Grand Canyon Times

Five lawmakers have issued strong statements in response to the Executive Director of the Arizona League of Cities and Towns, Tom Belshe, who recently refused to negotiate on state-mandated changes regarding housing solutions. Belshe's stance was made clear when he stated, "Zoning is something that we cannot support," and reiterated that his organization would not engage in negotiations on this matter.

Senate President Warren Petersen expressed urgency for action, stating, "The Governor is out of excuses to not sign this bill." He urged the Governor to prioritize making housing more affordable and to resist the influence of League lobbyists who aim to maintain the status quo.

Senate Majority Leader Sonny Borrelli highlighted the inadequacies of the current housing situation, emphasizing that the League's resistance to change is hindering progress. Borrelli challenged the Governor to prioritize the needs of Arizonans over the League's interests.

Senator Theresa Hatathlie passionately advocated for the Arizona Starter Homes Act, emphasizing the importance of providing housing opportunities for all Arizonans. She condemned the League's repeated obstruction of such initiatives and called for immediate action from the Governor.

House Majority Leader Leo Biasiucci expressed frustration with the League's unwillingness to engage in negotiations despite efforts to address housing challenges over the past three years. Biasiucci emphasized the importance of the Arizona Starter Homes Act in providing homeownership opportunities for communities in need.

Representative Analise Ortiz echoed the sentiments of her colleagues, denouncing the League's inaction as detrimental to working-class families in Arizona. Ortiz called out the League for neglecting the needs of teachers, firefighters, and service industry workers who are struggling to access affordable housing.

The Arizona Starter Homes Act, also known as HB 2570, received broad bipartisan support in the Legislature and is now awaiting Governor Hobbs' signature. Lawmakers are urging the Governor to prioritize affordable housing solutions and to disregard the League of Cities and Towns' resistance to change in order to address the pressing housing crisis in Arizona.