Rural communities are facing a critical housing crisis that threatens the productivity of essential resource lands, including forestry, farms, and ecotourism. During a recent Senate Housing meeting, officials emphasized the urgent need for affordable housing in rural areas to support the workforce that sustains these vital industries.

The discussion highlighted the importance of recognizing unincorporated small towns, known as Type 1 lammers, which play a significant role in providing housing and employment opportunities. Lewis County, for example, is home to several of these lammers, including Adnan, Mineral, Randall, and Packwood. With the county spanning 95 miles and some towns located up to 30 miles from the nearest incorporated city, the need for accessible housing is more pressing than ever.

In Packwood, the situation is particularly alarming, as the sale price of single-family homes has skyrocketed by 300% over the past decade, placing homeownership out of reach for most workers. This trend underscores the necessity for more affordable housing options to ensure that rural areas can continue to thrive.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for policymakers to prioritize the development of affordable housing solutions in rural communities, recognizing that the health of these regions is directly tied to the availability of housing for those who work the land. As discussions continue, the focus remains on creating tangible outcomes that will benefit both the workforce and the local economies they support.