SPOONER - Lack of housing, especially workforce, in Washburn County spurred a study to be conducted with the Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA) to see where the most critical needs are.People were able to take the survey online, and the results were presented to the community on Monday, Aug. 18, at the Spooner fire station.
CEDA Planning Manager Annie Nichols said they had spent the last six to eight months working on Washburn County results.
“We’ve been collecting data the whole time,” she said.
The presentation showed where the biggest need was, and gave recommendations from CEDA and the Washburn County Economic Development Corp. (EDC)...
The presentation showed where the biggest need was, and gave recommendations from CEDA and the Washburn County Economic Development Corp. (EDC)...
Leo’s notes: Washburn County’s new housing study confirms what many already know: the county faces a severe shortage of workforce rentals and modest starter homes. With only 11% of housing stock available for rent, the study recommends 300 new workforce units, along with senior and first-time buyer housing, to meet urgent needs. The challenge now is turning this blueprint into real, long-term solutions through partnerships, flexible zoning, and smart investment. Looking forward to following this community’s next steps.
Ken Notes: I have now done a few of these housing studies as a planner and always the need is homes for those making around $25/hour or 50K/year or around $ 1,250/month (30% of income) which is around a $200K for a home. Finding one of these is tricky and building one is even more complex. Communities zone and plat affordability out of the market. NIMBY homeowners want good coffee but refuse to live next to their barista.
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- - Volume: 25 - WEEK: 36 Date: 9/2/2025 11:45:53 AM -