Salem Council approves affordable housing plan with Habitat for Humanity support

The City of Salem Council meeting on July 14, 2025, was marked by a significant decision to approve an annual plan aimed at enhancing affordable homeownership in the community. Councilor Nordyke emphasized the urgency of meeting federal deadlines, urging fellow council members to support the plan to ensure timely submission. “We had better give them the authority to move forward,” she stated, highlighting the importance of acting swiftly.

The council's discussions centered around an amendment to include veterans in the housing initiative, which received broad support. Commissioner Teigen expressed enthusiasm for the plan, noting that it would allow the city to report progress under the Salem housing production strategy. “This is a great success,” he remarked, praising the collaboration with Habitat for Humanity to create affordable housing opportunities.

The council's collective effort was evident, with multiple members commending the Salem Housing Authority and partners like Umpqua Bank for their contributions. The motion to approve the amended plan passed unanimously, signaling a strong commitment to addressing housing needs in Salem.

As the meeting concluded, the council members expressed optimism about the potential impact of the approved plan, which aims to provide affordable homeownership options for residents. The swift action taken by the council reflects a proactive approach to tackling housing challenges in the city, with expectations for positive outcomes in the near future.