The Empty Office Podcast - Season 3, Episode 3

During this episode of The Empty Office Podcast, Senator Tobin and Mike Mason host a wide-ranging conversation about housing policy in Anchorage and the challenges faced by those trying to develop affordable housing options.

Guests include:

• Jim Mackenzie is the Executive Director of NeighborWorks Alaska.

• Lindsey Hajduk is the Director of Community Engagement and External Affairs for NeighborWorks Alaska.

• Devin Kelly is the Community Development Planner for the Cook Inlet Housing Authority.

This episode of The Empty Office Podcast touches on several topics, including the root causes of high housing costs, the affordability of different housing options, and the impacts that roads and highways can have on neighborhoods. The local housing experts also offer policy recommendations for lawmakers to consider during the ongoing 34th Alaska State Legislature.

Information about the work of Dorothy Mae Richarson to promote affordable housing in Pittsburgh is available on the NeighborWorks website, where you can also learn about the Dorothy Richardson Award for Resident Leadership, which is given out annually to recognize community leaders for their essential role in strengthening communities.

In the 1960s, Dorothy Mae Richardson worked with elected officials, regulators, bankers, and housing advocates to create Citizens Against Slum Housing, which became the organization Neighborhood Housing Services of Pittsburg.

The music for this episode of The Empty Office Podcast is an instrumental version of the song “Peace, Love and Understanding” performed by Los Straightjackets.