Gov. Mike DeWine, Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, and the Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik have rolled out the latest phase of housing support in Ohio - to $25.9 million. These funds, announced as part of the third installment of the "Safe, affordable housing opens doors to better opportunities for families and strengthens the fabric of our communities" program, are earmarked for aiding landbanks in constructing, acquiring, or renovating residential spaces for those with income eligibility in the state, according to Mike DeWine Governor of Ohio, A noteworthy chunk of change, $25 million in tax credits, is up for grabs for landbanks and qualifying developers post-property sale for rehabilitation and new construction projects.
"Safe, affordable housing opens doors to better opportunities for families and strengthens the fabric of our communities," said Governor DeWine in a statement covered by the official Governor of Ohio's website. Lt. Gov. Husted underscored the growing need for housing in Ohio's expanding job market and population, highlighting the importance of maintaining affordability to retain the younger generations.
As Director Mihalik noted, this sizable investment isn't just about putting roofs over heads—it's about community rejuvenation and providing a stable base for Ohio's families to plant their roots. Ohio is working on transforming its image from small towns to bustling metropolitan hubs, ensuring that each community feels the benefit of the Welcome Home Ohio program.
The recent announcement details over $25.7 million in grants that will assist in constructing, purchasing, or rehabilitating 130 homes. An additional $119,274 in planned tax credits is set aside to support building or rehabbing three houses. This effort isn't unprecedented - since its launch, nearly $60 million from the Welcome Home Ohio funds have been funneled into creating 440 owner-occupied, single-family homes in 24 counties, as per the official statements.
According to a release from Governor DeWine's office, the funding initiative stems from a collaboration between the state government and the Ohio General Assembly, which established the biennium budget through House Bill 33. The shared goal is clear, to propel Ohio towards a more prosperous, stable, and community-oriented future, one home at a time.
