Affordable Housing Options for Local Governments in the North Carolina ARC Region

Introduction

In recent years, western North Carolina has experienced a period of growth unlike any other in the region’s history. This growth has brought a new problem to the area—the lack of affordable housing options for families of modest means. As a result, local governments are searching for tools to assist in the development of safe, decent, and modest affordable housing for community residents.

In order to effectively address the need for affordable housing in a community, a local government needs an affordable housing strategy that supports the development of new units and the protection of existing units, coordinates a network of affordable housing partners, and has a toolbox of affordable housing strategies.

This report is a resource for local government officials to use as they develop their affordable housing programs.

Affordable Housing Defined

Importance of Subsidies

Subsidy Scenario

Subsidies in North Carolina

Area Median Income

Building a Local Government Affordable Housing Program

A sustainable local government housing strategy is one that supports development of new units and the protection of existing units, coordinates a network of affordable housing partners, and has a toolbox of affordable housing strategies.

Types of Housing in a Community (Part 1)

Types of Housing in a Community (Part 2)

Affordable Housing Partners

In addition to the physical structures where families live, a community needs a network to support its affordable housing program. Non-profits, grant-makers, social service providers, realtors, and government entities such as the NC Division of Community Assistance or the NC Housing Finance Agency are examples of the key partners in a local government affordable housing program. Additionally, other departments within the local government, such as the building, streets and water/sewer departments, are affordable housing program partners.

Three Key Community Partners

Local Government Housing Strategies

When a community begins to evaluate its affordable housing options, it is helpful to look at a variety of strategies needed to create a comprehensive affordable housing plan. The model presented here is adapted from the HousingPolicy.org toolbox. Some adaptations have been made to fit the rural nature of Western North Carolina.

Local Government Housing Strategies

Additional Information

County by County Resource List

WNC Housing Partnership

The WNC Housing Partnership promotes quality affordable housing development in Western North Carolina. The organization works with the public and private sector to develop housing for families, older adults and special populations in the Western NC ARC region.

WHCHP Brochure.pdf

WNC Housing Partnership Website