Hillsboro City Council has taken significant steps to address the city's housing needs and economic development during its December 3, 2024, meeting. A key decision was the approval of the Hillsborough Housing Production Strategy, aimed at increasing the availability of diverse housing options to meet the growing demand in the community.

The housing strategy, developed with extensive community engagement and input from various stakeholders, outlines 21 actions categorized into regulatory, land, partnership, incentives, and investment measures. This comprehensive plan is designed to guide housing policy over the next six years, ensuring that the city can effectively respond to its identified housing needs, which include a deficit of over 14,000 units.

Council members emphasized the urgency of implementing these strategies, particularly in light of the projected need for 150,000 housing units in the region over the next two decades. The strategy includes provisions for streamlining design standards and exploring minimum densities in commercial zones to expedite housing production.

In addition to housing, the council approved the sale of a 28.69-acre parcel of land in North Hillsborough to the Hillsborough Economic Development Council (HEDC). This transaction is primarily an accounting measure that will allow the city to recover funds used for the property acquisition, supporting future infrastructure projects like the new police headquarters and fire station.

The council's actions reflect a commitment to addressing both housing and economic development challenges in Hillsboro. As the city moves forward with these initiatives, the implementation of the housing production strategy will be closely monitored, with specific timelines and performance metrics to ensure accountability and progress. The council's proactive approach aims to foster a more sustainable and inclusive community for all residents.