PROBLEM STATEMENT: The current inventory and affordability of workforce housing in the Region is inadequate to meet consumer demand which, if left unaddressed, will significantly jeopardize the strength of our economy and the quality of life we enjoy.

BACKGROUND: On June 14, 2004, a diverse group of prominent business and civic leaders were invited to attend a summit on workforce housing entitled, "Quality Homes for Arizona's Workforce...a Key to a Vibrant Community." The purpose of the Summit, convened by Arizona Governer Napolitano, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and The Greater Phoenix Economic Council was to focus on the emerging crisis related to the availability and affordability of quality homes for working families. The Summit featured various presentations, question and answer periods and extensive dialogue between those in attendance to explore the components of the problem in our region and discuss steps which could be taken to address this complex issue.

Based on the findings of the Summit, it is imperative that a plan be developed that provides a comprehensive solution to this “emerging crisis.” In reviewing analysis from other markets across the country, it is clear that one of the most effective approaches to addressing the problem is to develop a “Regional Housing Plan” (RHP) using a Task Force comprised of key stakeholders who are connected to and/or affected by the workforce housing issues which exist in the marketplace.

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