Reflections from NFIN Chairman
In 2019 the North Fulton Improvement Network (NFIN) held a summit to discuss challenges faced by many in our community. Rising food costs, increases in housing, childcare, and transportation. All while income was remaining flat.
We looked at the plight of families living below the poverty line of $25,700 for a family of four. We also examined the growing difficulties confronting middle income families earning below $80,000 -$90,000.
At the summit, we showed a slide similar to this one.
I say similar because we have conducted a great deal of research since 2019. At that time, average rents were $1,485. In just over two years, North Fulton rent saw a 32% jump!
We know that many of the other numbers have changed but the pandemic has made the research less reliable.
Among the things we’ve learned since then:
· Prior to the pandemic, more than 1 in 5 Georgia parents reported having to quit a job due to childcare issues. Employment experts attribute childcare concerns as a major reason so many jobs remain unfilled in our community.
· Between 2017 and 2019, households earning $200,000 or more increased by 5575. That’s understandable with new construction and rising resale home prices. But families earning less than $75,000 declined by 4769. Where did our workforce go?
· In November of 2021, Fulton County Schools had 90 available positions open. 70 of those were in North Fulton.
· As of February 1st, 2022 there are 449 North Fulton students who are homeless. Of those, 229 are living in hotels.
· The Federal Reserve reports that even with rates at historic lows, mortgages are now at their least affordable since 2008, as home price gains outpace incomes. Rising home prices challenge first-time homebuyers, especially those burdened by student debt.
· Five of the six North Fulton cities include a lack of affordable housing in their comprehensive plan yet none have released a plan to address the situation.
The challenges we face are byproducts of our ideal quality of life. Our neighborhoods are welcoming, our public schools ensure the opportunity for our children to grow healthy and flourish. These conditions can continue to serve us well. But only if we have the discipline and vision to make sure that a sustainable quality of life works across the economic spectrum.
Over the coming months, we will continue to issue research on these topics, to inform the collective conversation. Then it will be up to each of us to discuss and share. Sign The North Fulton Promise. Talk with your neighbors. Ask an elected official. If you own a business, figure out how you can help. If you are a preacher, preach. Find your action path to improve North Fulton.