Some of Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb’s biggest first-term headlines stemmed from his housing initiatives — from cracking down on absentee landlords to expanding support for the city’s unhoused residents.
State of play: When Bibb ran for office in 2021, he pledged to hold predatory landlords and property owners accountable.
Flash forward: In early 2024, Cleveland enacted the sweeping “Residents First” housing legislation, which Bibb described as the most comprehensive housing reform in over three decades.
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It requires all non-local landlords to appoint a local contact person to address code violations.
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It also introduced a civil ticketing system to fine negligent landlords without resorting to housing court.
🏘️ The Home for Every Neighbor program, launched in 2023, offers rapid rehousing and support for Cleveland’s unhoused population. So far, more than 200 residents have been placed in homes, according to Bibb.
The other side: Despite new mixed- and low-income housing developments across the city, Bibb admits housing affordability remains a “crisis.”
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Over the past two years, Cleveland’s rent has increased faster than in any other major U.S. city.
What they’re saying: “It’s not just about the housing side of the equation,” Bibb said.
“It’s about jobs as well — good-paying jobs and making Cleveland a better place to do business.”
What’s next: Bibb says his second-term priorities will focus on removing barriers to development.
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The city will launch a new permitting portal to streamline development approvals.
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Bibb also plans to expand form-based code zoning citywide by 2027.
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Additionally, a modular home manufacturer will be selected to build 20 homes for a pilot project next year.
The bottom line: “We can’t let process be an impediment to prosperity,” Bibb said.
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