Rising housing costs affect our whole community. That’s why affordable housing is a Hillsboro City Council 2019 priority.
Affordable housing is about more than apartments. It’s also about affordable home ownership, which is a way for our community members to achieve stability and build wealth.

Federal money brings home ownership within reach

Through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides grant funds to communities like Hillsboro to serve low- and moderate-income residents.

The City of Hillsboro has completed the first year of managing our own program — and directing those limited funds to where they can do the most good.

At the top of the list: home ownership, the rehabilitation of existing homes, and support for housing development. The program provides a range of support — from preventing people from experiencing homelessness to enabling families to purchase their own homes.

Where grants have helped Hillsboro residents

Here's where the City directed federal funds over the last year.

• Affordable home ownership through Proud Ground's land trust model means the home will always be affordable. (City of Hillsboro CDBG contribution since July 2018: $433,000)
• Housing rehabilitation keeps low-income homeowners (especially seniors) in their houses safely, by helping them to make necessary repairs and accessibility accomodations. ($201, 669)
• Street improvements will advance an 8-unit Habitat for Humanity development that promotes affordable home ownership. ($77,000)
• Support for the Fair Housing Council of Oregon raises fair housing awareness in Hillsboro.

What's next for the CDBG program?

As the City begins the second year managing our own CDBG program, we're excited about what's coming up.

• The City will continue its support for Proud Ground affordable home ownership, housing rehabilitation, and the Fair Housing Council of Oregon.
• Habitat for Humanity's 8-unit Alder Commons will open in 2020.
• Next year, the City will fund:
  • Facility improvements at the Boys & Girls Aid Safe Place youth shelter for at-risk and homeless youth.
  • Expansion and site improvements at the Boys & Girls Club Inukai community space.