The following is a press release from HomeFront:
Local officials announced this past week that the City of Billings was selected to participate in the Housing Solutions Workshop — a program sponsored by the NYU Furman Center’s Housing Solutions Lab, Abt Associates, and the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy to help small and midsize communities develop and implement comprehensive local housing strategies. Other cities selected include Lancaster, PA; Arvada, CO; New Haven, CT; and Gresham, OR. Senior officials from key housing agencies and regional partners in these communities will take part in a series of virtual sessions led by prominent housing experts and researchers.
“As rents climb to new highs, it’s more important than ever for local leaders to use strategic, evidence-informed policies to fight back”, said Martha Galvez, Executive Director of the Housing Solutions Lab. “Affordable housing is the lynchpin of so many interconnected challenges facing small and midsize cities, and we’re thrilled to tackle them with this year’s group of innovators.”
National data show dramatic increases in rent and home prices over the last year, while the rental vacancy rate is at its lowest level in almost 40 years. The housing market volatility during the pandemic has been especially daunting for local policy makers. With housing costs continuing to put pressure on renters and prospective homebuyers in small and midsize cities, local governments can benefit from resources and technical assistance to help them navigate these challenges and build housing that meets the needs of residents.
“This is an exciting opportunity for the Billings’ Delegation to use innovative and strategic skills, along with evidence-based strategies to make an impact on the housing challenges in Billings”, said Patti Webster, CEO – HomeFront. “We have the right community leaders at the table.”
The selected communities were chosen following a national Call for Applications that generated a high volume of strong applications. The process included written submissions, as well as an interview round with applicants, who were ultimately selected to build a cohort of communities at similar stages of the planning process. The Workshop will begin on October 3 and run through October 20.
The Billings Delegation includes:
Patti Webster, CEO – HomeFront
Wyeth Friday, AICP, Director, Planning & Community Services Department, City of Billings and Yellowstone County
Bob Leach, Realtor – Billings Association of Realtors.
Steve Arveschoug, Executive Director, Big Sky Economic Development
Denise Jordan, CEO – District 7 HRDC
Daniel Brooks, Business Advocacy Director – Billings Chamber
Tess Besaw, Consultant, Besaw Integrity Consulting, Coordinator – Continuum of Care – Coordinated Entry Project.
About the Housing Solutions Lab
The Housing Solutions Lab at the NYU Furman Center helps small and midsize cities plan, launch, and evaluate evidence-based local housing policies that advance racial equity; increase access to opportunity; and improve long-term health and wellbeing for residents.
About the NYU Furman Center
The NYU Furman Center advances research and debate on housing, neighborhoods, and urban policy. Established in 1995, it is a joint center of the New York University School of Law and the Wagner Graduate School of Public Service. More information can be found at furmancenter.org and @FurmanCenterNYU.
About Abt Associates
Abt Associates is a global consulting and research firm that uses data and bold thinking to improve the quality of people’s lives. From combatting infectious disease and conducting rigorous program evaluations to ensuring safe drinking water and promoting access to affordable housing—and more—we partner with clients and communities to tackle their most complex challenges.
About the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy
The Lincoln Institute of Land Policy seeks to improve quality of life through the effective use, taxation, and stewardship of land. A nonprofit private operating foundation whose origins date to 1946, the Lincoln Institute researches and recommends creative approaches to land as a solution to economic, social, and environmental challenges. Through education, training, publications, and events, we integrate theory and practice to inform public policy decisions worldwide.