NEEDS ASSESSMENT REPORT

Purpose of the Study: This report provides the information needed to develop a plan of action for providing affordable community housing in adequate amounts to support a sustainable economy in Valley County and Adams County, Idaho. It can be used to plan, finance and develop community housing – both rental and ownership opportunities targeting residents with income levels not served by the private market. This assessment of the community housing needs examines factors that impact both the supply and demand for housing. It considers current market conditions and how they have changed in recent years. It includes estimates of the unmet demand in 2005 for community housing generated by recent development and projections of demand that can be expected in the future. The study provides information separately for each county and municipality that can be used to tailor strategies and projects to meet the unique needs of each area. It provides baseline data that can be updated regularly to monitor how market conditions and housing needs change over time and evaluate progress toward meeting agreed upon goals. In addition, this study can be used to:
• Facilitate partnerships between public- and private-sector organizations to create housing that is suitable and affordable for different population groups;
• Obtain construction and permanent financing from private, federal and state lending institutions that require demographic and market information to support grant and loan applications;
• Plan for future community housing impacts associated with anticipated commercial and residential growth;
• Modify land use regulations and development codes to provide both incentives and mandates for community housing; and,
• Support various other planning-related projects that can benefit from the availability of up-to-date data including transportation studies, environmental impact statements, school expansions, and parks/recreation plans.

Acknowledgments
This study was funded by contributions from Valley County, McCall, Donnelly, Cascade, Adams County, Council and New Meadows. The Valley County Economic Development Council assisted with data collection and oversight of the project. Appreciation is extended for the numerous hours contributed by public officials, city and county staff, employers, realtors, lenders, builders, non-profit groups, state and federal agencies, and concerned citizens.

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