Fall Housing Conference Sept. 7-9 to Address Idaho's Long-Term Needs

BOISE - Housing experts and advocates will gather in Boise September 7­9 to discuss Idaho's housing strategy into the next century. The theme of the 1997 Governor's Conference on Housing, Pathways, Partners, Solutions," reflects the variety of organizations coordinating the event.

Planning partners aim to set goals and a common direction in creating effective housing opportunities for all Idahoans. Conference interest tracks include: Home Ownership, Government, Multifamily Housing and Housing Diversity. This collaboration among seemingly diverse interests is driven by changes in federal housing programs, shrinking resources and welfare reform.

As we travel toward the next century, we must all work together to create sustainable housing solutions," Idaho Governor Philip Batt stated. I strongly encourage those with a stake in the future of housing to take part in this dialogue."

The conference will bring together representatives from local and federal government, the housing and finance industries and the nonprofit sector. In addition, experts in real estate, mortgage banking, design and construction will present practical information on state-of-the art technology and programs.

Governor Batt will welcome conference participants in what promises to be a landmark housing strategy session. Earlier this year, Governor Batt assembled a task force to study housing needs and solicit public input through statewide public meetings. The task force will present a status report during the September conference; a final report is due in October.

Although many conference planning partners share an interest in affordable housing, the conference scope includes all aspects of housing. From design and construction, local zoning ordinances, fair housing law and property management to home owner education and mortgage programs, the conference should interest individuals connected with housing.

This conference has something to offer anyone in the housing industry," said Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) Executive Director Rod Beck. The conference planning partners have gone to great lengths to create a balanced and informative series of workshops, with an emphasis on practical solutions."

Those wishing to participate in the conference should contact IHFA at 208-331-4884. Conference registration fee is $125 if paid before August 1, and $150 if received after August 1. Government and 501(c)(3) nonprofit agencies receive a $50 discount. Information on the conference can also be obtained via the Internet at: www.ihfa.org.

Scholarships for persons with developmental disabilities are available through a grant from the Idaho Council on Developmental Disabilities. Exhibit space is also available for groups interested in sharing product and service information with conference participants.