Save Historic Willo

Diversity and inclusion are deeply rooted in Willo’s history, which risks getting lost in the noise around this housing issue. Our concerns over historic preservation are focused on architecture, not exclusion. The conversation should be centered on common-sense solutions that solve the housing crisis without destroying Phoenix’s historic neighborhoods. - W. Aaron Montaño Searles, Phoenix New Times

To Our Phoenix Neighbors: A huge thanks to everyone who showed up last night at the Phoenix City Council meeting — and to everyone who called, emailed, shared flyers, and kept this issue alive. Your voices absolutely made a difference.

It was clear in that chamber that Councilmembers have been working hard since Nov. 5 to understand the real impacts Middle Housing could have on our Central Phoenix historic neighborhoods. And while the Council ultimately passed the Middle Housing Text Amendment to take effect January 1, 2026, they also took an important step by ordering a full Morrison Institute study on how Middle Housing should be implemented in Phoenix. Given the constraints we were facing, this was truly the best outcome possible.

Key takeaways from last night:

• The City couldn’t grant a delay. The Mayor read a letter from State Legislative Council warning that any delay could be considered noncompliance — risking major state funding. City attorneys confirmed a 90-day delay was off the table.

• A sunset clause was proposed — and rejected. Councilwoman Pastor moved to add a one-year sunset clause so the law would automatically expire if the state later exempts historic districts. It failed 2–7, but it sent a strong signal about ongoing concern for our neighborhoods.

• The Morrison Institute study was approved unanimously (9–0). Councilwoman Stark’s motion passed, requiring a deep, data-driven look at Middle Housing over the next year. This study will give Phoenix the facts it needs to make smarter, infrastructure-aware decisions — including what makes sense for our downtown historic districts. The study will include an analysis of the potential for expanding Middle Housing over a broader area.

• Multiple Councilmembers voiced strong support for pursuing a legislative exemption for historic districts — including Mayor Gallego, and Councilmembers Pastor, Stark, and Hodge Washington.

Now, the work shifts to the State Legislature. In the 2026 session, we’ll be pushing hard for a bill that exempts historic districts from the Middle Housing law altogether. And we’re going to need every one of you with us.

Stay engaged. Stay organized. And stay tuned.
Thank you, neighbors. This fight continues, and we’re in it together.