Norfolk City Council Passes Resolution Creating Mayor’s Housing Commission; Councilman Carlos Clanton Appointed Co-Chair

johnrichmedia
Apr 30
2 min read

On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the Norfolk City Council took a significant step forward in addressing the city’s housing crisis by passing a resolution to establish the Mayor’s Housing Commission—a new advisory body charged with conducting a comprehensive study of Norfolk’s housing needs, trends, and long-term opportunities.

Councilman Carlos Clanton of Superward 7 will serve as one of the two Co-Chairs of the Commission, alongside Councilman Jeremy McGee of Superward 6. The Commission will consist of eight members appointed by the Mayor and supported by city staff, legal counsel, housing authorities, and consultants as needed.

The resolution directs the Commission to explore a wide range of housing-related issues, including the affordability and availability of housing, the ratio of ownership to rentals, the fiscal impact of development, and how housing intersects with education and economic mobility. Its work will inform future housing policies and guide significant redevelopment efforts currently underway in areas such as Calvert Square, Young Terrace, MacArthur Center, and the Saint Paul’s Quadrant.

Councilman Clanton, who made housing a central focus of his campaign, expressed his commitment to the work ahead:

“Housing was the number one issue I heard from voters during last year’s election—and this Commission marks the beginning of our city’s strategic response. I am honored to serve as Co-Chair and eager to get to work with my colleagues to ensure that every resident of Norfolk has access to safe, affordable, and dignified housing. The time for data-driven, community-informed solutions is now.”

This marks the first of a series of actions anticipated by the Norfolk City Council to tackle the city’s growing housing challenges with urgency and collaboration. As the Commission begins its work, Councilman Clanton encourages residents to stay engaged and share their lived experiences to help shape policies that reflect the realities faced across Norfolk’s neighborhoods.