The Board of Garrett County Commissioners is working with private and public collaborators to create affordable housing, an important issue for many county residents.
Across the United States affordable housing is a challenge. Affordable housing is a complex issue where many residents, or would-be residents, are struggling to find suitable housing that fits within their budget. In 2022, the average home price in the Garrett County market was over $550,000. With the median income in Garrett County (according to the U.S. Census Bureau) at $58,011, a home at “market rate” pricing is well out of the average local household’s reach. Garrett County Commissioners have been studying existing subsidized housing programs and researching options for additional support. Taking small steps forward is integral in retaining population and supporting essential services such as healthcare, education, and emergency response.
“We understand that housing affordability is a pressing concern for many residents here in Garrett County,” said Paul Edwards, Chairman of The Board of Garrett County Commissioners. “We are committed to working towards finding sustainable and long-term solutions.”
The Commissioners have developed a plan with private and public partners and collaborators to assist with infrastructure such as water, sewer, and roads that will enable a developer to build homes in the range of what is “affordable” and below market rate. The Commissioners’ goal is to get homes available for purchase at a price point of $150,000 to $225,000. To achieve this ideal price point, the housing available for purchase will likely be a combination of condominiums, townhomes, duplexes, and/or single-family homes.
“We are encouraged by the initial discussions we’ve had with our partners and collaborators, and we believe that together, we can find solutions to make more housing accessible and affordable,” said Edwards.
Any comments related to affordable housing can be emailed directly to the Commissioners at: pedwards@garrettcounty.org, ltichnell@garrettcounty.org, and rsavage@garrettcounty.org
