Courtsey photo.
In fact, due to the disparity between wages and the cost of land, very few workers can afford to live here. Every day over 2,600 individuals commute from outside of Blaine County to come to work. This includes firefighters, teachers, dental practitioners, and even a Blaine County sheriff who lives in Twin Falls; all people we need to work in the community.
Not only is such a commute taxing on the individual, but also on the community and the environment. Sure, there is the standstill line of traffic on Highway 75 every morning and every evening, which no one enjoys. But the purpose of affordable housing is more than just cutting commutes; it is about creating a vital and sustainable community.
In response to this issue, ARCH Community Housing Trust, a local non-profit trust that works with private and public parties toward securing permanent, affordable housing in Blaine County, is holding its third annual housing week. The goal is to educate all interested community members about housing issues and in turn to become advocates for solutions.
While most people in the Wood River Valley support the idea for low-income housing, the real issue lies with the state of Idaho. There are no legislative tools to generate money for subsidized housing and there is no inclusionary zoning, which places price controls on a percentage of new homes; something that is essential in a resort town where the disparity between workforce income and the cost of land can be enormous.
To get involved or to learn more, attend one of the many events, including meetings, speakers and workshops this housing week.
For a complete schedule of this week’s housing events visit the ARCH website.
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