Bend City Council Makes Groundbreaking Move to Increase Affordable Housing Options

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The City of Bend has taken a significant step towards addressing the pressing issue of affordable housing in Central Oregon with the allocation of $650,000 to support the Woodhaven Estates development, a community land trust project in Southeast Bend.

This strategic investment will help offset development and construction costs, making purchase prices more affordable for qualifying buyers earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income. By doing so, the City of Bend aims to increase the availability of affordable housing options for local families, particularly those who are struggling to make ends meet amidst the rising cost of living in the region.

Under the community land trust model, buyers will purchase the home itself while Thistle & Nest retains ownership of the land beneath it. Resale provisions are designed to keep the homes affordable for future buyers while allowing current homeowners to build equity. This innovative approach not only addresses the issue of affordability but also fosters a sense of community among residents, as they will be directly involved in the decision-making process and will have a say in the development of the project.

Thistle & Nest, the non-profit developer behind the project, has a proven track record of creating inclusive and vibrant communities in Central Oregon. According to Amy Warren, board president and founder of Thistle & Nest, "High home prices and the upfront costs of purchasing a home remain significant barriers for Central Oregon families, even when they can manage a monthly mortgage payment." By providing an affordable housing solution, the City of Bend is empowering local families to build a stable future and break the cycle of poverty.

The $650,000 grant is part of a broader effort by the City of Bend to expand affordable housing options throughout the community. During the same funding cycle, Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity was awarded $350,000 to support homebuyer assistance for an upcoming development, demonstrating the City's commitment to addressing the root causes of housing affordability.

In addition to the grant, the City of Bend has implemented several other initiatives aimed at increasing affordable housing options. For example, the City has streamlined its permitting process to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and increase the speed at which developments can break ground. Furthermore, the City has established a Housing Advisory Committee to provide a platform for community members to share their ideas and concerns about affordable housing.

By investing in Woodhaven Estates, the City of Bend is not only providing an affordable housing solution but also sparking a larger conversation about the need for inclusive and sustainable community development. As Amy Warren notes, "The City's investment helps us close that affordability gap at Woodhaven Estates, giving more Central Oregonians the opportunity to build equity, achieve greater financial stability, and remain rooted in the community where they live and work."

The success of Woodhaven Estates will serve as a model for future affordable housing projects in Central Oregon. By prioritizing inclusive and sustainable community development, the City of Bend is demonstrating a commitment to creating a more equitable and thriving community for all residents.

As the City of Bend continues to work towards increasing affordable housing options, it is essential that the community remains engaged and invested in this effort. By coming together to address the issues of housing affordability, the City of Bend can create a brighter future for all its residents.