City of Boise, ID
05/16/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/16/2024 17:20
Mayor McLean Announces Supportive Housing Investment Fund at State of the City
Mayor McLean Announces Supportive Housing Investment Fund at State of the City
May 16, 2024
In her annual State of the City Address held at JUMP, Mayor Lauren McLean laid out a bold vision for Boise's future, grounded in principles of sustainability, innovation, and Boise's history of working together. She celebrated recent milestones, including strategic investments in affordable housing, job creation, and expanded access to parks and open spaces.
"I'll tell you today what I tell everyone who asks: the secret is our people," said McLean. "It's you. Each and every one of you. Our people have always been the secret. From our earliest days, when pioneers crossed that black-rock desert, through endless leagues of sage, and settled along that wooded, trout-rich river, Boiseans have always known our community was special."
Today's technology entrepreneurs recognize this, choosing Boise as a national leader in the technology and semiconductor industry. President Biden's announcement of a CHIPS and Science Act investment in Boise's Micron was highlighted as an important step in becoming a technology industry hub. The significant growth has already resulted in the city's job rate increasing by 4.1% in the last year, reflecting Boise's status as a thriving economic center.
Efforts to enhance quality of life for residents were also showcased, with initiatives such as the acquisition of property for the Boise Front Trail and the permanent waiver of fees for childcare licensing. Additionally, plans to provide up to a $500 property tax rebate to licensed in-home childcare operators who own their homes starting next year demonstrates the city's commitment to supporting families and caregivers, and business community.
Mayor McLean unveiled shared investments in initiatives that address homelessness and housing affordability, including a city match to a $250,000 contribution from Duane and Lori Stueckle to prevent evictions through Jesse Tree. The purchase of the Park Apartments from Boise State, along with plans for New Path 2.0 for initiatives to end homelessness, underscores Boise's commitment to making sure that everyone who wants a home in Boise can afford a home in Boise.
The cornerstone of Mayor McLean's address was the launch of the Supportive Housing Investment Fund in partnership with the Idaho Community Foundation. With a $7.5 million commitment in seed funding from the city, the fund will provide for supportive services, like health care, mental health counseling and more for those exiting homelessness. The permanent supportive housing model, which pairs permanent affordable housing with on-site supportive services is already proven to be effective and the tax-deductible fund offers philanthropic partners to join the city in meeting its goal of 250 permanent supportive housing units by 2026. McLean thanked investors, naming them a 'Blue Ribbon Committee' who have committed to doubling the city's investment in the fund, and encouraged others to join the effort of beating the odds in Boise.
To support these efforts, the city is also applying for a grant from the US Treasury to reimburse housing expenses, up to $10 million over 5 years.
As the event concluded, Mayor McLean expressed profound gratitude to the Boise community for their unwavering support and dedication to the city's progress. She reiterated her commitment to inclusive leadership and encouraged all residents to actively participate in shaping Boise's future.
Contact: Mayor's Office Media Relations
(208) 972-8520 | [email protected]
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