DHCR Announces Unprecedented Statewide Housing Needs Study

ALBANY, NY (05/06/2009)(readMedia)-- For the first time in the agency's history, the state Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) has developed a Statewide Affordable Housing Needs Study. The report involved an unprecedented effort to reach out and gather first-hand information from local leaders and housing professionals who best understand the housing and community development needs of their own communities.

Governor David A. Paterson said "this Study represents a significant step forward in the way DHCR develops its policies and implements its programs around the State. By interviewing hundreds of local experts on their specific needs, DHCR will be able to better tailor its resources and better serve the people of New York State."

The statewide needs study was one of the first initiatives undertaken by DHCR Commissioner Deborah VanAmerongen, who called it "a starting point for continued dialogue between DHCR, community leaders and housing professionals who share a commitment to affordable housing and community development."

DHCR actually completed nine regional housing needs studies before compiling the statewide report. VanAmerongen decided to take a regional approach because "while the entire State is facing a shortage of affordable housing, the causes, effects and solutions are very different from region to region."

DHCR began the process in the Fall of 2007. The agency convened 42 focus group meetings throughout the State which were attended by nearly 500 participants, including local and county government officials, affordable housing developers, community development organizations and social service agencies. Focus groups were also attended by staff from the New York State Housing Finance Agency, the Empire State Development Corporation and the Governor's regional offices.

VanAmerongen said DHCR would use the study "to better target resources to address specific community needs." She also noted that while the affordable housing and community development issues and needs varied by region, there were several common themes evident throughout the state, including:

• NIMBY Opposition: Participants said there is a need to educate local officials, planning and school boards and community members about the benefits of affordable housing developments in order to mitigate NIMBY opposition. DHCR produced a series for Public Service Announcements last year, which showcased the benefits of affordable housing to the surrounding community.

• Foreclosure: The foreclosure problem has impacted every region of the state and was cited by many focus group participants. DHCR administers the Subprime Foreclosure Prevention Program, which provides free counseling and legal services to families facing foreclosure.

• Senior Housing: Many communities cited a need for Rental housing for seniors, with supportive services, sited close to support systems and public transportation, as well as resources for home repairs and accessibility modifications for senior homeowners who want to stay in their communities.

• Weatherization and Other Housing Costs: There is an increasing need to provide weatherization and utility cost assistance. DHCR administers the federal Weatherization Assistance Program for New York; which received $394 million in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The Statewide Housing Needs Study and the nine regional reports are available on the DHCR website (www.nysdhcr.gov) under "key documents."

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