Housing Opportunities Commission 10/14/20206

The City of Eau Claire Housing Opportunities Commission meeting, held October 15, 2026 (the meeting title contains an apparent date typo), approved its September minutes by motion and second. Staff reported on an RFP and applicant process: prospective applicants are required to attend a meeting before applying, with about six proposals anticipated so far and submissions expected by November 1. Staff will review and score materials for commissioners to consider at the November meeting. No vendor selection, contract award, or procurement-related spending vote was reported.

The commission discussed the zoning code’s tree-preservation requirements and their potential effects on housing development costs and smaller lots. A large development has identified a shortfall of roughly 400 replacement trees under the requirements; members discussed whether the policy is meeting its goals and possible future ordinance changes, but took no action. Staff also noted that revised Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) criteria allow projects statewide to compete more evenly; three awards could support about 120 housing units. Other discussion included possible amendments to commission membership and annual conference requirements, plus planning and outreach for a first-time homebuyer event.