The document discusses housing affordability trends in Island County from 1989 to 2005, highlighting a significant increase in housing costs compared to a more modest rise in household income. It emphasizes the importance of collaborative community efforts to address the housing crisis through various programs and strategies aimed at maintaining affordability. Recommendations include creating partnerships, offering tax relief, and implementing flexible housing solutions such as accessory dwelling units and density bonuses.

1. Housing Affordability in Island County Jeff Tate, Planning Director Island County Planning July 10, 2008

2. Countywide Trends 1989 - 2005 60% 46% Percent Change in Housing Cost $233,700 $146,500 $100,350 Average Housing Cost 33% 33% Percent Change in Income $51,603 $38,783 $29,160 Median Household Income 2005 1997 1989

3. Countywide Trends 1989 – 2005 (cont.) $97,468 $44,113 $23,368 Housing Gap (Difference between avg. cost and loan amount) $233,700 $146,500 $100,350 Average Housing Cost $136,232 $102,387 $76,982 Loan Amount (3.3 times income) $41,282 $31,026 $23,382 80% of Median Income $51,603 $38,783 $29,160 Median Income 2005 1997 1989

4. How do we create and maintain housing that is affordable? A community dilemma that requires a community solution No single agency or group can solve this issue Building new partnerships and better understanding of how we all influence housing and living costs Moving a community strategy forward together rather than individually A bundle of little things can have significance Broader community acceptance

5. A Few Island County Programs Accessory dwelling unit allowances Density bonuses and clustering provisions Mobile and manufactured home provisions Property tax relief for seniors Low interest loans for septic repairs Permit fee reductions