“Q: About one out of five residents in the city of Fresno have income that falls below poverty level. However, the average market-rate apartment rent rose by almost 43% in the Fresno metro area since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the median sales price of homes has climbed by about 106% over the past 10 years. How would you promote greater housing affordability? And what is your position on rent control?”

Rising housing costs put a strain on individuals and families, making it difficult to secure safe and stable housing. Some of the ways I may promote greater housing affordability in Fresno are:

Increase Housing Supply:

• Zone for Density — Encourage higher-density development, particularly near job centers and public transportation, to maximize land use and create more housing options.
• Streamline Permitting Processes — Reduce bureaucratic hurdles and delays in the construction process to incentivize developers to build more affordable housing units.
• Invest in Public-Private Partnerships — Collaborate with private developers to leverage public funding and resources for the development of affordable housing projects.
• Utilize Innovative Housing Solutions — Explore alternative housing models like tiny homes and social housing developments to cater to diverse needs and budgets. Incorporate retail and green spaces within these these alternative housing community models.

Preserve Existing Affordable Housing:

• Strengthen Tenant Protections — prevent unfair displacement and promote housing stability

Engage the Community (far in advance):

• Foster collaboration and dialogue among stakeholders, including residents, policymakers, developers, and non-profit organizations, to develop comprehensive solutions.

I am all for rent control. But it is just one tool among many for addressing housing affordability, and it should be part of a broader strategy that also focuses on increasing housing supply and addressing income inequality.

It was through these personal experiences that he recognized the need to establish a non-profit organization that leverages electric vehicles for social service transportation. Matthew’s love for his family has fueled his drive to advocate for comprehensive healthcare policies that prioritize the needs of every individual in the Fresno community. Matthew Gillian’s story is one of personal growth and unwavering commitment to Fresno. His profound experiences, from childhood to adulthood, have shaped his perspective and molded him into a candidate who truly understands the needs and aspirations of the community. With a focus on compassionate leadership and effective advocacy, Matthew is poised to make a significant positive impact on the lives of Fresno residents. Working tirelessly to create needed change for the place he proudly calls home.

“Q: Beyond homelessness and housing, what do you see as the most important issue facing your district, and how would you approach dealing with it?”

A pressing issue facing District 2, and many districts nationwide, is ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for our aging population, often referred to as the “silver wave.” This challenge takes on various forms, but transportation to appointments stands out as a critical concern with far-reaching consequences. As our population ages, the need for regular medical care increases. However, transportation barriers can significantly hinder access to necessary appointments, leading to:

• Delayed diagnoses and treatment
• Increased strain on family caregivers
• Social isolation and loneliness

These transportation barriers don’t just impact the “silver wave”; they ripple through families and communities:

• Increased burden on caregivers
• Reduced workforce participation
• Intergenerational strain

Several strategies can be implemented to improve access to healthcare for older adults and alleviate the burden on their families:

• Expand public transportation
• Develop non-emergency medical transportation programs
• Promote volunteer driver programs

Remember, addressing transportation barriers requires a collaborative effort:

• Engage community stakeholders
• Leverage data and research
• Seek funding and partnerships

By prioritizing accessible and affordable healthcare for our aging population, we invest in the well-being of not only the “silver wave” but also the next generation and the entire community. By working together, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment where everyone thrives.