The December 5, 2024, meeting of the Town of Bluffton Affordable Housing Committee featured a presentation by Roger Bridal, Director of Business Development at Ferino Construction. Bridal, a seasoned real estate developer with over 50 years of experience, shared his journey from retirement to re-engagement in the affordable housing sector, emphasizing the critical role of subsidies in making housing affordable.

Bridal recounted his personal story, detailing how he and his late wife chose to settle in the Bluffton area after traveling across the country. His passion for real estate led him to take on a leadership role at Ferino, where he is now focused on commercial and multifamily developments. He highlighted his extensive background in affordable housing, having developed over 750 units in Louisville, Kentucky.

During his address, Bridal underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in affordable housing development. He explained that the financial viability of such projects often hinges on subsidies, which help bridge the gap between market rates and what low-income families can afford. He noted that the appraised value of homes developed by Habitat for Humanity in Bluffton was significantly lower than similar units in the area, illustrating the impact of subsidies on affordability.

Bridal also discussed the challenges builders face when engaging in affordable housing projects, including bureaucratic hurdles and the perception that profit margins should be minimal. He shared insights from his experience, stating that many builders are hesitant to enter this market due to the complexities involved, including compliance with government regulations and the need for creative financing solutions.

The meeting concluded with Bridal's call to action for community members and stakeholders to support initiatives that promote affordable housing. He emphasized the need for collaboration and commitment from all parties involved to address the ongoing housing crisis effectively. The committee plans to continue discussions on strategies to enhance workforce and affordable housing in the Bluffton area, with a focus on leveraging public-private partnerships to achieve these goals.