Schoharie County will hold a public workshop intended to gather community input on a long-term housing “vision” Thursday, January 25, 6-8pm at the Cobleskill Firehouse.
The workshop is part of a housing study underway by LaBella Associates, funded by a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission and through the Department of Social Services.
The open house-style workshop will kick off with a brief overview of LaBella’s work-to-date.
Then, those attending will have a chance to view a series of tabletop displays that:
• Highlight key findings from the current existing housing conditions report.
• Outline the critical focus areas.
• Gather input on long-term housing needs from residents, businesses, employees, and potential investors.
There will be an opportunity for public comments throughout the workshop and the Schoharie County Housing Committee urges everyone to attend.
Those who can’t make the meeting in-person can attend virtually over Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89908757838. Meeting ID: 899 0875 7838.
The meeting can also be assessed by calling 646-931-3860.
LaBella has done similar housing studies for Lewis and Genesee Counties, and started its work for Schoharie County in July.
According its proposal, its study will:
• Provide an inventory of current housing (including subsidized housing).
• Include a forecast of population growth and housing demand.
• Identify the market and unmet needs.
• Inventory nursing, independent, and assisted living facilities.
• Develop a strategy to address longterm needs.
“Schoharie County may utilize the study findings to support the development of affordable housing, supportive housing programs and other initiatives, including grant applications,” LaBella writes in its scope of services.
“Private developers will also be able to utilize the findings to assess the demand for housing, possible development sites, and build support for investment.”