SEDONA, Ariz. — I support Safe Place To Park and commend city staff and the City Council for this forward-thinking social program.

Sedona is a beautiful city, but it is not a true community due to the housing imbalance caused by Arizona SB-1350 banning STR zoning and the loss of affordable housing.

We should all support Sedona's efforts to launch a pilot program to support worker housing, even if that housing is in a car or van.

There will likely be a learning curve, but city officials will be able to manage the project as it progresses and make necessary changes.

Sedona is one of the most expensive places in America. Few people can rent or buy a home. This program is a short-term stopgap until local workers can be settled into more permanent housing.

Just because people have hourly jobs, and in some cases many “gigs,” they are citizens of Sedona and should be treated as such. We must remember that real estate ownership does not confer special privileges and we have all struggled at some point.

Real communities are made up of people of all ages and from different social backgrounds. Some are just starting their careers, while others are finishing their careers. Instead of being critical, offer a helping hand. Living in Sedona is not an earned privilege.

Author: Steve Segner