Bishop Craig Anderson represents St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Sun Valley. Rabbi Sheila Goloboy represents the Wood River Jewish Community. Teresa Gregory is the parish life director of Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church in Sun Valley. Pastor Bob Henley represents the Presbyterian Church of the Big Wood in Ketchum.
It is clear from the number of articles, public fora and opinion pieces in our local papers that the conversation on land use and affordable housing has been discussed from many points of view. We, members of the local clergy community, would like to offer our own unique perspective.
That there is an economic need for affordable low- and mid-income housing seems evident. We watch businesses close and young members of our workforce leave the area for economically, if not physically, greener pastures. As a community, we have also come to understand the relationship between affordable housing and safety, health, and educational services. We experience and anticipate even greater shortages in these professions, including those who serve our firehouses, police stations, schools, and hospital staffs at every level. We should also consider the needs of those who are, or may become, employees of local businesses and homeowners.
As spiritual leaders, our concern for the lack of housing opportunities for our workforce—the very backbone of our community—goes far beyond the above and widely stated argument. We would like to speak, as well, to the very nature and structure of the Wood River Valley. We pride ourselves in not merely living in a resort. We live in a resort community. And our community differentiates itself not only through its year-round life and activity, but in its investment in the people who call it home. These same people are, in return, invested in the community's subsistence, growth, and values.
We need to show—through voice and action—that we value all members of our community, that we endeavor to provide each with not only a living wage, but also a reasonable home and healthy lifestyle. Those who work in our community should have the opportunities to live within it as well. A full-time wage should be adequate access to affordable housing. Time with family or in private and personally fulfilling activity should not be a privilege of the wealthy. However, those who work multiple jobs to make ends meet or who have two- to three-hour commutes do not have the same opportunities.
Scripture reminds us that we are all created in the image of God. It is this value that must be measured alongside the socioeconomic breadth of our community. Legend tells us that Abraham was venerated because he sought out the stranger to bring him into his community. Should we be any different? The prophet Isaiah proclaimed that even service to God is devoid of meaning if the worshippers have not demonstrated compassion for people here on earth, and the Psalms teach that "The Earth is the Lord's, and all that it holds." We must find a place for all of God's creation within our community.
Blaine County and individual cities and towns within it are putting forth carefully considered and well-researched zoning amendments and affordable housing plans. We urge you to consider each of these with an eye toward the dignity of all human beings and a high regard to community strength and social justice and not individual wealth and gain. In addition, we encourage all to participate in efforts and programs that further this need in the nonprofit sector, including local Habitat for Humanity efforts and community coalitions such as Advocates for Real Community Housing.
With such actions and thought, we will use our compassion, influence and voice to assure a better quality of life for those who are struggling to find affordable housing and maintain a basic subsistence. At the same time, our entire region will grow in both strength and spirit.
In peace and blessing.
