A host of local and regional housing stakeholders — from builders, contractors and school officials to elected office holders and statewide housing and economic development leaders — gathered in Perry Wednesday for a housing forum focused on the community’s growing need for housing and opportunities for future development.
“It was a tremendously well-done event and very well organized,” said Doug Pals, general manager of Minburn Communications. “That doesn’t mean the topic is easy or that it will be solved easily, but it was very productive and time well spent.”
The forum brought together some seven local builders and contractors, the PCSD superintendent and several school board members, the Perry mayor, city administrator and council members as well as regional and statewide partners focused on housing and community development.
The forum featured presentations and discussion led by several key leaders in housing and economic development:
● Jim Thompson, business specialist with the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Downtown Resource Center, spoke about the importance of fostering community development by proactively positioning towns for long-term growth.
● David Miller, executive director of Homes for Iowa, explained how the nonprofit’s business model and innovative approach helps to accelerate housing development and bring new housing inventory to market more quickly.
● Omar Padilla, community development specialist of Iowa State University, presented findings from the Rural Housing Assessment, highlighting the importance of both rehabilitating existing housing stock and planning for future housing demand.
The discussion repeatedly emphasized Perry’s evolving workforce and the large number of jobs expected to come to the community in the coming years, which entails an increasing need for additional housing at multiple price points, including executive-level housing options.
Forum participants discussed housing needs, ranging from encouraging rehabilitation of existing homes to workforce and multifamily housing, while also identifying a growing demand for executive housing that can help attract and retain professionals, industry leaders and skilled employees relocating to the region.
“This forum showed the energy and momentum that exists in Perry right now,” said Perry Mayor Dirk Cavanaugh. “There is a real willingness from local leaders, builders, educators and statewide partners to work together and position Perry for long-term success.”
DMACC Perry VanKirk Career Academy Director Eddie Diaz was nominated to chair the committee for the emerging housing effort.
“We know housing will play a major role in Perry’s future growth,” Diaz said. “This conversation brought together people who are ready to move forward collaboratively and ensure our community is prepared for the opportunities ahead.”
Organizers said the strong turnout and participation from both local and statewide partners demonstrated a commitment to ensuring Perry is prepared both for future economic growth and home development opportunities.