The Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) Board of Commissioners announced last week that its annual allocation of federal housing tax credits will support the construction of 105 permanently affordable apartments in five communities across the state. The sale of the credits is expected to yield over $26 million in funding, which will cover over 60 percent of total development costs. The program is the largest single funding source for affordable housing development in Vermont.

“The federal housing tax credit program is an absolutely vital resource that has proven to be an exceptional tool for addressing Vermont’s shortage of affordable rental housing,” said Senator Patrick Leahy. "It’s critical we expand it to help Vermont recover from the pandemic.”

Executive Director Maura Collins announced that VHFA has selected Alejandro Flores-Howland (he/him) of Winooski as its new Legal Coordinator.

Flores-Howland has a Bachelor’s Degree from Green Mountain College and a Paralegal Associate of Applied Science Degree from SUNY Schenectady. He has worked both at private law firms and at the Vermont Attorney General’s office. He enjoys exploring the outdoors and has also worked as a guide at Umiak Outfitters in Stowe.    

"VHFA’s Legal Department has been responsible for overseeing several new programs during the pandemic, in addition to its usual work," Collins remarked. "Alejandro’s experience and attention to detail are a welcome addition to the team.”

The State of Vermont's Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is seeking input from stakeholders on the Vermont Draft Recovery Housing Program Action Plan (RHP). The plan outlines priorities for the use of approximately $1.5 million in federal funds being provided to the State to address the needs of transitional housing for people recovering from addiction.  

Vermont learned last month that its population grew by a slim 2.8% between 2010 and 2020, less than the national average of 7.4%. But by planning to invest millions in American Rescue Plan Act funds in homes and neighborhoods, Vermont policy makers have embraced the opportunity presented by this decade to accelerate community and economic vibrancy. Last week, the Vermont legislature ended its session with a proposed 2022 state budget allocation for housing of $190 million of these federal recovery funds.