Opinion: Addressing housing and homelessness is my personal mission 

Daniel Mahoney, the Mayor of Jackson and candidate for Michigan House District 46, understands the importance of affordable housing.

Recently, we’ve seen cities and local governments go out of their way to criminalize being unhoused, and with the latest Supreme Court decision, it gives these same entities the green light to arrest, charge, and detain unhoused neighbors for sleeping outdoors. The new status quo of disregarding respect for one’s humanity and dignity is abhorrent and certainly not the way. Instead of fighting the poor, we must take action to fight poverty — and for me, the fight against poverty is personal. 

When I was 13 years old, my family faced the harsh reality of homelessness. Among the memories that remain from that time was spending an entire holiday season in a shelter, along with other children and families who would also question, daily, where they would sleep that night. 

Even as a teenager, this experience shaped my understanding of one of our most fundamental needs and the importance of safe, stable, affordable housing. Now, as the Mayor of Jackson and candidate for Michigan House District 46, I am positioned with the opportunity to serve all of our constituents on this front and beyond, regardless of their home address or lack thereof. 

Housing stability is the bedrock of a healthy community. It provides the foundation upon which our neighbors can build a stable and prosperous life. As a neighbor, I appreciate and respect policies that reserve this right and opportunity for all of us, no matter who we are or where we call home. Nonetheless, as mayor, we have taken an aggressive approach to tackle housing issues in Jackson, putting action behind the values that have driven my life in public service. 

Our efforts include, but are not limited to the creation of an affordable housing commission, soliciting developers for housing projects, creating a downpayment assistance program to support new homeowners, and building 100 new houses. Additionally, we are developing new workforce and low-income apartments to ensure that everyone in our community has access to affordable housing. 

These initiatives are not just about bricks and mortar; they are providing a sense of security and belonging. When people have a place to call home, they can focus on their work, education, and health, contributing positively to our community. The prospects and opportunity that are coupled with both the personal and communal sense in the value of belonging, pave the way for more investment in all aspects of our community. 

I’ve witnessed this in Jackson during my tenure as mayor. Now I’m ready to deliver for all Michiganders, upon being elected to the Michigan House of Representatives. 

As a public servant and elected official, I am committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live in a safe, stable and affordable home. This is a personal mission that is shaped by my own experiences. Together, we can create a community where no one has to experience the insecurity of homelessness and where everyone can thrive.