Spokane: H.O.M.E. Starts Here Plan
Mayor Lisa Brown has introduced a new legislative package aimed at jumpstarting affordable housing development in Spokane, with significant implications for the city's neighborhoods. This initiative, part of the broader H.O.M.E. Starts Here Plan, is designed to enhance housing stability by increasing the overall supply of homes, easing housing cost burdens on residents, and fostering more local homeownership. The proposed measures are set to directly influence the character and growth of Spokane's communities by removing obstacles to construction and providing new incentives for building.
A key proposal is the establishment and expansion of the Housing Equity and Attainable Residences Trust (HEART) Fund. This fund, now aligned with state law, offers increased flexibility in how capital construction projects and services are funded. For neighborhoods, this means a more consistent and accessible stream of resources for developers to build new affordable units, potentially leading to a more diverse range of housing options within existing communities and helping to prevent displacement by increasing supply. The fund's ability to coordinate with state funding opportunities could also accelerate the pace of development in areas identified for growth.
To alleviate the financial strain on developers, the Affordable Housing Permit Fee Deferral Program will allow projects building income-restricted units to defer up to $150,000 in certain permit fees. This reduction in upfront costs is expected to encourage more development, particularly in neighborhoods where the need for affordable housing is greatest. By making it easier for builders to initiate projects, this program could lead to a quicker increase in housing stock, benefiting residents seeking affordable living options within their preferred communities.
Furthermore, the city's commitment to creating a Clear and Intuitive Development Code will have a direct impact on how neighborhoods evolve. By modernizing and clarifying existing regulations, the city aims to reduce uncertainty and streamline the permitting process. This could lead to more predictable and efficient development, ensuring that new construction integrates more smoothly into existing neighborhood fabric while still meeting the city's housing goals. A clearer code can also empower community members and developers alike by making the planning process more transparent.
Finally, the proposal to waive General Facilities Charges (GFCs) for affordable housing projects, enabled by Senate Bill 5662, provides another crucial incentive for neighborhood development. By eliminating these one-time utility connection fees, the city further reduces the cost of building, making it more attractive for developers to invest in affordable housing within Spokane's various communities. These combined efforts are designed to ensure that new housing units are not just built, but are built efficiently and in a way that supports the long-term health and affordability of Spokane’s neighborhoods, fostering stability and homeownership for more families.