During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the establishment of a new housing department in Montgomery, aimed at enhancing the city's approach to various housing projects. The proposal, championed by Mayor Steven Reed, seeks to address the growing demand for affordable housing, workforce housing, and mixed-use developments, particularly in the downtown area.

Colonel Reed emphasized the need for a dedicated department to oversee and synchronize housing initiatives, which are currently managed primarily by the community development department with a focus on HUD-related work. The new housing department is expected to consist of a small team of three to four staff members who will collaborate with commercial developers and stakeholders in the housing sector.

The financial implications of this new department were also addressed. While the department is not included in the current budget, officials noted that it would incur personnel costs estimated between $300,000 and $400,000. However, they anticipate that these costs could be offset by the city's existing lapse rate of 30% to 40% in unfilled positions, allowing for a manageable integration into future budget cycles.

The creation of the housing department reflects Montgomery's commitment to improving housing options and ensuring comprehensive oversight of development projects, signaling a proactive approach to urban planning and community development.