by Jill Deppel, Hamilton
Ravalli County is experiencing a housing crisis. This crisis is characterized by a lack of affordable housing options for many residents, along with rising housing costs that outpace wage growth. Contributing to this crisis is our rapid population growth, which has put pressure on the housing market and raising home prices.
According to the Montana Department of Labor Economy, Montana is less affordable than the U.S. average, with a ratio of 4.3, meaning the median home value is 4.3 times the median income. And LivingCosts.org notes that Montana ranked 36th most expensive state in the U.S. for home purchase.
There are several potential solutions to address the housing crisis: the development of more affordable housing units, the expansion of rental assistance programs, and the implementation of policies to incentivize the construction of new and affordable housing.
But amid the above-mentioned solutions it is concerning that our city and county governments are primarily attuned to the voices of developers, who often prioritize profit over other considerations. The recent high density builds across from the Fair Grounds are a great example. The units asking price and unit rentals require a gross income of $6,667 per month. According to the US Census, the median income in Ravalli County is $4,970 per month.
Ravalli county residents we can get this right the first time. It’s time to get engaged with your local governments. Attend council meetings and planning board meetings. Hold your elected officials, and the board members they appoint, accountable to ensure that things like adequate infrastructure, neighborhood integrity, park lands, green space, wildlife protection and open lands are being addressed to retain quality of life and safety for all citizens.
save-the-neighborhoods.com
Alan says
How about we are at maximum carrying capacity? The highest bidder gets the dirt. We don’t need more housing, we need people to move out. Problem solved.
HSabin says
How about setting up TRAILER PARKS WITH AMENDITIES that can be quite in demand if done correctly. Nice double wides brought in at an affordable amount to rent or own would get the housing set up quickly, can be quite nice, be affordable and solve the problem with NO HOUSING IN THE AREA. THE MODERN DOUBLE WISDES ARE LUXURIOUS, SPACIOUS AND FILL THE BILL! LET’S USE THEM!
Mike Miller says
Who do you think should pay for and bring in said trailer parks with amenities? What about their sewer, which is a growing county problem now?
Where do you think these should be set; and on who’s land?
Please expand on your idea.