By E.A. Barrera

Photo by E.A. Barrera:  Property in Lakeside saved from development by CEQA

February 16, 2019 (San Diego) --- There is a false and very dangerous idea being advanced that somehow the crises of affordable housing can be solved by weakening or gutting the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and other zoning and environmental protections. 

Groups calling themselves "Yimby" (Yes in my backyard) have formed across the state. At first glance their intentions seem great - organize and advance the development of greater densities within existing neighborhoods to provide more housing for low income residents. 

But these organizations have swiftly become fronts for development, real estate and banking interests who seek to eliminate all rules regarding development. These interests push a tired and flatly deceptive line that if only they could be allowed to develop more supply, the trickle down effect would be lower prices across the board in housing.