Residential housing infrastructure revolving loan fund and revolving loan program. (FE)
Under the bill, WHEDA is required to set aside 25 percent of funds appropriated to the revolving loan fund for projects that support senior housing over a four-year period. Additionally, it mandates that not more than 25 percent of the total loans for any application cycle can be awarded to any single region in the state, ensuring equitable distribution of funds across diverse geographic areas. These measures aim to address the growing need for affordable housing amid rising costs, with particular attention to communities with populations of 10,000 or less.
Assembly Bill 264 establishes a residential housing infrastructure revolving loan fund, administered by the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA). The fund aims to award loans to developers for eligible housing infrastructure projects that support both workforce and senior housing. This initiative is designed to make housing more affordable and accessible in Wisconsin, especially for low- to middle-income families and senior citizens, by providing financial assistance for the construction of necessary housing infrastructure.
The bill’s provisions also require that loans for residential projects maintain specific restrictions for a duration of 10 years, ensuring that the housing remains affordable and occupied either as workforce housing or senior housing. While proponents argue that this approach meets urgent housing needs and supports local economies, some critics express concerns about potential limitations on property rights and the ability of local governments to manage real estate developments according to their unique community needs.