OP-ED: Affordability is a critical issue in St. Petersburg, and I’m committed to addressing it

St. Pete skyline, photographed by Victor Fonseca, photo courtesy of Flickr

By Linsey Grove

As a candidate for St. Petersburg City Council District 6, I am committed to representing all the different communities that make up District 6 and using my diverse skill sets and experience to solve the issues we are facing.

I love this city–I have been a part of this amazing community for almost two decades and have watched it change. I have lived and worked in District 6 for over 12 years and created long-lasting relationships as a community organizer, advocate, and business owner. As a former President of the League of Women Voters of the St. Petersburg Area, I have a deep understanding of how to work collaboratively with the city, county, grassroots organizations, nonprofits, elected officials, businesses, and voters to make positive change in our community. I am proud of the civic initiatives I’ve led and supported in the community and plan to bring that same energy, creativity, and cooperation to City Council.

My platform focuses on affordability for residents and small businesses, achieving a more resilient and sustainable infrastructure, and neighborhood connectedness. I believe we can create housing for all while preserving the unique character of our neighborhoods. I will work to update our zoning laws, advocate for better public transit, and find creative ways to support local businesses struggling to keep their doors open. I’m passionate about making St. Petersburg a place where everyone can thrive, regardless of income or background. I am excited to bring a fresh perspective and collaborative leadership to the City Council.

An Affordable City

Affordability is a critical issue in St. Petersburg, and I’m committed to addressing it. As District 6 Councilmember, I’ll work to increase the availability of affordable housing options, including new construction, rehabilitation, rental, and ownership opportunities. This will involve partnering with local non-profits, developers, and government agencies to create innovative policy and practical solutions that meet the needs of our community. I’ll also advocate for policies that protect tenants and homeowners from displacement and gentrification. As a small business owner myself, I will advocate for creative solutions to support our small businesses across the city, like bus pass programs for downtown employees, assistance for legacy businesses, and collective benefits programs for employers and employees.

Resilient Infrastructure & Smart Growth

As a candidate for St. Petersburg City Council District 6, I believe that smart growth is essential to our city’s future. This means updating our local laws to encourage mixed-use development, density, and transit options. By doing so, we can create vibrant, livable neighborhoods that are accessible to everyone. Smart growth also means updating and improving our infrastructure to protect our residents from flooding and prepare for the effects of climate change. I’ll work to ensure our growth is guided by a comprehensive plan driven by resident voices and prioritizing the needs of our community, not just the interests of large developers.

Community Revitalization

Community revitalization is about more than just economic development – it’s about building strong, vibrant neighborhoods that reflect the character and culture of our city. As the District 6 Councilmember, I’ll work to support local businesses, community organizations, and initiatives that create a better-connected city. This will involve investing in public spaces, supporting community-led planning initiatives, and providing resources to support neighborhood projects and organizations. By doing so, we can create a city that is more connected, more livable, and more reflective of our values.

We need elected officials who are committed to the well-being and future of our community. We face unprecedented issues of affordability, aging infrastructure, severe weather events, and communities experiencing fear and isolation. The interconnectedness of these issues will require a City Councilmember who not only understands their root causes but also the systemic solutions needed to truly address them. Our city faces a crossroads in its journey: do we fight to ensure a city that is accessible and affordable for everyone, or do we allow corporate interests and political fear determine our future? I believe that this city has a long history of fighting for what is right and just–I want to continue that legacy as a City Councilmember for District 6.

Join me on January 31, 2026, at the Polish American Society of St. Petersburg from 6 pm to 9 pm to learn more about my campaign, celebrate our city, and get involved!

Contact information:

vote@groveforstpete.com

www.groveforstpete.com

IG: @groveforstpete 

FB: Linsey Grove for St. Pete City Council District 6

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