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Wisconsin Workforce Housing News |
![]() Ken Harwood Advocating for Wisconsin HarwoodKen [at] gmail.com Cell 608.334.2174 Commentary Leonardo Silva Architect Leonardo Silva Architecture is a La Crosse based studio practice focused on timeless design solutions and sustainable practices; for homeowners, builders and contractors alike. This Weeks Articles for 7/14/2025 ...
Community Updates, News Stories, Best Practices, Resources, and other data supporting the development of affordable housing for the citizens of Wisconsin in every city and region in the State. Please consider partnering with us and sharing your story ![]() |
Economic development overview: Becker gives updates on housing, workforce, industrial |
![]() WATERTOWN — The City’s Manager of Economic Development and Strategic Initiatives presented a vast overview of economic development in the City to the Common Council on Tuesday. Mason Becker’s presentation included housing projects, future industrial use and more. The City’s largest housing development in progress continues to be the Rock River Ridge, on the former Bethesda property at 700 Hoffman Dr., with 188 total units. 16 homes have already been sold and Harbor Homes is a year ahead of schedule on purchasing property lots from the Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation, due to demand. ...Full Story Here Ken Notes: Great Read. Economic development and Workforce Housing are now tied together and need to be addressed as one solution. A business will not seriously consider a project if there is a substantial shortage of workforce housing in the area. Sustaining larger workforce housing projects requires a demand for quality housing that is affordable to the entry level worker. It is not the chicken nor the egg --but rather the roost that matters most. ![]() |
Gov. Evers, WHEDA Announce $2.5 Million Affordable Housing Loan Program Awards |
![]() MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority
(WHEDA), today announced over $2.5 million to support three new housing
developments, providing more than 120 new workforce housing units in
communities across the state. The funding is provided by the
Vacancy-to-Vitality and Infrastructure Access Loan Programs, which were
created through bipartisan legislation and supported by $525 million—the
largest state investment in workforce housing in state history—provided
by the 2023-25 Biennial Budget signed into law by Gov. Evers. To date,
this funding has supported the development of over 1,000 workforce
housing units statewide, with many more to go. “Housing is one of the issues I hear most about everywhere I go, and
it’s an issue that connects dots between some of the most pressing
issues facing our state, from our kids’ success in the classroom to
bringing talented folks to our workforce,” said Gov. Evers. “I was proud
to sign into law the largest state investment in workforce housing in
our state’s history, and it’s great to see these funds go out the door
to communities across our state. During my administration, more than
17,000 affordable housing units have been built in Wisconsin, and with
these critical programs and millions of dollars left to award, we’re not
slowing down anytime soon.”... Leo’s notes: Workforce housing remains one of the most pressing challenges for Wisconsin communities. The state’s latest $2.5 million investment is a strong step forward—helping create new housing opportunities that support workers, attract talent, and strengthen local economies. Continued momentum will be key to meeting demand statewide. ![]() |
Charities fight against Ozaukee affordable housing shortage that`s driving up rent prices |
PORT WASHINGTON, Wis. — Charities in Ozaukee County continue to work against a shortage of affordable housing in the area. Joana Hemschemeyer works for the local chapter of Family Promise, an organization working to combat housing insecurity in the area, even among professions like teaching and firemen. "The workers who are living here in Ozaukee County can`t afford to live here," Hemschemeyer said. Family Promise operates a shelter outside of downtown Port Washington. The organization works directly with landlords to help individuals and working families find homes, particularly those who have experienced setbacks like job loss, medical debt, car accidents or criminal records... Notes: Leo’s notes: Ozaukee County’s housing shortage is pricing out even its essential workers—teachers, firefighters, and families striving to stay afloat. Family Promise’s work highlights the urgent need for more housing options and a deeper understanding of local needs. A countywide housing study is a smart first step toward long-term solutions that ensure stability, dignity, and opportunity for all residents. Ken Notes: I would like to see the focus more on those with jobs who are often lost in the system. Social programs exist for those with job loss, medical debt, car accidents or criminal records. There are few if any affordable market rate homes, condos, multiplexes, or modern developments with smaller lots and homes with shared amenities for service and retail workers. ![]() |
UW report links housing stress to worsening health in Wisconsin |
![]() Co-authors of UW-Extension study speak on connection of health, housing, ways to address housing stressHousing financial stress has been rising among Wisconsin residents, and it is tied to an increase in negative health outcomes, according to a report from the University of Wisconsin-Extension. The report found that housing instability is linked to worsened mental and physical health and may cause food insecurity, physical exhaustion, hypertension and lowered fertility. While this stress is more common among renters than homeowners, the consequential health impacts were linked more with older homeowners, co-author of the report and associate professor in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics Tessa Conroy said. These impacts are not only felt by individual residents but also on a community level. Co-author of the report and PhD student in the sociology department at UW Erin Gaede said housing is often overlooked when considering community wellbeing. Gaede said that residents must understand that housing, financial stress and health are interconnected. “If people are prioritizing their shelter over everything else, the potential for negative health outcomes is, I don’t want to say inevitable, but likely. So I think that that was kind of a surprising finding,” Gaede said... ...Full Story Here Ken Notes: We are causing stress and actual health issues because we do not want to address affordable workforce housing in Wisconsin. We will see more issues related to this until we develop communities that care for one another. ![]() |
Gov. Evers Visits Hayward Site For Northwood Tech And IMPACT Seven’s Trailview Cottages Workforce Housing Project |
![]() RICE LAKE, WI — Governor Tony Evers and Elmer Moore Jr., chief executive officer and executive director of the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA), visited Hayward, Wisconsin, on June 16 to tour the future site of Trailview Cottages. The visit also included a roundtable discussion with local and regional leaders about the scope and potential impact of the development. Trailview Cottages is a 40-unit multifamily workforce housing community being developed through a partnership between Northwood Technical College and IMPACT Seven. Supported by the Housing Opportunity and Mobile Education Solutions (HOMES) Workforce Innovation Grant, the project is located on a 15-acre parcel at the corner of Highway 77 and Hospital Road. It is one of three housing and workforce initiatives in the Northwood Tech District aimed at addressing critical housing shortages while offering on-site job training for area residents... ...Full Story Here Leo’s notes: Trailview Cottages is a model for how rural communities can tackle workforce challenges—by pairing affordable housing with on-site job training. Innovative partnerships like this one are key to helping families thrive, supporting local employers, and strengthening Wisconsin’s economy. ![]() |
Milwaukee County supervisors reject McGovern Park redevelopment proposal |
![]() A controversial plan to build affordable housing in McGovern Park will not move forwardMILWAUKEE — Milwaukee County leaders have rejected a proposal to redevelop McGovern Park into affordable housing and a new senior community center.The supervisors voted 10-7 to reject the proposal. Advertisement Longtime resident Joyce Hailstock expressed her personal connection to the center and her fear of it closing. "I don`t mean to get emotional, but just the thought of it brings tears to my eyes," said Hellstock, a retired educator, who described the center as a second home. "We`re seniors, you owe us this, we`ve given years of our lives to this city, leave us something to enjoy."... ...Full Story Here Leo’s notes (and update from past week’s mention:) Milwaukee County’s rejection of the McGovern Park redevelopment leaves seniors without a clear path forward. While community concerns about park preservation are valid, the urgent need for safe, accessible senior facilities remains unresolved. Without a viable alternative plan, the cost of inaction may be far greater—risking both public trust and the well-being of older residents. Ken Notes: We could use a TIF like system to fund shared amenities in a development like, SENIOR CENTERS, Parks, day care etc... ![]() |
2025 Housing Forward Proposals |
![]() A mix of homes – of all sizes and prices – gives more people a chance to own their home, build wealth, and provide a solid foundation of economic stability and opportunity for themselves and the next generation. Three new proposals will make it easier to build the types of smaller homes that we used to build and already see in many of the City’s more established neighborhoods. They will also simplify the permit process for some types of housing to lower the risks of building it. These steps will help create enough homes so that people from all walks of life can live all around our city. We want every Madisonian – whether they were born here or moved here, have been here for a year or a lifetime – to be able to live in their choice of home and neighborhood...
Leo`s Notes: Madison’s 2025 Housing Forward proposals are a bold, sensible step toward a more inclusive and affordable city. By legalizing duplexes citywide, easing lot splits for backyard homes, and simplifying downtown permitting, these reforms will unlock more housing options for everyday residents—teachers, nurses, service workers, and seniors alike. If we want a diverse and thriving Madison, we must build for it. How do you think this can be applied to YOUR COMMUNITY? ![]() |
Milwaukee Department of City Development proposes two new TIDs to create new housing opportunities Downtown and in the Bronzeville neighborhood |
![]() On July 3, the City published a public hearing notice for TID 127 (100 East Wisconsin) and TID 128 (Compass Lofts). In April, DCD released updated Tax Incremental Financing for Housing Development Guidelines. The department’s updated policy prioritizes projects that create affordable and workforce housing options and developments that repurpose underutilized central business district office buildings into residential properties. The guidelines advance City goals of creating new housing options that are accessible to a wide range of Milwaukee residents... Leo’s notes: Milwaukee’s proposed TIDs for 100 East Wisconsin and Compass Lofts reflect a bold, targeted use of public financing to create affordable and workforce housing where it`s needed most. By transforming vacant and underused buildings into vibrant residential hubs, the city is advancing equity, preserving community, and proving that thoughtful redevelopment can benefit both existing residents and future growth. Ken Notes: With development agreements to insure quality development and large projects to serve as the economic engine TIF can be a wonderful tool for housing projects. But we need to clearly define affordable and rules to ensure units are built well... ![]() |
Green Bay Housing Authority likes Monroe Plaza revamp plan but has management concerns |
![]() Monroe Plaza at 400 N. Monroe Ave. ? a downtown apartment complex that gives elderly and disabled residents a place to call home through federal Section 8 housing vouchers amidst a national housing crisis ? could be a California-based affordable housing developer`s first Wisconsin project. SDG Housing Partners secured an initial commitment of up to $27.5 million in government bonds through the Green Bay Housing Authority after the authority liked its first look at renovation plans on June 19. The developer, once given the bond revenue, will be wholly responsible for paying the debt back, according to the initial resolution. Key Points:
Leo’s notes: Preserving Monroe Plaza as affordable, accessible housing for seniors and people with disabilities is a critical step for downtown Green Bay. While SDG’s renovation vision brings potential for much-needed upgrades and dignity in design, thoughtful oversight—especially around property management and resident protections—will be essential to ensuring long-term success for this vulnerable population... ![]() |
FHLBank Chicago Releases 2024 Impact Report, Highlighting Growing Contributions to Housing and Community Development Across Illinois and Wisconsin |
![]() In 2024, FHLBank Chicago provided $107 million in housing and economic development grants and delivered $1.9 billion in discounted Community Advances—supporting the creation or preservation of more than 7,300 housing units and 7,800 jobs. FHLBank Chicago welcomed eight new member institutions to its cooperative, continuing to expand its reach and impact across the district. “In a year where interest rates remained elevated and the state of the economy was top of mind, FHLBank Chicago remained constant in its unwavering support for our financial institution members, their customers, and communities,” said Michael Ericson, President and CEO of FHLBank Chicago. “We reached new heights in supporting our members and the communities they serve in 2024. This report demonstrates that dedication through every form of support.” ... FHLBank Chicago Releases 2024 Impact ReportLeo’s notes: At a time when many communities face housing shortages and economic uncertainty, FHLBank Chicago’s investments are delivering real impact—helping create thousands of homes, supporting local jobs, and strengthening community development across Wisconsin and Illinois. Continued leadership like this is essential to building resilient, thriving communities. ![]() |
Milwaukee leaders urge passage of Housing Element plan, with goal of expanding access to homeownership |
![]() MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A press conference was held at City Hall Monday, July 7, calling for the immediate passage of the Housing Element plan. Community leaders discussed areas of concern such as housing costs and public safety. According to a poll by Together for Homes, more than 80% of Milwaukee residents believe the city does not have enough affordable housing. The plan is a "Milwaukee first" approach, tailored toward long-time residents throughout the city.... ...Full Story Here Leo’s notes: Milwaukee’s housing shortage is clear—and residents are calling for bold, local solutions. The Housing Element plan offers a “Milwaukee first” path forward, prioritizing long-time residents and essential workers who are being priced out of their own neighborhoods. Swift adoption by the Common Council is not just timely—it’s necessary. ![]() |
Du-plex the right thing, city officials urge |
![]() New zoning package calls for increased density in single-family neighborhoodsMadison’s housing stock, like that of most American cities, was shaped by the post-World War II economic boom. Cars were becoming the transportation mode of choice and families were moving to the suburbs. Madison’s new neighborhoods reflected these changes — places like Hill Farms and Hoyt Park, both largely developed in the mid-1950s, had larger lot sizes, were more reliant on automobiles for transit and consisted predominantly of single-family homes. In 1966, Madison’s city council — overseeing a population of 166,000 — enacted the city’s third zoning code. For the next 50 years it pushed city development toward single-family housing. “Our 1966 code was driven to orient more towards suburban growth,” says Matt Tucker, director of the city’s building inspection division and the city’s former zoning administrator. “Density was discouraged in many ways.”.. ...Full Story Here ![]() |
Randolph transforms former school into affordable, rural housing |
![]() MADISON, WI. JULY 3, 2025– The once-silent hallways of a
historic school are echoing with new life in Randolph. There are plans
to transform the former elementary and middle school, which has been
largely vacant for over eight years, into a 31-unit apartment
complex—offering affordable housing and community growth to the rural
community. It’s a move that’s creating a buzz in the community of 1,800 in Columbia County. “There is a lot of excitement in Randolph with the school renovation,” said Village Trustee Nicholas Weinberger. “We often hear comments from people saying they would love to move here, but they just can’t find housing. That’s coming from young families, retirees — really people at all stages of life." Leo’s notes: Randolph’s transformation of a long-vacant school into affordable housing is a model of rural revitalization done right. By preserving local character while expanding housing options for all life stages, this project strengthens the community, supports economic growth, and demonstrates how reinvestment in underused spaces can fuel a more resilient future for small towns across Wisconsin. ![]() |
Wisconsin home prices up |
![]() (The Center Square) — Wisconsin’s real estate agents say there are too few homes for sale, and those that are available are once again getting more expensive. "Existing home sales fell for a third straight month," the May 2025 Realtors report released Thursday says. "Specifically, closed sales fell just 2.1% over the past 12 months. Relative to May 2024, the median price rose 4.3% to $330,000." The report said May’s 2.1% drop in sales is much smaller than the 8.6% drop in sales in March, and 9% year-over-year drop in sales in April. "As we move into the peak period for sales, it’s good to see a solid improvement in inventory levels over the last 12 months," Realtors Chairman Chris DeVincentis said in a statement. "More housing inventory will help moderate price appreciation and will lead to more buying opportunities."... ...Full Story Here Leo’s notes: Wisconsin’s housing market continues to reflect a core challenge: too few homes for sale, driving prices higher and limiting options for buyers. While rising incomes and improving inventory offer some hope, sustained efforts to expand housing supply remain essential to improving affordability and access across the state. ![]() |
City of La Crosse to begin affordable housing development that will also serve those with disabilities |
![]() The development will have 70 units of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. 59 of the units will be for people living on a fixed income due to disability. Couleecap Executive Director Hetti Brown said, “This is a new and unique housing development that will provide independent living options for adults with disabilities, alongside the general population without disabilities in an inclusive 70-unit apartment building.” Brown hopes that Haven on Main can serve as an example to other communities.... ...Full Story Here Leo’s notes: Haven on Main is a transformative step forward for La Crosse—filling a long-overlooked gap in housing for adults with disabilities while advancing inclusive, affordable living for all. As communities across the state seek innovative housing models, this project offers both inspiration and a call to action: everyone deserves a safe, supported place to call home. Ken Notes: Because we live in the La Crosse area, Leo and I will be following this one closely. ![]() |
Budget engagement session centers affordable, safe housing |
![]() The meetings are a venue for members of the public to learn how the budget works, which is where City Finance Director Dave Schmiedicke comes in. “When we talk about the city budget, they’re really planning documents,” Schmiedicke explained Tuesday. “They’re taking a look at how the dollars that come into the city will be spent each year.”... Leo’s notes: Madison’s budget is more than numbers—it’s a reflection of values and a chance to invest in equity, housing, and public trust. As community voices call for accountability and deeper inclusion, especially in affordable housing, the city has a responsibility to turn engagement into action. Transparent, people-centered budgeting must remain the priority. ![]() |
Wisconsin Workforce Housing Resources |
![]() Nate Notes: to be included as a Workforce Housing resource email us a link and a brief note to: wwhnews.com@gmail.com... ![]() |
Gateway Collective offers affordable housing to residents living just above poverty line |
![]() GREEN BAY (WLUK) -- A local nonprofit is working to get ahead of homelessness in Northeast Wisconsin by increasing the number of affordable living options. Many working class people are just above the poverty line, living paycheck to paycheck. City Center Lofts in downtown Green Bay opened nearly a year ago -- and the question is, will this limit homelessness? The Gateway Collective is working to bring affordable housing to renters living just above the poverty line... See Also:
Leo’s notes: City Center Lofts is redefining what affordable housing can look like—offering not just stability, but a path forward. By serving renters just above the poverty line and investing in their long-term success through programs like rent-to-savings, the Gateway Collective is building more than housing—it`s building opportunity and dignity for working families. ![]() |
City of Madison highlights ideal criteria for affordable housing units |
The City of Madison has highlighted a number of housing goals to hit by 2030. This includes building 15,000 more homes within the next five years to keep up with the population growth. A quarter of those homes are slated to be affordable units. Jaymes Langrehr, the PIO for the Department of Planning, Community and Economic Development, explained the location of these units can make or break the integrity of a complex. “When we look at where we hope to see affordable housing placed in the city of Madison, we’re looking and hoping for areas that are well connected,” said Langrehr... ...Full Story Here Leo’s notes: Madison’s push to add 15,000 homes by 2030—with a quarter dedicated as affordable—signals a necessary investment in housing equity. Prioritizing well-connected sites like Rise Madison Apartments shows that location and livability matter. As new proposals emerge, the City’s role in guiding smart, inclusive development will be key to meeting both population growth and community well-being. Great initiative to look as example in other cities throughout our State! ![]() |
New Windows For Cherry Lanes Affordable Housing Project |
![]() Cherry Lanes property owner Moira Callan sought a permit for the new windows to alter their sizes “for appropriate natural light and consistency throughout the building.” City Planner/Zoning Administrator Stephanie Servia said the new windows, for which there will be no changes to the front of the building facing North 4th Avenue, “do not appear to take away from the historic character of the building” with the windows being replaced with the same style of windows. The project to build eight workforce apartment units on the second floor was awarded a $160,000 Restore Main Street loan through the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) to rehabilitate affordable housing. To receive a Restore Main Street low-interest-rate loan, the development must provide affordable rents, which must remain affordable for at least 10 years following occupancy... Leo’s notes: Sturgeon Bay’s Cherry Lanes redevelopment is a smart example of preserving character while creating much-needed workforce housing. With WHEDA’s Restore Main Street support and thoughtful design updates, this project blends historic preservation with modern affordability—helping downtown remain vibrant and livable for all.
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Beloit launches several housing projects to meet growing need |
BELOIT, Wis. — Like many communities throughout Wisconsin, Beloit is actively working to build more apartments and homes to meet a growing demand for housing. What You Need To Know
The city’s population has grown for a second year in a row. When George and June Arrowood decided to move back to Beloit from Tennessee to be closer to their grandkids, they quickly realized that finding a home was going to be difficult. “There weren’t very many options at all,” June Arrowood said. “We found out that renting is probably, in the long run, more expensive than buying around here, which is terrible,” George Arrowood added. As they were looking, developers began building the Western Hills subdivision, which consists of 23 single-family homes. Each one of those homes sold within a week or two of being listed. The Arrowoods are the proud owners of one of them. See Also:
...Full Story Here Leo’s notes: Beloit’s proactive approach to housing—pairing incentives for market-rate development with targeted investments in affordability—is a promising model for fast-growing communities. As vacancy rates tighten and demand surges, the city’s commitment to both economic growth and housing equity is key to ensuring all residents can find a place to call home. ![]() |
Developer could buy, rehab Monroe Plaza senior affordable housing for up to $27.5 million |
![]() GREEN BAY - A developer interested in buying and rehabbing Monroe Plaza Apartments, the 1970s-era affordable housing complex for seniors at 400 N. Monroe Ave., is looking to the Green Bay Housing Authority for the funds to pursue its project. The housing authority on June 19 will consider a request by Monroe Plaza Housing I LLC, whose principal office is based in Manhattan Beach, California, to access up to $27.5 million in revenue bonds to cover the cost of acquiring and rehabilitating the 197-unit apartment complex. Here`s what to know. What is the developer requesting from the Green Bay Housing Authority?The official request is for the housing authority to give the developer up to $27.5 million in "tax-exempt conduit revenue bonds."... ...Full Story Here Leo’s notes: Preserving and modernizing affordable senior housing like Monroe Plaza is vital to keeping communities inclusive and livable for all ages. Public-private partnerships and creative financing tools, such as conduit revenue bonds, offer an important path to ensuring these critical homes remain safe, updated, and accessible for years to come. ![]() |
One of two Beloit apartment developments backed by city may not happen |
![]() BELOIT — One of the two multi-family housing developments that was to receive $3 million each from the City of Beloit to build affordable housing in the city is in limbo. In May, the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority announced that 27 developments in 13 counties would receive $36.6 million in housing tax credits in 2025 to offset the costs of building 1,731 affordable housing units. To be eligible for the credit, the various developments had to pledge a certain percentage of the units will be set aside for below market rates for working-class families. The Riverside Apartments by Madison’s Alternative Continuum of Care of Dakota Dunes and Lutheran Social Services, which proposed adding 55 units to the city, will receive $1.2 million in tax credits. Housing tax credits are a dollar-for-dollar reduction of federal income taxes owed by owners/investors in qualified projects... ...Full Story Here Leo’s notes: Beloit’s effort to boost affordable housing faces a setback as one of its two major projects loses out on critical tax credits. With $3 million in city incentives now in limbo, local leaders have a renewed opportunity—and responsibility—to ensure those dollars advance urgently needed housing solutions that serve working families and stabilize the local market. Ken Notes: With so little partisan agreement in Madison and DC, now might be a good time to work on a bi-partisan workforce housing bill partnering with communities and employers to build housing projects that will solve a problem we all agree needs to be addressed. ![]() |
95 workforce housing units part of JBS development on Green Bay`s east side |
![]() GREEN BAY (WLUK) -- The first housing project in a new neighborhood on Green Bay`s east side could break ground next month. It`s on 26 acres of land, between the Kroc Center and Walmart, that JBS Foods donated to the city during the coronavirus pandemic. Roads, sidewalks and utilities have been going in over the past few months. Next will be 95 workforce housing units. A city committee provided initial approval for a development agreement for the project Tuesday afternoon... ...Full Story HereLeo’s notes: The Grand Boulevard Apartments mark a major step forward in addressing Green Bay’s “missing middle” housing gap. By leveraging public-private partnerships and thoughtful land use, this development brings attainable housing to working families while setting the stage for a vibrant, mixed-income neighborhood. It’s a smart, catalytic investment in community and economic stability. ![]() |
South Milwaukee apartment project to get $756K loan via state workforce housing program |
![]() A South Milwaukee apartment project will receive a $756,752 loan to build 20 units in a former clinic building. Gov. Tony Evers along with the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) announced the loan in a June 19 news release as part of $2.5 million in funds supporting three new housing developments across Wisconsin. Key Points...
...Full Story Here Leo’s notes: Transforming vacant properties into quality workforce housing is a smart way to strengthen communities and meet local housing needs. Projects like South Shore Landing—made possible through strong state and local partnerships—show how creative redevelopment can bring new life to neighborhoods while supporting Wisconsin’s workforce. ![]() |
Economic development overview: Becker gives updates on housing, workforce, industrial |
![]() The City’s largest housing development in progress continues to be the Rock River Ridge, on the former Bethesda property at 700 Hoffman Dr., with 188 total units. 16 homes have already been sold and Harbor Homes is a year ahead of schedule on purchasing property lots from the Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation, due to demand. Lumin Terrace (Horizon) is beginning work this summer on 92 apartment units and White Oak has already constructed one twin home, with a second currently in the works... Leo’s notes: Watertown is making visible strides in housing development—but aligning those efforts with true community affordability remains the next test. As new units break ground across a range of project types, ensuring that homes are accessible to the workers, families, and longtime residents who sustain the city must remain central to economic growth. ![]() |
This Oconomowoc school was converted into 55 apartment units with historic preservation |
![]() The school was originally built in 1922, and in 2013, historic and affordable housing tax credits allowed for the $10.9 million transformation of the old school into the Oconomowoc School Apartments. Duffy said anytime there`s an opportunity to create an adaptive reuse to that type of structure, it`s beneficial to the community. "It restores some of that heritage of the community, but also provides a need into the future," he said. "As a community, as we continue to grow, that attainable housing piece is a component that we need to try to strive for."... ![]() |
Why Madison’s housing gatekeepers are getting uncomfortable |
![]() Advocates for increased density are part of a broad-based effort to correct inequitiesIn a recent column, Paul Fanlund, publisher of The Capital Times, laments the city of Madison’s push for increased housing density as yet another overreach by elected officials “quietly” changing the rules without proper deference to longtime homeowners. It’s not his first time criticizing the city’s evolving housing policy — and not the first time he’s doing so from the vantage point of Hill Farms, one of the most historically exclusionary neighborhoods in Madison. Framing resistance to housing reform as concern for “public trust” or “zoning protections” reflects a longstanding rhetorical tradition in Madison — one that dresses exclusion in the language of procedural integrity. These arguments are not new; they have circulated for more than a century, most often from those who benefit most from regulatory systems designed to safeguard comfort and property values while obstructing broader inclusion... ...Full Story Here Ken Notes: Every new housing development or infill project should ask, "Where do the baristas live?". We must have communities and neighborhoods designed to house a variety of income levels. We have zoned ourselves into this problem now we must zone ourselves out of it. If you work in Wisconsin you should be able to live in Wisconsin. ![]() |
Milwaukee sets new TIF rules for workforce housing... |
![]() Construction and borrowing costs are higher, driving developers to seek partnerships with the city for project financing. In some cases, developers have said that without public financing their projects would not get off the ground. Meanwhile, the city and developers are driving for more housing supply as rents have risen. The six-page document from the city of Milwaukee Department of City Development outlined the city’s housing priorities and shared directions to follow to achieve tax increment financing. The documents arrived after discourse between the city and developers looking to expand workforce housing, and more than a year after the city’s downtown area plan was released. “We’re excited to share publicly what we’ve been talking about with industry groups and specific developers over the last several months,” said Lafayette Crump, the commissioner of city development. “They have provided input into our policy, and we believe we’ve crafted a policy that is going to be impactful and move forward the kinds of projects we want to support, and we believe the city needs,” he added..... ...Full Story Here ![]() |
FHLBank Chicago Makes $3 Million Available for Community First® Developer Program to Support Emerging Talent in Affordable Housing |
![]() Sean O’Brien, Principal at Northpointe Development II Corp., and Cedric D. Thurman, EVP and Group Head of Community Investment at FHLBank Chicago, celebrate a $250,000 Developer Program grant awarded to Northpointe to support emerging talent in affordable housing development. In 2025, FHLBank Chicago will award up to $3 million through its financial institution members, with individual grant amounts ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. Applications are open now through Friday, August 8, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. CT.... ...Full Story Here Notes: ![]() |
Plan Commission gets housing update, talks proposed development |
![]() RIVER FALLS — The River Falls Plan Commission heard about a proposed Powell Avenue housing development and received a presentation on national, state, regional and local housing markets. The development proposal is for 12 twin homes totaling 24 units. Twenty of the units would be accessed through a new branch off Powell Avenue, while the final four will be located directly on Woodridge Drive. City Council will review the plan during the July 22 meeting. According to Senior Planner Harley Mehlhorn, the 7.2-acre area was annexed into the city in May and the Park Board voted to collect a fee in lieu of land for park dedication in June. The developer agreed to pay a fee in lieu of park space, meaning the development will pay rather than having the required amount of green space due to its proximity to Collins Park. The developer also committed to constructing an enhanced crossing for Powell Avenue to Collins Park, to which Plan Commission Chair Diane Odeen asked what it would entail... ...Full Story Here ![]() |
About Wisconsin Workforce Housing News (WWHNews.com) |
![]() This is true in big cities and small rural communities. Both the availability and price of housing is not in line with the needs of those working in jobs that are vital to the success of our communities. Imagine a firefighter, teacher, city employee, service, or retail worker not able to afford a home in the community they serve. We aggregate news and highlight programs that are working to provide affordable workforce housing in Wisconsin. We advocate for state and local policies that improve the more affordable housing markets. We encourage developers to build new homes that are affordable for those working for Wisconsin while still making a fair profit on the work they do. We encourage communities and neighborhoods to become partners in meeting these needs. We highlight what others have done as a form of "Best Practices" in the State and Country. Finally, we provide direct links to resources and programs in the State. Safe, affordable housing makes a difference in the lives of children and families impacting both education and health. We are supporting affordable housing because it is good for business, good for families, good for communities, and good for Wisconsin. Ken Harwood Editor / Publisher Advocating for Wisconsin 608.334.2174 harwoodken[at]gmail.com ![]() |
List of Housing Resources |
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WWHNEWS Notes: To add a resource or correct above send data and link to wwhnews.com[at]gmail.com... ![]() |