08/13/26 Affordable Housing Advisory Board

The Affordable Housing Advisory Board (AHAB) of Lawrence, Kansas, met on August 13, 2026, to discuss several key procurement and policy issues related to affordable housing funding and development. A major focus was on the implementation of the new affordable housing incentive policy effective January 1, 2027, which requires the allocation of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund consistent with new eligibility and affordability standards. The board deliberated on setting aside portions of the 2027 trust fund—approximately $550,000 to $700,000—for ongoing incentive projects and balancing funding between new development, comprehensive rehabilitation, and existing programs. They considered staff recommendations and historical funding patterns, ultimately leaning toward a roughly 50/50 split between ongoing programs and new development/rehab projects. The board also discussed challenges related to timing, application cycles, and communication with applicants about funding availability. Additionally, the board reviewed potential city-owned parcels for affordable housing development, focusing on two promising sites while acknowledging environmental and planning considerations. They also adopted a motion to request city staff to advocate for policy changes aligning fee waiver points with affordable units rather than total units. Updates on upcoming training, trust fund review timelines, and revenue projects were provided. Public comments raised concerns about the use of subsidized housing for short-term rentals and the need for transparency in board communications with applicants. Overall, the meeting centered on strategic funding allocations, site selection for affordable housing, and policy advocacy to support the city's affordable housing goals.