The Triangle East Economic Development Foundation and the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce hosted Workforce Housing: Understanding the Challenge, Creating Solutions, the Foundation’s inaugural event, addressing workforce housing challenges and their impact on local businesses.
The event took place at First Baptist Church of Smithfield on April 1st. Panelists included:
- Jill Homan, President of Javelin 19 Investments
- Erica Leatham, Vice President, Land, M/I Homes
- April Stephens, Owner, The April Stephens Team
- Stephen Wensman, Smithfield Town Planner
- Moderator: Keven Zepezauer, President, CEO Restoration NewsMedia
Speakers discussed how workforce housing impacts employee retention, business growth, and economic stability. Solutions such as public-private partnerships, zoning reforms, and development investments were explored. Attendees also engaged in table discussions, sharing insights and ideas on addressing workforce housing challenges in the region.
In Johnston County the income needed to rent a fair market moderately priced two bedroom dwelling is $65,840. Teachers, police officers and other municipal employees earn less than this. In addition North Carolina currently has a significant housing gap. According to a recent report released by the North Carolina Chamber the state of North Carolina has a five year housing supply gap of over 760,000.
This event was sponsored by Johnston County Association of Realtors, Local70, and Wilkins & Wellons, Attorneys at Law.
To view the photo gallery, visit our website.
To read more about housing issues in North Carolina click here.
To read the US Chamber's report on Housing in America click here.
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