The City of Sun Prairie announced on April 13 that it will recognize May as Affordable Housing Month, offering a series of community events to raise awareness and promote engagement with local housing issues.
The initiative aims to help residents better understand the challenges surrounding affordable housing and to encourage involvement in addressing these concerns. The city is working with several partners, including the Sun Prairie Housing Coalition, Sun Prairie Area School District, Dane County Historical Society, Sun Prairie Public Library, Boundless Tiny Homes, and UW Health.
Events begin with “Small Homes, Big Impact: A Talk on ADUs” on Thursday, May 7 at the Westside Community Services Building. This panel will discuss the city’s draft accessory dwelling unit ordinance and feature perspectives from a developer active in Dane County and a homeowner who has recently added an ADU elsewhere.
Another event titled “Stable Housing, Strong Community” is scheduled for Thursday, May 21 at the same location. This panel will explore how limited access to quality housing affects individuals and families in Sun Prairie. Speakers include representatives from the Sun Prairie Police Department, Sun Prairie Area School District, and UW Health.
Two book club sessions are planned at the Sun Prairie Library Community Room or virtually. The first session on May 28 discusses Richard Rothstein’s “The Color of Law,” focusing on government policies that have led to segregation in America; Rothstein himself will join virtually for discussion. The second session on June 25 covers “Just Action,” co-written by Richard Rothstein and Leah Rothstein—who will also participate virtually—to discuss practical steps communities can take toward equity.
Additional programming includes a June 4 talk by the Dane County Historical Society about racial covenants that historically barred non-white residents from property ownership—a traveling exhibit will be available throughout June at the library.
All events are free and open to all community members. More information about ongoing housing efforts can be found at www.sphousingforall.com.
