Housing Committee

Nearly 40 percent of New York State residents spend more than a quarter of their total income on rent or mortgage payments and utilities. That’s close to 3 million households that meet the definition of “rent burdened,” with 1 in 5 households experiencing a severe cost burden of more than 50% of their income going to pay for housing.

In Oneonta, our members—educators, professionals, and staff—are directly impacted by this state- and nationwide crisis. The local housing market is dominated by short-term student leases and tourist-oriented short-term rentals, driving up costs and limiting options for year-round residents. Too often, these conditions leave working people without stable, affordable places to build lives, support families, and put down roots.

The result? Our members are being priced out of the community they serve.

About the Housing Committee

The UUP Oneonta Housing Committee is a volunteer committee focused on understanding how housing affects:

  • SUNY Oneonta employees
  • Families
  • Workers
  • Local residents

Mission

To use member experiences, housing data, and community partnerships to identify and advance practical housing solutions that support both workers and residents, and the local Oneonta Community

Current Priorities

  • Workforce Housing – Understanding how housing affects employee recruitment and retention.
  • Housing Research – Collecting and sharing housing data and community perspectives
  • Community Partnerships – Collaboration with local governments, labor organizations, tenants, and community stakeholders.
  • Housing Advocacy – Supporting initiatives that promote housing stability and availability.

Housing Survey Result 2024

Summary of findings:

  • Employees prefer to live closer to work
  • Housing affordability is a concern
  • Housing availability is limited
  • Housing quality is a concern
  • Housing impacts recruitment and retention

Current Projects

  1. Workforce Housing Initiative | Status: Active
    Goal: Explore housing strategies that help attract and retain employees while strengthening the community.
    • Current Activities
      • Connect with SUNY leadership
      • Community outreach
      • Workforce housing research
      • Data collection
      • Connect with Oneonta Common Council (Complete)
      • Connect with Oneonta Town STR Committee (Complete)
  2. Good Cause Eviction Initiative | Status: Active
    • Current Activities
      • Public education
      • Community engagement
      • Petition outreach
      • Research on local housing impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is UUP involved in housing? Housing affects employee recruitment, retention, commuting costs, and quality of life.

Does the committee advocate for a specific housing policy? The committee studies housing issues and works with community partners to identify practical solutions. We support discussion and collaboration around housing challenges.

Can non-UUP members participate? The committee welcomes conversations and partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders.

How can I get involved? Volunteer, attend committee meetings, share your housing experience, or participate in housing initiatives.