Holly Springs Town Council Explores Innovative Affordable Housing Strategies
Officials are determined to create a balanced and inclusive community as Holly Springs expands.
HOLLY SPRINGS, NC – The Holly Springs Town Council is taking bold steps to address housing affordability and promote sustainable community development. During a recent workshop, council members reviewed innovative strategies and partnerships presented by Wake County's Affordable Housing Department.
Mark Perlman, Director of Wake County's Affordable Housing and Community Development Division, outlined several forward-thinking initiatives to tackle the region's housing supply challenges. These include a $62 million Affordable Housing Preservation Fund, which provides low-interest loans to developers to acquire and renovate properties while maintaining affordability for at least 20 years.
The county’s gap financing program was also highlighted. This program offers developers critical funding to complete affordable housing projects, while partnerships with non-profits like Habitat for Humanity focus on creating affordable homeownership opportunities. Additionally, a public land disposition program evaluates town-owned properties for potential housing developments, ensuring land is used effectively to meet community goals.
The council discussed the success of deferred-interest homeownership loans, which offer first-time buyers 0% interest loans forgivable over 20 years. These loans allow residents to navigate Holly Springs’ high housing costs without strict price caps. Rehabilitation grants for low-income homeowners, another key strategy, provide funds for repairs and accessibility upgrades, enabling seniors and families to remain in stable housing.
The council also reviewed opportunities for collaboration, including Holly Springs’ participation in the UNC School of Government’s "Across 100" initiative, which aims to build a statewide network focused on affordable housing. The town plans to explore voluntary inclusionary zoning to negotiate affordable housing commitments with developers and promote mixed-income communities.
As Holly Springs continues to expand, officials are determined to create a balanced and inclusive community. The innovative strategies discussed reflect the town’s commitment to meeting the diverse housing needs of its residents while fostering sustainable growth.
The council plans to continue leveraging partnerships and resources to ensure these strategies benefit the community in the years to come.
Contact Information for Holly Springs Town Council Members:
Mayor Sean Mayefskie
Email: smayefskie@hollyspringsnc.gov
Mayor Pro Tem Daniel H. Berry
Email: dberry@hollyspringsnc.gov
Council Member Chris Deshazor
Email: cdeshazor@hollyspringsnc.gov
Council Member Annie Drees
Email: adrees@hollyspringsnc.gov
Council Member Timothy Forrest
Email: tforrest@hollyspringsnc.gov
Council Member Danielle Hewetson
Email: dhewetson@hollyspringsnc.gov