Mayor Brown Announces Proposals to Jumpstart New Affordable Housing Development

Mayor Lisa Brown announced a legislative package aimed at enhancing affordable housing development in Spokane, aligning with the H. O. M. E. Starts Here Initiative.

This comprehensive plan seeks to create 22,359 new housing units by 2046, addressing the high number of cost-burdened residents. The proposals include establishing a permit fee deferral program for developers of income-restricted units, allowing them to defer up to $150,000 in fees. The package also proposes renaming the HEART Fund to better reflect its mission and creating more flexibility in funding for capital projects. Additionally, the city will modernize its development code to improve clarity and efficiency in the permitting process. Mayor Brown highlighted the importance of removing barriers to affordable housing development.

This initiative aims to support local developers while ensuring responsible growth. The overall goal is to increase housing stability and homeownership rates in Spokane.