Message from Vice Mayor Ann O'Brien
It’s no secret that Phoenix is experiencing a housing affordability crisis that threatens our economic competitiveness and community stability. The city has a shortage of 59,000 affordable housing units for families earning 50% or less of median income.Housing costs have increased 68% or more across all home sizes since January 2020. That’s why, after a year of research, stakeholder conversations, and policy development, I released a comprehensive Housing Solutions Plan.
The plan, with more than 30 proposed solutions, is designed to tackle our housing affordability crisis through innovative local policies, regional partnerships, and strategic state-level advocacy. The housing crisis did not happen overnight, and won’t be solved by any single action, but with coordinated effort and bold leadership, we can ensure Phoenix remains a place where people can build their futures. You can find the full plan here.
I highlighted my plan on Wednesday, when I moderated a housing panel at the Arizona League of Cities and Towns Annual Conference. The event attracted elected officials, staff, developers, and others from across the state. My panel’s title was “All of the Above: Housing Solutions for Growing Communities” and it focused on diverse housing options for all income levels. As I told panelists and the audience, stable housing is the foundation for everything else—it’s where children learn and grow, families build a secure future, and neighborhoods can flourish. When we get housing right, we strengthen our entire community and economy.
This week, we got a little loud at Sky Harbor Airport! The Phoenix Mercury Hip Hop Squad, Junior Mercury players, and Sparky, ASU’s iconic mascot, helped us celebrate the countdown to tipoff. Inside Terminal 4, we unveiled the official countdown clock that marks the days, hours, and minutes until the NCAA Women’s Final Four tips off on April 3, 2026, at PHX Arena, home of the Phoenix Mercury and Phoenix Suns. This marks Arizona’s first time hosting the Women’s Final Four! The countdown clock is illuminated on a high-definition LED screen at the west end of baggage claim in Terminal 4. In addition to the three games, downtown Phoenix will be home to free, family-friendly events April 2-5, 2026. Find the list of events by clicking here.
Ann
Vice Mayor, District 1
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