Community Outreach
ELRHC continues to approach the communities in our region to seek ways to work together to address the workforce housing need. This will be done through sharing information and resources and direct contact with planning boards and community leaders to work cooperatively on future projects and activities. There are resources available through state and regional agencies we can bring to our area to assist our communities as we address zoning barriers, provide for smarter growth to protect our rural character and other related issues our towns share.
Statewide Cooperation
We continue to be active participants in statewide groups such as the NH Workforce Housing Council and regional workforce housing coordinators. It is important to network with people involved in groups affected by the lack of affordable workforce housing – i.e., Lakes Region Community Developers, the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority, the Business and Industry Association and NH Homebuilders Association, as well as individuals with the many government, non-profit, and foundation groups that help finance community development. We must keep up to date with what is happening statewide and nationally, to maintain an awareness of resources, and to share what is happening in our region.
Our Approach Includes
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Providing community education regarding the need for housing and how this shortage impacts our towns.
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Working with town officials and planning boards to create town ordinances that promote workforce housing.
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Identifying and accessing private, local, state and federal resources to keep new and rehabilitation construction affordable.