October 2025 Project Update: Housing Initiatives

• As most of you know, we held a Fundraising Meeting at Dunns Farm in early August. Thanks to your generosity at that event and through subsequent efforts, we have raised more than $600,000 toward our year-end goal of $750,000. This includes a mix of one-time, multi-year, and estate gifts. We are deeply grateful for your support.
• With these funds in hand, our Land Acquisition Team is in full search mode. We are actively in discussion with landowners on four properties—three potential purchases and one 99-year lease—and are seeking additional opportunities. Our ultimate target is to create 300 attainable Workforce Housing units for our community.
• The greatest challenge we face (beyond cost) is zoning. Most farmland and timberland parcels are currently zoned for 5-acre lots with only one home allowed per parcel. To create real attainable housing communities, we need ¼-acre zoning that allows for higher-density, thoughtfully planned neighborhoods. Township officials have told us that rezoning could take a year or more without community pressure.
• Here’s how you can help: Please reach out to your Township or Village Zoning Commissioners. Let them know you support higher-density zoning in appropriate areas and urge them to consider expedited reviews for attainable housing. Your voice can make a direct impact in ensuring that our teachers, nurses, first responders, and essential workers have a place to live in the community they serve.

Together, we are making real progress. Thank you for standing with us in this critical effort to build a stronger, more sustainable future for our region.