The Hutchinson City Council voted on Jan. 7 to approve the 2024 housing needs assessment prepared by RDG Planning & Design and authorized the mayor to sign the study, following a presentation by the consultant and questions from councilmembers.

Amy Hossy of RDG, introduced by Carissa Paxton (housing coordinator), summarized key findings: a large share of Hutchinson's housing stock was built before 1960, a mismatch between household incomes and available housing types, and a smaller-than-expected 2020 Census count compared with building permit activity. Hossy said the city has "a lot of housing that's actually pretty affordable," but noted gaps at both the higher end of market-rate housing and for certain affordable segments.

The assessment identifies priorities and strategies including preserving naturally occurring affordable housing, establishing a housing development fund, expanding tenant and landlord education, targeted gap financing to encourage reinvestment in undervalued neighborhoods, and incentives or zoning updates to encourage housing for older adults. Hossy also recommended tying affordable housing projects to transit and services to reduce household transportation costs.

Councilmembers asked about insurance and construction costs, census undercounts and barriers to private investment. Hossy said insurance increases and appraisal limits in undervalued blocks can make new construction less feasible without gap financing or incentives.

After public comment concluded, a council motion to approve the RDG assessment passed by roll call. The approved assessment will inform the city’s housing strategies, capital improvements planning and potential funding programs.