Listed below is an outline of the actions the Community Housing Work Group recommends. The basis of the recommendations is outlined in more detail in Housing For All.
- Identify government owned lands that could be used to produce more community housing.
- Establishment of a permanent Community Housing Committee.
- The goal is to keep community housing at a high level of public discussion, and ensure a fully integrated macro focus is maintained.
- Creation of a community land trust.
- Initiate government led re-zonings for properties whose development or redevelopment will support smart growth principles and address community housing needs.
- Establishment of a housing trust fund and identify sources of funding.
- Codify incentives, direct and indirect, that increase the supply of community housing.
- Change policies related to owner-occupied housing rehabilitation program.
- In matters of rehabilitation, the work group noted the urgent need to deal with “mold issues,” and to prioritize repair efforts and dollars wherever moisture is penetrating the affected building.
- Seek adaptability and flexibility in regulations that govern new construction and rehabilitation of housing.
- The Community Housing Work Group recommends the county administrator hire a housing advocate, providing support staff as needed.
- This position needs to be adequately funded, so a person with substantial abilities can be hired.
- The work group believes there may be private or foundation dollars available to augment the advocate’s salary.
For more information on community housing, please contact Hugh Henkel at 941-861-5000
Download the entire report: Housing For All (April, 2004)
Download the Community Housing Progress Report (November, 2004)