GREENSBORO, N.C. -- In the next ten years, Greensboro wants to make sure everyone has the chance to live in quality, affordable housing.

Tuesday the city council approved a contract with HR&A Advisors Inc. for the research and creation of a 10-year plan. It will include short term and long term goals, strategies, and community input.

Sherry Beeson of Affordable Housing Management is excited the city is focusing on this issue.

"Affordable housing does not mean crime or disruption in the neighborhood. These are just folks who maybe don't make as much money as you do," Beeson said.

Stanley Wilson of the city's Neighborhood Development Department says the benefits outweigh the cost, because the changes will help people in their daily lives.

"Well obviously people have a place to live that they can afford which also allows them to pay for other things. It may be daycare. It could be medicine. It could even just be gas to get to work every day," Wilson said.