Agenda Packet 12-12-18 Work Session

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3 ProcessProcessProcessProcess Wicked Problem MindsetWicked Problem MindsetWicked Problem MindsetWicked Problem Mindset In framing the discussion of housing affordability, working group members were asked to consider this challenge as a “Wicked Problem” (see Appendix B: Wicked Problem Mindset). Wicked problems, by their definition do not have technical solutions. Instead, underlying values are at tension with one another and addressing the problem to satisfy one value, inevitably has negative impacts on other values and priorities. Like a perpetual game of “whack-a-mole” solving one aspect of the problem begets other problems. Given these inevitable trade-offs, wicked problems can be very polarizing with competing sides escalating the conflict. At the first working group meeting, the group worked to identify the underlying tensions and trade-offs that are inherent in housing affordability. A selection of these has been represented here. Considered in isolation, these values or interests tend to be shared throughout a group. Everyone wants safety, beauty, affordability, etc. It is in the tensions between these interests that communities find their values in tension or even in direct conflict with one another. There may be ways to both preserve beauty and nature (for example) while still increasing affordability. That said, some solutions to get more of one of these values may have a negative impact on another value. Depending on the level of “threat,” to one value, the potential gain for another, and a community’s cumulative prioritization of all the values, they may come to very different recommendations. Given this, the “right” solution depends far more on people’s values and a collective prioritization of these than on technical analysis. While data can be useful to inform whether a given option can indeed satisfy a given interest, it cannot dictate which interests are “right” or “most important.” Through deliberative practices, communities can listen to one another’s interests and, together, work to find a balance between them. “Solutions” to wicked problems do not claim to solve the problem. Rather, they seek to improve upon the status quo in ways that best reflect an inclusive balance of inherently competing values. While some values may “win” over others, a deliberative process creates opportunity to minimize negative impact where possible and create shared responsibility and acknowledgement for negative impacts where necessary. Housing Affordability Sustainability Strong Economy Beauty/ Nature Equity Safety Diversity Livability December 12, 2018, Work Session - Item 2