A Proactive Approach to Housing Production
Sheri Alber • May 15, 2025
A Proactive Approach to Housing Production
The 80th HomeNE Learning Network featured Jean Van Iperen, who discussed Columbus, Nebraska’s housing challenges and the city’s proactive strategies to address them. Jean highlighted the city’s 7% population growth and a shortage over 4 years of 387 homes, prompting efforts like zoning reform, streamlined permitting, and investment in new developments, including a 238-unit apartment complex. The city is also planning a new housing study, exploring affordable housing options, and considering mixed-use projects to meet evolving community needs.
The Custer Economic Development Corporation highlighted housing initiatives since 2014, noting the construction of more than 80 homes and 61 apartment units since 2013. Scotti Ross and Stuart Fox emphasized that many of these projects were made possible through Tax Increment Financing (TIF).
The November HomeNE webinar focused on rural housing initiatives in Nebraska, with a presentation from John Madsen and Jon Schmaderer highlighting successful housing development strategies in Stuart. They discussed partnerships, funding approaches, and the role of local organizations in promoting affordable housing.
Creative Methods that Spur Community Revitalization: Proactive Redevelopment of Commercial and Residential Properties in Ord, Nebraska
