NEEDS FEATURED IMAGE AS THE MAIN VIEW.
Content Carousel Only one story at a time. OK for one block on a page, like home page. try that out.
Below is just a Latest Posts widget with a 50 word? excerpt and including like 50 or 70 items (listings). But it just lists them in chronological order and so subjects and content is all mixed up.
- A low-income housing program is pouring big money into housing many Oregonians can’t affordThe Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, which allocates $15 billion annually to developers for affordable housing, has failed to produce truly affordable units, particularly in Portland. Many subsidized apartments now compete with market rates, leaving almost 2,000 vacant units as rent prices align with those of the general market. Critics argue that the program benefits investors rather than low-income renters and suggest redirecting funds to rental vouchers. Despite this, Congress continues to expand the program, prioritizing developer interests over the urgent housing crisis.
- ACTION ALERT/LETTER WRITING NOW: Stop $8.1 Million in Taxpayer Funding for Floral Hill TerraceDevNW is requesting $8.1 million in taxpayer funding from the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) LIFT HO Program for its Floral Hill Terrace development. However, the Eugene Affordable Housing Trust Fund and the City Council rejected this funding application for the third consecutive year, primarily due to significant accessibility issues. Critics argue that state funding should not support a project rejected locally, highlighting better affordable housing options in Eugene. Concerns include insufficient access to services, transportation challenges, geotechnical risks, fire safety issues, and misleading marketing of home ownership. Public input is encouraged to voice opposition to this funding.
- Unanswered Questions for DevNW…There are important unanswered questions for DevNW about their Community Land Trust’s resale formula, equity terms, and organizational capacity for the Floral Hill Terrace development. Has DevNW publicly disclosed the specific resale formula that will apply to Floral HillTerrace’s homes, in the same plain-language manner that is standard practice among Community Land Trusts nationally? For example, Big River Community Land Trust publishes a resale formula of 1.5% compounded annual maximum price increase directly on its website with a worked example; Madison Area Community Land Trust publishes an equally simple formula (initial purchase price plus 1% simple interest per year owned,… Read more: Unanswered Questions for DevNW…
- — A sampling of letters from our supporters in 2026Residents of Laurel Hill Valley oppose the DevNW Floral Hill CLT project due to serious concerns about safety, traffic, and environmental risks. The site’s low walkability, lack of public transport, and inadequate emergency access raise significant issues. Critics argue the development is unsuitable for the neighborhood and urge seeking a better location for affordable housing.
- HB 4037, eliminates public hearings for most housing developmentsWest Linn will permit public testimony regarding retail aspects of a 320-unit development proposal but not for housing elements. This decision follows Oregon’s HB 4037 law, which restricts public hearings on qualifying housing projects, sparking debate on whether residents should have a voice in neighborhood developments.
- GIRLS WITH GARDENS — Thinking Outside The BoxAtlanta has created America’s largest public food forest, spanning seven acres in a former food desert. The initiative allows locals to freely harvest fruits, vegetables, and herbs without any fees or membership. Managed by a nonprofit, it transforms access to fresh produce, enhancing community health and food security for residents.
- UPDATE: Thank you for your letters to City CouncilUPDATE: Thank you for your letters to City Council! You are invited to the City Council meeting on Monday, July 13th to watch the unfolding of the impact of your support! EUGENE CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING Final funding decisions for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
- More Than 10% of All Homes Sit Vacant, but Only a Tiny Fraction Are for SaleA recent report reveals a growing housing affordability crisis in the U.S., highlighting that about 1 in 10 homes—approximately 14.5 million—are vacant, yet fewer than 800,000 are for sale. Maine has the highest vacancy rate at 21%, while Connecticut has the lowest at 7%. Despite a high number of vacancies, opportunities for homebuyers remain limited. Experts suggest that rethinking taxation on frequently vacant properties could help bring some of these homes back into the market, potentially funding affordable housing projects. Additionally, proposals exist to eliminate capital gains taxes for long-term homeowners to increase property availability for first-time buyers.
- July 2026 Update on Floral Hill TerraceResidents of Laurel Hill Valley are closely observing a proposed housing development called Floral Hill Terrace at 2725 Floral Hill Drive. Submitted by DevNW, the project aims to create 40 affordable housing units. However, on June 5, 2026, the City of Eugene Planning Division deemed the application incomplete, requiring DevNW to supply missing materials within 180 days to avoid rejection. Key concerns from residents include road access and infrastructure strains, potential for an expanded development footprint, and wildfire safety issues. The Eugene City Council will decide on funding recommendations on July 13, 2026, crucial for the project’s future.
- How to Make Public Comments at a Eugene City Council Meeting — Next one Monday, 7/13/2026The City Council will decide on funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund on July 13, 2026, supporting RIVER ROAD HOUSING and OUR VILLAGE while denying FLORAL HILL TERRACE due to location issues. Public comments are welcome, limited to 2.5 minutes each, with sign-up required before the meeting.
- Yes, Negative Feedback WAS Submitted for Several Years About DevNW’s Development…In 2025, residents voiced strong opposition to the Floral Hill Terrace development proposed by DevNW, citing three years of negative feedback. Seven letters against the project were submitted, with no supportive responses. Concerns highlighted included the project’s excessive density, traffic safety on narrow roads, potential flooding due to stormwater runoff, fire risks due to dense housing adjacent to a forest, and insufficient measures to protect wildlife habitats. Residents urged for a thorough review of fire access, traffic studies, and stormwater impact assessments, calling for the development to adhere to local safety and environmental standards before approval.
- What does Middle Housing Look Like?Middle Housing was initially proposed to help homeowners add extra units like mother-in-law suites or duplexes to address housing shortages in low-density areas. However, recent regulatory changes have allowed developers to build significantly larger complexes, which drastically increase residential units and traffic along narrow rural roads, posing safety risks for pedestrians and complicating emergency access. This shift has sidelined community input, as developers gain more influence over neighborhood decisions, undermining the original intent of local neighborhood plans. Critics argue that while Middle Housing can contribute to housing solutions, a more thoughtful approach is crucial to truly address the housing crisis and preserve community integrity.
- The Nimby Con, Daily KosThe article discusses how the term “NIMBY” (Not In My Backyard) has been weaponized to facilitate the erosion of middle-class homeownership and wealth. The author outlines a coordinated effort by wealthy interests and institutions to manipulate zoning laws, making it easier for corporate entities to acquire residential properties, thereby threatening the primary means of wealth accumulation for the middle class. The text highlights the historical context of wealth transfer, showing how policy decisions have disproportionately favored the rich. Ultimately, it argues that stripping away homeowner protections is part of a larger campaign to transition society into one where renting becomes the norm, disenfranchising ordinary citizens.
- Street SafetyFloral Hill Drive, serving as the main access road to new housing developments, is only 17 feet wide, significantly narrower than the city’s design standards for such a connector road. With no sidewalks or bike paths and inadequate space for two vehicles, this road poses safety risks. Classified as a Neighborhood Street, it should be 30-40 feet wide but is currently less than a typical alley’s width. While developers must improve the road in front of their properties, the existing road conditions do not allow for safe accommodation of increased traffic from future developments, potentially compromising neighborhood character and safety.
- Is Affordable Housing Really Affordable? (OPB)A summary of the OPB article by Tony Schick (OPB) June 3, 2026 2 a.m. A low-income housing program is pouring big money into housing many Oregonians can’t afford The federal tax credit provides up to $15 billion in subsidies a year to help developers build apartments. It’s created housing that’s often no more affordable than the market rate. OPB Article Summary (read the complete article from OBP) The June 3, 2026 OPB/ProPublica investigation, by Tony Schick, examines the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and its failures in Oregon: To read the full article from OBP How does DevNW’s… Read more: Is Affordable Housing Really Affordable? (OPB)
- Fire Safety, Road Safety, Your SafetyFloral Hill Drive, the location of the planned FLORAL HILL TERRACE and the location of this news report has been very problematic for emergency vehicle access for a long time. It is a narrow 17 feet wide unimproved road with no shoulders or sidewalks and many areas have homes with parking right on the street making it effectively a one-land road. Emergency vehicles coming into the area while residents are being evacuated out as happened with the McKenzie Fires several years ago would be a recipe for disaster. Are We Ready? The proposed Floral Hill Terrace site is a priority… Read more: Fire Safety, Road Safety, Your Safety
- 2026 Commmunity Support Letters Against Floral Hill Terrace to the Affordable Housing Trust FundIn 2026, several residents voiced strong opposition to the proposed DevNW Floral Hill CLT project seeking AHTF funding. Concerns focused on the project’s unsuitable location, citing a low Walk Score, lack of public transportation, and inadequate emergency access. Residents emphasized safety issues arising from increased traffic on narrow streets, potential landslide risks due to the area’s topography, and the adverse impact on existing community dynamics. Critics urged the committee to reconsider funding, advocating for better-suited sites for affordable housing that would prioritize accessibility and safety for low-income families. The need for a thorough evaluation before proceeding was a consensus among the supporters.
- Community Land Trusts: Track Record and AffordabilityThere is excitement around affordable housing models like Community Land Trusts (CLTs), but significant controversies persist. CLTs struggle due to high upfront costs and limited revenue, leading to operational challenges. Many residents in low-income areas resist these models due to restricted equity growth. Alternatively, direct rental vouchers provide immediate financial stability, allowing individuals greater autonomy in their housing choices.
- Affordability, Accessibility, SafetyThe Floral Hill Terrace development raises critical questions surrounding affordable housing, focusing on its affordability, accessibility, and safety. Based on a Community Land Trust (CLT) model, the development offers reduced upfront costs for first-time buyers but restricts resale value, allowing only limited appreciation. Public transit access is minimal, with essential services far away, threatening accessibility. The area lacks walkability, as daily amenities are not within reach. Safety concerns arise from potential wildfire risks and inadequate emergency access. This initiative, though well-intentioned, fails to address Eugene’s pressing rental crisis, leaving many vulnerable citizens with unmet housing needs.
- Hurdles Down, Reality Checks Up: How OR HB 4037 Shapes Housing Approvals and Urban Reserves ADMIN: This article explains some of the new limitations neighborhoods are facing in expressing their concerns over high density housing moving into established neighborhoods and displacing a lot of smaller, older properties that previously represented potential first time buyer homes. Neighborhood Associations that have worked for years to protect the character and value of their neighborhoods have seen their voices taken away and silenced overnight. If this tax-payer subsidized building boom that now removes public notices, public hearings, and third-party appeals is supposedly successful fighting the housing crises, then why is homelessness not decreasing commensurately? Why does so much of… Read more: Hurdles Down, Reality Checks Up: How OR HB 4037 Shapes Housing Approvals and Urban Reserves
- Geotechnical Reports Fall ShortHome demolished in landslide; Developer investigating causeby Gold Meadows & KVAL.com StaffMon, March 31, 2025 at 6:15 PM Updated Tue, April 1, 2025 at 7:50 AM https://kval.com/news/local/home-demolished-in-landslide-developer-investigating-cause ADMIN NOTE: Do you know that there are concerns about the geotechnical reports that have been done for DevNW on the Floral Hill Terrace development? We can’t afford to not have the most current examination of the planned land parcel that 22 buildings will be home for 40 households. EUGENE, Ore. — An Eugene home that was deemed unoccupiable is now halfway through demolition. Now, the developer is seeking answers as to why… Read more: Geotechnical Reports Fall Short
- Landslide Risk?Concerns have been raised regarding geotechnical reports for the Floral Hill Terrace development, which aims to house 40 households in 22 buildings. Given the area’s history of landslides, vigilance is crucial. A recent incident in the Moon Mountain community highlights risks associated with inadequate assessments, prompting calls for stricter building protocols.
- Outside of the Box: Could Your City Build Its Own Public Option Alternative to Amazon?The article advocates for the establishment of public options across various sectors to counter monopolies and improve community welfare. Examples include Vienna’s housing model, California’s drug pricing initiatives, and proposals for municipal e-commerce platforms to support local businesses. The author emphasizes that direct government services can provide better value without intermediary profits.
- 21st Century ROAD to Housing ActSenator Raphael Warnock’s “Homes are for People, Not Corporations” provision has become law under the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, capping corporate ownership of single-family homes. It penalizes violations with fines and aims to protect first-time homebuyers from institutional investors, promoting affordable housing for families and reinvesting fines into communities.
- Seeing Houses Sitting Vacant?Good Reads from Realtor.com “More Than 10% of All Homes Sit Vacant, but Only a Tiny Fraction Are for Sale“ By Kiri BlakeleyRealtor.comRead: https://rltor.cm/eGaFCrJuly 9, 2026 Realtor.com Amid a deepening housing affordability crisis, roughly 1 in 10 homes in the country is sitting vacant, concludes a new report. Around 14.5 million houses are empty, according to a new analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data compiled by personal finance site LendingTree. However, only a shockingly low number of these homes—fewer than 800,000—are actually up for sale. Among the states, Maine has the highest overall vacancy rate at 21%, while Connecticut has the… Read more: Seeing Houses Sitting Vacant?
- How to Make Public Comments at a Eugene City Council Meeting — Next one Monday, 7/13/2026The City Council is deliberating on funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, advocating for support of River Road Housing and Our Village, while opposing funding for Floral Hill Terrace due to location issues. Public comments will be accepted during the meeting on July 13, 2026, with specific guidelines for participation.
- Dev NW’s Floral Hill Terrace Application for AHTF Money Was NOT Recommended this YearTwo notable affordable housing projects in Eugene, River Road Housing by Laurel Hill Center and Our Village by SquareOne, received high recommendations from the AHTF Advisory Committee. River Road Housing aims to provide 45 rental units for low-income households, emphasizing support services and accessibility. Our Village plans to build 44 cooperative homeownership units with community amenities. The Advisory Committee did not recommend funding for other proposals, including Floral Hill Terrace, due to various concerns. Residents are encouraged to advocate for these recommended projects to the City Council ahead of their funding decision scheduled for July 13, 2026.
- Next City Council meeting on Monday, July 13thThe Eugene City Council is holding a public hearing on July 13, 2026, to finalize funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. They are urged to support River Road Housing and Our Village while denying Floral Hill Terrace due to safety and accessibility concerns. The committee recommends prioritizing applicants better suited to community needs.
- COMMUNITY SUPPORTResidents have voiced concerns over the DevNW development on Floral Hill Drive, which proposes a 40-unit complex. While there were no letters in support, seven opposed the project. Rebecca Kassan addressed the Eugene City Council citing safety, environmental risks, and insufficient infrastructure, urging the city to assess compliance with safety regulations, traffic studies, stormwater management, and habitat protections. Mary Gent echoed these concerns, questioning the project’s fiscal sustainability, density, public safety, and fire risks, recommending a reduction in unit count. Their appeals highlight critical issues regarding community safety and environmental impact tied to the proposed development.
- News on Floral Hill TerraceResidents of Laurel Hill Valley are closely watching the stalled development of Floral Hill Terrace, a proposed 40-unit affordable housing project by DevNW on Floral Hill Drive. The City of Eugene has deemed the application’s materials incomplete, giving DevNW 180 days to address deficiencies. Meanwhile, funding from Oregon Housing and Community Services remains uncommitted, and the Eugene Affordable Housing Trust Fund did not recommend additional funding. Concerns from residents focus on road access, infrastructure strain, and fire safety in a wildfire-prone area. The community’s input is crucial as the City Council approaches a funding decision on July 13, 2026.
- Resource LinksThe post outlines ongoing work to create user-friendly links providing important information on affordable housing, wildfire protection, road safety, and land use development in Eugene. It includes details of funding requests for new rental and homeownership units aimed at low-income households, alongside community safety initiatives and neighborhood plans.
- Affordability, Accessibility, SafetyThe Floral Hill Terrace development emphasizes three crucial aspects of affordable housing: affordability, accessibility, and safety. It utilizes the Community Land Trust (CLT) model, allowing first-time buyers to own homes without land ownership, thus reducing initial costs but limiting profit on resale. While the neighborhood boasts affordable homes, maintenance responsibilities lie with homeowners. Accessibility to public transport is inadequate, with the nearest services over two miles away, compelling residents to rely on personal vehicles. Safety concerns arise from wildfire risks, narrow roads, and aging infrastructure, requiring heightened attention to emergency preparedness and community safety awareness.