Mayor Brown Announces Proposals to Jumpstart New Affordable Housing Development

Mayor Lisa Brown announced a package of proposals to accelerate affordable housing development in Spokane. The initiative aligns with the H. O. M. E.

Starts Here Plan, which aims to add 22,359 new housing units by 2046. One significant proposal includes a permit fee deferral program, allowing developers to postpone fees up to $150,000 until later in the project. Additionally, the HEART Fund will be renamed to better represent its mission to promote housing equity. The city plans to modernize its development code for better clarity and efficiency, responding to outdated regulations. Mayor Brown noted the importance of removing barriers for affordable housing developers.

The proposals collectively aim to enhance local homeownership rates and reduce housing cost burdens. These measures reflect Spokane's commitment to addressing its housing and homelessness challenges.