April 16, 2026 Housing Commission

The April 16, 2026 meeting of the Ottawa County Housing Commission focused extensively on housing assistance programs, voucher allocations, and strategic planning to address affordable housing challenges in the region. Key procurement-related discussions included the administration and funding of project-based vouchers (PBVs) in Ottawa County, the need for a new fair market rent (FMR) study to better align voucher payment standards with actual market rents, and the associated costs of conducting this survey, estimated between $120,000 and $180,000. The Commission discussed potential funding sources for the survey, including administrative fees and philanthropic foundations, and considered the procurement process for contracting the survey, with Econometrica identified as a preferred vendor due to their successful track record with HUD appeals. Additionally, the meeting covered strategic initiatives such as engaging local employers to support workforce housing, coordinating with developers on zoning and site planning, and forming focused subcommittees to advance housing projects. The Commission also reviewed ongoing collaboration with the Grand Rapids Housing Commission and plans to issue new vouchers as funding becomes available. No formal votes on contracts were recorded, but there was consensus to pursue the FMR study and employer engagement efforts as priorities.