Mayor Brown Announces Proposals to Jumpstart New Affordable Housing Development

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown announced a legislative package to enhance affordable housing development, following the H. O. M. E. Starts Here Plan.

The initiative sets a target of 22,359 new housing units by 2046 and aims to eliminate barriers to construction. Key components include the establishment of the Housing Equity and Attainable Residences Trust Fund, which will provide more flexible funding for affordable housing projects. Additionally, the proposal introduces a permit fee deferral program that allows developers to postpone up to $150,000 in fees, easing financial pressures during project initiation. The city also plans to modernize its development code to improve clarity and efficiency in the permitting process. Mayor Brown emphasized the urgent need for affordable units, stating, “Spokane needs more housing units at all levels, but especially affordable units.

” This coordinated effort seeks to enhance housing stability for residents and address the growing housing crisis in Spokane. Local officials hope these measures will align city efforts to increase homeownership and reduce housing cost burdens.