In the heart of Middleton's city hall, members of the Workforce Housing Committee gathered to tackle the pressing issue of affordable housing in their community. The atmosphere was charged with purpose as they discussed the strategic use of Tax Incremental District (TID) funds to support housing initiatives.

The committee's focus was clear: to draft a comprehensive action plan that outlines how these funds will be allocated. One member emphasized the importance of detailing the vision and mission behind their efforts, suggesting that the strategy and finance section should form the backbone of the plan. This section would not only clarify the rationale for their actions but also align with the regional housing strategy's priorities.

A significant point of discussion revolved around the operational aspects of gap financing for developers. The committee recognized the need for a streamlined process that would allow developers to access TID funds without the cumbersome requirements typically associated with such financing. Members proposed a model similar to Madison's Request for Proposals (RFP) system, which would clearly outline eligibility criteria and project requirements, ensuring that only qualified developers could apply for funding.

As the conversation progressed, the committee acknowledged the necessity of defining priorities while considering the feasibility of execution. They agreed that the plan should not only articulate what they aim to achieve but also how they intend to do so effectively.

Looking ahead, the committee planned to schedule joint meetings with the Community Development Authority (CDA) to review and refine their draft. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that all components of the affordable housing action plan are cohesive and well-integrated.

In a moment of levity, one member expressed a desire for brevity in the final document, advocating for a concise plan that would be accessible to the public. This sentiment resonated with the group, as they envisioned a document that would be informative yet straightforward, ideally no longer than 30 pages.

As the meeting wrapped up, the committee welcomed a new staff member, Jolyn Rorda, who will bring her expertise in arts and community engagement to support their initiatives. With a renewed sense of direction and collaboration, the Workforce Housing Committee is poised to make significant strides in addressing the housing needs of Middleton's residents.