Build more housing
It is a failed concept that cities can “build” new affordable housing. New always cost MORE.
If you want more affordable housing stop red-tagging old homes, and stop selling homes the city has repossessed to investors and instead limit sales of those old homes to 1st time home buyers.
I remember back in the early 80’s renting a place that had a yard and seperate garage and 2 small bedrooms, large living room connected to dining room and a large kitchen and a basement. $275 a month.