Douglas County to allocate $152,844 for affordable housing projects

WATERVILLE — The Douglas County Regional Council announced plans Tuesday to distribute up to $152,844 in affordable housing funds for the coming year, addressing housing needs in the county.

The funds, available through a state-mandated program established in 2005, are earmarked for projects serving very low-income individuals, maintaining existing affordable housing, and operating emergency shelters. The money comes from a surcharge on certain documents recorded by county auditors.

Eligible agencies and organizations have until 4 p.m. on September 16, 2024, to submit applications for this year's funding cycle. Funds will not be distributed directly to individuals.

The Regional Council, which comprises representatives from Douglas County and its municipalities, will review the applications for consideration. The council includes officials from the cities of Bridgeport, East Wenatchee, and Rock Island, as well as the towns of Coulee Dam, Mansfield, and Waterville.

This funding initiative is part of an ongoing effort to address affordable housing challenges in the region. The state legislature's 2005 decision to establish county-level programs aims to address these issues on a local scale.

Interested organizations can obtain application information by contacting Carlye Baity, Deputy Clerk of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, at 509-745-8537.