Building a Path Toward Affordable Housing in Idaho Falls
Housing affordability is one of the most pressing challenges facing our community. Families, young professionals, and even longtime residents are asking the same question: Will I be able to afford a home here?
The truth is, there are no quick fixes. Many of the forces driving housing costs—like interest rates, national markets, and construction materials—are outside the city’s control. But that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. The city does have tools, and with the right partnerships and a clear framework, we can make steady progress toward a future where hardworking residents have a fair shot at homeownership.
Definitions Matter
Before we can measure progress, we need to define what we mean by “affordable housing.” Are we talking about a single income earner being able to buy a starter home? A young family affording a modest house without extreme sacrifice? Medium‑density ownership options like townhomes?
Without a shared definition, it’s impossible to know whether we’re moving in the right direction. That’s why the first step is clarity—setting goals that reflect the realities and values of Idaho Falls.
First Steps
To move from talk to action, we need a systematic approach. Here are the first steps I believe the city should take:
- Define Objectives – Establish what “affordable” means for our community.
- Identify Tools – Take stock of the levers the city can use, from zoning to partnerships.
- Map Out Strategy – Build a logical framework that explains how each tool works, what trade‑offs it creates, and how progress will be measured.
- Mobilize Partners and Resources – Bring together the right organizations to align efforts.
- Establish Key Metrics – Set benchmarks that are clear, simple, and meaningful to residents.
- Track and Report Progress – Publish results in plain language so the public can hold us accountable.
Collaboration Is Key
No single city department—or even the city itself—can solve this challenge in isolation. Housing affordability touches on workforce development, infrastructure, land use, and economic opportunity. That means collaboration isn’t optional; it’s essential.
Collaboration means:
- Breaking down silos between city departments so planning, zoning, and utilities work in sync.
- Engaging the private sector—builders, realtors, and lenders—so solutions are practical and market‑ready.
- Partnering with nonprofits and state agencies that bring resources and expertise the city doesn’t have on its own.
- Listening to residents so that solutions reflect community values, not just spreadsheets.
When collaboration is done right, the city becomes a convener and catalyst—helping align efforts that no single player could achieve alone.
Potential Partners
Some of the partners we may need to work with include:
- Idaho Department of Labor
- Idaho Department of Commerce
- Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce
- Bonneville County
- City of Ammon
- Idaho Housing and Finance Association
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
- Habitat for Humanity
- College of Eastern Idaho (CEI)
- Realtor Associations
- East Idaho Home Builders Association
These are only a few examples. The reality is that housing affordability touches nearly every sector of our community, and progress will require broad cooperation.
Balancing Growth and Community Values
As we explore solutions, we must also recognize that some zoning and density choices can affect traffic, neighborhood character, and the small‑town feel that Idaho Falls residents cherish. That’s why community input will be central to every decision. Our goal is not just more housing, but housing that strengthens the fabric of our city.
A Commitment to Responsibility
Finally, the city must avoid adding to the burden. That means keeping property taxes, utility rates, and fees from ballooning. Local government should be part of the solution, not part of the problem.
Looking Ahead
Affordable housing is a long‑game issue. It will take persistence, transparency, and a willingness to adapt. But by defining our goals, building a clear framework, mobilizing partners, and reporting progress openly, we can make steady strides toward a future where Idaho Falls families have a fair shot at a home.