Mayor Brown Announces Proposals to Jumpstart New Affordable Housing Development

Mayor Lisa Brown announced a new legislative package to accelerate affordable housing development in Spokane, with an ambitious target of 22,359 new units by 2046. Central to the proposal is the Housing Equity and Attainable Residences Trust (HEART) Fund, designed to provide flexible financial support for developers while aligning with state law. The package also introduces a permit fee deferral program, permitting certain affordable housing projects to postpone up to $150,000 in fees, thereby reducing initial financial burdens. In conjunction with updating the Comprehensive Plan, the city plans to modernize its development code to enhance clarity and streamline the permitting process. Brown's proposals respond to a community campaign by the Spokane Alliance and aim to improve housing stability for residents.

The initiative is part of the broader H. O. M. E. Starts Here Plan, which focuses on reducing housing cost burdens and increasing homeownership rates.

By removing barriers for developers, these measures seek to stimulate the construction of much-needed affordable units. The city's commitment to responsible growth and affordability remains at the forefront of this housing strategy.