Hello,

I've lived in Chesterfield County for 29 years. And I've never seen such a good opportunity as we have right now to make Chesterfield a better place to live.

Chesterfield is rewriting its rules for what housing we can build and where. The Board of Supervisors votes on this tomorrow — and the outcome could shape life in the county for decades.

It's a fair housing issue through and through. And that's why I wrote an op-ed published on Sunday in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

I see how this plays out in my community — and how it runs against fair housing.

Home prices in Chesterfield County today are roughly double what they were 10 years ago. My family couldn't afford to purchase our home at today’s prices. Many more, including my wife's fellow Chesterfield teachers, can't afford to move in. And like many parents, we’re watching our son live at home after graduating from college because he can’t afford to start his adult life in the place where he grew up.

We need more homes of all sizes for people from all walks of life.

If you live in Chesterfield, or you know someone who does, here's how you can help:

• Learn about our vision for Chesterfield's housing future.
• Check out the op-ed — or a short video I made talking about it.
• If you're a Chesterfield resident, write to your supervisor TODAY to encourage leadership on the new zoning plan. (Vote happens tomorrow!)

With thanks for your support,

Mike Burnette

Director of Community Engagement

Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia

804-354-0641 • HOMEofVA.org