Why this is important. One in five Saint John residents lives in poverty, as do one in three children under the age of six. Poverty reduction should be a unique priority in this community.

Issues and opportunities. Zoning affects the development of public spaces, housing, commercial buildings, amenity spaces, transportation infrastructure, etc. Zoning can even impact food security and the ability of residents to access employment. ZoneSJ could contribute to long-term poverty reduction by:

• Promoting the development of affordable housing
• Enabling economic and workforce participation
• Fostering access to transportation
• Contributing to Priority Neighbourhood development.

Progressive communities who succeed at poverty reduction do so by using every tool at their disposal, including forward-thinking zoning policies. ZoneSJ should include this as a priority.

These topics will be addressed in more detail throughout the day, in later posts that will provide full explanations and sample feedback. Stay tuned!