Regional Housing Summit: From Crisis to Solution

How can we dialogue better to find solutions to our housing needs? Four community members from our region who hold a variety of viewpoints related to affordable housing will engage in a panel discussion about strategies and solutions, based on their varying experiences. The goal of this conversation is to model listening and calm dialogue, and to be able to hear the reasoned concepts behind each stance, ultimately to improve our ability to work together to create a community that is livable and inviting for all residents.

Attendees will learn how Prince George’s developed new tools to protect older units in high-growth areas, transforming them into long-term affordable housing. Rodgers will also discuss the role of government in ensuring equitable access to housing, linking economic development with affordable housing as a key part of community growth and sustainability.

Hope Rutter will moderate a panel that will explore critical strategies for preserving communities and preventing displacement. Key topics include heirs' property and addressing vacancies, tenant opportunity to purchase initiatives, and tools that help protect community stability. The discussion will also delve into the preservation of Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties, highlighting recent changes in LIHTC regulations and their impact on affordable housing. Attendees will gain insights into how these tools can be leveraged to maintain community cohesion and ensure long-term housing affordability.