Addressing the Housing Crisis in Arkansas

People across the state have recognized a housing crisis in Arkansas where families, particularly low income families, are struggling to maintain safe housing. Mark Conine, the president of the Arkansas Development Finance Authority, has seen this crisis and believes it is time to prioritize this issue and find solutions.

"We're to the point where we are talking a lot about this but we're not doing a lot. We're all doing some things right, but one of the things that we have to pick up on is single-family housing."

Conine speaks to the source of our current issues. After the recession of 2008, single and multi-family building across the state slowed for an extended period. This resulted in a housing shortage leading to increased rents that are not sustainable for most families. Much of the affordable housing available in Arkansas is aging and needs repair.

"The home ownership dream is slipping away for a lot of people."

Conine has a vision for mixed income affordable housing programs. Mixed income housing creates social cohesion. Some states that have implemented this model have seen very little crime in these communities.

"We're going to have to think outside the box a little bit."

In order to make this vision possible, Conine believes believes more incentives are needed for developers and more engagement with local officials.

Research shows that families who have an affordable, safe, and stable place to live, are more successful and thriving in all other areas of their lives.

"It's really about the people," says Conine. "People deserve a safe affordable place to call home."