Mayor Brown Announces Proposals to Jumpstart New Affordable Housing Development

Mayor Lisa Brown announced a legislative package to boost affordable housing development in Spokane, addressing ongoing housing challenges. This initiative aligns with the H. O. M. E.

Starts Here Plan, which aims to create 22,359 new housing units by 2046. Key proposals include the establishment of the Housing Equity and Attainable Residences Trust (HEART) Fund, which will provide more flexible funding for developers. To alleviate financial pressures, a permit fee deferral program is proposed for income-restricted housing projects, allowing developers to delay fees of up to $150,000. Mayor Brown remarked on the urgency of increasing affordable housing units, stating, “Spokane needs more housing units at all levels, but especially affordable units. ” The package also proposes updating the city’s development code to enhance clarity and streamline processes.

By reducing barriers and improving funding mechanisms, these proposals aim to foster housing stability in Spokane. The city’s efforts reflect a commitment to addressing the needs of residents facing housing cost burdens.