Commerce Encourages Communities to Attend Housing Resources Event

The Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce is encouraging Kansas communities interested in moving local housing initiatives forward to take advantage of a special free event Tuesday, April 29, in Great Bend. Hosted by the Housing Interagency Advisory Committee (HIAC), the event is targeted at communities that have completed a Housing Assessment Tool (HAT) or have a structured housing plan in place.

State and federal partners will discuss resources, connections and funding guidance communities will need to address existing housing gaps.

“In Kansas, we understand the importance of affordable, high-quality housing for families and individuals across the state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “As we continue to recruit new businesses and help existing companies expand, the larger workforce needs someplace to live. The Kelly-Toland administration is committed to providing resources that will help ensure enough housing units are available.”

The HIAC is a collaborative effort between agencies involved in housing financing, including the Kansas Department of Commerce, Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, and the Federal Home Loan Bank. The committee was designed to navigate funding opportunities, develop long-term housing strategies, and address unique challenges of housing development — particularly in rural areas.

“Every region of our state needs more homes,” Kansas Housing Resources Corporation Executive Director Ryan Vincent said. “Responding to that need can be daunting. The HIAC process connects communities with the resources and guidance to assess local housing needs and develop a strategy to address them.”

At the event, participants will learn about available funding sources and strategies to bring their goals to fruition. Experts will share insights on overcoming common barriers to housing development, such as financing gaps and infrastructure hurdles. Those in attendance also will have the opportunity to connect with other community leaders working on similar housing initiatives.

All those involved in housing efforts are encouraged to attend. Local officials, housing advocates and community leaders are invited to take advantage of this opportunity to accelerate housing development in their regions.

“This special event is designed for communities that are ready to step up to the plate and take action on housing,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “By bringing together local leaders, funding experts and agency partners, we’re creating a space for collaboration and progress to happen.”

The HIAC gathering will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, at the Great Bend Events Center. To register, click here.

For additional information, contact Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278. To learn more about housing resources offered through the Department of Commerce, click here.