Presenter outlines conditions for using ATAX for workforce housing, and a 2030 renewal deadline

During the statutory overview the presenter described how the state allows ATAX revenue to be used for workforce housing subject to additional requirements.

The presenter said municipalities that propose to use state ATAX for workforce housing must complete an analysis — either internally or by a third-party consultant — to document community need and suitability, and that the Department of Revenue must review and approve such analyses before funds may be used. "If the municipality proposes to use a state tax for workforce housing, there are certain requirements in order to get to that point," the presenter said.

The presenter also noted the workforce-housing provision in state code has a sunset or renewal requirement: the code provision must be renewed by December 31, 2030, or it will lapse. Committee members asked clarifying questions about whether workforce-housing dollars would come from the town's allocation and the presenter confirmed the town's share is the relevant pool for local implementation.