Affordable housing in a coastal town is a hot commodity, especially when that town happens to be in a vibrant, high-growth area. Local officials in Mount Pleasant knew that it was nearly impossible for middle-income workers — teachers, nurses, police officers — to find a place to live in town.
Many were commuting from Goose Creek, Summerville or West Ashley. Not only did this put a stress on the workers, but it stressed the local infrastructure as well.
In 2006, town council created the Workforce Housing Advisory Committee. This ten-member group is made up of citizens, all with expertise in a specific area pertaining to real estate development and workforce needs.
In addition to forming the committee, the Town provided for workforce housing in the Coleman Boulevard-Ben Sawyer Overlay Zoning District. Council included provisions to provide a density bonus to developers who set aside 10 percent of their residential units as workforce housing.
Workforce Housing Advisory Committee members helped develop a new zoning classification for workforce housing. Working with the town’s planning committee, they created the Planned Development-Workforce Housing Zoning District, which council adopted in 2008.
Beyond citizen support, Mount Pleasant relied on many partners. The Lowcountry Housing Trust, a regional advocate for affordable housing, provided valuable insight to the advisory committee. Various non-profits around the Mount Pleasant area also provide feedback when called upon by the committee.
There are plans to develop more workforce housing. With affordable housing located in town, businesses are more likely to move in and the streets are less crowded with cars. Most importantly, essential employees can both work and live in town.