From Barriers to Opportunity: A Fair Housing Q&A with the City of Lorain, OH
- Anne Jensen and Neeky Dennis
- May 8
- 4 min read
Fair housing isn’t just a civil rights issue; in 2025, it’s becoming one of the most important drivers of local economic strategy.
Fair Housing Is Economic Development: Why It Matters Now More Than Ever
Every April, communities across the country commemorate Fair Housing Month, honoring the passage of the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and recommitting to the ongoing work of ensuring that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and equitable housing options. But fair housing isn’t just a legal or moral imperative; it is a cornerstone of economic development.
When housing markets are open and inclusive, communities are stronger, businesses thrive, and residents are better positioned to build wealth and opportunity. At Fourth Economy, we’ve had the privilege of partnering with communities to assess their housing landscapes and identify the barriers to equity. In this blog, we are spotlighting one of those partners, Matt Kusznir, Director of Building, Housing, and Planning for the City of Lorain, OH, where we worked together to conduct a comprehensive Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing. Matt's reflections offer practical lessons for practitioners navigating the intersection of housing, policy, and economic growth.
What existing community assets or partnerships have been most valuable in advancing fair housing in the City of Lorain?
Matt: The City of Lorain has made significant progress in advancing fair housing through the strength of key community assets and partnerships. Central to these efforts is the City’s Fair Housing Board, composed of seven dedicated community members who review fair housing complaints submitted by Lorain residents. The Board plays a vital role in ensuring that concerns are addressed fairly and promptly.
In partnership with the Board, the Fair Housing Center for Rights and Research serves as an invaluable resource by providing specialized training to Board members and offering expert guidance on the City's response to fair housing complaints. Together, these entities work collaboratively to promote equal housing opportunities, increase public awareness, and uphold the rights of all residents.
How does Lorain ensure fair housing considerations are embedded in long-term planning and zoning decisions?
Matt: The City of Lorain ensures fair housing considerations are embedded in long-term planning and zoning decisions through strategic investments and inclusive policy updates. In partnership with the Lorain Metropolitan Housing Authority, the City is actively investing in housing development within historically redlined districts to address past inequities and promote equitable growth. As part of this effort, the City has updated zoning classifications in these areas to allow for and encourage the development of affordable housing opportunities. These changes aim to increase housing accessibility, reduce segregation, and support diverse, inclusive neighborhoods as a central part of Lorain’s long-term planning strategy.
What is one accomplishment or milestone in your fair housing work that you're particularly proud of?
Matt: One accomplishment the City of Lorain is particularly proud of in its fair housing work is the recent amendment to the local fair housing ordinance to include additional protected classes. This important milestone expands legal protections to more individuals, strengthening the City’s commitment to equity and inclusion. By broadening the scope of the ordinance, Lorain is taking proactive steps to ensure that all residents, regardless of background or identity, have equal access to housing opportunities and are protected from discrimination. This advancement reflects the City’s ongoing dedication to fostering a fair, welcoming, and inclusive community for all.
What insights or lessons learned would you share with other cities looking to proactively address fair housing challenges?
Matt: One key insight the City of Lorain would share with other cities is the importance of proactive outreach and education. Effectively marketing and informing residents of their rights under the Fair Housing Act, as well as their protections under local fair housing ordinances, is essential to building awareness and trust within the community. Many fair housing challenges stem from a lack of information, so ensuring that residents understand their rights, and know how to report violations, is a critical first step. Clear, consistent communication through community events, printed materials, digital platforms, and partnerships with local organizations can make a significant impact in empowering residents and promoting fair, equitable housing practices citywide.
As we learned through our work in Lorain, fair housing is both challenging and essential. It requires data-driven insights and a willingness to confront longstanding inequities in local systems and policies. But, the payoff is worth it: more inclusive communities, a stronger workforce, and an economy where opportunity is accessible to all.
For housing and economic development practitioners, Fair Housing Month is a valuable moment to pause, reflect, and reexamine how housing access connects to your broader goals. Whether through policy updates, housing investments, or cross-sector partnerships, there’s always more we can do to build places where people of all backgrounds can live, work, and thrive.
Curious how fair housing assessments can inform your community’s growth strategy? Fourth Economy is up to the challenge. Let’s start a conversation! Reach out today.
