Episode 06: Vacancy Void & Old Data Distortions
This episode of the A2 Pause The Plan-cast tackles a crucial flaw in Ann Arbor's draft comprehensive plan: its reliance on outdated housing vacancy data. We examine how using 2022 figures instead of current market realities can lead to deeply misguided policy and significantly impact our city's future.
Topics Covered:
Outdated vs. Current Data: The plan uses 2022 vacancy rates (e.g., 3.1% for renters), while newer May 2025 data shows significantly higher market rental vacancy (6.9%) – a rate the plan itself considers part of a "healthy market."
Contradictory Sources: Highlighting how data from ACS, SEMCOG, and real-time providers like CoStar (which the city subscribes to) paint a different picture than the plan's chosen statistics.
Professional Standards Ignored: Questioning why the city isn't adhering to the American Institute of Certified Planners' (AICP) emphasis on using timely, adequate, clear, and accurate information.
Real-World Consequences: Discussing how using stale data can mislead the public, justify overbuilding based on false scarcity, and ultimately damage public trust in the planning process.
Real-World Consequences: Discussing how using stale data can mislead the public, justify overbuilding based on false scarcity, and ultimately damage public trust in the planning process.
Call for Accuracy: Emphasizing the fundamental need for up-to-date, comprehensive information to make sound decisions for Ann Arbor.
We explore concerns about the potential loss of irreplaceable green spaces and whether the city's vision aligns with preserving the natural environment and quality of life that makes Ann Arbor special.
Ann Arbor deserves what other forward-thinking cities expect and receive. That is a plan built on real community conversations, accurate data, and realistic projections which provide clear pathways to reach our common goals. 💙
From the Ann Arbor Neighborhood Network (A2N2) – A community-driven organization committed to enhancing local engagement and encouraging all Ann Arbor residents to actively participate in city life and governance.
