to construct up to 50 single-family homes using $7 million in federal funding. Milwaukee County Housing Services Administrator James Mathy emphasized that no city funds would be utilized for this initiative.

The plan outlines that the homes will be affordably priced between $225,000 and $250,000, with deed restrictions in place to maintain affordability upon resale. Prospective buyers would need to undergo a thorough application process. Mathy emphasized that the goal is to create affordable housing rather than luxury units, focusing on meeting the needs of the community.

Despite the intention to provide affordable housing, the proposal faced opposition from neighborhood residents concerned about potential issues such as increased traffic, reduced green spaces, and impacts on property values. One resident, Jeremy Basterash, expressed reservations about the government’s intervention in the housing market, fearing the consequences of artificial price control on housing.

Another neighbor, Daniel Flaten, living in close proximity to the development site, highlighted his concerns about potential traffic congestion in the area. While acknowledging the need for affordable housing, Flaten emphasized the importance of preserving the quiet and close-knit nature of the neighborhood. Nonetheless, he expressed hope regarding the development’s potential positive impact on the overall community.

In response to the residents’ concerns, Milwaukee County plans to conduct further meetings regarding the proposed housing development. Additional meetings are scheduled for February 24 and April 6 to address community feedback and provide transparency about the project. The county’s commitment to engaging with residents and addressing their worries demonstrates a willingness to listen and collaborate with the community.

The debate surrounding the affordable housing development in Oak Creek underscores the complex challenges and considerations involved in addressing housing needs while balancing the concerns of local residents. By facilitating dialogue and seeking community input, Milwaukee County aims to navigate these complexities and work towards a solution that benefits both residents and the broader community.