Housing provides shelter for the workforce and consumers of a region, as well as the children, parents, school teachers and other individuals who make up a community. It is one of the most vital pieces to consider when planning for development. In recent years it is becoming increasingly difficult for Sullivan County residents to purchase homes in the area. The costs associated with the development of new housing, combined with a booming real estate market, have pushed the prices of homes out of reach for a family earning an average Sullivan County salary. To alleviate the stress this situation creates, the County must encourage affordable housing through zoning and development regulations; establish an orderly process for distributing fair shares of housing units and funding resources; work in tandem with nonprofit housing organizations; and support programs that rehabilitate and preserve existing housing.
