Urban Development and Privilege
Much has been written recently about the concept of white privilege. I find the term somewhat offensive because it makes people defensive. Nevertheless, the concept is true
There are a couple areas of middle class privilege that contribute negatively to the well being of communities. The first is the mortgage interest deductions. This deduction primarily helps higher income people, and artificially drives up the price of housing. Working class people who do not itemize are hurt. This by the way is the biggest housing subsidy. A tax credit targeted to working class people would be more effective
A second set of privileges cover zoning and planning laws in our communities. These laws tend to zone out smaller and more affordable housing and Multifamily housing. I am not talking about housing homeless people but teachers social workers, nurses etc.
The results of these policies are unnecessary segregation , a lack of mobility, and urban decline. Written by paul Dribin
The St Louis Contrarian 