Palaca Housing Authority outlines $8 million ‘River’ resident investment program; commission adopts consistency resolution

Mr. Bridge of the Palaca Housing Authority presented the River program to the commission on April 9, describing a five‑year curriculum to prepare residents for homeownership and to train them as small landlords. The program provides two years of pre‑acquisition support and three years of post‑acquisition coaching, with in‑class sessions, one‑on‑one coaching and workforce development designed to improve credit, financial literacy and property management skills.

"We want to make sure that we put our residents in a position where it does mean that," Mr. Bridge said, explaining the authority plans to invest $8 million of its own funds to develop new units that will eventually move residents into homeownership and onto the tax rolls. He said the project aims to create sustainable housing outcomes rather than leaving new owners without ongoing support.

Commissioners praised the authority’s recent improvements and workforce efforts and moved to adopt Resolution 2026‑R42, which finds the River program consistent with the city comprehensive plan and zoning. The motion passed without recorded opposition. Commissioners noted the program could expand local workforce opportunities and increase the tax base while emphasizing the need for continued oversight and follow‑up on implementation timelines.

What’s next: The Palaca Housing Authority will proceed with partners and development plans under the structure discussed; the city identified the resolution as a consistency finding to allow zoning and planning steps to continue.