Habitat advocates for housing affordability

Members of Sisters Habitat for Humanity ventured to Salem on Thursday, February 8, to advocate with their state representatives for resources to be allocated for affordable homeownership.

Executive Director Sharlene Weed and Board President Roger Fairfield attended the advocacy day and were able to meet with State representatives Daniel Bonham and Gene Whisnant as well as senators Cliff Bentz and Tim Knopp.

"It was an exciting and energizing day," Fairfield said. "We went to Salem to talk with our legislators about issues important to Habitat regarding affordable housing. Our focus was on HB4007, which would raise the document recording fee to $75; the proceeds to go primarily to low-cost housing relief."

The advocacy day was coordinated through Habitat for Humanity of Oregon, a state support organization, which provides fundraising, training, technical assistance and advocacy to 28 Oregon Habitat for Humanity affiliates.

More than 25 Habitat supporters met with 40 legislators. House Bill 4007 would generate sustainable funding for homeownership assistance programs and emergency shelter and affordable rental housing. The advocates also requested a ballot referral that would amend the Oregon Constitution to allow municipalities to use certain bonds to finance affordable housing. The bills are expected to move out of committee by mid-February.

Sisters Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, community and hope. Since 1991, 63 families have purchased their homes with affordable financing through the local organization. For more information about Sisters Habitat call 541-549-1193 or email [email protected]