A proposed tax credit could create thousands of new affordable housing units per year, its proponents say.
Writing in The Real Deal, Ilya Hourie describes a proposed Illinois state law designed to create more affordable housing in the state, which faces a shortage of around 300,000 affordable housing units for extremely low-income renters. As Hourie explains, “The proposed ‘Build Illinois Homes Tax Credit’ would cost the state $35 million annually for 10 years, which advocates believe would help create 3,500 housing units per year, Capitol News reported.”
A report from the Illinois Housing Council claims that “Illinois has lost 13 percent of its low-rent units since 2011.” According to Hourie, “If the proposal is passed into law, developers constructing properties would be eligible for tax breaks themselves once the structures are finished and filled with tenants,” delaying any impact on the state’s budget until 2026.
In addition to the tax credit, “Governor J.B. Pritzker also suggested an affordable housing program called ‘Home Illinois’ during his Feb. 15 budget address. The plan calls for a $50 million increase in homelessness services, such as emergency shelter, short-term rental assistance and the development of permanent housing units, the outlet said.”
FULL STORY: Lawmakers make push for affordable housing
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Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
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Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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